Lokal Jersey City boasts killer views of the New York skyline. However, owner Mona Panjwani is confident that the views are just part of the attraction at Lokal.
Along with restaurateur Hemant Phul — who created the concept behind Lokal — the duo have completely revamped the former Taphaus space and turned it into a new restaurant and bar that they hope reflects the changing spirit of Jersey City.
“Jersey City is a town of immigrants and we’re all the new locals,” says Phul. As a result, Lokal (German for “local”), is all about Jersey City. The restaurant sources as many ingredients from New Jersey as it can. Likewise, the cocktail menu features local beers and spirits, alongside internationally recognized brands.
Designed by Abraham John Architects, the spacious dining area can accommodate approximately 200 guests. Tables and seating are arranged so that every spot inside the restaurant looks toward the window and the New York skyline. Lokal also has an indoor lounge area and an outdoor dining patio. (The patio is expected to open next spring).
Tapping into New York talent
Helming the kitchen at Lokal is executive chef Walter Donadio. Donadio is a Michelin star kitchen trained chef who has worked at a variety of restaurants from Nobu Fifty Seven to Le Cirque. A graduate of the French Culinary Institute (International Culinary Center), Donadio loves combining flavors from different cuisines, which can be seen throughout Lokal’s menu. It includes dishes like Pan Con Tomate (a Spanish classic) alongside entrees like Korean-influenced Gochujang Rock Shrimp.
Behind Lokal’s beverage program is mixologist Tess Sawyer. Sawyer has worked at New York’s The Up & Up, Mother’s Ruin, and The Happiest Hour. Cocktails like Lokal’s signature Elliott Stubb are as delicious to drink as they are beautiful. (You can check out the food and drink menu here).
A restaurant for special events and every day dinner
Although Lokal has a special area for private events, Panjwani and Phul emphasize that they want their restaurant to be the kind of place locals can visit for dinner or drinks any night of the week. Everything is accessible and there’s also be a unique happy hour with discounts on food, says Phul. The happy hour menu includes $1 oysters and any 3 small plates for $19.
The mission behind Lokal is to showcase the best that Jersey City has to offer and keep locals from crossing the river to dine in New York.
“Jersey City has come a long way,” says Phul. “We’re bringing in quality food and a quality bar program so that you can stay local.”
Lokal is now open and has recently launched brunch service from 11am to 3pm on weekends. You can see their brunch menu below.
