This article was written by a guest contributor. All opinions expressed are solely those of the author.
My name is Mark Van Mater, and I am a seasoned hospitality professional with a deep appreciation for exceptional dining experiences—particularly here in South Jersey. Today, I would like to highlight one of the finest restaurants in the region. Sapori Trattoria in downtown Collingswood is, without question, among my top three restaurants in South Jersey, and each visit reaffirms why.
From the moment you walk through the door, Sapori Trattoria feels warm and inviting. The dining room features beautiful stone walls adorned with tasteful tapestries that create an atmosphere both elegant and comfortable. The owner, Franco, is almost always present, greeting guests with a genuine smile and an attentive demeanor that makes you feel truly welcomed—never just another table, but a valued guest.
The service is equally impressive. The pacing of the meal is unhurried, allowing you to relax and savor each course, while the staff remains attentive without ever being intrusive. This level of care and professionalism elevates the entire dining experience.
With an establishment that excels so clearly in ambiance and service, expectations for the food are understandably high. Remarkably, the cuisine not only meets those expectations—it exceeds them. The menu is refined yet approachable, offering authentic Italian dishes at very reasonable prices.
One standout favorite is the Cacciucco di Pesce, a generous and beautifully executed dish featuring flaky red snapper, clams, mussels, and calamari in a white wine and saffron seafood broth, served over crostini. At $32, it is exceptional value and, quite simply, spectacular.
On this particular visit, however, we opted for the evening specials, which are always thoughtfully curated. We began with a burrata-style cheese wrapped in prosciutto, baked to perfection and finished with pistachios, a balsamic drizzle, and a few fresh arugula leaves. The dish was silky, rich, and wonderfully balanced. Another highlight was the grilled sausage served over lentils alongside seared polenta—a rustic, comforting appetizer executed with care and finesse.
For our main courses, the quality continued to shine. My wife selected the sacchetti special—aptly named “beggar’s purse.” These delicate pasta pouches, filled with cheese and pear, were served in a mushroom cream sauce. Rich yet surprisingly light, the dish was both elegant and satisfying. I chose the lightly breaded swordfish accompanied by charred calamari. The swordfish was tender with just the right amount of crispness, while the calamari added a subtle smoky depth. Both elements were expertly prepared and beautifully balanced.
No meal at Sapori Trattoria would be complete without dessert, and we happily shared two. The pistachio panna cotta was nothing short of extraordinary—so much so that it would be reason enough to return on its own. The chocolate soufflé was equally impressive: light and airy, yet deeply rich and indulgent.
Once again, Sapori Trattoria delivered a truly memorable dining experience in a beautiful setting. From the warm hospitality to the impeccable service and outstanding cuisine, everything came together seamlessly. We will most certainly be back.
Sapori Trattoria
601 Haddon Avenue
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Hours:
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri
Lunch 12PM-3PM
Dinner 5pm to 9pm
Saturday : 5PM-9:30PM
Sunday: 4PM – 9 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Sapori Trattoria is a chef-led kitchen crafting authentic Italian dishes with fresh ingredients and a warm neighborhood dining atmosphere. It has been open for 22 years in downtown Collingswood.
