Ralph Acquaviva Takes Sole Ownership of Delicious Heights in Berkeley Heights
Business and Finance·September 1, 2026

Ralph Acquaviva Takes Sole Ownership of Delicious Heights in Berkeley Heights

Maria Torres · Union County Life

Ralph Acquaviva has finalized a deal to take sole ownership of Delicious Heights, a restaurant located at 428 Springfield Avenue in Berkeley Heights. Acquaviva, who has worked in Berkeley Heights for 26 years, originally opened the Delicious Heights takeout and delivery deli on Springfield Avenue more than two decades ago with business partners.

The business eventually relocated to its current location at 428 Springfield Avenue, the former site of Gasoline Alley, where Delicious Heights opened its first full-service restaurant in 2008. The ownership change follows a period of growth during which the Delicious Heights group operated six locations at one point. As the larger partnership evolved, Acquaviva decided to step away from co-owned locations and concentrate solely on the Berkeley Heights restaurant.

"I feel like I am Berkeley Heights," Acquaviva said. "I love the town, I love this location, and I love the people associated with it. I want to keep growing, but stay local and stay true to my identity."

Returning his focus to a single location has left Acquaviva feeling more connected to the day-to-day operation than he has in years. Building a strong and consistent team at the Berkeley Heights location is a top priority. Customers can expect updates to the restaurant, including new flooring and lighting, along with a renewed focus on hospitality and customer connection.

Several employees who have been with the restaurant for years, including its banquet and events manager, plan to remain through the transition. Acquaviva also plans to bring in new team members. A new website for the restaurant is in the works. Union County Life covers Berkeley Heights businesses, downtown developments, and community stories. Explore Berkeley Heights businesses, programs, and local news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Delicious Heights

FAQ

Q: Who owns Delicious Heights in Berkeley Heights?
A: Ralph Acquaviva has finalized sole ownership of Delicious Heights, located at 428 Springfield Avenue. Acquaviva has worked in Berkeley Heights for 26 years and originally opened the restaurant more than two decades ago.

Q: What changes is Delicious Heights making under new ownership?
A: The restaurant is undergoing renovations, including new flooring and lighting. Acquaviva is also renewing focus on hospitality and customer connection, building a strong team, and launching a new website. Several longtime employees, including the banquet and events manager, are staying with the restaurant.

Q: How long has Delicious Heights been open?
A: The original Delicious Heights takeout and delivery deli opened more than two decades ago. The full-service restaurant at its current location on Springfield Avenue opened in 2008 at the former site of Gasoline Alley.

Q: Why did Ralph Acquaviva decide to focus on one location?
A: After the Delicious Heights group operated as many as six locations, Acquaviva chose to return focus to the Berkeley Heights restaurant to stay connected to the day-to-day operations and remain rooted in the community he has served for 26 years.

Q: Where can I find more Berkeley Heights business news?
A: Union County Life covers Berkeley Heights restaurants, businesses, and community stories. Visit unioncountylife.com for local business updates and community news.

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