La Lupa, Manalapan, New Jersey. A Restaurant Review

A restaurant review: La Lupa, Manalapan, NJ

La Lupa
123 RT 33 East
Manalapan, NJ

La Lupa: A Top Upscale Italian Steakhouse in Central Jersey

La Lupa: Restaurant Summary

Fare: Modern, regional Italian steakhouse

Price: Expensive

Food Quality: Crafted fresh in-house daily with ingredients sourced from top-tier farms with ethical practices.

Service: Welcoming, Knowledgeable, and attentive

Decor/ambiance: Upscale rustic with a SOHO NYC romantic vibe

Noise Level: High

Overall Rating: 3 Stars

Note: Four-star Rating System from 1/2 Star =Poor to Four stars = Best in Class

Recommended For: Diners who enjoy a BYOB with well executed menu of regional Italian dishes and steaks, in an upscale rustic setting a SOHO NYC vibe

Not Recommended For: Diners who prefer a less costly traditional "Old World" Italian red sauce menu served in huge portions.

Recommended dishes: When available, Their signature Cowboy Ribeye, 40 day dry age, imported from Japan, and cooked on the grill; The Anolini di Parma, home made pasta with traditional meat filling, pork jus, parmigiano fonduta, aged balsamico di modena; and The Lupa Pizza, with fennel sausage, san Marzano tomato, pickled jalapeño, cipolla rossa, breadcrumb, pecorino Romano.

Liquor: BYOB

For those seeking an extraordinary dining experience that blends high-end Italian cuisine with a chic NYC-inspired ambiance, La Lupa stands as one of Central Jersey’s premier destinations. This upscale Italian steakhouse delivers a unique fusion of culinary excellence, healthy options, and impeccable service, offering an unforgettable evening for its guests.

A Culinary Vision Rooted in Tradition

La Lupa is owned and operated by co-owners Daniel Fishman and brothers Giorgio and Michael Ceciarelli. The Ceciarelli brothers, sons of Giorgio Ceciarelli—owner of Solo Trattoria in Freehold—grew up in the restaurant business. Alongside Daniel Fishman, they honed their craft while working at Solo Trattoria as teens. The trio also own NoHo, Guest!, a celebrated NYC eatery.

Cozy Elegance with an Open Kitchen

La Lupa offers an intimate setting, accommodating up to 35 diners. With both table and open kitchen counter seating, guests can immerse themselves in the artistry of the chefs at work. The ambiance strikes a balance between upscale rustic charm and a romantic SOHO-style aesthetic, featuring natural wood accents and dried floral arrangements.

Seasonal Menus and Quality Ingredients

La Lupa’s menu reflects a commitment to quality and seasonality. The offerings change frequently to incorporate the freshest local ingredients, ensuring a farm-to-table dining experience. Imported specialties also feature prominently, adding authenticity to the dishes.

While this is not your typical New Jersey “red sauce” Italian eatery, La Lupa delivers an exceptional selection of handmade pastas, high-grade steaks, pizzas, seafood, and desserts. Steaks are sourced from farms that prioritize hormone- and antibiotic-free practices, and gluten-free vegetarian options are also available.

Service and Atmosphere

Service at La Lupa is a hallmark of its excellence. The staff is professional, attentive, and welcoming.

For those seeking a quieter dining experience, it’s best to arrive early. As the evening progresses, the closely spaced tables and rising ambient noise can make intimate conversations challenging.

(updated; January 2025)