The start of the holiday season is here, which means full calendars and festive decor everywhere. It’s been another busy week in Hudson County and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up. Among the highlights: a Hoboken restaurant is used for filming; Hudson Pride celebrates one year in its Jersey City space; and Hoboken Police host a toy drive in honor of a fallen colleague. Read on for all the news from Hoboken and Jersey City for the week ending December 3rd 2023.
The Best of Hoboken + Jersey City 2023 Guide Finalists Announced — VOTE NOW!
The finalists for the Best of Hoboken + Jersey City 2023 Guide are in! Thank you to everyone who nominated local businesses and people in Hoboken + Jersey City to receive the recognition that they deserve. Those who received the most nominations in each category advanced to the top three finalists, so before anyone says so-and-so was robbed, remember: we make the rules, we don’t pick the finalists. Click here to read the list and vote for your favorites.
A New Consignment Shop is Coming to Downtown Jersey City
Photo Credit: Amanda + Tommy Atkinson
In Hudson County’s retail world, “the more the merrier” rings true once again with a new consignment shop coming to 197 Newark Avenue in Jersey City. Consigned Designs, led by husband and wife team Amanda and Tommy Atkinson, is set to transform the former gallery space into a consignment shop. The store plans to open December 16th and will feature a blend of contemporary fashion pieces alongside a selection of vintage luxury items. Read on for details about the owners and the new consignment shop opening soon in Jersey City.
Is American Horror Story Filming at Elysian Cafe?
Hoboken has its fair share of rumored-to-be-haunted places, and though Elysian Cafe isn’t one of them, it’s entering a new category: rumored to be the filming location for a popular horror television series. Elysian Cafe, Hoboken’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, will be closed to customers from Tuesday, November 28th until Thursday, November 30th so that American Horror Stories — an FX + Hulu spinoff of the popular series American Horror Story — can use the restaurant as a film set. Film crews are slated to arrive on Tuesday, November 28th at 5PM. No word on what celebs might make appearances, but in the past, notable figures like Kaia Gerber and Paris Jackson (yes, Michael Jackson’s daughter) have starred on the show. Keep reading for everything we know about the upcoming American Horror Stories filming in Hoboken.
GLOSSLAB in Hoboken Closed for “Foreseeable Future”
GLOSSLAB, a well-known membership-based nail studio located at 537 Washington Street in Hoboken, has temporarily closed. The company announced its temporary closure via an email to customers on Monday, November 27th, without specifying the reasons or time frame for the shutdown. There are currently 18 GLOSSLAB locations in the US, with Hoboken being the first and only New Jersey location. Read on for details about GLOSSLAB and its temporary closure.
Number Eleven Food Store to Close Garden Street Space; Returns to Hoboken Pop-Up Location
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In March of 2022, the team behind Dozzino, a popular pizzeria in Hoboken, grew its stamp in town with a third food venture called ‘Number Eleven Food Store.’ The concept specializes in Asian-inspired cuisine and currently operates out of the former 7 Stars Pizzeria building at 342 Garden Street. On November 28th, 2023, Number Eleven Food Store announced via Instagram that it won’t be renewing its Garden Street lease, and while the team searches for a new location, will operate as a pop-up in Dozzino on Mondays and Tuesdays starting on December 11th. Keep reading for the latest updates on Number Eleven Food Store in Hoboken.
Longtime Hoboken Restaurant ‘Satay’ to Close; Owners Retiring
Over the past few weeks, we’ve gotten some messages about whether Satay, a Hoboken restaurant with a Chinese and Malaysian menu, was closed or closing. Now, we know for sure that Satay, located at 99 Washington Street, will close for good on December 24th, 2023. Read on to learn what we know.
Hoboken Police Announce 3rd Annual Sargeant Peter Zanin “Peachy” Toy Drive
^ Dozens of toys have already been donated to the “Peachy” Toy Drive. Photo credit: City of Hoboken.
