Tucked in the Deep Run strip mall on Route 9 South in Old Bridge, is a little gem of a restaurant, called A Tavola.  Behind the modest exterior, diners are transported to a family home in Bari, Italy where single mom and owner Rosa, has put her heart into her dream of making A Tavola an all around experience. But she doesn't do it alone. Chef Carranza is an absolute stunner. His graceful, elegant recipes, prepared in the bustling open kitchen, leaves a lingering taste on your lips and the wonderful staff welcomes their guests with bright smiles and open arms. The endless list of superb oversized dishes includes salmon and shrimp in cognac sauce, tilapia stuffed with crabmeat, roasted rack of lamb, and incredible mouth watering rib eye steaks. Enjoy it all, but be sure to leave room for crème brulee, chocolate lava cake, black bottom peanut butter pie and other desserts by Dawn, all  prepared on premises. A Tavola is BYOB, offers on and off premise catering and can be booked for lunch or dinner parties of up to 65.  Check the website, www.atavola1.com for hours of operation, upcoming events, and entertainment schedules.  Reservations are accepted and highly recommended on the weekends.