It’s been a busy few weeks for downtown Jersey City. In the past few days we’ve been spoiled with not one, not two, but three restaurant openings (with news of a fourth planned for early next year). The good news is — this weekend you’ll have a lot of new dinner choices. Here’s what we’re most excited about.
Grab Lunch, Dinner, or Both at Piggyback Bar
Forget the New York views. We see it everyday. The true rockstar at Leah Cohen’s new Piggyback Bar is the food. Located inside the Harborside Terminal, Piggyback Bar officially opened on Thursday. The restaurant now has a full menu online which you can check out here. Personal favorites from their preview party include the mapo chili dog, tuna tartare, and fluke ceviche. Oh, and those unforgettable Pig & Khao BBQ ribs. Just keep in mind they’ll be open for lunch/dinner on Friday, but closed on the weekend. (And open again Mon-Fri the following week). @200 Hudson Street
You Have to Try the Pastrami
After a complete redesign, Hudson Hall will finally open its doors in the space that was once Powerhouse Lounge. But make no mistake, the only thing that remains from the Powerhouse are the walls — and even they got a facelift. Hudson Hall will open for dinner on Saturday at 4pm. (Though we recommend you keep your eyes open for a Friday night surprise). Jersey City Upfront attended their preview night and while we absolutely loved the crispy portobello fries and the fatty pork belly BLT, you owe it to yourself to get the Hudson Hall pastrami sandwich. It’s chef Dan Hoose’s (Dinosaur Bar-B-Que) pride and joy — cured, rubbed, smoked, brined, and roasted in-house. @364 Marin Blvd
Healthy Eats at Journal Squared
Friday night means dinner night at Journal Square’s recently opened Whealth Cafe. Every Friday evening, chef and owner David Trotta will cook up a family-style meal with ingredients picked up from the farm the day before. Entrees for this Friday’s BYOB dinner include stuffed giant squash with chickpeas, sweet corn, and chimichurri and roasted carrots with goat cheese and honey. Simple, fresh, and delicious. @615 Pavonia Ave
