Another news-filled week and as always, we’ve got you covered. Among the headlines — Hoboken Girl Hard Seltzer Launches, Bowling Alley Discovered in Hoboken Business’s SubFlooring, Artists Have Begun Painting Utility boxes on Washington Street — along with other stories happening throughout the week. All that and more below — keep reading for all the news you missed this week in Hoboken, Jersey City, + beyond:
Our 6th Annual Fall Photo Contest #FallinLoveWithHoboken Has Begun
Hoboken Girl’s month-long 6th annual fall photo contest #FallinLoveWithHoboken that begins on October 1st and ends October 31st. To enter and have a chance to win a ton of amazing prizes from 13 local businesses, post your favorite things about Hoboken and Jersey City in the fall on Instagram, tag us, follow the contest sponsors {listed in the post}, and hashtag #FallinLoveWithHoboken. Read here for the guidelines and we’ll see you on Instagram!
Hoboken Girl Hard Seltzer Collaboration with 902 Brewing Co. in Jersey City Released
The Hoboken Girl team is super excited to announce a collaboration with 902 Brewing Co. on the world premiere of our very own Hoboken Girl Hard Seltzers. This October we’re starting with our first flavor — Blood Orange — in time for the fall season, with everything created and produced locally in Jersey City and Hoboken. The second flavor will most likely debut in a month or two in time for the holiday season, and trust us, you’re going to love it.
Hoboken Girl’s founder, Jennifer Tripucka, had met the founders of 902 Brewing Co. back in 2012 when she was a judge in the annual Hoboken Chili Cook-Off community event. Eight years later, 902 Brewing Co. has a huge brewery in the Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood, located at 101 Pacific Avenue in Jersey City.
The seltzer has been released as of Saturday, October 10th, and is available exclusively this weekend at 902 Brewing Co., as well as local bars and liquor stores as early as next week. Read more about the 100% local collaboration here, and stay tuned for updates and make sure to tag us @thehobokengirl + @902brewing to share the fun and let us know how you like it!
The Flow Initiative: Hoboken Girl Hosts Local Period Product Drive Oct 10-30th
To both raise awareness for and combat period poverty, we are collaborating on an initiative to help women get access to the period products they need locally.
The Flow Initiative Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect all girls, women, and menstruators from a lack of access to period products while erasing the stigma, shame, and humiliation associated with period poverty.
Hoboken Girl is doing its part in making strides toward ending period poverty by supporting The Flow Initiative Foundation’s efforts to provide menstruating bodies with period supplies, but we need your help. Starting October 10th through October 30th, drop-off locations around Hoboken and Jersey City will be accepting donations of new boxes of pads, tampons, and hygiene products. For more information on the initiative and to read the list of drop-off locations in Hoboken and Jersey City, click here.
In just a few days, Hoboken resident, Sabrina Browne, raised enough money from friends, coworkers, and family to donate over 1,000 tampons, 1,000 pads to several of our drop-off locations. “When most people think of period poverty, they don’t think about it occurring in Hoboken, New Jersey. They think about third-world or war-torn countries where women and girls are at risk, which is why it is so critical to raising awareness. The fact that 30% of girls miss school in Hudson County due to period poverty underscores how important this fundraiser is to our community,” Sabrina told Hoboken Girl. She continued, “As an advocate for women and girls, I am deeply committed to ensuring a safe and equitable future in the communities where I live and operate. In 2016, when I moved to Hoboken I would have never believed that period poverty was an issue in the area. COVID-19 has exacerbated these healthcare issues and we all can play a role in making a difference.”
Mayor Fulop & Council President Launch Zoning Law to Protect Low-Income Residents
In a press release sent out on October 5th, it was announced that Mayor Steven M. Fulop has joined Council President Joyce Watterman and the Municipal Council to announce a new ordinance requiring residential development projects to include 20% affording housing units. The Inclusionary Zoning measures outlined in the ordinance ensures that as Jersey City continues to see positive growth and attract market-rate residential development, there is also an opportunity to meet the residents’ affordable housing needs now and for future generations to come.
“While our administration has prioritized affordable housing growth for Jersey City, it takes time to construct the new housing, and in many ways, we are trying to make up for the lack of a policy focus for decades before our administration,” said Mayor Fulop via the press release. “With this ordinance, we are going to take our construction to the next level by forcing developers to include more affordable housing in their projects.”
