Raritan Welcomes The Usual Suspects, a Stylish New Chapter in a Landmark Location

Raritan’s dining scene entered a new era with the arrival of The Usual Suspects, an intimate and design-forward bar and restaurant that opened its doors in December 2025. Set at 46 Thompson Street, the venue steps into the footprint of the beloved Michael’s Inn, a community fixture that served locals for more than five decades. While the new establishment embraces a modern, upscale sensibility, it also carries a strong respect for the legacy of the address, weaving nostalgia and contemporary hospitality into a single cohesive experience.

The Usual Suspects is the latest creation of owner Izzy Qiku, well-known in the region for his former Somerville ventures Social and Ovations. With this new project, Qiku shifts his focus to a concept that blends familiar comforts with elevated detail, bringing the kind of atmosphere that encourages relaxed neighborhood gatherings while still offering the refinement expected of a destination restaurant. Guests entering the space find thoughtful décor choices that balance character and polish, signaling a fresh beginning while acknowledging the decades of community memories tied to the building.

A major part of that visual identity comes from custom artwork by local muralist Chad Fandel, whose work injects personality and a sense of place throughout the dining room. One wall features a striking cocktail-themed mural brushed directly onto layers of vintage newspaper, giving the room both texture and an impression of history. Another is anchored by a portrait of John Basilone, the Marine Corps hero and Raritan native, grounding the restaurant in its hometown pride and local cultural heritage.

The menu at The Usual Suspects reinforces that blend of accessibility and intention. Qiku and his team offer classic American bar offerings at approachable price points, including smash burgers, shareable plates, and an especially notable recipe: his grandmother’s meatballs, a dish that delivers homestyle flavor and personal meaning. Alongside the food, the bar program emphasizes craft cocktails created with precision but without pretense, supporting the restaurant’s aim to serve as a go-to backdrop for weeknight outings, late-evening socializing, or relaxed dinners out.

Beyond the décor and menu, the arrival of The Usual Suspects has significance for the Raritan community. The closure of Michael’s Inn in 2023 left a noticeable gap in the town’s social fabric, creating both a vacancy and an opportunity. Qiku’s decision to consolidate his previous ventures and invest fully in this project reflects a commitment to building a long-term destination that honors the spirit of its predecessor while offering something new to discover. By establishing a modern, stylish gathering place in a location with deep local roots, The Usual Suspects is already positioned as one of Raritan’s most talked-about additions.

For readers tracking new restaurants and standout dining experiences across the state, Explore New Jersey’s restaurants coverage offers a broader look at emerging culinary hotspots and neighborhood favorites.

With its combination of history, atmosphere, and an inviting culinary approach, The Usual Suspects is quickly becoming a central meeting point in Raritan—an appealing new stop for locals and visitors seeking quality, comfort, and a sense of community under one roof.