Via a press release, the Hoboken Police Department announced the Third Annual Sgt. Peter Zanin “Peachy” Toy Drive has begun for the 2023 holiday season. The event officially kicked off at the City’s Community Tree Lighting last night with dozens of residents donating toys to the collection drive which benefits hundreds of local children and teens. The department’s annual toy drive was renamed for Sgt. Zanin three years ago, after “Peachy” as he was known, suddenly passed away in 2020. Zanin, a father of three and a 20-year HPD veteran, was known for being an integral part of many events and initiatives that give back to the community, including the annual Toys for Tots toy drive. Click here to learn more.
Hudson Pride’s Jersey City Center Celebrates One-Year Anniversary
The Hudson Pride’s Jersey City Center invites the community to join the organization to celebrate its one-year anniversary at 3000 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Suite 306. According to a press release, the event will take place on Join us on Friday, December 8th from 5PM to 8PM. Guests can visit the center while enjoying light refreshments and free giveaways.
Second Location of Saigon Bistro Opens in Jersey City
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Popular Vietnamese restaurant Saigon Bistro has opened a second location in Jersey City. According to Jersey Digs, the new location is at 2303 Pacific Avenue, joining its sister location at 514 Central Avenue. Both restaurants are closed on Mondays.
Jersey City 911 Dispatcher Fired for Role in Leaked Documents
A 17-year veteran of the Jersey City 911 call center was suspended without pay after being arrested by the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office’s Special Investigations Unit. According to a press release from the prosecutor’s office, Rose Davis of Jersey City was charged with computer-related crimes. Reporting from NJ.com indicates that Ms. Davis, a dispatcher, unlawfully access records involving a July 2023 car crash involving Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, and shared those records with the Hudson County View.
Changes Underway for Hoboken Branch of Bank of America
The downtown Hoboken location of Bank of America will move to a new location later this month. According to Patch, the branch located at 1 Firehouse Plaza will close and move to a space at 55 Washington Street. The new branch will open on December 11th.
Hoboken + Jersey City Receive Perfect Scores in 2023 Municipal Equality Index
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Both Hoboken and Jersey City ranked high in the 2023 Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI), a national study, according to NJ.com. Both Hoboken and Jersey received perfect scores. The study examines local policies and other quality-of-life issues that impact the LGBTQ community.
Jersey City Monument to COVID Victims Held Up by Approval Process
Plans to create a memorial in Jersey City dedicated to the victims of Covid-19 have been held up by the approval process. The plans were announced for what will be called Skyway Park in December 2020, but supporters say the project is stalled by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. According to NJ.com, the proposed project site is on a former landfill and requires special approvals before moving forward.
Journal Square Jollibee Workers Receive Settlement After Dispute
Nine workers at the Journal Square location of Korean fried chicken chain Jollibee will share a settlement of $84,000 in back pay, according to NJ.com. The workers were fired in February 2023 after signing a petition for higher pay and better working conditions. After the fired workers filed a petition, The National Labor Relations Board found in favor of the workers, requiring the company to reinstate them, pay back pay, and issue a formal apology.
Hoboken’s Veterinary Emergency Group Hosts Fundraiser with Pet Portraits with Santa
To celebrate the holidays, VEG Cares, the philanthropic arm of the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), will host a Holiday Family Pet Photography event for charity, where visitors can dress up their pets – whether they are a dog, cat, or bird – in their holiday best for an adorable Santa-themed shoot. According to a press release, for $20 as a donation to VEG Cares, visitors and their furry (or feathered) friends can have their photo taken and receive one digital photo. All proceeds go directly to VEG Cares and will help local underserved pets in the Hoboken area. All are encouraged to come in their most festive holiday attire, as VEG will be giving away merchandise to the best-dressed pets and patrons. The event will take place on Sunday, December 10th from 11AM to 3PM at Hoboken Legion Post 107, located at 308 2nd Street.
New Restaurant, BYRD, is Coming to 800 Jackson Street in Hoboken
The team behind Millburn’s Common Lot restaurant has announced plans to open a new venture in Hoboken. The new restaurant, BYRD, will be located at 800 Jackson Street and will open in the first quarter of 2024 — breathing new life into a space that has had several restaurants in its locale over the last decade. The menu will embody a relaxed and global dining experience, according to its owners — who we got a chance to chat with this past week. Read on for more details about a new restaurant, BYRD opening in Hoboken.
Leasing Begins at New Bergen-Lafayette Building, Atlas, in Jersey City
^ The Atlas Sky Lounge. Photo credit: Alpine Residential.