Hoboken Artists Have Begun Painting Utility Boxes on Washington Street
As a part of the Hoboken Arts Advisory Committee’s Hoboken Art Box Project, 14 Hoboken artists have begun painting 14 utility boxes in total. These artists live or work in Hoboken and are reflecting on the theme of Equality and Inclusion. Residents are asked to please provide space to artists painting the murals on the utility boxes in the coming weeks.
As an example, Alison Josephs is currently painting “The Hoboken Tree” — a mural at 12th and Washington, which displays birds in one big tree, reflecting the various countries represented in the Hoboken community. Alison has invited various residents to paint a bird on the mural to reflect their country of origin, to show unity and collaboration in the community.
Mayor Fulop, Assemblywoman, and NJ Leaders Move to Maintain Affordable Transportation
Mayor Fulop joins Senator Sandra Cunningham, Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, Assemblyman Nicholas Chiaravalloti, Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, City Council members, and community members to call on Governor Murphy and NJ Transit officials to fulfill their obligations of adequately providing critical transportation services in some of New Jersey’s most underserved areas, as stated in the press release that was sent out on October 6th.
According to the release, a private bus company working with NJ Transit has abruptly announced the elimination of bus routes route without notifying Jersey City residents who depend on the bus service daily to commute to their jobs, schools, vital health services, food access, and other critical resources. NJ Transit received over $1 billion in CARES Act funding, but without the proper allocation of the emergency relief funds, transit services throughout the state are being put in jeopardy.
Hoboken University Medical Center to Open New Endometriosis Center of America
The Hoboken University Medical Center announced the opening of an Endometriosis Center of America on October 5th. The new hospital’s center will provide state of the art treatment for women who have unresolved endometriosis and related fertility issues.
“We’re excited for this next step and the opening of the center. We are one of the few hospitals to offer this high level of treatment and the only one in our area,” said Ann Logan, HUMC’s Chief Hospital Executive. “This will give us the opportunity to build on the tremendous success from Dr. Vidali and his team in helping thousands of women,” says the press release.
4 Stevens Students Test Positive for COVID-19 This Week
Stevens Institute of Technology released an update in regard to COVID, which stated “Student Health Services was informed that two residential undergraduate students who were tested on campus by BNBMC and two upper-class undergraduate students who were tested off-campus and are living together in Hoboken have tested positive for COVID–19. ” The statement continued, “The two off-campus roommates have not been on campus since March 2020 and are isolating at home. Each student’s roommates and close contacts are quarantining for 14 days, some at home and some in the residence halls.”
Precious Japanese & Chinese Cuisine in Hoboken has Reopened
Chinese and Japanese food-lovers will be excited to know that one of Hoboken’s beloved Chinese restaurants located at 128 Washington Street, Precious Japanese & Chinese Cuisine has reopened since closing due to COVID. The restaurant has a grand opening sign and festive flags hanging out front. From sushi to noodle dishes and meat-centered dishes, Precious has something for everyone.
DVORA 175, a New Luxury Rental Building Opens in Downtown Jersey City
Prospective renters are invited to schedule tours of DVORA 175, Jersey City’s new luxury rental building located at 175 Second Street.
The new 14-story residential building features a collection of 148 rental residences. Opening monthly rents for the well-appointed one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans start at $2,995, with a limited time offer of up to three free months available. Initial occupancy is scheduled for October. The full-service building also features a back-of-house package delivery system that brings your package directly to your apartment and removes the need for residents to interact with delivery services, onsite enclosed parking with direct access to the building, Tesla, and DC Superchargers, and EV car-sharing service.
Hoboken Bowling Alley Discovered in Washington Street Sub Flooring
Photo: Anton Davidson
Earlier this week, a contractor named Anton David discovered bowling lanes under sub-flooring in the basement of what was IM Beauty + Salon at 327 Washington Street, Patch reported. The Hoboken Museum conducted research and found that in the 1920s it was the Republican club and in the 1930s it became the Democratic club. Both clubs applied for bowling club permits. In those days, the pins were set by hand and the clubs hired young kids who were called pin boys.
The owners will be recycling the maple wood for tabletops, but are donating some of the pins and balls to the Museum for a future exhibit on the history of Washington Street businesses, says Bob Foster, Director of the Museum.
The Cottage Jersey City Hosted its Grand Opening
{Photo credit: @thecottagejc}
The Cottage, Jersey City’s new artisanal grocery shop and event service/venue located on 136 Monticello Avenue held its grand opening on Saturday, October 10th. The cozy cafe has a cozy, cottage vibe with fresh baked goods and more. The shop stocks seasonal produce and the team has over 25 years of experience catering to corporate and private clients in the tri-state area. The outdoor space is perfect for any socially distanced event. From your weddings to a simple backyard BBQ, The Cottage can provide you with food and professional service right in the heart of Jersey City.
