Verona Inn restaurant turns 70

Verona has had its Inn for seven decades.

One of the oldest businesses in the township, the Verona Inn opened its doors in 1947. The restaurant celebrated its anniversary in June with a barbecue that brought out around 250 people.

“We’ve [been] here forever,” noted owner John McEvoy. “There’s no other real place like it. It’s kind of like old school in culture and tradition, but new in specials and our beer portfolio. It’s got one foot in yesteryear and one foot in today. It’s a good go-to local spot. You know what you’re going to get here.”

The establishment on Bloomfield Avenue started its tenure down the road. Back in 1947, original owner John DiBella opened a bar in his basement next door to the Annin Flag building. DiBella built a separate building for his business as it expanded, and it stayed there for 62 years before the move to its current location.

The spot at 624 Bloomfield Ave. opened in 2012 at the former site of Verona Camera and Sonny’s on the Avenue. 

McEvoy has owned the restaurant for 28 years, one of his many businesses. He also co-owns the nearby Ariane Kitchen and Bar, and restaurants in West Orange, Rutherford, Lyndhurst, Dover, and Sayreville, with more opening soon.

When he took over, McEvoy said the restaurant had a “college bar” feel, and he tried to keep the fun while maintaining a family atmosphere as well. 

The Verona Inn is mostly known for its burgers and tacos, and an extensive beer menu, according to McEvoy.

AROUND TOWN: Verona United addresses concerns of parents

AROUND TOWN: After rally, agreement reached for new paraprofessionals contract

Garrett Hendry-Bodnar, a general manager at the restaurant since it opened in its current spot, said it’s always been interesting there. Hendry-Bodnar noted how the Verona Inn frequently hosts fundraisers for groups such as the local schools and sports teams.

“You’ve got to give back to the community that you’re a part of,” affirmed Hendry-Bodnar. “That’s what keeps everyone together.”

Al and Jean Sandin were also some of the longest-tenured owners of the Verona Inn between DiBella and McEvoy.

Around 30 people work at the Inn, according to McEvoy. The employees have also seen some notable guests over the years.

Billy Guerin, a hockey player for the New Jersey Devils, brought the Stanley Cup to the Verona Inn one night and said, “Let’s see if this thing holds beer.” 

One longtime customer, Mark Gelnaw, also brought former NFL player Joe Theismann in for a burger. Another story recalls when Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie came to visit, but the doorman working at that time wouldn’t let them in because the duo would not show their IDs.

“He went on to become a veterinarian because he ‘just wasn’t good with people,’” according to the Verona Inn’s website.

Those moments make up only some of the memories made at the Verona Inn during the past 70 years.

“To be around since 1947,” observed Hendry-Bodnar, “is quite an achievement.”

Email: jongsma@northjersey.com