Hudson County has become known for excellent dining experiences at every budget. The area’s rich cultural diversity has resulted in a wide cross-section of cuisine that nails local restaurateurs’ traditional heritages and boldly invents fusion tastes to draw crowds and kudos. Read on for a highlights tour of some of the many restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that are giving Hudson County its foodie credentials. 

So Many Choices!

Options for dining out in Hudson County just keep multiplying. Jersey City alone has close to 1K restaurants to choose from, with new eateries popping up all over the place. Neighborhoods like Newport in Jersey City — that previously quieted down in the evening without restaurants for residents — have seen a sudden flurry in new hot dinner spots. Multiple years of Wine Spectator Awards and our own Local Girl write-ups have likely brought on the need for table reservations at the most popular places. It seems that it’s Hudson County’s culinary moment in the sun. 

Recognizing Old-School Icons 

From the relatively recently established iconic locals like Zeppelin Hall (est. 2009) to the long-lived Fiore’s of mozz fame and glory (est. 1913), Hudson County has been performing fabulous culinary feats to manifest all our food fantasies for ages. We respect our elder restaurants even when their fare has changed with the times and the arrival of new generations — like Liberty House’s Maddy Rose, where the view is historical and majestic but the menu is fresh and fabulous. 

Read More: We Tried Dozens of Pickles at Hoboken’s Pickle Joy: Here’s How it Went

Andrea Salumeria | 247 Central Avenue 

Augustino’s | 1104 Washington Street, Hoboken

Barge Inn | 324 Third Street, Jersey City

Benny Tudino’s | 622 Washington Street, Hoboken

Cafe Michelina | 423 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken

Carlo’s Bakery | 95 Washington Street, Hoboken

Fiore’s Deli | 414 Adams Street, Hoboken

Leo’s Grandevous | 200 Grand Street, Hoboken

Liberty Brand Pastries & Food | 2409 Central Avenue, Union City

Liberty House | 76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Liberty State Park, Jersey City

Neptune Bakery and Deli | 1612 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City

Piccolo’s | 92 Clinton Street, Hoboken

Zeppelin Hall | 88 Liberty View Drive, Jersey City  

Innovative + Trendy Hot Spots

Hudson County restaurants are not boring. The art on the walls, the many genres of live music, unique collabs, and uncommon creations — like Departed Souls’ amazing gluten-free beer or Dark Side of the Moo’s alligator sausage, wild boar tacos, kangaroo or yak burgers — provide adventuresome foodies with something new to discover just around the next corner. 

87 Sussex | 87 Sussex Street, Jersey City

Ani Ramen | 218 Newark Avenue, Jersey City

Busy Bee Organics | 451 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City

The Cliff | 38 Congress Street, Jersey City

Dark Side of the Moo | 52 Bowers Street, Jersey City

Dear Maud | 205 First Street, Hoboken

Departed Souls Brewing Company | 150 Bay Street, Jersey City

Drift | 1200 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawken

LoKal Eatery & Bar | 2 Second Street, Jersey City

Traditional & Fusion Heritage Homage

Like the massive portions of authentic Ecuadorian food at Bayonne’s Tagua and the glorious Peruvian sopas at Harrison’s B-52’s, these purveyors of spice done right bring rave reviews. Many of them are getting noticed, including Jersey City’s Korai Kitchen, which recently received a James Beard nomination. Here are but a tiny fraction of the abundance of restaurants bringing bountiful world flavors to our plates. 

B-52’s Lounge & Restaurant Ceviche Bar | 200 North Second Street, Harrison

El Aguila Dorada | 830 Broadway, Bayonne

El Artesano Restaurant | 4101 Bergenline Avenue, Union City

El Eslabon Restaurante | 6013 Park Avenue, West New York

Korai Kitchen | 576 Summit Avenue, Jersey City

Lotus Thai Cuisine | 7007 Park, Guttenberg

Masala Cafe Chettinad | 839 Newark Avenue, Jersey City

Q’Tal Bar + Grill | 3 Kearny Avenue, Kearny

Rumba Cubana | 6909 JFK Boulevard, Guttenberg | 1807 45th Street, North Bergen | 235 Pavonia Avenue, Jersey City

Tagua | 269 Broadway, Bayonne

Takorea BBQ | 805 Frank E Rogers Boulevard, Harrison

The Indian Tapas | 101 Greene Street, Jersey City

Photo-Friendly Brunch & Rooftop Culture 

Sweet and swanky restaurant spots bring cheer to a bad weather or bad mood day because fancy fabulousness is a fun solution to whatever’s got us down. Hudson County is loaded with gorgeous locations to meet up with friends over mimosas and toast togetherness in a place where the ambiance sparkles invitingly. 

