Closings
Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten, Asbury Park
After a 2023 flood closed the Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten indefinitely, the restaurant owners were unable to obtain insurance coverage for the losses. The flooding also meant that the venue missed out on Oktoberfest, one of its biggest events. The owners then found out that the landlord was going to nearly triple the rent. In early January, the manager announced that the hall had shuttered permanently.
[RELATED: The Best Restaurants in Asbury Park]
Openings
The Cafe at Journal Squared, Jersey City
Located in the lobby of Journal Squared, a landmark mixed-use development above the Journal Square PATH Station, the café offers coffee, matcha, baked goods, wraps and salads, all served in a welcoming setting where people can work, socialize and build connections with others in the neighborhood.
Xina, Bradley Beach
This popular Toms River sushi spot announced it will open its second location at the Jersey Shore early this year. Known for its immense and high-quality sushi selection, Xina will expand to Bradley Beach, replacing a shuttered 7-Eleven on Main Street.
Crew, Chatham
Owners Kristina and Parker Marvin wanted to create a place where customers could always get artisanal English muffins, made from scratch every day. Named after their firstborn child, Crew offers breakfast and lunch sandwiches made on homemade English muffins, plus on-tap coffees and teas. The couple previously worked in New York at such establishments as Daniel, Per Se, Attaboy and Soho House.
Lelu Patisserie, Fort Lee
This new bakery promises “handcrafted elegance in every bite.” Owner Ana Kutelvas wanted to open something akin to what you’d find in Europe—a spot serving great coffee and pastries. The menu includes croissants, macarons, financiers, scones and tarts. Lelu is open seven days a week.
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