Kitchen Step in Jersey City Has Closed; More Dining News

ClosingsKitchen Step, Jersey City

Chef Ryan DePersio and his team have announced the closure of Kitchen Step, citing an inability to secure new lease terms that were viable for the business. They are actively exploring a new location for the restaurant, which opened in 2016 and received a two-star review from NJM in 2019. “It’s been the honor of our lives to see Kitchen Step grow into a place where neighbors, families and friends came together,” the restaurant posted on social media. Kitchen Step’s outpost at Newark Airport is still operating.

OpeningsMeximodo, Jersey City

Opening October 9, this will be the second New Jersey location for Meximodo, the Mexican restaurant whose original location in Metuchen broke a Guinness World Record for the largest tequila and mezcal selection in a bar or restaurant. The new Jersey City location will also boast one of the world’s largest libraries of tequilas, mezcals and other agave spirits. In response to feedback from Metuchen patrons, it will feature a separate vegetarian and vegan menu with 22 dedicated items.

Pops Trattoria, Audubon

Café le Jardin is now Pops Trattoria. The former French restaurant received a three-star review from NJM and was a critics’ pick for best French food in our 2024 Jersey Choice Restaurant Poll. With Pops Trattoria, the owners have transitioned to Italian-American classics—crafted by French-trained chefs—such as chicken parm, spaghetti and meatballs, and more.

The Raging Bull, Pennsauken

This new spot serves cheesesteaks, smash burgers and milkshakes, plus shareable appetizers.

Geamos Café & Bakery, Westfield

Classic Georgian pastries are served at this new café, as well as a variety of Georgian dumplings (Khinkali) and coffee.

Plus: Madison is getting a new coffee spot, while a modern Kosher restaurant comes to Westfield’s Garden State Plaza.

Your guide to New Jersey’s best pre- or post-show restaurants.

From Oktoberfest celebrations to family-friendly events, the Garden State has a plethora of fun fall happenings.

The Garden State’s dining scene has it all—from incredible Italian food to amazing Asian fare, French cuisine and more.