As soon as I stepped into the newly opened Panini Bistro in Fanwood, New Jersey, I could feel the warmth of a well-loved establishment expanding its legacy. Known for its authentic, fresh, and irresistibly delicious Italian-inspired lunch fare, the Bistro has long been a local favorite. The new location does not disappoint. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread, slow-roasted meats, and rich espresso—instantly setting the tone for a memorable meal.

Aesthetic & Atmosphere

Panini Bistro’s new Fanwood space strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern coziness. With its warm, earthy tones, exposed wood accents, and sleek yet comfortable seating, it creates an environment where you want to linger. The large windows let in just the right amount of natural light, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch, a coffee break, or even a quick meeting over panini and espresso. The open kitchen concept adds to the experience, letting guests catch a glimpse of their food being crafted with care.

A Culinary Journey Through the Menu

I came hungry—and I left thoroughly satisfied. The menu stays true to Panini Bistro’s reputation: high-quality ingredients, bold flavors, and a mix of classic and creative combinations. Here’s everything I tried:

Pear and Goat Cheese Salad

This salad was the perfect way to start the meal—refreshing yet decadent. The sweetness of the pear paired beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese, while candied walnuts and a light vinaigrette tied everything together. It was crisp, fresh, and a great prelude to the heartier dishes to come.

BBQ Chicken Wrap

For those who love bold, smoky flavors, this wrap delivers. The chicken was perfectly grilled, tender, and generously coated in a tangy BBQ sauce that had just the right amount of sweetness. Wrapped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a touch of ranch dressing, it was a comforting and satisfying bite.

Chimichurri Panini

This panini was a standout. The chimichurri sauce added a punch of herby, garlicky goodness to every bite, elevating the savory, juicy meat inside. The bread—golden and crispy on the outside yet soft within—held up beautifully, soaking in all the flavors without becoming soggy. This is a must-order for anyone who loves a sandwich with a bit of zest and character.

Turkey and Brie on Multigrain Ciabatta

A classic combination done exceptionally well. The Brie melted beautifully over the turkey, creating a creamy contrast to the slightly nutty, hearty multigrain ciabatta. A hint of sweetness—perhaps from a fig or cranberry spread—gave it a well-rounded depth of flavor. This was the kind of panini that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Honey BBQ Wings

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in a sticky, sweet, and smoky honey BBQ sauce—these wings were finger-licking good. They had the perfect amount of char, adding a subtle smokiness that complemented the sauce. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a side to-go, these wings are a must-try.

The Perfect Ending: Espresso

To wrap up my meal, I enjoyed a beautifully crafted espresso. It was smooth, bold, and had that perfect crema on top—a testament to the quality beans and proper brewing techniques. There’s nothing quite like finishing off a great meal with an espresso that leaves you feeling both satisfied and refreshed.

Final Verdict

Panini Bistro’s new Fanwood location more than lives up to the high expectations set by its reputation. The food is exceptional, the atmosphere is inviting, and the experience as a whole is well worth the visit. While I would have loved to see the new menu debut (which is why I’m holding back on a full 10/10 rating), everything I tried was a solid 9/10.

If you love fresh, high-quality Italian lunch fare—panini, wraps, meats, soups, and more—Panini Bistro in Fanwood needs to be on your list. And for those who enjoy a visual taste of what’s in store, watch my visit on Instagram!

Links:

https://www.paninibistronj.com/

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetmulroywrites/reel/DH90K-4AP7N/

Photo Credit: Bridget Mulroy