Just recently we were thrilled to celebrate our 50th Anniversary with over five-hundred family, friends and customers - what an exciting benchmark for our family! Five decades ago, our dad Joe began by partnering with four friends and overseeing the groundbreaking what was once the Hotel Scandia in 1962. What first was expected to become a bowling alley has turned into a popular event destination in Garwood, NJ.
Over the years, countless members of the Scalzadonna family have made The Westwood, their home away from home, from our children to our grandmother Lena, they have all taken an active role in making The Westwood what it is today.
Over the years, countless members of the Scalzadonna family have made The Westwood, their home away from home, from our children to our grandmother Lena, they have all taken an active role in making The Westwood what it is today.
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We wanted to send a big thank you to everyone who entered to win the $25,000 towards an event at The Westwood. The response was overwhelming - we received so many diverse and heartfelt entries, we truly enjoyed reading each one. From brides-to-be to some amazing non-profit organizations, we were touched by your stories. We were so moved that we decided to award not just one $25,000 prize, but 4 additional prizes too. And the winners are.
It'ss the event you've waited a lifetime for. Whether an intimate brunch or an evening bash for hundreds, count on The Westwood to translate your wedding vision into glorious reality. Choose from dazzling buffet options, popular station-style service, even an event that includes your own signature cocktail!
24/7, The Westwood staff eats, sleeps and dreams about events - the food, the drink, the logistics, all the details that can turn an important meeting or business event from ho-hum to home run. Because events are our business, we're uniquely qualified to ensure yours goes off without a hitch. Morning or evening, a client luncheon or an all-day training event, let The Westwood put our five decades of event planning expertise to work for your next corporate function.
Reviews (27)
Dae R.
Jun 19, 2022
If negative stars were an option The Westwood most certainly earned it! Where shall I begin? About 4:30pm we arrive to set up for a retirement party. We were told to arrive at 4:30pm by Aaron the manager of the venue. When we arrived the receptionist looked at us as if we had 12 heads and had no clue why Aaron would tell us to arrive by 4:30pm if the party that was utilizing a portion of the venue space that my family rented was not done until 5pm. -When asked to speak with Aaron we were told he stepped into a meeting.
We asked when would he likely be done with his meeting because no one else had answers and time was of the essence. Several arrangements agreed upon via the rental contract were not fulfilled as per the signed agreement. When Aaron was finally able to meet with us after we had to walk to his office because the hostess never let him know we needed to speak to him like we asked he basically gave us a big "screw you im already paid" kind of attitude. -"Joe" the maitre d' was extremely rude and condescending upon reception.
One of the hostess "irene or Iris" can't recall her name was also classless and should probably never work another day in customer service. At the end of the night when asked for the boxes that we entered the venue space with the maitre d' Joe became flustered and began to raise his voice to say he asked specifically if the boxes were to be thrown out or kept, and proceeded to call the guest of our event "Trash" "You people are trash" were his words verbatim.
I have never been insulted with such vile and racist language after patronizing a venue space. The management staff of The Westwood should be ashamed of themselves and the representation from their staff.
We asked when would he likely be done with his meeting because no one else had answers and time was of the essence. Several arrangements agreed upon via the rental contract were not fulfilled as per the signed agreement. When Aaron was finally able to meet with us after we had to walk to his office because the hostess never let him know we needed to speak to him like we asked he basically gave us a big "screw you im already paid" kind of attitude. -"Joe" the maitre d' was extremely rude and condescending upon reception.
One of the hostess "irene or Iris" can't recall her name was also classless and should probably never work another day in customer service. At the end of the night when asked for the boxes that we entered the venue space with the maitre d' Joe became flustered and began to raise his voice to say he asked specifically if the boxes were to be thrown out or kept, and proceeded to call the guest of our event "Trash" "You people are trash" were his words verbatim.
I have never been insulted with such vile and racist language after patronizing a venue space. The management staff of The Westwood should be ashamed of themselves and the representation from their staff.
