This week in New Jersey’s food and beverage scene, the state saw the abrupt closure of a popular entertainment restaurant, the debut of new markets and dining spots, recognition of local establishments on national lists, and a calendar full of foodie events stretching from North Jersey to the Shore.
One of the biggest surprises came in Paramus, where Pinstripes, the bowling, bocce, and dining concept, shut its doors on September 10. The closure followed the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing and left the Garden State without its only location of the national chain. For fans of its blend of upscale dining and social gaming, the news was an unwelcome reminder of how challenging the hospitality industry remains, especially for concepts that straddle entertainment and dining.
While Paramus lost a venue, Red Bank gained one with the opening of Anderson Market, a food hub that combines multiple local vendors under one roof. Guests can enjoy coffee from Booskerdoo, seafood from Local 130, grazing boards from Molly Boards, and flavorful fare from Namkeen, along with prepared meals and specialty groceries. The market is quickly becoming a destination for Monmouth County food lovers seeking variety and local flavor.
Hackensack is also preparing for a new addition, with food-delivery innovator Wonder set to open at the Print House mixed-use development. The company, which reimagines delivery by offering menus from a range of popular restaurants, is banking on Bergen County’s dense population and appetite for convenience to fuel its expansion.
Brand loyalty was also in the spotlight this week as a new survey crowned Camden-based Campbell’s Soup as New Jersey’s most loved homegrown brand. The recognition highlights the enduring place Campbell’s holds in both kitchens and state pride, even as consumer tastes continue to evolve.
Diner culture, long a symbol of New Jersey, also made headlines after New Jersey Monthly ran a feature highlighting how the state’s diners are adapting to modern demands. While some classic spots are updating menus and interiors, others are doubling down on nostalgia, proving that the diner remains a cornerstone of local food culture.
In South Jersey, recognition is flowing to Cherry Hill, where Chatpati Delhi, known for its Indian street food, was named one of the top 50 restaurants in the country by The New York Times. The accolade has put a spotlight on the township’s growing international food scene and reinforced the region’s culinary diversity.
The festival season is also in full swing. The Downbeach Seafood Festival returns to Ski Beach in Ventnor on Saturday, September 13, with a lineup featuring fresh seafood, live music, and vendors showcasing the best of coastal cuisine. For chili fans, September offers multiple opportunities to indulge, including the Men’s Chili Cook-Off in Northfield on Thursday, September 19, and another cook-off with a vendor fair in Toms River on Sunday, September 21.
Closer to Cherry Hill, dining and nightlife events are keeping the calendar busy. Randall’s Restaurant at The Legacy Club is hosting its weekly Wine Down Wednesday on September 10, offering five pours and appetizers. Infused Restaurant & Bar at the Holiday Inn will transform into a dance floor for “BAILA! Saturdays” on September 20, with Latin music and late-night dining. Kaminski’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, another Cherry Hill favorite, will keep guests laughing with a comedy night set for Wednesday, September 17.
Other news comes from Haddon Township, where the township planning board unanimously approved an application for a Nifty Fifty’s franchise to replace the long-closed Newton Diner site. The retro-style eatery is expected to bring a family-friendly dining option and a dose of nostalgia to the community once signage approvals are finalized.
Meanwhile, in Old Tappan, Dunkin’ is celebrating its newest store opening at 200 Old Tappan Road with a grand opening event on September 15. Guests can expect free coffee and doughnuts between 10 a.m. and noon, along with giveaways, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and appearances by local officials and first responders. The event will also benefit the Old Tappan Food Pantry, with the first 50 customers who bring canned food donations receiving additional perks. Franchisee Bill Mulholland, who also operates several other Dunkin’, Buffalo Wild Wings Go, and Jersey Mike’s locations, emphasized his excitement about joining the local business community.
With its mix of closures, celebrations, and culinary milestones, New Jersey’s food and beverage industry continues to evolve, proving once again why it’s one of the state’s most dynamic sectors. Whether it’s the resilience of diners, the innovation of new markets, or the recognition of local favorites on national stages, there’s always something cooking across the Garden State.
For more on food, dining, and cultural happenings across the region, visit Explore New Jersey’s film and TV section.
