Phil's Pizzeria in Montvale, NJ

[Sklarman]

I am a pizza fanatic and Phil's on Chestnut Ridge Road in Montvale next to the Grand Union is where I got my start over 30 years ago. Back then it was a thin, blistered crust, tangy tomato, and creamy mozzarella topped with a dusting of oregano. When you folded a slice, the orange-tinted grease dripped out the back and down your arm. Anybody remember it or even still go there? If so, is it still what I remember? I think the person slinging the pies back then was a little italian guy named Jerry. I live in LA now, and pizza deprivation has made me weepy and nostalgic. Any thoughts, memories, or info would be appreciated.

[moma23]

Goes to show you that newer is not better. Yes, it is updated & a little cleaner, but the old world charm & friendliness of the past owners is surely missed. When a waitress with an attitude buys the place, she just becomes a former waitress(and wasn't a good one) with a bigger attitude and new found ego. Count your blessings for your location, because nothing else going for you.

[elmodog]

I just had lunch there. It was nothing out of the ordinary. I did eat there in the day though. I don't remember the cook but I remember the "Bella!" Am i wrong or was the name "Phil and Neal's" or "Harry and Phils" or something likt that?

[Sklarman]

Nobody else remembers or eats at Phil's?

[JRBlack]

I work nearby, and my office occasionally orders pizzas from Phil's--not because it's in any way exceptional, but just because it's close and they deliver. Neither the pizza nor the other food are remarkably good or bad.

[Sklarman]

It didn't used to be that way... Once, there was Camelot...

[sweetpotopie]

Alas, Phil's is not the awesome pizzeria you remember so fondly. The original owners sold it a few years ago and it hasn't been even close to the same since. We've stopped going altogether and while they do still do a great lunch business based solely on a great corporate location - most of the locals now go elsewhere - truly a shame! I too miss the days of going to Phil's for their MOST delicious pizza and being greeted each and everytime with an ethusiastic "Bella!".....even if they didnt know who you were - you always felt welcome and that your business was truly appreciated!

[Sklarman]

When did it get sold? Did it go downhill right away? Do you remember Jerry?