From the surprise closing of Union Republic to the long-awaited coming of Whole Foods, 2016 was an exciting year for foodies in Jersey City. While it’s impossible to do a complete recap of the year, below are some of our personal highlights, sad goodbyes, and surprises.
January – March: Cafe Batata, Miso Ramen, The Kitchen Step
The batata suíça landed in Jersey City thanks to Cafe Batata, a neighborhood Brazilian cafe that opened during the first month of the new year. Cafe Batata’s opening was quickly followed by the debut of Miso Ramen. A month later, Park & Sixth Gastropub on Washington and York reopened as The Draper, a velvety cocktail lounge that mixed eclectic cocktails with excellent bar food. The quarter ended with the opening of chef Ryan DePersio’s beloved neighborhood bistro, The Kitchen Step.
April – June: Whole Foods, The Draper
After years of petitions, false rumors, and unanswered prayers, Whole Foods squashed all rumors and officially announced its plans to open up shop in Jersey City, albeit, not until 2020. Sadly, the quarter also ended with the abrupt closing of The Draper.
July – September: Latham House, Cellar 335, Union Republic
After years or residing on the corner of Brunswick and Fourth, Madame Claude Cafe closed its doors and moved into its new, current home at 390 Fourth Street. The new Madame Claude Bis is bigger, has a more diverse menu, and for the first time — a cocktail/wine list. 299 Marin also came to life with the introduction of Latham House, an American restaurant that successfully (and deliciously) gives classic entrees a modern twist. Then it was on to Liberty State Park for the opening of Baozi Brew, a biergarten with an Asian touch. Shortly after, Cellar 335 opened just steps away from Madame Claude Bis, bringing sweet, rum-infused tiki drinks and delicious American/Asian fusion to the cellar of the White Eagle Hall. Modcup also expanded and opened up shop at 25 Senate.
Meanwhile, the Heights saw the opening of Dulce de Leche Bakery, whereas downtown favorite House of Gains launched its meal prep service in Jersey City, Hoboken, and Bayonne. Last but not least, we bid farewell to Tendershoot Farms, a Newark Avenue staple that I personally remembered since I was a child living in Jersey City. Likewise, we also lost Union Republic, a Village favorite that — along with Third & Vine and Madame Claude Cafe — helped pioneer an otherwise sleepy section of the Village. Golden Grille also shuttered its doors as did Portuguese tapas bar/restaurant Port-o Lounge.
October – December: Mathews, Atlas, Vogue Cafe
The last quarter of 2016 bought yet another wave of highly anticipated restaurants, such as the opening of Mathews in the space that was formerly La Conguita. After a multi-year delay, Atlas, formerly known as Monty’s, also opened its doors to the public bringing to Jersey City an international menu influenced by the cuisine of various countries. Meanwhile, the Heights welcomed The Hutton and Whealth set up its first cafe inside Harborside Atrium. In late December, Vogue Cafe bought delicious French pastries to the former Tony Two Scoops spot and we also saw the launch of Sol Azteca Mexican and the relaunch of 9th & Coles Tavern.
Jersey Avenue & The Waterfront/Harborside
Jersey Avenue and the waterfront deserve a section of their own because both areas underwent a massive Renaissance this past summer. It began with the opening of The Kitchen Step on Jersey Avenue, which was later joined by new businesses like Pet Shop Bar, Van Hook Cheese, Freshy Freeze, Würstbar, and The Old Spot.
Over by the waterfront, Harborside welcomed a handful of newcomers including Tidal Poké, the 6th Borough Market Holiday Bazaar, Midnight Market, and Whealth’s first Jersey City cafe. Coffee lovers also got three excellent new spots in Bwè Kafe, Ground Connection and Gregorys Coffee.
Here’s hoping 2017 is equally exciting (and from the looks of it — it will be), with more openings than closings.
(Lead Photo: NYT)
