Hey foodie-film buffs! 🍝 If you love heartwarming comedies spiced with real family vibes, you’ve gotta check out Nonnas (2025).
Directed by Stephen Chbosky and starring Vince Vaughn, this flick is based on the true story of Joe Scaravella and his Enoteca Maria restaurant in Staten Island where grandmothers from around the world whip up their grandma’s best recipes.
Let’s dive into where the magic happened!
Netflix’s Nonnas Filming Locations Overview
| Location | Why It Rocks |
|---|---|
| Staten Island, NY | Home to the real Enoteca Maria & authentic neighborhood feels |
| Jersey City, NJ | Urban energy & street life |
| Hoboken, NJ | Waterfront views & historic charm |
| Bayonne, NJ | Mix of homes and storefronts—perfect small-town vibe |
| Paterson, NJ | Old mills & gritty backdrops, adds character |
| Linden, NJ | Quiet streets for cozy, community-centric scenes |
| Elizabeth, NJ | Classic diners & mom-and-pop shops—super warm |
| Edison, NJ | Neighborhood parks & local haunts |
Where Was Nonnas Filmed?
The heartwarming comedy Nonnas was primarily shot in Staten Island, NY (home of the real Enoteca Maria), and across diverse New Jersey towns—Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne, Paterson, Linden, Elizabeth, and Edison—to showcase authentic working-class neighborhoods and cozy community spots.
Staten Island, New York
- What’s Cool: You step off the Staten Island Ferry (free ride!) and you’re in Joe Scaravella’s real-life neighborhood. You’ll see the actual Enoteca Maria building and the tight-knit community that inspired the story.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- Ride the Staten Island Ferry for epic skyline and Statue of Liberty views.
- Explore St. George with its seaside parks and the historic Enoteca Maria site.
- Enjoy local Italian eateries and family-run cafés.
Jersey City, New Jersey
- What’s Cool: Filmed in bustling downtown streets—this place has that authentic urban hustle matching the film’s vibe of everyday life.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- Walk along the Waterfront Esplanade for Manhattan views.
- Grab street food from multicultural vendors.
- Snap pics of the graffiti and street art.
Hoboken, New Jersey
- What’s Cool: Historic brownstones, the legendary Carlo’s Bakery (home of the Cake Boss), and riverside parks set up some sweet exterior shots.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- Chill on the Hoboken Waterfront Walkway.
- Dive into local brunch spots.
- Catch a ferry back to Manhattan in style.
Bayonne, NJ
- What’s Cool: A mix of residential streets and small businesses gave the film its cozy, “every-day” look.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- Explore the Marshes Waterfront for nature trails.
- Discover dive bars and corner delis for authentic eats.
Paterson, Linden & Elizabeth, NJ
- What’s Cool: These towns added gritty backdrops, classic diners, and mom-and-pop shops—perfect for those “slice of life” moments.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- In Paterson, wander the historic Great Falls area.
- In Linden, check out local parks & community events.
- In Elizabeth, dine at old-school diners and browse vintage shops.
Edison, NJ
- What’s Cool: Neighborhood greens and public spaces let the film breathe in some fresh air shots.
- Benefits of Visiting:
- Visit Roosevelt Park for picnics and chill time.
- Try local South Asian cuisine—Edison’s a melting pot!
Meet the Cast & Crew
- Director: Stephen Chbosky
- Writer: Liz Maccie
- Star: Vince Vaughn as Joe Scaravella
- Plus: A real “nonnas” ensemble—grandmothers who literally cook on set!
Behind-the-Scenes Trivia
- Real Recipes on Film: The nonnas cooked actual family dishes—no CGI food here!
- Authentic Restaurant: They shot inside the genuine Enoteca Maria for key scenes.
- Community Cameos: Locals from Staten Island and NJ appear as extras in crowd scenes.
- Fast Shoot: Entire movie wrapped in May–June 2023, capturing summer block parties and outdoor markets.
Top 5 FAQs
What is Nonnas about?
It follows Joe Scaravella (Vince Vaughn) and the “nonnas” who cook at his Staten Island restaurant, celebrating food, family, and culture.
Where did Nonnas film take place?
Key locations include Staten Island, NY, and six New Jersey cities: Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne, Paterson, Linden, Elizabeth, and Edison.
Why choose Staten Island and NJ?
These spots reflect the real Enoteca Maria setting and offer genuine neighborhood vibes central to the story.
When was Nonnas filmed?
Production ran from May to June 2023, capturing the summer’s community energy.
Can I visit these places?
Absolutely! Ride the Staten Island Ferry, stroll Bergenline Ave in Jersey City, grab coffee in Hoboken, and explore historic Paterson Falls all insta-worthy and full of local flavor.