Pre-leasing is underway at Atlas, introducing a collection of 169 rental residences, contemporary amenities, and spectacular views in Jersey City’s Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood, according to a press release. Perched on an elevated site at 270 Johnston Avenue, the 24-story building – the tallest in the neighborhood – opens with well-appointed studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences. Many homes feature private balconies that extend the living spaces outdoors while maximizing uninterrupted views of the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Harbor, Liberty State Park, and the Manhattan skyline.
Arrest Made in Jersey City Attack
An arrest was made Monday, November 27th, following an alleged assault on Sunday, November 26th outside of Grove Station restaurant in downtown Jersey City. According to NJ.com, the victim, Moath Hamzeh, a Palestinian-American, claims that the attack was motivated by bias. Jersey City police arrested Fadel Abdallah of Bergen County in connection with the incident, but are not investigating it as a hate crime.
Hoboken Woman Missing, Police Seek Public’s Help
The Hoboken Police Department is attempting to locate 40-year- old Lena Preston reported #missing by her family. Anyone who sees – or knows where she is – is asked to contact Det. Christine Collins at 201-420-2100 or collinsc@hobokenpdnj.gov OR your local PD. #Hoboken pic.twitter.com/15khF4POBM
— Hoboken Police (@HobokenPD) November 29, 2023
Hoboken Police and a local family are asking for the public’s help locating a missing woman. Per Patch, Hoboken resident Lena Preston has been missing for a month and her family is concerned for her well-being. Please contact Hoboken Police with any information.
Jersey City Store Sells Winning Lottery Ticket
A winning lottery ticket worth over $500K was sold in Jersey City, according to Patch. The ticket is worth $525,000 and was sold at 111 Town Square Place in the Newport neighborhood of Jersey City.
Hillsborough Teen Stars in NJ Devils ‘Hockey Fights Cancer’ Night
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As part of the league-wide Hockey Fights Cancer Night, 13-year-old brain cancer survivor Charlie Shomers of Hillsborough, New Jersey, joined the New Jersey Devils for a day with the team. According to Patch, Charlie signed a one-day contract with the team and had his own locker in the locker room. He spent time with players in the locker room before the game, rode a Zamboni, and announced the team’s starting goalie to the arena.
North Bergen Gets State Grant of $948K for Roadway Safety Improvements
As part of New Jersey’s 2024 Safe Streets to Transit Program, North Bergen will receive a $948K grant for traffic improvements. Per NJ.com, the work in North Bergen will be concentrated on Bergenline Avenue. The terms of the grant require the money to be used for safety improvements that encourage the use of public transit, such as widening sidewalks or increasing street lighting.
West Side Fire Displaces 10 Jersey City Residents
Ten Jersey City residents have been displaced after a fire damaged four homes in the West Side neighborhood. The fire took place just after midnight on Wednesday, November 29th at 117 Broadway, according to NJ.com, and quickly spread to 115 and 113 Broadway via the roof. The American Red Cross provided emergency assistance to the displaced residents. No injuries were reported.
Free Holiday Parking in Bayonne
From December 1st, 2023 through January 1st, 2024, Bayonne residents and visitors will have free parking in city lots, according to NJ.com. The free parking is up to four hours, and is only applicable in city lots. The program is designed to encourage people to shop and dine in Bayonne during the holiday season.
First Meeting for Liberty State Park Task Force
The first meeting of a 23-member task force overseeing the rehabilitation of Liberty State Park took place on Tuesday, November 28th, per NJ.com. The meeting was led by Sean LaTourette, commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, and some participants pushed back at the proposed plans for the park. The meeting was described as more of a listening session to talk more about the plans.
Historic Jersey City Police Building Overridden by Mold
A 100-year-old building used by the Jersey City Police Department has been deemed to have an irreparable mold issue. The East District Police Precinct located at 207 7th Street in Hamilton Park was vacated by staff in Spring 2023 for repairs, but upon further inspection, the mold was too extensive for repairs, according to NJ.com. The precinct will be moved to a new facility, being built by the Manhattan Building Company, at 16th and Coles Streets.
