New Business Brings Long History of Experience to Howell

The weather may not have been perfect on Saturday, but even a little rain was not enough to dampen the spirits of Gene Landino, the owner of Orsini Dining and Leather.

Located at 1150 Route 9 South, Landino had around two dozen of his closest friends and family in the store for a grand opening celebration. He describes Orsini as "a specialty furniture store," which he said features mostly high quality items made in the USA. "It's not your rubber stamp furniture," he added.

The Route 9 location may be new for Landino and his family, but the Orsini name is not new in the furniture world. Prior to moving his business down to Howell, he was the owner for the past 20 years of Orsini Dinettes on Forest Avenue on Staten Island, NY.

Since moving to Howell 12 years ago, Landino said he has gotten very involved in his new hometown, including serving on the boards of the local Pop Warner league and Saint Veronica's School. Now he is looking forward to bringing his personal and professional lives closer together. "I have a lot to do with the community so I figured what better time than now to come down here, take my business and bring it closer to home," he said.

For the customers of his store, Landino said they specialize in three areas: stools, dining furniture and couches. While these are three things that might seem to not have much in common, he said they are all items for places that can bring people together. "One of our tag lines has always been together we can transform your formal, casual and recreation spaces into those special places where families gather," he said.

Family is such an important part of Landino's life that it is the reason why the store is closed on Sunday, except by special appointment. In fact, the name of the store is a tribute to his grandfather who he said got him started in the business many years ago. "Instead of coming down here and using my name or some other name, I felt that my grandfather started me and I felt an homage to him to keep that name."

For those customers who may have gone to the Staten Island store in the past, Landino said that while it will not be the exact same items as they had there, there will be definite similarities. "It's a continuation of the experience, the expertise, the craftsmanship and the commitment to quality," he noted.

Now that the doors are open in the Howell store, Landino said he hopes to enjoy the same level of success that he had in New York. "I'm hoping to be part of the community," he said. "I'm hoping to put my roots down here. With the experience of being in New York for over 70 years, I hope to do the same here."

For more information on Orsini Dining and Leather, you can call them at (732) 414-2880. You can also go their website, and find more information on their Facebook page