Apulia Risto-Pizza: A Masterclass in Southern Italian Soul

Source: https://apuliaristopizza.com/

Tucked away on Route 23 in Franklin is a spot that recently won "Best New Restaurant in Sussex County," and for good reason. Apulia Risto-Pizza isn't your average "pizza joint." Owned by Daniella and Daniele (who actually hails from Corato, Italy), this restaurant is a love letter to the Puglia region of Italy.

What to Order: You are here for the Fire-Roasted Pizza. They use a unique, rotating brick oven imported from Italy that creates a char you simply can't get anywhere else in the valley. Because Daniele specializes in making homemade fresh mozzarella and stracciatella daily, any pie with "Fresh Mozz" is a must-try.

The Insider Tip: Apulia is BYOB and they do not take reservations. On a Saturday night, it will be packed. My advice? Bring a great bottle of Italian red, arrive early, and be prepared to wait a few minutes—it is 100% worth it.

This is the "Foodie" pick. If you want to impress someone with a meal that feels like a trip to the Mediterranean, this is the drive you make.

Address: 398-400 NJ-23, Franklin, NJ 07416

Tel: (862) 364-4071

Hours: Mon - Sat 11:30am - 8:30pm, Sun 12pm- 8:00pm, CLOSED Tues