Driver in Fatal Crash to be Held Until Trial
The driver of a vehicle that was involved in an October 2023 triple-fatal crash will remain in custody until the trial. According to NJ.com, Hudson County Judge Vincent Militello decided that Jersey City resident Ziyang Wang must remain in custody through the trial, which has not been scheduled. The October 16th crash on Patterson Plank Road killed three people, including two passengers in Wang’s car, which was traveling over 100 MPH.
Initial Plans Released for Greenway Project
Initial plans have been released for the rail trail project that will connect Hudson and Essex counties, the Greenway, and the public’s feedback is wanted by the Department of Environmental Protection. According to a press release, the first phase of the multimillion-dollar project will be focused on a nearly two-mile span through Newark, Essex County, and Kearny, Hudson County. To learn more about the project or submit a comment on any of the four themes, visit dep.nj.gov/greenway. Comments will be accepted until December 17th, 2023.
Ten-Year Project Breaks Ground at Port of Newark
On Wednesday, November 29th, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to kick off what will be a ten-year effort to upgrade the roadway access to Port Newark and the Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal according to Patch. The project is called Port Street Corridor Improvement (PSCI) and is expected to be completed in May 2028. The estimated cost is $220 million.
New Spot Called ‘The Biscuit Babe’ Replacing Former D’s Soul Full in Hoboken
Back in May, after 17 years, D’s Soul Full Cafe announced its closure at 918 Willow Avenue in Hoboken. We recently got word that a new spot is filling the space. ‘The Biscuit Babe’ is the new exterior signage that just appeared on Willow in its place. Although specific details regarding the menu and opening date are limited, the restaurant’s Instagram photos focus on serving breakfast, brunch, and biscuits. Read on for details about the new spot replacing the former D’s Soul Full Cafe.
Olympians on Hand for Curling Demonstration at American Dream Mall
^ US Olympic Team Members Daniel Casper and Andrew Stopera. Photo credit: Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce.
Visitors to American Dream Mall got a demonstration of the sport of curling from the best of the best: members of the US Olympic Curling Team. According to a press release, the event was a preview for the National Championship taking place in January and February at American Dream. The event was an inside look into the athletes and skills that could eventually represent the Curling Team for the Olympics in 2026 in Italy.
Reader Submissions Welcome to The Hoboken Girl’s Event Calendar
HG readers can now add their own events to our community calendar. Using this link, readers can use the form to submit event information and images that will populate our site.
Groundbreaking Ceremony on Gateway Project Tunnel
After over a decade of cancelations and delays, today we marked the start of our work on the Hudson Tunnel Project.
From Tonnelle Ave to Pennsylvania Ave, our leaders are fully committed to completing the Gateway Program – the most important infrastructure project in America. pic.twitter.com/berBOlhm3r
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) November 30, 2023
Work on the ambitious Gateway Tunnel project began this week with a groundbreaking ceremony held on Thursday, November 30th, according to NJ.com. State, local, and federal officials attended the North Bergen ceremony. A similar celebration was held on the New York side of the project, which is expected to be completed in 2025.
Jersey City’s Chris Hospital Celebrates 150 Years of Service
Christ Hospital in Jersey City recently celebrated its 150th anniversary at a gala, according to NJ.com. The 300-person gala at Hudson House was hosted by Care Point Health’s Just Health Foundation. Local leaders attended and gave remarks, many of which were about their personal experiences at the hospital.
Fort Lee Restaurant Has Best Cheeseburgers in NJ
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The best cheeseburger in New Jersey is in nearby Fort Lee, according to Yelp users. Marty’s, located at 2024 Center Avenue in Fort Lee has the best-ranked cheeseburger in the Garden State. A Jersey City outpost is located at 488 Central Avenue.
Eight Members of the North Hudson Regional Fire + Rescue Promoted
Members of the North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue (NHRFR) were promoted at a ceremony on Tuesday, November 28th, according to NJ.com. Eight members were promoted, including Captain Jason E. Hodge to battalion chief and Firefighters Marc Lombardo, Samuel A. Griglio, Steven A. Alvarez, Edgardo Feliciano, Patrick J. Klebaur, and Matthew M. Huelbig, all to the rank of Captain. Battalion Chief Alan L. Williams Jr. was promoted to the rank of deputy chief.
