It’s been a bittersweet stretch for local food lovers. Jersey City just closed the book on a few beloved spots, but some fresh chapters are starting up too.
The storied Miss America Diner—a fixture for 85 years—has shut its doors for good. That’s the end of an era, and it stings.
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Within days, word got out that nearby Salumeria Ercolano, a popular Italian deli, would also shutter. But there’s a flip side: new restaurants are popping up, like the fine-dining Italian spot Vette and some globally inspired concepts at American Dream.
Jersey City’s dining scene is always shifting, and honestly, it’s hard to keep up.
Miss America Diner: Saying Goodbye to a Local Landmark
The closure of Miss America Diner leaves a real nostalgic void for Jersey City residents. Folks knew it for hearty breakfasts, no-frills comfort food, and that classic diner vibe.
It wasn’t just a place to eat—it was a community hangout for generations. Their Facebook post about “extreme sadness” hit home for locals who had made the diner part of their routines for decades.
Rumors swirled about who might take over the space. Then came the twist: Salumeria Ercolano, the deli expected to move in, announced it would close too.
The End of Salumeria Ercolano
This family-run Italian deli had a reputation for artisanal meats, fresh mozzarella, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. When they said they’d close on December 13, people were surprised—and honestly, pretty disappointed.
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In just a week, Jersey City lost two spots that felt like pieces of its history.
New Openings Bring Excitement
Closures hurt, but they make way for something new. Vette is one to watch—a fine-dining Italian restaurant inside Calabria Restaurant & Pizzeria.
Chef and sommelier Maurizio de Rosa leads the charge. Vette’s all about immersive culinary storytelling, with wine pairings that show off de Rosa’s global chops.
Dishes spotlight seasonal ingredients, and wines come from just about everywhere. Vette might quickly become a go-to for anyone chasing unique food adventures.
Dream360 Expands the Experience
At American Dream, Dream360 just rolled out some new additions: Sekai, a luxe hibachi spot; a lively sports bar and cocktail lounge; and interactive TopGolf Swing Suites.
This place mixes dining, entertainment, and nightlife all under one roof. It’s the kind of spot that draws foodies, fun-seekers, and anyone who likes a little bit of everything.
Regional Growth in Casual Dining
There’s more happening outside Jersey City too. Greens and Grains is opening a new Rowan University location on November 10.
People love their health-conscious breakfast bowls, sandwiches, and salads. Their steady growth really shows folks want fresh, quick-service options these days.
Back in Jersey City, Korai Kitchen—a Bangladeshi eatery—keeps making headlines. Already a James Beard Award winner, they just picked up three stars and a Critic’s Pick from The New York Times.
That’s a big deal. It’s fair to say Korai Kitchen is now a must-visit for anyone who cares about food in Jersey City.
Tying It Back to Jersey City Culture
The restaurant scene here really mirrors Jersey City’s spirit—dynamic, resilient, always changing, and honestly, a little unpredictable. Whether you’re digging into Bangladeshi dishes at Korai Kitchen, sipping wine at Vette, or just missing the cozy vibe of Miss America Diner, food is woven right into the city’s identity.
If you’re planning a visit, it pays to look up where to stay in Jersey City so you can maximize your eating adventures. There’s everything from boutique inns to big Jersey City hotels, and most dining hotspots are just a short walk away.
Bustling city districts like Downtown and scenic waterfront spots mean there’s no shortage of things to do in Jersey City—especially if food’s at the top of your list.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re wondering about getting to Jersey City, it’s actually pretty easy. PATH trains, ferries, and major highways all connect here, so you won’t have to stress about the trip—whether you’re coming from the city or farther out.
Maybe you’re planning a weekend getaway, or maybe you just woke up craving something different. Either way, the city’s restaurant scene keeps changing, and there’s always a new spot to try.
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Here is the source article for this story: Iconic Miss America Diner Closes in Jersey City; More Dining News
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