Plus: there's a brand-new Vietnamese eatery in Cherry Hill, and a musical Mexican chain has expanded to Lodi.

By Maggie Leenas | | May 19, 2022

SOMA Sushi opened in Fort Lee on May 12. Photo courtesy of SOMA Sushi

Restaurant Openings:

SOMA Sushi, Fort Lee

This Japanese restaurant opened May 12. Owner May Lee and chef Matsuzaki have prepared a menu of Japanese favorites, including lunch and dinner specials and an 18-course omakase experience at the sushi counter, beginning May 27. The restaurant, which seats 90, is open daily.
2025 Lemoine Avenue, Fort Lee; 201-389-4021

Fortaleza, Lodi

This local Mexican chain recently opened its fifth location. The space includes a full bar that serves sangria, margaritas and more. The menu features Mexican classics such as burritos, fajitas and tacos. Fortaleza will host karaoke nights, live music, mariachi bands and more. Open daily at 11 am.
10 Route 46 East, Lodi; 973-772-0090

Viet Kitchen, Cherry Hill

This Vietnamese eatery punctuated its early-May opening with a traditional lion dance celebration. The menu includes Vietnamese coffee, rice with pork chops, egg rolls, grilled meat noodles, sugar cane slushies, and more. Currently open Tuesday-Sunday.
1434 Brace Road, Cherry Hill

La Lupa, Manalapan

This Italian eatery uses ingredients from New Jersey and Italy. The menu includes house-made pastas, pizza and entrees such as Berkshire pork, chicken saltimbocca, prime NY strip, and more. Daily, 4-11 pm. Closed Mondays.
123 Route 33 East, Manalapan; 732-414-6995

Pier 13, Hoboken

Seven days a week, guests can stop by Pier 13 for food trucks, live music and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The beer garden features specialty cocktails and brews, and local food trucks include Hold My Knots, Gringos Tacos, Sandwicheria and more.
1301 Sinatra Drive North, Hoboken