Lita’s business model includes staff rotating between front-and back-of-house roles, equal base pay and pooled tips across the team. Grant funding will go toward training and documentation related to the approach.
Openings:
Asturia Brewing Co., Hackensack
Asturia Brewing Co., in Hackensack, NJ. Photo: Courtesy of Asturia Brewing Co.
Set to open in Hackensack this spring, Asturia Breweing Co. is positioning itself as the first Brazilian-owned brewery on the East Coast. The family-run operation draws on traditional brewing traditions, incorporating organic ingredients and tropical Brazilian flavors not commonly seen in the region’s craft beer scene.
The team recently made an appearance at the Jersey City Brew Fest, offering an early look at its approach ahead of an official opening that will include tastings and tours. Early pours, including a Pilsen-style lager, suggest a focus on clean, approachable beers with subtle aromatic variation. Asturia’s debut adds a new cultural outlet to North Jersey’s growing brew landscape, with more details expected as the brewery prepares to open in the coming months.
Natalia Reis (left) and Victoria Santos (right) of the family-owned brewery. Photo: Courtesy of Asturia Brewery Co.
Talum Mexican Grill, Paterson
Venezuelan and Mexican culinary traditions converge on Grand Street at Talum Mexican Grill, which opened March 18 with an expansive, culturally rooted menu. Expect everything from crisp, golden mariscos fritos (fried seafood) and rich, slow-briased birria tacos to handformed sopes (fried corn masa cakes) and savory lomo de cerdo (pork loin) al pastor, alongside refreshing nonalcoholic options—Mexican sodas and fruit-forward aguas frescas (BYOB). A selection of kids’ meals and desserts round out the offerings.
The space strikes a balance between casual and lively, making Talum Mexican Grill an easy, family-friendly spot for everything from weeknight dinners to celebratory meals.
Ugly Dumpling, Morris Plains
This popular, Shanghai-inspired street food spot—originally from Edison—opened a new location in Morris Plains this month. Specializing in soup dumplings, dim sum, and wontons, the menu lets patrons mix and match fillings like chicken, pork, shrimp, and more, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options in the mix.
Beyond dumplings, the lineup expands into noodle bowls, wok-fired dishes, desserts, and bubble tea, making it an easy go-to seven days a week for a quick bite or full spread.
Tommy’s Tavern + Tap, Toms River
Tommy’s Tavern + Tap is making its Ocean County debut in April. The menu reads like a greatest hits lineup with specialty wings, stacked burgers, coal-fired pizzas, sushi, salads, and sandwiches. Behind the bar, expect a mix of craft beer, whiskey, and specialty cocktails to keep things lively. It’s the chain’s 13th Garden State location, but 16th nationwide.
Mister Softee, Little Egg Harbor
A classic landed in the Jersey Shore last week, opening a brick and mortar storefront in Little Egg Harbor. While the brand already operates its fleet of trucks across the state, this latest location joins permanent outposts in Wildwood, Cape May, Brick, and Beachwood. The shop takes over the former Pine Cone ice cream space, continuing to serve up soft-serve, sundaes, and shakes.
Closings:
Oso Felipe, Montclair
On March 25, Oso Felipe, an Erie Street restaurant known for its blend of authentic and contemporary Mexican cuisine, announced it will close on March 29. Its patio will remain open on March 28, with happy hour specials and the regular menu available all day. The restaurant occupies the former Richie Cecere’s Restaurant & Bar, a 14,000-square-foot space originally converted from a paper mill. “We’re proud to have brought new life to this storied space, and especially grateful to our staff, many of whom have been here since day one,” a representative shared on social media.
