The media’s love affair with Jersey City continues. First, it was the New York Times, which listed its favorite Grove Street eateries, and then it was Edible Jersey, which took a broader look at downtown’s new and old eating establishments. Now, amNewYork and the Jersey Journal are weighing in with their own takes on downtown Jersey City. amNewYork’s brief visit — which includes stops at Roman Nose, Word, and 9 Bar Cafe, among others — is a little more tongue-in-cheek, concluding that Jersey City is maybe “fun for a day trip.” The Jersey Journal takes a more serious approach with stops along downtown and neighboring areas. Some highlights:
On Porta: Many of Jersey City’s hottest restaurants offer dynamite weekend brunch options, and among the best is Porta. The place, and its scenic rooftop, are also a hotspot for dinner and late-night boozing. [JJ]
On Wonder Bagels: Judging by New York standards, it’s nothing to swim across the river for, but my sesame bagel with butter had all the right ratios of doughiness and chewiness, though it could have been more flavorful. [amNY]
On Iris Records: The 20-year-old spot commands an old-school charm with its iron gates and worn store space. [JJ]
On 9 Bar Cafe: 9 Bar Cafe had the type of fancy espresso drinks, clean tables and trendy furniture you’d find in countless New York City coffee shops, but that [sic] strangest part was the lack of MacBooks. [amNY]
On Mana Contemporary: Perhaps the jewel of Mana right now is the Richard Meier Model Museum, a striking array of wooden models and metal creations from the celebrated Jersey-born architect. [JJ]
On Van Vorst Park: Surrounded by brownstones, it’s a little like Washington Square Park, except smaller and with a noticeable lack of NYU students. Or really any people at all. It was here I noticed Jersey City’s most redeeming quality: No noise. [amNY]
On Taqueria Downtown: The popular hangout thrives on addictively [sic] flavored Mexican eats, and a lively, party-near-the-border atmosphere. The marinated pork carnitas were explosively tasty and the chorizo in the quesadilla was, while greasy, a welcome Friday comfort. [JJ]
On Roman Nose: The fresh spaghetti and meatballs were delicious, much better than the leftovers I usually pack because #midtownlunch, and I even had enough left over for lunch the following day. [amNY]
On Dullboy: The bourbon-based libations we ordered were stunning. Perfectly mixed, smartly balanced. [JJ]
On Taphaus: At night, when Manhattan is fully lit in its panoramic glory, the bar’s glass wall provides an arresting view of the skyline. If you wish to drink in a place that reminds you why you moved to Jersey City, this is the spot. And not being terribly crowded this night was a plus for the two-year-old bar. [JJ]
(Image: amNewYork)
