In 1978, Americo Caracitas started in the restaurant business as a bartender in Switzerland. A little over a decade later he and his wife, Priscilla, owned Sagres Restaurant in the Ironbound Section of Newark for 20 years before selling it two (2) years ago.
This year, the Kenilworth resident is opening Vinhus Restaurant & Lounge in Roselle Park at 157 East Westfield Avenue. Mr. Caracitas said he is confident that the new restaurant, formerly the location of Mona Lisa, will be successful. The menu will include Portuguese Mediterranean, French, Spanish, and Italian cuisine prepared by his chefs – Chef Pedro (formerly of Tony Da Caneca) and Chef Mario (formerly of the Spanish Tavern). Americo will also be able to lend a hand in the kitchen if needed.
“I am also a chef,” he stated, adding that the restaurant is open for business and is accepting reservations. According to Americo, there will be a Grand Opening soon after the 4th of July. In addition to lunch and dinner, Vinhus also provides catering services.
The dining room is softly decorated and the lounge, with its huge fireplace, is masterfully built; making for a relaxing evening of dining. When asked what does the name Vinhus mean, Americo stated, adding to the formal definition of ‘food & wine house’, “It means good food and ambiance.”
Vinhus Restaurant & Lounge is located at 157 East Westfield Avenue in Roselle Park, NJ. They can be reached by phone at (908) 259-5907 or through their website at www.vinhuslounge.com (link) or their Facebook page. They are open from 10 a.m. – 2 a.m., seven (7) days a week.
