Note: Jersey Bites was invited to visit Zeppelin Hall and our writer received a complimentary meal.
Bacon lovers—and bacon lover lovers—will undoubtedly enjoy BBQ & Baconfest at Zeppelin Hall in Jersey City. This fun foodie fest is on now through February 12 and it’s not to be missed. Well known for beer and barbeque, the venue is a go-to spot for many locals.
We stopped by on a busy Friday night to try out some Baconfest dishes. Executive Chef Franco Robazetti has created 17 new selections, all featuring bacon, including some true comfort food specialties. The choices pair wonderfully with the over 100 beers that are served at Zeppelin Hall. Don’t hesitate to chat with the bartenders about their outstanding brews and the current seasonal offerings—and they also serve cocktails.
Get your taste buds ready for some bacon-licious food. You won’t get a better porchetta sandwich anywhere. Crispy, sliced porchetta is soaked in its cooking juices, topped with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone served on a crispy baguette served with crispy french fries. Creamy mac and cheese is made even more tempting with bits of smoky applewood bacon and topped with toasted breadcrumbs. The bacon empanadas are wrapped in a light, flaky shell, filled with a savory mix of sautéed bacon and garlic onions served with a creamy, spicy chimichurri sauce. We want to come back before Baconfest wraps up to try more of the menu items like the bacon French onion soup, bacon and chorizo chili and the bacon-wrapped jalapeños.
Don’t miss the creative dessert that Chef Robazetti has whipped up for Baconfest: the bacon cotton candy. This alluring treat has just the right blend of sweet and salty flavors—sprinkled with bits of bacon, and as fluffy as this favorite boardwalk treat should be.
So just how much bacon does it take to create Zeppelin Hall’s Baconfest? Chef Robazetti has ordered no less than 2,000 pounds of the meat to prepare all of the festival’s menu items. Order another drink and enjoy some live music or DJ entertainment. When we were there, Brian Clayton and the Green River Band brought the party to life.
Make it a point to get to Zeppelin Hall between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. while Baconfest is in full swing, and get some complimentary bacon at the bar.
While Baconfest’s future as an annual event remains to be seen, John Argento, director of operations, pointed out that there’s always something new going on at the hall and he likes to create special happenings year round for metro-area guests, like the ever-popular Oktoberfest.
Zeppelin Hall has a welcoming atmosphere whether you’re going solo, enjoying date night, getting together with family or gathering a large group. The comfortable seating includes large communal tables and some smaller ones. There are multiple bars, a bandstand, and dance floor along with great outdoor spaces. The eatery offers lunch, dinner, catering, takeout, and group parties.
Parking is free and the hall is steps away from the Jersey Avenue Light Rail and Grove Street PATH train stops.
Zeppelin Hall
88 Liberty View Drive
Jersey City
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Photos courtesy of Zeppelin Hall.
