Pino's Gourmet - Clinton

After coming back from a trip, my husband wanted to stop by the liquor store next door. I needed to use the restroom, so I went in to see if it would be okay, planning to buy something afterward. A polite young lady greeted me, and I explained my situation. She apologized, saying her boss could be a bit difficult about letting customers use the bathroom without a purchase, but she assured me it would be fine if I was going to buy garlic knots or a slice of pizza afterward. After using the restroom, the owner approached me and asked, “Where did you come from?” I replied, “Outside.” Then he asked, “What table are you at?” I explained that I wasn’t at a table, that I intended to buy a drink to go. He responded, “That’s strange; we don’t sell drinks.” I then clarified I would be purchasing garlic knots or something similar instead. He seemed incredulous, saying, “It's odd that I don't know my own restaurant.” I went ahead and bought the water the young lady had offered me, which apparently didn't count as a drink in his eyes. We both apologized for the misunderstanding, but I was left feeling disrespected by the owner’s attitude. I will not support this business again and will make sure to inform my local friends and family about my experience.

Excellent food, wonderful service, and a delightful atmosphere.

When I approached a polite young lady and explained my situation, she apologized and mentioned that her boss could be a bit difficult about letting customers use the restroom if they’re not making a purchase. I assured her that I was ready to buy some garlic knots or a slice of pizza to go, and she said that was no problem. After using the bathroom, I was greeted by the owner, who asked, “Where did you come from?” I replied, “The outside?” He then asked, “What table are you at?” I explained that I wasn't at a table and was just planning to buy a drink to go. He responded, “That’s strange, we don’t sell drinks.” I clarified that I was going to buy garlic knots or something instead. He seemed taken aback and remarked, “It’s strange that I don’t know my own restaurant.” In the end, I went ahead and bought the water the young lady had offered — which apparently didn’t count as a drink in his eyes. We both apologized for the misunderstanding, but the owner's attitude was incredibly dismissive. Due to this experience, I will not support this business again and will be advising my friends and family to steer clear as well.

Best pizza and Italian food in NJ.

Best pizza I've had in a long time