Patricia’s: Why famed Holmdel restaurant decided it was right time to expand

BYOB Italian eatery opens 2,000 sq. ft. addition it hopes will bring back more customers to in-person dining

The post-COVID mentality has many restaurant owners making plans to expand their online and delivery options.

Patricia’s of Holmdel had a different idea.

The owner of the well-known BYOB Italian restaurant — which includes the Market, which sells Italian pastries — jumped at the chance to expand the spot at 2135 Route 35, adding 2,000 additional square feet.

Frank Brusco said the new area can seat as many as 40 people — and comes with its own restrooms, making it perfect for private parties and catered events.

The room even comes with an entrance to the Market.

More than that, the room matches the moment, Brusco said.

“The newly designed space offers beautiful high ceilings, chic décor for any event and the same delicious food that keeps people coming back to Patricia’s,” he said.

The room, which became available when the previous tenant vacated, took about eight months and approximately $500,000 to renovate.

Brusco said it was worth it.

At a time when so many are getting takeout, Brusoc feels it’s the perfect way to get customers to come back in.

“Having the great customer base we have, I figured now was the time to enhance our dining experience and give our customers something you can’t buy online,” he said.

Patricia’s has been doing that since 2015, when Brusco took his recipes from his Italian heritage to create a restaurant rich in tradition and classic Italian cuisine. He partnered with the executive chef, Lenny DiMaria, who uses his many years of expertise to constantly update the menu with signature dishes.

“When you walk through our doors, you become a part of our family,” Brusco said.

“I am so excited to finally share the expansion of Patricia’s with our amazing customers. This state-of-the-art space was designed with them in mind — and we know it will truly elevate their dining experience.”