Openings
Palmetto Southern Kitchen + Bar
Jersey hospitality company BarCo Brands is teaming up with Shore restaurateur James Avery—who recently appeared on the 23rd season of Hell’s Kitchen—to bring a new spot to Asbury Park’s boardwalk. Avery, who sold his Black Swan Public House to BarCo last month, will run the kitchen at Palmetto, serving such items as peel-and-eat shrimp, crab and collard dip, fried chicken, raw-bar offerings and handcrafted cocktails, according to the Asbury Park Press. It’s slated for a March 18 opening.
Maison Fête, Montclair
This French bistro, located in the former Trumpets Jazz Club, is slated to open soon—first for dinner service, and later for lunch, brunch and morning coffee service. It’s the latest venture from Damon Wise, chef and co-owner of Pineapple Express Barbecue and Oso Felipe.
El Gordo Peruvian Eatery, Montclair
This family-owned business has been serving authentic Peruvian cuisine for over 28 years. Montclair’s new location is their fourth in New Jersey.
Knights Public House, New Brunswick
This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a great drink, delicious food and/or a spot to catch the game. The menu offers something for everyone, from truffle fries, sliders and wings to a New York strip steak. It also offers specialty cocktails like the LIT, sour apple martini and Jolly Rancher.
Blazin Chicken & Gyro, Hackensack
Founded by three brothers who hail from North Bergen, this “upscale halal spot” born out of their “commitment to quality” serves gyros, platters, burgers and more. Meats are “meticulously seasoned for 24 hours,” and crafted from recipes passed down by their grandmother. Hackensack is their second Jersey location; their first is in Trenton. It’s open seven days a week.
Closings
The Fox and Crow, Jersey City
This longtime spot for food, drinks and live music announced that it will be closing its doors permanently, following a winter break in January. “After long consideration, as a family we have decided it is time to move on to our next chapter and close the doors as the Fox and Crow,” they wrote on social media.
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