Angela Nikolados
Jun 15, 2022
I was very pleased with this venue, we worked with Erin and he was very accommodating with all my ideas I wanted. The room was very big witch was a huge plus for me since my 119 guests were seated comfortably. I was able to have entertainment for the kids with a balloon twister and face painter and they had plenty of room to work and kids had room to run around and play.
The captain was Nigel and he was very good and the wait staff was very helpful too! The food was very good which is obviously a huge plus for anyone. I would give 5 stars but the room was not ready until a little bit after 4 pm when my party was suppose to start. I would recommend to get there on time or have someone spot check that what instructions you left for your decor and/or favors.
The captain was Nigel and he was very good and the wait staff was very helpful too! The food was very good which is obviously a huge plus for anyone. I would give 5 stars but the room was not ready until a little bit after 4 pm when my party was suppose to start. I would recommend to get there on time or have someone spot check that what instructions you left for your decor and/or favors.
Leslie Beiner
May 08, 2022
Cynthia Garcia
Apr 18, 2022
Lauren L. Materowski
Dec 21, 2021
This is a fantastic place! Forget about flying your guests to a French chateau for your wedding. As you can see our photos, the ambiance is very charming and welcoming. Maitre d' - Betty and her staff are extremely efficient, polite, and friendly. The magnificent venue and the service is unmatched. The staff truly cares about your experience. Amazing beverage, food, and service. When we think about creating lasting memories, "The Westwood" never disappoints. Highly recommend!
Monnie Van Kline
Nov 22, 2021
Tattoo
Oct 28, 2021
Charles Reilly
Oct 21, 2021
Nice place Good food. Fast From the kitchen and dining room But the Bar service was a little slow It was like an effort for the guy to give you a drink We got the impression they were trying to Discourage you From asking for a Drink I don't think the bartender had a smile on his face the whole entire day Not even when he said thank you The line was long twice (15ppl) he would load up the refrigerator with beer instead of waiting on the people As he gradually put 2 beers in the refrigerator at a time Then he would turn around And look you with that suttle calm face can I help you, So you bite your tongue from telling him that the beer is not going to get any colder within the next 10 minutes Instead of waiting on the people From that I don't want to be he looked on his face to to the thank you when he handed me the drink definitely discouraged ppl from going back Other people were asking guests online to get them a drink
Tasha Seabron
Oct 18, 2021
Michael McConnon
Sep 16, 2021
I've shoot weddings for a living for 10 years now, over 500 shot and edited. But this venue had something I've never seen before. the most aggressive maitre D i've ever seen in my career. He was very controlling, and angry. He ruined the reception entrances (I'm editing them now) In person it was odd but now that I'm reviewing the footage from 3/4 cameras.
It's down right unnecessary how he was acting. He would stop everyone from having a fun time dancing into the ballroom to put them in the line for the arc way, it was ridiculous and all of the guest noticed. If it was my wedding, I would have lost my mind. I would never recommend this venue to anyone and I pray the next time I work this venue, that male maitre D has a new job directing planes on a run way or better yet, security guard where he has the rights to put his hands on people (During Covid-19). Unbelievable, I have the footage to prove it, its a wedding this isn't the army, hire a new leader of your staff.
It's down right unnecessary how he was acting. He would stop everyone from having a fun time dancing into the ballroom to put them in the line for the arc way, it was ridiculous and all of the guest noticed. If it was my wedding, I would have lost my mind. I would never recommend this venue to anyone and I pray the next time I work this venue, that male maitre D has a new job directing planes on a run way or better yet, security guard where he has the rights to put his hands on people (During Covid-19). Unbelievable, I have the footage to prove it, its a wedding this isn't the army, hire a new leader of your staff.
John A.
Aug 26, 2021
Attended a wedding here yesterday and the staff was very friendly and helpful. The wedding was dressed well in a large room that had a large dance floor and plenty of room to walk about and interact with other guest of the wedding. The bar was located in the back of the room where the line didn't interfere with the flow of the room or interrupt the dancing or flow of the buffet.