Amazon Facility Opening in Bayonne
Amazon is opening a 188,000-square-foot delivery station at 105 Avenue A by the end of 2020, NJ.com reported this week. This facility will create hundreds of jobs, the company said, and Mayor Jimmy Davis applauded. The property is the former home of a Best Foods plant, which made Hellmann’s mayonnaise. The factory was open from the early 1900s until 2003.
Hoboken Raises Flag for the First Time & Launches Fundraising Project in Honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
On Wednesday, October 7th, Hoboken raised a flag in front of city hall in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In collaboration with the City, Little Hoboken launched “Fight Like a Mother,” stating, “Fighting breast cancer means so much to us here at Little Hoboken. We’ve had it touch so many that we love, including one of our own. Nathalie, a member of our team, and more importantly, our friend, battled breast cancer and successfully kicked its ass while holding down a full-time job, being a wife and mama to two young boys, working out ALL over town non-stop, and crusading for breast cancer nonstop!”
Little Hoboken has teamed up with local businesses that have agreed to donate a percentage of their proceeds during October, to go toward Breast Cancer Awareness. Some of the participating businesses are The Green Room, {sales of pre-rolls during the month of October and they’re in a super cute pink tube!}, Busy Bee Organics, and more. See the full list here.
Jersey City’s First Tea Room Hosted by BattleCat Espresso Bar Pops Up at Dullboy
Hoboken’s One Sol Boutique Reopens at New Location
Hoboken Resident & Pastry Chef Launches Fundraiser for Non-Profits Through Giant Gingerbread House
{Photo credit: @Brakethrough_JF}
Caroline aims to raise over $3000, donating 100% of the profits to the Historical Museum, Hoboken Shelter, Jubilee Centre, and Food Pantry. Interested businesses/homes should reach out to Caroline directly.
Where to Grab Coffee Near Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Stops
The Hudson-Bergen light rail is a convenient way to travel between Hoboken and Jersey City. Whether you’re commuting to work and need a pre-office pick-me-up or if you simply want to plan a coffee crawl, we’ve rounded up the most convenient cafes near a few Light Rail stops along this line. Keep reading to find out where to grab coffee along the Hudson-Bergen light rail route.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Essentials
Trains travel the Hudson-Bergen light rail route from 5AM-1AM daily. Rides cost $2.55 for adults and tickets can be purchased on the NJ Transit app or at the station. These tickets are valid for 60 minutes after activation.
Coffee Shops Near the Stops
Liberty State Park
The Grind Shop | 360 Communipaw Avenue
The Grind is worth the 10-minute walk to the Liberty State Park station. After all, this community favorite was voted the best coffee shop in Jersey City by HG readers in 2022. It opens at 7AM every day for early morning caffeinating.
Read More: All About Kaffa Espresso Bar in Jersey City
Jersey Avenue
Brewshot | 9 Regent Street
There’s plenty of seating, and strong WiFi, in Brewshot which makes it a great spot to get some work done. The menu is full of specialty lattes and breakfast sandwiches which can be enjoyed as early as 8AM.
Marin Boulevard
Marin Boulevard is a great place to stop because there are multiple coffee shops within walking distance of the light rail stop. Fuel up at B18 Coffee Kitchen, Perk Up Coffee, or Gotan before hopping on the light rail.
B18 Coffee Kitchen | 18 Park View Avenue
B18 is run by the Beechwood Cafe team and serves espresso drinks, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. It opens at 8AM on weekdays and 9AM on weekends so you can stop by for a bite before a busy day ahead.
Prkup Up Coffee | 197 Van Vorst Street
Prkup Coffee has a community vibe along with an excellent coffee menu. Keep an eye out for seasonal specials like a Vermont Maple Syrup Latte in the fall. There’s a pastry case full of treats if you’re looking for something sweet, but Prkup Up also sells savory options like avocado toast and bagels.
Gotan | 198 Van Vorst Street on the Corner of Van Vorst + Morris
Gotan is one of the latest NYC cafes to open on this side of the Hudson. Coffee is served as early as 7AM so it’s a great option if you have an early morning commute.
Essex Street
Semicolon Cafe | 77 Hudson Street
Semicolon Cafe is a short walk from the Essex Street stop and has some of the best coffee around. The menu includes espresso drinks, matcha lattes, and Semicolon’s signature egg sandwiches. The space features tons of plants and natural light and it’s a beautiful spot to relax if you have some time to kill before catching the light rail.
