SOMERS POINT – Chef Jorge Penagos acquired a taste for Italian food long before he became a chef.

The head of the kitchen at Stumpo’s Italian Grill and Bar here became interested in Italian food as a young man while he was an international bicycle racer. He said he tasted food from all over the world and liked Italian food the best. 

That influence is evident across the menu at the local family-owned eatery, which offers an extensive menu featuring seafood, chicken, beef, veal and pasta dishes … and pizza anytime.

Penagos was born in Columbia and immigrated to the United States 33 years ago.  He started cooking at age 19 at a country club in northern New Jersey and has been cooking for 32 years. 

“I opened the Railroad Café for Larry Foralli, who owned the Progresso Company, and I opened La Dolce Vita in Lindhurst back in the 80s,” said Penagos. Then came stints in Connecticut and Coral Gables, Fla.

“While living in Florida I was hired by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff to open the Sound of Philadelphia in Brigantine prior to working at Stumpo’s in Somers Point,” said Penagos.

He said he really enjoys working for the Stumpo family – owners Rosemary and Mary Beth Stumpo, aunt and niece, respectively. 

“They are nice people.  This restaurant in Somers Point is their newest.  It is beautiful and clean.  They are very particular about how the food is prepared and the consistency,” Penagos said.

Every Friday and Saturday there is live music 8 p.m. to midnight featuring dancing to the oldies, the music of the 50s, Frank Sinatra, the Beach Boys and the “Hop”, according to manager Jeff Stefano.

A magician performs 5:30 to 8 p.m. every Monday from June 25 through Aug. 20 to entertain the pint-sized guests with tricks and balloons.  

Thursday features a game called “Quizzo” that tests participants’ knowledge of sports, entertainment, the arts and history.  There are nine rounds to the game, and anyone can participate.

The wine list is 75 percent imported and 25 percent from the Napa Valley. The bar has 10 beers on tap plus 15 bottled beers. 

“We take pride in the quality of our food and our excellent service,” said Stefano.

The owners hired Stefano, who managed the Stumpo’s in the Washington Street Mall in Cape May before they opened Stumpo’s in Somers Point. Stefano is now married to Mary Beth’s niece. He said it is great working for his aunt because she trusts him and doesn’t hover over him.

Stumpo’s caters to private functions large and small. Banquet manager Scott Vattima said the restaurant can handle up to 225 comfortably at a sit-down dinner. 

“We are one of the newest restaurants, and we are open all year,” said Vattima. 

Photos by T.S. EVANS