As a guest of this wedding I would definitely say that the staff did a great job being attentive to the needs of the people sat and did a great job of clearing plates quickly and quietly to not interrupt the wedding reception. I would definitely attend a wedding or special event here again. Convenient parking on either side of the building with plenty of spaces.
As a guest of this wedding I would definitely say that the staff did a great job being attentive to the needs of the people sat and did a great job of clearing plates quickly and quietly to not interrupt the wedding reception. I would definitely attend a wedding or special event here again. Convenient parking on either side of the building with plenty of spaces.
Chevy Charlie
Jul 06, 2021
Jacqueline M.
Sep 14, 2020
Rose T.
Aug 18, 2019
The Westwood is a special place for me and my family. My Dad & his coworkers would have their annual Christmas party there and my parents celebrated their Silver Anniversary as well. We had a lot of history with them so it was a no brainer to pick them for our wedding. I dealt with Cathy when planning my parents' party a decade ago & I was ecstatic when I saw that she still worked there.
She made me tear up when she showed me the Thank You card I sent 10 years ago that she saved! I knew we'd be stress-free picking them due to the past experiences we've had. Cathy answered all of my questions patiently & was amazing throughout the process. Joe was our maitre d' - he was attentive to us & I was thankful he even offered to go to the car to try to find my missing bouquet!
He also had the bridal party pumped before walking in the reception room. The guests raved about how amazing the food was & some even want to go back for more braised short ribs! lol. Also I found out the day after our wedding that there was a blackout in town since one of the buildings collapsed; The Westwood had to rent a big generator to get our party started - we couldn't even tell so we thank them sooo much for saving the day! We love you guys!
She made me tear up when she showed me the Thank You card I sent 10 years ago that she saved! I knew we'd be stress-free picking them due to the past experiences we've had. Cathy answered all of my questions patiently & was amazing throughout the process. Joe was our maitre d' - he was attentive to us & I was thankful he even offered to go to the car to try to find my missing bouquet!
He also had the bridal party pumped before walking in the reception room. The guests raved about how amazing the food was & some even want to go back for more braised short ribs! lol. Also I found out the day after our wedding that there was a blackout in town since one of the buildings collapsed; The Westwood had to rent a big generator to get our party started - we couldn't even tell so we thank them sooo much for saving the day! We love you guys!
Matt R.
Jun 06, 2019
This review is only for the (mis)treatment, not the venue or food or service. back in 2017 I made a $1K deposit for a banquet room for a wedding for my daughter. a 2nd deposit of $5K was due by end of Nov 2017 but being someone who prefers to make payments early rather than just on time(when finances allow) I gave them the $5K 8 months ahead in February. Unfortunately, my daughter had a falling out with the groom so she cancelled the wedding in June still 5 months before the 2nd deposit was due.
When I advise them of this I told them I'd understand not getting the initial $1K deposit back because it was held for a few months but since the 2nd payment I made was not yet due for another 5 months I requested that to be returned. I was told they cannot do that regardless.really? Had I waited until it was due to cancel it would have amounted to the same thing except that in this case they had an additional FIVE months to re-reserve the room!
I then learned that the day I reserved was REFILLED. So after several calls with brushoff answers "boss is on vacation" so by the time he came back what do you think their answer was when I once again asked for the deposit back? "Sorry, we cannot give any money back but as a courtesy we will give you a $2,500 credit towards a future rental" WTF? This is an absolute DISGRACE!
I wonder why they couldn't? Let me guess my money paid for his vacation. I know several engaged & seriously involved couple so I will steer them away & advise them to tell anyone else they know to do the same. This may not hurt their business but it certainly won't help. I'd advise if you are going to still use this thief wait until the VERY LAST DAY to make any payments due because you know what will happen otherwise.