Exchange Place
Gregorys Coffee Starbucks, and Maman are both close to the Exchange Place stop and are easy options if you want to order ahead.
Gregorys Coffee | 10 Exchange Place
Gregorys Coffee opens at 6AM on weekdays and has an order ahead option — two great features if you need to fuel an early morning commute. Plus, the menu includes smoothies, juice, and a bunch of food that’s easy to take on-the-go if you’re not looking for coffee quite yet.
Maman | 70 Hudson Street
NYC-based French cafe and bakery, Maman, made its way to Jersey City a few years ago. The spot serves a selection of baked goods, coffee, juices, teas, fresh breakfast, and lunch options.
Starbucks | 15 Exchange Place
Starbucks isn’t the most local coffee around by any means, but this location opens at 5:30AM so it’s often the only option for early morning light rail riders.
Harborside
Canard Cafe Bar | 200 Greene Street
Located in the Urby, Canard Cafe Bar is a great option if you’re looking for a place to work for a bit before taking the light rail to your next destination. There are tons of tables and outlets in the Canard plus a full menu of coffee and pastries to keep you going for a while.
Harsimus Cove
Le Cafe Coffee | 444 Warren Street
This artisanal coffee shop has a bunch of locations around New York but anyone traveling via the Harsimus Cove light rail stop can easily check out this cafe without leaving Jersey City. Signature drinks include the lavender latte and red tea latte which can be enjoyed alongside one of the tempting toasts or bagels.
Newport
Gregorys Coffee | 525 Washington Boulevard
Gregorys has another location along the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail line. It’s convenient for commuters since it opens at 6AM and, like the Exchange Place location, order ahead is available.
Hoboken Terminal
Joboken Cafe | 23 Hudson Place
We can’t help but chuckle when we say the name “Joboken” and that’s enough of a reason to start the day here. Coffee, tea, and Balthazar Bakery pastries are available daily.
2nd Street
Café Sophia | 200 Monroe Street
This cozy cafe is just a short 5-minute walk from the 2nd Street light rail stop. Cafe Sophia serves Lavazza coffee, omelets, and a selection of breakfast sandwiches served on bread that’s baked fresh each day. It’s open from 7AM-3PM on weekdays and 8AM-3PM on weekends — stop by for lunch if you’re craving a panini.
9th Street/Congress Street Station
Black Rail Coffee | 800 Jackson Street
Black Rail Coffee is practically located on the 9th Street/Congress Street Station platform. There are huge windows in the cafe so you can watch the light rail pass by while sipping a coffee. The cafe opens at 7AM on weekdays and 8AM on weekends and seems to have anything you would want from a cafe including espresso drinks, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and plenty of seating — both inside and out.
Gotan | 770 Jackson Street
Gotan Cafe serves up high-quality Counter Culture coffee and Mediterranean cuisine, bringing some staples from the Tribeca location across the Hudson. The Jackson Street location is open from 8AM-5PM daily and serves everything from cold brew to iced matcha lattes.
Yuki's Bakery + Coffee | 720 Monroe Street
Yuki's, an Israeli bakery and cafe, specializes in baked goods such as babka, challah, burek, rugelach, and hamentashen (a seasonal treat sold during Purim). The menu also features coffee from Counter Culture Coffee and organic teas.
Lincoln Harbor
Cafe Grumpy | 1400 Waterfront Terrace
Cafe Grumpy is a few steps from the Lincoln Harbor station in the Weehawken Whole Foods. It’s open at 8AM daily and the menu includes a selection of matcha and turmeric drinks if you’re in the mood for something besides coffee.
Port Imperial
Steven's Cafe | 1200 Avenue at Port Imperial
Early morning commuters can pop into Steven’s Cafe when it opens at 6AM for freshly brewed coffee and warm bagel sandwiches. The pastry case is often stocked with colorful macarons which can be hard to pass up.
Bergenline Avenue
Dunkin' | 4914-22 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Sometimes Dunkin’ just hits the spot and there’s a convenient location right next to the Bergenline Avenue station. This outpost is open from 5AM to 10PM daily for all of your coffee and doughnut needs.
See More: Where To Get Matcha in Montclair + Beyond
Tonnelle Avenue
Six Corners Cafe | 4301 Bergen Turnpike
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Six Corners Cafe isn’t too far from the Tonnelle Avenue station and it has delicious diner-style breakfast options if you have time to sit down for pancakes or French toast.
