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Brando's Reviews List
Brando's
BRANDO'S Citi Cucina offers a moderately priced modern Italian menu, in an upscale atmosphere, with the flair of a well-polished service staff. Using only the finest and freshest ingredients, our versed menu including daily specials from around the globe, pastas and breads made fresh daily, along with our pastry chef's incredible dessert creations.
Take your meal to the next level — pair each course with a wine from our vast collection from all corners of the globe. Only premium liquors are served in our specialty cocktails. The fresh fruit in our red and white sangrias burst with flavor. Complete your evening with an after dinner cognac and one of our special blended cigars.
See more Brando's details
Take your meal to the next level — pair each course with a wine from our vast collection from all corners of the globe. Only premium liquors are served in our specialty cocktails. The fresh fruit in our red and white sangrias burst with flavor. Complete your evening with an after dinner cognac and one of our special blended cigars.
78 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 78 reviews
5 stars
(46)
4 stars
(28)
3 stars
(2)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(54)
- neighborhood gem(47)
- special occasion(40)
- romantic(32)
- good for groups(30)
- hot spot(26)
Brando's Reviews List
Review 1 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place!
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Have been wanting to get to Brando's for a while, but either timing wasn't right or there were no weekend reservations available. Decided to try on a weeknight. Menu was more than expected, lots of options for every taste, all sounding so inviting. Decided on Pappardelle Tuscana and Pork Chop Brando--both outstanding--after the Beggars Purse appetizer, which was delicious! Of course, had to indulge in dessert--Fried Tortoni and Cannoli...with a Bailey's & coffee to top it off. Server was great, not overly attentive (which can be annoying when you're trying to enjoy your dinner), just the right amount of attention! I'm sure it would be worth the wait for a weekend reservation, but the food tastes just as good on a weeknight."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 2 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Once again- excellent!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our fourth trip to Brando's. And for the fourth time, we were thoroughly impressed! The service, the food, everything was top notch. I have tried something different everytime, and every mean I have had has been fantastic. My wife swears by the "Sunday Gravy," saying it tastes just like her Nona's gravy growing up. That is high praise. We have already recommended Brando's to several friends and co-workers, and everyone that has gone has gone back multiple times. Steve is a great guy, comes to say hello to every table, and Chris Dolan and Dylan Herbert made our experience that much better!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was excellent and service impeccable. Would highly recommend Brandos for dinner, Pasta was cooked al dente and the fresh mozarella was excellent, tasted like burrata."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 4 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Still Great !!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I have been a customer since it was Carmine's.............always loved it then and now."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 5 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"From the professional service to the freshest and delectable entrees, Brando's did not disappoint! Dry aged steak was perfect! We will return"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent Place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A friend had recommended Brando's to us. I went with my husband and my adult son. To say the least, I was very impressed.
The staff was wonderful. Our waiter Chris was very professional and very knowledgeable. Food can be adjusted to taste.
We all had the seafood. All very fresh and delicious. Dessert was fried tortoni, soooo delicious. Some reviews said it was pricey but I disagree. If you dine out you will know quality food and this is a quality place. Everything was exceptional and I would recommend it to family and friends. In fact, my family and I can't wait to go back. Enjoy!!!!!!"
The staff was wonderful. Our waiter Chris was very professional and very knowledgeable. Food can be adjusted to taste.
We all had the seafood. All very fresh and delicious. Dessert was fried tortoni, soooo delicious. Some reviews said it was pricey but I disagree. If you dine out you will know quality food and this is a quality place. Everything was exceptional and I would recommend it to family and friends. In fact, my family and I can't wait to go back. Enjoy!!!!!!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 7 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food, Service and ambiance
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food, Service and ambiance was very good. Drinks however were expensive!"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Third time and consistently
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Third time and consistently great!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 9 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
It's like the best NYC neighborhooa
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"It's like the best NYC neighborhooad restaurant but right here in Asbury Park!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 10 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great dining experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great dining experience! Veal and seafood were terrific. Will certainly return."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 11 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We loved it, had a great experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We loved it, had a great experience here!"
Dined on 03/24/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 12 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The reviews that I've read
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The reviews that I've read prior to eating at Brando's were right on! We could not have been more impressed. The menu was unique and the specials sounded delicious. Try the yellow beet salad as a change. Just a great experience. Having valet parking made the all the difference.Will definitely be back for more."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
good variety, some original
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"good variety, some original menu items. portions were huge, so was the entree prices. wish they would serve less and charge less."
