Villa Rifici in Absecon, NJ

So, there I was at Birch Grove, minding my own business and trying to keep the seagulls from stealing my sandwich, when who do I bump into but my neighbor Rick. You know Rick, right? The guy who hums 'Wild Thing' before every softball game like it's his personal anthem. Anyway, Rick starts talking about how everyone’s quoting 'I am Spartacus!' these days when plans go south. I mean, really, hon. If I had a nickel for every time someone tried to rally the troops with that line, I could buy yous all a round at the local watering hole. Speaking of watering holes, Rick and I naturally started talking about Villa Rifici over in Absecon. Now, if you haven’t been there, let me tell you, it’s like a little slice of Italy right on W. Absecon Blvd. People are always buzzing about it, and not just because of the espresso. I once heard someone say they turned a wedding dinner into a full-blown reception there, and the staff didn’t even bat an eye. They just rolled with it like it was all part of the plan. That’s the kind of place it is. You show up for a meal and leave with a story. And the food. Oh, the food! It’s like they’ve got a secret spice cabinet that only opens for them. You get these blends of herbs and spices that make you feel like you’ve just been kissed by a Mediterranean breeze. Plus, the atmosphere is as cool as a cucumber. You walk in, and it’s like everyone’s your long-lost cousin. You just feel at home. I mean, who doesn’t love a spot where you can get a great meal, a friendly smile, and a story to tell? So next time you’re in the mood for a little taste of Italy, head on over to Villa Rifici. Just don’t forget to hum a little 'Wild Thing' on your way in. It’s practically tradition now.