Legacy Dining

IT’S AN ESTABLISHMENT and an institution.

Some may even call it an eatery. But this destination is a hidden gem that represents a slice of Americana served up fresh with a heaping side of history.

Welcome to Hapgood’s restaurant—where Mountain Lakes gathers to meet, greet, and eat.

A BITE TO EAT

The interior of Hapgood’s presents as an open combination of rustic chic further enhanced by exposed beams, high ceilings, and drop lighting to set the mood.

A communal dining island supports a festive fall menu broadcasting hot drink specials such as Pumpkin Patch Bliss: a creamy latte with pumpkin pie sauce, and the Maple Pecan Dream: a maple latte cream with crushed pecans.

An extensive menu lends itself to American comfort food such as pulled a pork sandwich and namesake creations, including a Hapgood’s BLT (applewood, bacon, brie, tomato, arugula, and garlic aioli). There is something for everyone, including vegetarians and gluten-free bites.

For the early birds, the breakfast menu serves up eye openers such as tiramisu pancakes, topped with mocha cream and espresso glaze, and fried French toast. There’s also the obligatory (but not boring) avocado toast served with poached eggs and home fries as well as an array of omelets and lighter fare such as yogurt, oatmeal, and fresh fruit.

TAKE A SEAT

On a recent Friday, diners lingered outside at umbrella-topped tables, taking advantage of al fresco opportunities before the cold weather swoops in. On the inside, late breakfasters nursed their remaining coffees, as a steady stream of pre-lunch traffic was intercepted by hostess Fernanda Medina, who greeted regulars by name and welcomed newcomers with just as much enthusiasm, whisking them away to tables. The servers were in top form, approaching the tables with fresh water delivered in mason jars, which were refreshed throughout the meal.

The hustle and bustle of the borough’s hot spot is exactly what owners Bill and Lisa Corvelli had in mind when they first took over the venue, adding their personal touch while paying homage to history, evidenced by well-preserved photos of Hapgood’s homes stationed throughout the restaurant.

While regulars often pack a picnic-style table on warm Sunday evenings, Hapgood’s also attracts curious diners from all corners of the state and even beyond. The eatery even recently served the likes of NFL legend Bart Oates.

In the past few months, the couple unveiled an 18-seat bar in an adjoining room that used to be a hair salon, where Lisa once worked.

The bar area consists of several dining tables and maintains the continuity of the cherry wood furnishing and historic touches that pay homage to the American Revolution. And yes, a George W ashington portrait is in the house.

The bar is also a destination hangout for Herds fans who often belly up to watch a live simulcast of Friday night games.

The Corvellis are proud parents of the head running back, Massimo, as well as their other son, Dante, who plays his part in the business. Their daughter Sydney went the financial route.

So, how did these restaurant owners, who hail from West Orange, come to own and operate a happening eatery? It helped that Bill is ever the entrepreneur, and when the property became available, the couple pounced.

The name was a natural fit given Herbert Hapgood’s influence on the development of Mountain Lakes, where his imprint remains in several hundred of his namesake houses.

A persistence-goes-the-distance mindset combined with an all-hands on deck staff set the business up for success. Hapgood’s employs about 30 staffers including a chef, line cooks, manager, and hostess, to name a few.

“In order to succeed, you have to have presence, and you have to have cleanliness,” says Lisa. “Details are key.”

From the little lamps to the water served in mason jars, people notice. Those details are evidenced by the keepsake postcards that are gifted to customers at the end of the meal.

As for the future? It’s here in the now. “We are very blessed to have this place and wonderful community,” she says.

Hapgoood’s Restaurant is located at 44 Midvale Rd., Mountain Lakes and is open

seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For more information, visit

www.hapgoodsrestaurant.com.

BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE