North Jersey Dining Scene Expands with Wave of May Restaurant Openings
With Memorial Day weekend concluded, North Jersey is entering the summer season with a revitalized culinary landscape. The month of May has seen a significant influx of new eateries, ranging from specialized seafood spots to fusion cuisine, providing residents with expanded dining options across the region.
New Local Destinations
Several notable openings and expansions have occurred across various municipalities this month:
- Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls: Opening its second New Jersey location on May 13, this Ridgewood eatery is located at 111 East Ridgewood Ave. The menu features varieties such as the Connecticut Roll and Bar Harbor Roll, alongside shrimp rolls, salads and hot dogs.
- Gnocci on 9th: After operating nine locations in New York City, this establishment has expanded into New Jersey, opening in Jersey City on Friday at 512 Jersey Ave. Offerings include Gnocchi Alla Bolognese with beef and tomato sauce, Gnocchi Black Truffle Cacio E Pepe, and various vegetarian and vegan options.
- Blu on the Hudson: Expanding from its Weehawken waterfront roots, this restaurant opened a second location in Livingston on May 1. Located at 277 Eisenhower Parkway, the kitchen is led by Executive chef Juan Carlos “JC” Ortega, featuring a menu of “world-class seafood and premium steaks” inspired by the Mediterranean, and beyond.
- Violette’s: This new Italian restaurant and lounge in Woodbridge, located at 2 Main St, describes its menu as “contemporary American Italian cuisine with Asian influence,” featuring items such as Truffle Tso’s Chicken and shrimp & lobster risotto.
- The View at Lokal: Located at 2 Second St. In Jersey City near the Exchange Place PATH station, this rebranded outdoor area of Lokal is now open year-round. The “cocktail-driven terrace” offers a menu of seasonal bites, such as tuna tartare and fresh oysters, with Mediterranean influences and locally sourced ingredients.
Regional Impact and Significance
The recent openings signal a growing and diversifying food scene in North Jersey. The expansion of brands like Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls and Blu on the Hudson into new territories, as well as the arrival of New York City-based Gnocci on 9th, suggests a strengthening market for diverse culinary experiences. The addition of Violette’s brings the total number of restaurants on Woodbridge’s Main Street to five, joining established names like Castello’s, Strickland’s steakhouse, Pino’s, and Angelina’s Kitchen.
Looking Ahead
As the summer months progress, these new establishments may become central hubs for seasonal dining. The transition of The View at Lokal into a year-round venue could potentially change how residents utilize waterfront dining spaces in Jersey City outside of the traditional summer months.
