Why Everyone’s Driving To This Classic New Jersey Pizza Joint

Have you ever driven miles out of your way just for a slice of pizza? People from all over New Jersey and beyond are doing exactly that to visit Star Tavern in Orange.

This legendary spot has been serving up some of the crispiest, most delicious thin-crust pies since 1945, and once you taste them, you’ll understand why everyone’s talking about it!

A Legacy That Started In 1945

Imagine eating pizza at a place that’s been around since your great-grandparents were young! Star Tavern opened its doors back in 1945, making it one of New Jersey’s oldest pizza spots. Over 75 years later, families still return generation after generation.

Walking through those doors feels like stepping back in time. The recipes haven’t changed much because they got it right from the start. That’s the kind of history you can actually taste in every single bite you take there.

The Vayianos Family’s Special Touch

Since 1980, the Vayianos family has been the heart and soul of Star Tavern. Gary Vayianos, who used to practice law, traded his briefcase for pizza dough and never looked back! He runs the place with the same dedication his family has shown for decades.

Family-owned businesses just hit different, you know? They care about every customer like they’re serving their own relatives.

You can feel that warmth the moment you walk in and see familiar faces behind the counter, greeting everyone with genuine smiles.

Those Legendary Bar Pies Everyone’s Obsessed With

Star Tavern’s thin-crust pizza isn’t just thin, it’s paper-thin and crazy crispy! These “bar pies” are baked to perfection with edges that crunch like potato chips. One bite and you’ll be hooked forever, I promise you that much.

The crust gets so crispy that it practically shatters when you fold it. But somehow it still holds all that gooey cheese and tangy sauce perfectly. People drive an hour just to experience this magical combination of textures and flavors in their mouth.

Way More Than Just Pizza On The Menu

Sure, pizza is the star here, but don’t sleep on everything else they’re serving! Their menu features amazing appetizers like mussels marinara that swim in a rich tomato sauce. Buffalo wings arrive at your table hot and perfectly sauced too.

Feeling healthy? Try their Fields of Green salad packed with fresh veggies and flavor. The variety means everyone in your group will find something they love. Even your picky friend who claims they don’t like pizza will walk away happy and satisfied.

A Neighborhood Vibe That Feels Like Home

Walking into Star Tavern feels like entering your favorite neighbor’s house for dinner. Everyone seems to know each other, and strangers quickly become friends over shared pizza. The atmosphere buzzes with laughter, conversation, and the clinking of plates.

Regulars have their favorite spots at the bar and tables. But newcomers never feel left out or awkward at all. The staff treats everyone like they’ve been coming here for years, creating that special community feeling you just can’t fake or manufacture.

Awards That Prove They’re The Real Deal

When The Star Ledger names you “Best Thin Crust Pizza in NJ,” you know you’re doing something incredibly right! NJ.com even called Star Tavern a “Jersey pizza shrine,” which is basically the highest honor possible. These aren’t just random awards either, they come from serious food critics and pizza lovers.

The walls display various accolades and newspaper clippings proudly. But the real award is seeing lines of customers waiting patiently for tables. Recognition from experts is nice, but loyal fans tell the true story here.

Hours That Work For Your Schedule

Need pizza for Sunday lunch? Star Tavern opens at 11 AM on Sundays and Mondays, closing at 9 PM. Tuesday through Saturday, they stay open until 10 PM, giving you plenty of time to satisfy those late dinner cravings.

The extended hours mean you’re not rushing to make it before they close. Whether you want an early lunch or a late dinner, they’ve got you covered completely.

Planning your visit becomes super easy when they’re open pretty much whenever you’re hungry for amazing pizza.

Refreshing Beverages To Complement Your Meal

Star Tavern features a full-service beverage bar with something for everyone’s taste! They offer a great selection of sodas, lemonades, and specialty drinks that pair perfectly with their pizza. Cold drinks hit different when you’re enjoying crispy, hot pizza slices.

The beverage selection enhances your entire dining experience significantly. From classic colas to fruit punches, there’s a refreshing option for every family member.

Having the right drink makes that already amazing pizza taste even better, if you can believe that’s actually possible!

Perfect For Parties And Big Groups

Planning a birthday party or family reunion? Star Tavern can handle groups of all sizes without breaking a sweat! They’ve mastered the art of serving large parties while keeping everyone happy and well-fed. Your whole crew can sit together and share multiple pizzas.

Big groups sometimes struggle to find restaurants that welcome them warmly. Not here, though. They actually encourage bringing your entire family or friend group.

The staff coordinates everything smoothly so you can focus on celebrating and making memories together over incredible food.

Rave Reviews That Keep Coming

Check online reviews and you’ll see five-star ratings everywhere you look! Customers constantly praise the delicious food, friendly service, and consistent quality that never disappoints. People write paragraphs about how Star Tavern exceeded their expectations completely.

Consistency is what separates good restaurants from legendary ones. Star Tavern delivers the same amazing experience whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth.

That reliability keeps people coming back week after week, year after year, bringing new friends each time to share the magic.