Carli Clesmere 
Italian food in Hoboken isn’t just dinner; it’s part of the culture. It’s the go-to spots, the favorite orders, and the places that start to feel like second homes. So when a familiar name switches things up, locals take notice. Many Hoboken residents know Johnny Pepperoni as a casual, comfortable spot for easy dinners with friends or family. Now, the team behind the restaurant is heading in a new direction with a fresh concept taking over the same space at 219 11th Street. Read on for what we know so far.
About Johnny Pepperoni in Hoboken
For years, Johnny Pepperoni has been a longtime BYOB Italian staple in Hoboken, especially for those uptown. Tucked on 11th Street, it was a go-to for locals + a reliable favorite for families looking for an easy, feel-good dinner spot. The vibe inside was always fun and lively, exactly what you’d want for a chill night out with friends sharing a pie or digging into a classic chicken parm.
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It was the kind of place you could count on for a casual, no-fuss meal that still hit every time. While many will miss those familiar vibes, the team behind Johnny Pepperoni, along with City Bistro and Viv + Jules, decided it was time for something new. The restaurant is officially shifting gears and transforming the space into a completely different concept.
What We Know About the New Concept
The new concept comes from John Avoletta, a familiar name in the Hoboken food scene. He is the owner of the well-loved rooftop spot City Bistro and more recently took over the former Stewed Cow space to bring Viv + Jules to life, which has already become a hit among locals. If you know, you know: the burger and fries have quickly built a loyal following.
Now, John and his team are getting ready for their next chapter at 219 11th Street. Johnny Pepperoni is expected to close permanently at the end of this month after 15 years in Hoboken. The team shared exclusively with The Hoboken Girl that they are “grateful to the community for its support over the years” and are hoping to see friends and regulars stop by before the end of the month.
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As for what’s next, details are still being kept quiet. The team is targeting a fall 2026 opening date for the new concept. John shared that this is something the team has been dreaming about for a while, and that Cliff Crooks and the team plan to take the food to the next level.
While more details are still under wraps, this update comes as an exclusive directly from the team behind the new concept. We will update this piece as more information becomes available.
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