Openings
Hollow Pines, West Creek
Inspired by the trappers, clammers and farmers who shaped the Pine Barrens, this elevated spot for American comfort food is now open. Hollow Pines offers a 35-seat long bar and lounge, a private party space, and the area’s first duckpin bowling alley downstairs.
Once the snow clears, the outdoor area—complete with a fire pit, bocce ball court and a striking A-frame bar—will be ideal for warming up and unwinding. Live music will round out the experience.
SRO, Hoboken
From the creative minds of chefs Anthony Pino and Liz Pino comes Hoboken’s newest cocktail lounge. Adjacent to Anthony David’s, also operated by the Pinos, SRO offers a distinctly moody atmosphere infused with New York City-level sophistication on the other side of the Hudson. The lounge opened on February 10.
Asu Mare Peru Restobar, Elmwood Park
Get a taste of Peru at this new North Jersey spot, where authentic dishes, vibrant cocktails and modern takes on classic flavors come together in a lively, social setting. The space draws inspiration from the nightlife of Lima, the country’s capital, nestled in the valleys of the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín Rivers.
Covo Italian Steakhouse, Englishtown
Steak lover? This new Monmouth County spot serves premium cuts paired with authentic Italian flavors, blending classic indulgence with Old World flair for an elevated night out.
Closings
Bahama Breeze, Cherry Hill
Darden Restaurants announced that the last remaining Bahama Breeze location in New Jersey will close on April 15. Four other Garden State outposts—in Toms River, Paramus, Wayne and Woodbridge—permanently shut their doors last spring.
In a press release, Darden Restaurants said that its “primary focus will continue to be supporting team members,” placing as many as possible in roles within the company’s portfolio.
Dining news
Three New Jersey restaurants were affected by fires this past week, prompting temporary closures and safety investigations.
Meadows Diner in Blackwood experienced its second small fire in a week—and the third in recent months—linked to neon lighting. The diner has temporarily closed to modernize its lighting system.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Whiting caught fire on February 7, leading to the precautionary evacuation of neighboring Whiting Bar & Spirits. Both businesses sustained extensive smoke and water damage and were deemed unsafe for occupancy. The cause of the original fire remains under investigation.
The National Fire Protection Association notes that dry, windy winter conditions can increase risk for electrical fires, with about 30 percent occurring between the months of November and February.
Former New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act into law in January, banning the manufacture and sale of certain consumer goods with intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS do not break down in the human body or the environment.
The ban is expected to impact restaurants and takeout operations statewide, as PFAS are commonly used in grease-resistant packaging and utensils. Businesses have until January 2028 to comply, after which violations may result in fines of up to $25,000.
The weekend-long celebration will feature tastings, dinners and parties with top chefs and winemakers, plus a lunch hosted by NJM senior editor Jacqueline Mroz.
Plus: A beloved Tenafly restaurant closes, while Northvale welcomes a special kimchi eatery.
