Beginning in 2019, the team at Jersey Social in Jersey City, NJ, has offered elevated gastropub fare for the local population. And since then, the only constant for the spot has been its evolution.
From large dinner seatings, to shuttered doors, to outdoor dining, then “back to normal,” the latest reveals a new definition of what it means to be social. Today, Jersey Social offers exceptional food, delectable cocktails, and so many ways to, well, be social! Catch up with friends for happy hour, play a few board games, or watch your favorite teams any day of the week.
On the Menu
The food architects at Jersey Social put an emphasis on chicken dishes. “Chicken wings are a favorite — people say some of the best around,” says Chef Oswaldo Morraz. He’s a Jersey City local who has been executing an impressive menu of delicious plates for his fellow community members.
Menu items of note include chicken sandwich, and the new, seared brick chicken entrée served with butternut squash and roasted brussels sprouts. “Our chicken comes from Goffle Road Poultry Farm [in Wycoff]. GMO free, local, fresh, and free range,” Morraz says.
The chef recently added new dinner plates to the menu, including beef ragu Bolognese and red curry stew with roasted vegetables and rice. However, the most popular items remain the same. The kitchen is constantly cooking up JC corn dogs, wings, brussels, cheesesteak egg rolls, and other appetizers suited for sharing.
“No matter what we do, our emphasis is on freshness,” the chef adds. “Our ingredients, our juices, our sauces — we make everything we can in-house.”
The latest version of the Jersey Social menu was crafted to provide even more options. Some choices deliver a “warm, cozy” feeling. There are also options for vegans and vegetarians, and selections for health-conscious guests. And so many items on the menu are all about creating a good time with great friends.
At the Bar
It’s the drinks that often keep the good times flowing. And fortunately, there’s no shortage of suds nor cocktails at this bar. “Some of the favorites are our espresso martini, which we use fresh espresso for,” the chef says. “Not many people do that. Otherwise, it’s often the margarita or the Moscow mule with ginger beer and lime.”
On tap, expect to find Modello, Guinness, Allagash, or the Hazy IPA. While the exact options are subject to change each season, customers can bet they’ll find something to suit their beer preferences and cravings. And for local flavor, Departed Soles Brewing Company is on tap now.
Fun and Games
On any given day, there’s a reason to get social. With Trivia Tuesdays, Boozy Weekend Brunch, daily Happy Hour deals, and more, the team at Jersey Social works hard to make each customer’s experience unique and fun.
And sports fans can make themselves right at home at Jersey Social too. Check out the many TVs and the projector screen for football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and even some MMA action.
If you’re the game night type (really, who isn’t?!) board games are available for one and all. Show off your skills at Uno, Cards Against Humanity, Jenga, chess, and more.
The Bowie Building
Jersey Social is tucked away in the Cast Iron Lofts, also home to the well-known David Bowie mural. Over the past couple of years, the outdoor patio was put to great use for weekend outings and boozy brunch. The restaurant had to bring its bar service to the same level that had been demanded of the kitchen staff since its opening.
Mission Accomplished
Today, the crew combines its distinctive fare from Chef Oswaldo with its newfound success as a cocktail bar to create the awesome atmosphere that now defines Jersey Social.
“Our customer service is a differentiator,” he says. “What we provide, we make customers feel like they’re dining at home. It’s comfortable, we’re attentive, and we make sure they’re happy and taken care of. I think they come back because we care. We’re not as packed as other places, so there is personalization. We give an opportunity and the time to mingle and talk.”
Jersey Social
837 Jersey Ave.
Jersey City, NJ