When I advise them of this I told them I'd understand not getting the initial $1K deposit back because it was held for a few months but since the 2nd payment I made was not yet due for another 5 months I requested that to be returned. I was told they cannot do that regardless.really? Had I waited until it was due to cancel it would have amounted to the same thing except that in this case they had an additional FIVE months to re-reserve the room!
I then learned that the day I reserved was REFILLED. So after several calls with brushoff answers "boss is on vacation" so by the time he came back what do you think their answer was when I once again asked for the deposit back? "Sorry, we cannot give any money back but as a courtesy we will give you a $2,500 credit towards a future rental" WTF? This is an absolute DISGRACE!
I wonder why they couldn't? Let me guess my money paid for his vacation. I know several engaged & seriously involved couple so I will steer them away & advise them to tell anyone else they know to do the same. This may not hurt their business but it certainly won't help. I'd advise if you are going to still use this thief wait until the VERY LAST DAY to make any payments due because you know what will happen otherwise.
Barbara Short
Apr 14, 2019
Mj D.
Nov 09, 2018
Annette O.
Jul 09, 2017
Ricardo Nazario
Jun 20, 2017
I was recommended this place by a family friend. I'm looking for venues for my wedding. The customer service on the phone is awesome! Friendly and care. Made a last minute appointment and was able to squeeze me in to see the rooms. Cathy helped me understand and showed me packages and also gave me paper work with everything on it in a folder to keep. Explained to cathy that we are on a budget and gave me a lot of options even still on a budget. Excellent service! Photos attached are for a smaller venue which can seat a lot.
Arielle L.
Jun 08, 2017
Tamika J.
Feb 01, 2017
I attended a wedding reception here. The venue was lovely, bathrooms well designed and clean, and the lighting in the room was perfect. The space was just right for the amount of people in attendance. The food was more like 3 stars. The taste and presentation of the food was mediocre. It was open bar. That's always a nice touch to any wedding. Overall, I thought the venue was a nice pick.
Kat H.
Mar 17, 2016
Alexa G.
Nov 19, 2015
From the flat soda to dessert, I was not pleased. The bread basket was most bizarre assortment I have ever had- there was a mix of baguette slices, mini muffins and crackers. Weird but I ate it since I was still hungry from dinner portions. We had chicken and broccoli w rice. The best thing about it was the rice. Overall I'm still hungry- and planning to go to the nearest diner.
The coffee they served was terrible. The decaf looked like black tea- and when you added milk to it it looked as if it was iced coffee that had melted. So then I tried the regular and it was Burnt.
The coffee they served was terrible. The decaf looked like black tea- and when you added milk to it it looked as if it was iced coffee that had melted. So then I tried the regular and it was Burnt.
Gerald N.
May 30, 2015
Had my party here and it was a blast. The dance floor was a bit tiny but good enough for us. The servers were courteous and helpful. The front desk was nice as well. The tables were clean and floors as well. There's a photo opportunity outdoors at the gazebo which is nice during the day. There's plenty of parking as well. Overall, I'd come back for another party.
Nino R.
Oct 26, 2013
You get what you pay for here. They offer packages as low as $50/person here. That's scary to me. The venue is clean but the rooms are very outdated. There were two rooms where they had windows framing a wall painting. It cannot get any more tacky than that. My fiancee and I had made an appointment that their event coordinator did not show up for.
For me, that is strike one, two, and three. If you can't get your dates organized just for a showing, then I'm not confident everything will go according to plan for the actual event. The coordinator did call an hour later saying that she had wrote down the wrong appointment time. That's cool. We drove 40 minutes to get here and waited another 20 minutes before we decided leave. Complete waste of time.
For me, that is strike one, two, and three. If you can't get your dates organized just for a showing, then I'm not confident everything will go according to plan for the actual event. The coordinator did call an hour later saying that she had wrote down the wrong appointment time. That's cool. We drove 40 minutes to get here and waited another 20 minutes before we decided leave. Complete waste of time.
Shohan R.
Sep 24, 2012
Chris L.
Dec 25, 2011