Dined on 03/21/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 14 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Top-Notch Italian Steakhouse!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was top quality, the BEST filet mignon I've ever had! Nice to see organic/grass fed beef being offered. Great service and ambiance, the bar was a bit crowded which added a bit to the noise, but not so much that it was off-putting. Highly recommended."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 15 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Really good food, great service,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Really good food, great service, nice menu. Can be a bit noisy near the bar."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 16 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Brando's is the place for
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Brando's is the place for veal chops in Monmouth County. Offered in several styles, from the spicy Fuoco to the succulent stuffed chop with figs and asiago cheese. All are wonderfully tender and perfe4ctly cooked. The cost rating of $$ is puzzling, as dinner for two runs higher than other $$ rated restaurants in the area and can easily top $120. A $$$ rating would be more accurate. Reservations strongly recommended, as it fills up quickly."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
If you like a place that has
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"If you like a place that has it all this is it"
Dined on 03/08/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 18 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Thumbs-up (mostly) for Brando's
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The restaurant was awesome. Don't take the criticism which is to follow as overshadowing that. The food was excellent and of obscene portion size - we easily brought home enough for a full second meal (and our dogs even got part of the leftover pork chop, without impugning the human's second meal). The service was excellent. The ONLY criticism was the dichotomy between the enjoyable comfortable dining and the proximity of the bar and its multiple large TV screens which are right there in the dining area. The bar stretches along about 2/3 of the dining area, which is a single row of tables opposite the bar's length along the wall from the street into the depth of the restaurant. Too loud, particular the TVs, in too-close proximity to tables."
Dined on 03/05/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
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Review 19 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We had a great time. The food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a great time. The food was excellent and prepared as requested. Definetely a repeater."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 20 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Watch out for the specials' prices!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My husband and I tried Brando's because it was a deal on LivingSocial and it was highly recommended by a friend. We went to the restaurant on a Tuesday night and the service was terrible. We ordered an appetizer, salads, and entrees. It was extremely slow in between courses. Once we actually got our food, it was very good. We ordered a fresh mozzarella appetizer that was a special told to us by the waiter. It was a ball of cheese, four olives, of two pieces of toasted crostini, and four pieces of prosciutto. It was a good size appetizer for two people to share. To our surprise when we received the bill it was a $25 appetizer. The average appetizer on the regular menu seemed to be about $12. Very shady, will not be returning."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2013
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Review 21 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great place right on Main
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place right on Main St. in Asbury Park. Great friendly bar, great happy hour. The food was very good. The sauces and flavors were great."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
In from Orlando, FL
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Let me some it up for you in one simpleword....AWESOME!"
Dined on 02/21/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 23 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Since relocating from the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Since relocating from the city, Brando's has made our dining experience that more delightful for a culinary experience."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 24 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
another great dinner with
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"another great dinner with the wife. we have been going to Brandos for special occasions and have never been disappointed. i cant wait to go back..."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We have eaten here before
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have eaten here before and loved it! Wish table was bigger...wish there was more room between tables but food remains delicious!!"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2010
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Review 26 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
great dining spot
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"we visited this restuarant on Valentines Day , dining room busy , but not crazy
wasnt really happy with first table we were seated, spoke to hostess (a little cold but it may have be a tough day for her) wasnt helpful, but i was willing to wait for a better table. our conversation was overheard ( may have been owner or mgr didnt get his name) but he was more than willing to accomadate us, turned the whole evening around
we had a nice table, service was excellent, food very good , a truely enjoyable experience, wiil be back again"
wasnt really happy with first table we were seated, spoke to hostess (a little cold but it may have be a tough day for her) wasnt helpful, but i was willing to wait for a better table. our conversation was overheard ( may have been owner or mgr didnt get his name) but he was more than willing to accomadate us, turned the whole evening around
we had a nice table, service was excellent, food very good , a truely enjoyable experience, wiil be back again"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 27 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Have been back many times
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Have been back many times and never disappointed."
Dined on 02/12/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 28 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
last year I went and the food
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"last year I went and the food was out of this world. I went back and i was disapointed with the food. I expected better. I told all my freinds about how good this place was and then I went back and it was not as good. I thought maybe it was me but my wife said the same thing. Was not as good as last time. For the price I thought it was going to be better. Maybe they just had a bad night in the kitchen?
I will have to go back again and try it one more time,"
I will have to go back again and try it one more time,"
Dined on 02/06/2013
2013
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Review 29 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great service, delicious food,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great service, delicious food, and pleasant dining experience."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2012
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 30 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing ambiance and food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing ambiance and food as always."
Dined on 02/03/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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Review 31 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
P. Menna
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Always a great meal. Getting a little crazy with the prices. $95 for a steak for two is overpriced even for NYC. However good finds on the wine list for under $40 a bottle make up for the food prices."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 32 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious, creative, mouth
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious, creative, mouth watering dishes. Loved the appetizer with crab, shrimp and avocado. The fish specials are wonderful. So much variety, and prepared to perfection. It's one of the best placed to eat in the area."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 33 for Brando's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Right on The Money !!!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Been meaning to get here for a while, but just never did. After trying it I was sorry I didn't get here sooner. Has a New York City flair to it that is "HARD" to find in New Jersey. The owner, and hostess Susan, really help make you feel comfortable. Even though my server was there for his first night he did an admirable job. Food was great, wine was on the spot, and I am definetely going back real soon. Great for a couple or a group. If you main concern is how much is on your plate, and the price, this is not for you. Last time I bought "quality" food it wasn't cheap, so how do I expect a restaurant to serve good quality food cheap... For a good night out this si the place. If I can only talk them in to a litlle live music, I would"
Dined on 01/19/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Brando's
Based on the average of (45) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
5 out of 5 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic