Spring is officially here with more hours of daylight every day. It has been another week of news in Hudson County, and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up, as we do every week — from all around the internet. Among the local news: Biscuit Babe opens on Willow Avenue in Hoboken; a Jersey City tractor trailer fire erupts near Port Jersey Marine Terminal; and a Hoboken resident is hosting a Survivor-inspired contest. Keep reading for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending on March 23rd, 2025.
Have a news story or press release? Email it to [email protected].
Among the Headlines (read on for the full stories + more):
- Biscuit Babe Opens on Willow Avenue in Hoboken
- Parts of Jersey Avenue to Close for 1 Month to Install Sliding Flood Gate
- The Whale Tea in Hoboken Closed During Normal Business Hours
- Hoboken Clothing Boutique a X d Moving to New Location (check updates)
- Byrd Closes its Doors on Jackson Street in Hoboken
- Hoboken Resident Hosting Survivor-Inspired Contest from 3/31-4/6
- Best Accountants in Hoboken + Jersey City
- Jersey City Tractor Trailer Fire Erupts Near Port Jersey Marine Terminal
- Philadelphia Eagles Running Back Saquon Barkley Spotted at Hoboken’s Benny Tudino
- Green Pear Cafe: Newly Relaunched by Two Hoboken Firefighters
- The Good Enough Therapy Group to Open in Hoboken
View this post on Instagram
After 17 years, D’s Soul Full Cafe announced its closure in May 2023 at 918 Willow Avenue in Hoboken. We got word shortly after that a new spot was filling the space. ‘The Biscuit Babe’ is the new exterior signage that appeared on Willow in its place. Although specific details regarding the menu are limited, the restaurant’s Instagram photos show the spot’s focus on serving breakfast, brunch, and biscuits. Over a year after putting signage up on Willow Avenue, The Biscuit Babe revealed new signage in the space in February, and now, it is officially open in Hoboken. Click here for more.
Parts of Jersey Avenue to Close for 1 Month to Install Sliding Flood Gate

Photo Credit: City of Hoboken
Southwest Hoboken will soon have a sliding floodgate to mitigate the impacts during storm surge events. As a part of the next phase of the Rebuild by Design Project, Jersey Avenue between Harrison Street in Hoboken and 18th Street in Jersey City will be closed 24 hours a day for approximately one month to install the foundation of the Resist structure’s sliding gate across Jersey Avenue. The work will begin on or around March 31st, 2025. Click here for more.
The Whale Tea in Hoboken Closed During Normal Business Hours
Is The Whale Tea in Hoboken closed? The question of the hour after locals noticed that the bubble tea shop, located at 303B 1st Street, has been frequently closed during normal business hours. A member of The Hoboken Girl team also walked by shortly after 12PM on Tuesday, March 18th — and while the shop opens at noon, it was not open at the time. While we cannot confirm a permanent closure at this time, we’re sharing what we know so far. Click here for more.
Hoboken Clothing Boutique a X d Moving to New Location at 7th + Washington Streets
It can be argued that Hoboken and Jersey City, which quickly embrace the latest trends and boast all kinds of chic clothing stores, is the fashion capital of New Jersey. Here at The Hoboken Girl, we tend to think so. In fashion-related news, a popular Hoboken-based boutique, a X d, has announced its move to a new location on 7th + Washington Street. The new site will be just down the street from the company’s sister store: Alba Boutique. Click here for more.
Dune + Salt Closes Hoboken Storefront; a X d to Move Into Boutique Space
The Hoboken Girl recently broke news that local boutique a X d is moving from 503 Washington Street to 730 Washington Street in Hoboken. When one door opens, another one closes: Dune + Salt, an upscale clothing store that has called this location home since 2019, is closing its Hoboken location for good. Though Dune + Salt is departing the Mile Square, the boutique is setting its sites on another New Jersey locale, and its Bay Head, Fair Haven, and Spring Lake storefronts remain open. Click here for more.
Byrd Closes on Jackson Street in Hoboken
A hidden gem on Jackson Street in Hoboken has possibly closed its doors. Byrd, a New American restaurant located at 800 Jackson Street, is now listed as permanently closed on Google just a little under a year after it opened in the Mile Square. The restaurant was from the same team behind Millburn’s Common Lot, and was known for its seasonal dishes and wine list. Click here for more.
Wonder Food Hall to Open in Downtown Jersey City
View this post on Instagram
We admit it, we’re a bit spoiled with amazing food delivery options here in Jersey City. With choices galore, narrowing down your next food delivery isn’t always an easy choice. For those who want a little bit of everything (or are on the indecisive side), we have some good news for you. Wonder, a food hall-style delivery spot with meals from over 20 locations around New Jersey, New York, and beyond is coming to 352 Grove Street in Jersey City. Click here for more.
Whole Foods Daily Market Coming to Downtown Hoboken
Rendering via Nastasi Architects
A new Whole Foods concept is coming to Hoboken. 101-105 Washington Street in downtown Hoboken will become a new Whole Foods Daily Market location, according to materials filed by the Whole Foods Team. Click here for more.
Hoboken Literary Weekend Returns for 2025

Book lovers, this one’s for you. Little City Books’ annual Hoboken Literary Weekend is returning once again for 2025. This year’s events will take place from Friday, April 4th through Sunday, April 6th, and will include a variety of book readings, signing, Q+A’s, and more from various authors. Click here for more.
Hoboken Resident Hosting Survivor-Inspired Contest from 3/31-4/6
Survivors ready… go! If you’re a Survivor fan, you know these words all too well. While the competition show is usually held in a tropical location far far away from the Garden State, Hoboken residents have the chance to be involved in a local offshoot of the ever-so-popular reality TV show this month. Run by Hoboken resident and Survivor fan Matt Carlson, the Mile Square version of the show — a week-long social competition — will take place from Monday, March 31st and run through Sunday, April 6th. Click here for more.
Best Accountants in Hoboken + Jersey City
Having a skilled, knowledgeable accountant is helpful not just during tax season, but all year round. Tax season can be a season of stress for people who may not be a fan of numbers. For those starting their own business, having someone help with business services can be a huge assist. Because doing taxes can be a delicate process full of questions, it’s important to have a professional accountant to assist with the process. Click here for more.
Jersey City Tractor Trailer Fire Erupts Near Port Jersey Marine Terminal
A fast-moving fire sent thick, gray smoke in the air from the waterfront in Jersey City on March 17th. Per ABC7, a number of tractor-trailers went up in flames near the Port Jersey Marine Terminal. The flames were first reported around 5PM. There’s no word yet on how they ignited. No injuries were reported.
Philadelphia Eagles Running Back Spotted at Hoboken’s Benny Tudino’s
View this post on Instagram
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley was spotted at one of Hoboken’s most popular pizzerias. He was seen by a customer at Benny Tudino last week. Saquon just won his first Super Bowl (LIX) on February 9, 2025, and also broke the NFL record for most rushing yards in a single season (including playoffs) with 2,504 yards.
Hoboken Man Arrested for Threatening Bus Driver with Hammer
Hoboken Police arrested a man who threatened a bus driver with a hammer, according to public safety spokeswoman Marci Rubin. On March 12, 43-year-old Matthew Seriale of Hoboken was double-parked on Clinton Street between First and Second Streets. When an NJ Transit bus tried to pass his vehicle, Matthew allegedly grabbed a hammer from his car, walked toward the front door of the bus, and waved the hammer at the bus driver while threatening to strike the driver in the head with the hammer. Matthew was transported to Hoboken Police Headquarters where he was processed on all charges and ultimately transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.
Green Pear Cafe: Newly Relaunched by Two Hoboken Firefighters
Two Hoboken firefighters have come together to re-open an Italian-style cafe in Hoboken. The New Jersey natives have taken over the Italian eatery and coffee shop — Green Pear Cafe — in Hoboken and reopened it as The Pear Hoboken. The space at 93 Grand Street had been closed for a short time, but is now open in 2025 with an updated vibe, thanks to two first responders with a passion for good food. Click here for more.
The Good Enough Therapy Group to Open in Hoboken
View this post on Instagram
The Good Enough Therapy Group is opening its Hoboken office at 223 Bloomfield Street, Suite 107 on March 31st. Per its website, “Good enough” doesn’t mean settling—it means letting go of perfection and embracing what’s real, sustainable, and actually works for each individual. Click here to book a consultation.
Daily Provisions Opens in Jersey City’s Arts + Powerhouse Building
View this post on Instagram
An NYC-based food and drink eatery has arrived at 132 Bay Street. Daily Provisions celebrated its Jersey City grand opening on Thursday, March 20th, per its Instagram. Daily Provisions currently has eight locations in New York City — this will be the eatery’s first New Jersey locale. Click here for more.
Indian Restaurant, Charcoal Eats, Opens at Harvy’s in Jersey City
Photo Credit: Charcoal Eats
Charcoal Eats recently opened in Jersey City. The Indian restaurant is located within Harvy’s at 175 Morgan Street and specializes in bold, smoky flavors with a modern twist. This Indian eatery also has 40+ locations in India, one in Houston and one in Manhattan.
Chart House Ranks Among 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America
View this post on Instagram
A UK-based publication love FOOD has selected Hudson County’s Chart House as one of the 50 most beautiful restaurants in America. The seafood restaurant located at 1700 Harbor Boulevard in Weehawken sits right on the Hudson River, features panoramic views of the New York City skyline, and has been featured on many primetime TV shows. Menu highlights include Seared Pepper Ahi Tuna, Mac Nut Mahi, and Slow-Roasted Prime Rib.
Hoboken Housing Authority Sets Wage and Benefits for Security Officers
View this post on Instagram
The Hoboken Housing Authority is the first in New Jersey to set wage and benefits for security officers, which was finalized at the March 13th Board of Commissioners meeting. The collective bargaining agreement, which was approved via resolution unanimously (7-0), will raise officers’ total compensation to $20.55 an hour. 32BJ SEIU represents 15,000 cleaners, security officers, airport workers, and food service workers in the state of New Jersey, 1,500 of whom work in Hudson County.
Hoboken Breaks Ground on Church Square Park Improvements
View this post on Instagram
Mayor Ravi Bhalla and the City of Hoboken announced on March 17th Phase 1 of the Church Square Park Improvements Project will begin this week following years of community engagement and planning. Per a City of Hoboken press release, Phase 1 of the park’s upgrades will include the construction of a new playground for children ages 0-5, the replacement of the former playground with a new lawn area, the installation of a landscape buffer along the dog run to mitigate sound, and the addition of new public restrooms. These upgrades align with the Church Square Park Vision Plan, which was developed through a year-long public planning process involving in-person and virtual meetings and surveys.
Jersey City Hosts Women of Action Awards 2025
View this post on Instagram
Eight women from Jersey City were celebrated on March 13th during the city’s Women of Action awards ceremony held in City Hall. Each year, the city honors women from every ward for their unique contributions to the city. There were nine honorees and each one was nominated by a member of the Jersey City Council.
Where to Watch March Madness in Hoboken + Jersey City for 2025
March Madness, the annual NCAA college basketball tournament, has arrived in the Hoboken + Jersey City area. The 86th edition of March Madness will take place this year from Tuesday, March 18th to Monday, April 7th — with the games kicking off in Dayton, Ohio and the championship being held in San Antonio, Texas. Click here for more.
Reading Rhythms to Host ‘Reading Party’ at Jersey City Public Library
The Jersey City Public Library x Reading Rhythms are collaborating to bring locals a free community-centric “reading party” to Jersey City on Friday, April 11th. The event will take place at New Jersey’s largest municipal library, the Priscilla Gardener Main Branch, located at 472 Jersey Avenue. Click here for more.
Hoboken May Face $10k in Fines if Former Fire Chief is Not Reinstated
Former Hoboken Fire Chief Brian Crimmins must be reinstated by next week or the city will be fined $100 a day with a maximum penalty of up to $10,000, the New Jersey Civil Service Commission ruled last month. Crimmins was placed on administrative leave in May 2021 before returning to work as a firefighter in April 2023, a position he has maintained. The City has never explained why they have not adhered to the rulings, but has filed a motion for reconsideration with the NJCSC. Crimmins requested enforcement, as well as another request for his legal fees to be considered.
Hoboken City Council Approves Garage B Redevelopment Plan
The City of Hoboken proposed plans to transform Municipal Parking Garage B at 28 2nd Street in Hoboken into a mixed-use building earlier this year. The proposal was approved on first reading by the City Council. On Tuesday, March 18th, the Hoboken planning board voted against the master plan after noting inconsistencies within it. However, the City Council voted to approve the project on Wednesday, March 19th. Click here for more.
The Hoboken Market: Connecting Local Youth with Business Opportunities
The Hoboken Market is a new online platform connecting local businesses in need of an extra hand and students seeking employment or internship opportunities. It was co-founded by three sophomores at Hoboken High School: Logan Calingasan, Jai Malik, and Azaad Bhalla. They created The Hoboken Market to empower Hoboken’s teen population, benefit local retailers, and bring the community together. Click here to access the website.
JBC Rice Noodle & Ramen to Open in Downtown Jersey City
View this post on Instagram
JBC Rice Noodle & Ramen is opening a location at 359 Grove Street in Downtown Jersey City. This restaurant specializes in bubble tea, authentic Chinese food, and Yunnan rice noodles. There are other locations in Buffalo, NY and Rochester, NY.
Hoboken Business Alliance Launches Water Main Break Recovery Grant
The Hoboken Business Alliance (HBA) announced that applications are open for the 2025 Water Main Break Recovery Grant Program, providing financial support to local businesses affected by the Jersey City water main break in February 2025 that impacted Hoboken. This year’s grant program is fully funded and administered by the HBA. The program will distribute a total of $30,000, with grants up to $5,000 available per eligible business to assist with recovery from revenue loss, product damage, physical property damage, and lost wages. Interested businesses can apply here through May 1, 2025.
S&P Global Assigns Hoboken Strong AA+ Credit Rating
Mayor Ravi Bhalla announced on March 18th that S&P Global Rating has once again given Hoboken a strong credit rating, affirming the city’s financial stability. S&P assigned the highest rating, an ‘SP-1+’ rating, to Hoboken’s bond anticipation note and reaffirmed its ‘AA+’ rating on the city’s long-term debt. Per a City of Hoboken press release, S&P highlighted the city’s responsible budgeting and ongoing economic growth supported by its prime location near New York City as well as Hoboken’s commitment to flood protection and climate resiliency which was also recognized as a proactive step in managing environmental risks.
The Jersey City Cup Tournament is Happening Memorial Day Weekend
Mayor Steven Fulop announced that The Jersey City Cup will serve as Jersey City’s community kickoff event as excitement builds for FIFA World Cup 2026. Per a City of Jersey City press release, the event is a free, friendly soccer tournament for youth taking place over Memorial Day weekend. Click here to register for the soccer tournament that will host local soccer players, ages 7 to 14, in a 5 vs. 5 format.
Bicycle Parking on Hudson Place to be Removed Due to Construction
Bicycle parking along NJ Transit property at Hoboken Terminal, specifically along Hudson Place between Hudson Street and River Street, will be removed on Thursday, March 27th, to facilitate continued construction by LCOR for the temporary NJ Transit bus terminal. Per a Nixle alert, the temporary terminal will be used while construction begins on the new permanent NJ Transit bus terminal. To mitigate the impact on cyclists during construction, the City is relocating bike racks that will be installed and available for use along Hudson Street starting on March 27th. Bicycle commuters to the Hoboken Terminal area are encouraged to take advantage of nearby bicycle parking on Sinatra Drive as well as on Hudson Place between River Street and Warrington Plaza. Additionally Citi Bike members are reminded of the Citi Bike valet on River Street and Hudson Place.
$737k Federal Grant to Expand Hackensack River Walkway + Bikeway
The Hudson County Board of Commissioners will use a $737,000 federal grant to expand a walkway and bikeway, in Lincoln Park. The new nature trail will continue along the Hackensack River from its existing terminus at Skyway Golf Course to Duncan Avenue. Funding comes through the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) designed to provide federal funds for community-based, non-traditional, surface transportation-related projects.
Jersey City Medical Center’s New COO Holds a Nursing Degree
Jersey City Medical Center, a 348-bed RWJBarnabas Health hospital on Grand Street, recently welcomed Joseph P. Anton as the new Chief Operating Officer. Per a press release, Joseph will oversee the day-to-day operations of the hospital, ensuring that it continues to uphold the highest standards of patient care and operational efficiency. A Registered Nurse, Joseph began his career at the bedside working in critical care, emergency, and trauma before ascending to leadership roles.
Bayonne Youth Running Series 2025 Begins 3/30
The Bayonne Youth Recreation Running Club Spring Series 2025 is set to kick off on March 30th, offering an opportunity for children from Pre-K to 8th grade to improve their running skills, stay active, and have fun. The series, which will continue every week until April 27th, features four thrilling races tailored to different age groups. Every runner will be celebrated with medals at the end of each race, while winners will receive trophies at the conclusion of the program. Post-race refreshments, including water and snacks, will be provided. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the BHS Ice Rink Track to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Click here for more information or to sign up.
Rock The 21 Celebrates 10th Anniversary on World Down Syndrome Day
View this post on Instagram
On March 22nd, Rock The 21 hosted a celebratory Gala in Jersey City to honor its 10th anniversary. The Blue + Gold Gala commemorated a decade of service and impact by Rock The 21. The gala included auction items, raffles, dancing, and more to benefit the community. The non-profit is still accepting donations online here.
Furever Fresh Dog Grooming Opens New Jersey City Location
Furever Fresh Dog Grooming announced via Instagram that it opened a new location in Jersey City at 25 Senate Place. This second facility is larger than its Hoboken location and features the same professional dog grooming services as well as a brand-new daycare with an agility course.
Jersey City’s Art House Productions Announces 2025 INKubator Play Festival
Photo Credit: Art House Productions
Jersey City’s Art House Productions announced on March 17th that the 2025 INKubator New Play Festival is taking place from April 28th through May 7th. Audiences who attend the festival will have the opportunity to participate in conversations with the writers, directors, and actors following each performance. All readings are free to attend, but advanced registration is required.
Japanese Restaurant, Ichiban To-Go, Closes its Jersey City Location
View this post on Instagram
Japanese restaurant Ichiban To-Go has closed its doors at 365 Palisade Avenue in Jersey City. It announced via Instagram that after four years on Palisade Avenue, the restaurant’s owners have decided to return to their roots in catering, which was their primary focus before COVID-19. This casual Japanese restaurant serves sushi and other specialties.
Two Hudson County Towns Open New Real ID License Appointments
Real ID appointments are open in two Hudson County towns as of Friday, March 21st. Some sites will only do upgrades on licenses that aren’t expiring in the next three months, while others handle renewals. Click here to see the list of local towns and appointments for upgrading to a Real ID (not for licenses expiring in the next three months), and click here to see the list of local appointments for licenses that need renewal soon. Those upgrading at a mobile office will get a temporary Real ID license, while the permanent one will come in the mail later.
Hoboken High School Senior Wins National Merit Scholarship
Morgan Walia Peters, a senior at Hoboken High School, found out this week that she won a National Merit Scholarship, an award given based on PSAT scores, an essay, recommendations, and more. This award is given to a very limited number of college-bound students every year, per Patch Hoboken. Morgan will get a $2,500 scholarship toward college each year.
A New Generation of Eye Doctors Open at This Hoboken Location
Eye Site Vision Center recently opened in Hoboken at the former space of Dr. Claudio D’Alberti, who retired from his longtime eye practice at 1126 Washington Street over a year ago. Eye doctors have occupied that corner in Hoboken for more than 100 years. Dr. Robert Messinger, whose practice was further south on the block, has moved in along with Dr. Qiong Chen and Dr. Alice Tang.








