Openings:
Scoop N Scootery, Red Bank
A new dessert shop debuted in Red Bank on April 25, bringing a Boston-based concept centered on elaborate, highly indulgent sundaes to the Jersey Shore. Signature creations include the Fat Rabbit (butter pecan, carrot cake, caramel), Vader (chocolate, brownie, fruit), Murica (vanilla, berries, whipped cream), and Off Pudding (black raspberry, banana, pudding).
The Scoop N Scootery offers late-night delivery service (via Scoop N Scootery drivers or DoorDash) until midnight, positioning itself as a standout option on the Shore for after-hours dessert.
Matt’s Deli & Community Store, Hillsdale
Opened this month in North Jersey, this family-run deli serves up sandwiches, coffee, empanadas and more, all rooted in fresh ingredients and housemade recipes.
Blu Liv, Livingston
The new concept features a surf-and-turf menu from Chef Juan Carlos “JC” Ortega, anchored by a central bar. They are now open in Essex County, expanding on the success of its Weehawken sister spot, Blu on the Hudson.
Moaaza Mediterranean Grill, Saddle Brook
This Mediterranean spot specializes in fresh, customizable bowls, wraps and pasta—equally suited for everyday dining and professional catering. Its flagship location in Rahway anchors the brand, with a third outpost already in the works in Metuchen. The Saddle Brook outpost soft opened last week, with a grand opening coming soon.
Fizzy Pop, Westfield
What began as a West Coast phenomenon—customized “dirty sodas” mixing soft drinks with syrups, cream and flavor add-ins—has made its way east. At the recently opened Fizzy Pop, that trend anchors a playful menu of milkshakes, root beer floats, and smoothies.
Closings:
Late Nite Hackensack Pizza & Steak, Hackensack
A long-standing late-night fixture in North Jersey is closing its doors. The restaurant built a reputation for serving a mix of American and Italian staples, including its pizzas, steaks, calzones, and chicken marsala, catering to both local residents and after-hours crowds.
Dining news:
- O’Bagel in Hoboken is temporary closed due to a kitchen fire that took place on April 29. According to the team’s Instagram story, no employees or customers were harmed, but the shop must complete a professional cleaning and inspection before reopening, which they hope to do as soon as possible.
- Last week, Governor Mikie Sherrill celebrated an anniversary dinner at 15 Fox Place, the Italian-American restaurant set inside chef/owner Marc Budinich’s childhood home. As New Jersey Monthly noted in a 2025 visit, the space trades traditional dining rooms for former bedrooms and living areas, with guests surrounded by family photos, memorabilia, knickknacks and timeworn wine bottles.
- Wurst Bar in Jersey City is expanding into the adjacent space at 518 Jersey Ave, giving the popular neighborhood spot room to grow. The expansion is expected to ease crowding and create additional seating, with potential for an extended bar area or new menu offerings down the line.