Anthony David’s | 953 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken

Barbès | 1300 Park Avenue, Hoboken 

Bin 14 | 1314 Washington Street, Hoboken

Elysian Cafe | 1001 Washington Street, Hoboken 

Fork Hill Kitchen | 201 Sixteenth Street, Union City

Halifax | 225 River Street, Hoboken

Hudson + Co | 3 Second Street, Jersey City

The Kitchen Step | 500 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City

The Lola | 102 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken

The Rooftop at Exchange Place | 1 Exchange Place, Jersey City

Metropolis | 96 Hudson Street, Hoboken

Vale’s Kafe + Kitchen | 825 Twenty Second Street, Union City

Neighborhood Fixes

There are so many beloved Hudson County mom-and-pop delis and bistros that keep us well-coffeed and fed. Those favorite tucked-away places and corners are hot spots for happiness. These neighborhood staples are the setting for making memories and slowing down time, nestled in comfort, away from the world’s chaos. 

15 Fox Place | 15 Fox Place, Jersey City

Cafe Dolma | 270 Grand Street, Jersey City

Cortaditos | 4501 Park Avenue, Union City

Garden Cafe + Bistro | 106 Country Road, Union City

Griot Cafe | 398 Central Avenue, Jersey City

Gussy’s Cafe | 292 Newark Avenue, Jersey City

Hamilton Inn | 708 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City

Harry’s Food & Drink | 8101 Bergenline Avenue, North Bergen

Roast & C.R.E.A.M. | 1620 Bergenline Avenue, Union City

Satis Bistro | 212 Washington Street, Jersey City 

Subia’s  | 506 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City

White Star | 179 Warren Street, Jersey City

New Rising Stars

New restaurants and cafes in our area have been stirring up quite a buzz. Mark Censits’ new farm-to-table restaurant, Maxwell Alley, and Korean and Japanese restaurant Yakitame Bento + Katsu  are shining star examples of what can happen when brilliant entrepreneurs with exceptional taste cater to the sophisticated tastes of our region. 

Apnaa Lahore | 557 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City

Blue Anchor | 166 River Drive, Jersey City  

Blue Angel Artisan Cafe + Bakery| 79 Hudson Street, Hoboken

The Colonial Grill Foodtruck | 1 Newark Street, Hoboken

Forum Coffee | 1400 Washington Street, Hoboken

Haraz Coffee House | 89 Hudson Street, Hoboken

Little Mingo | 305 1st Street, Hoboken

Mile Square Cafe | 746 Park Avenue, Hoboken

Bergen Hall | 58 Maple Street, Jersey City

BRBQ | 532 Summit Avenue, Jersey City

Incontro Caffè | 351 Summit Avenue, Jersey City

Maxwell Alley | 12 Coles Street, Jersey City

Yakitame Bento + Katsu | 501 Central Avenue, Jersey City

RUN/Café | 1000 Garfield Avenue, Jersey City

Panaderya Salvaje | 9 Erie Street, Jersey City

Recent Wine Spectator Award Winners

An excellent overall experience is the norm at these celebrated restaurants, and the word has been out for quite a while now. The annual Wine Spectator awards, which highlight our region’s outstanding food destinations, are no surprise. Local foodies didn’t need an outside authority to confer credibility to their date night destination, but the recognition does feel nice. 

Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard, Jersey City 

Blu on the Hudson | 1200 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawken

Brazeiro Churrascaria | 103 Sixtieth Street, West New York | 7420 Broadway, North Bergen

Court Street | 61 Sixth Street, Hoboken

Del Frisco’s Grille | 221 River Street, Hoboken

Felina Steak | 2 Chapel Avenue, Jersey City

Hailfax | 225 River Street, Hoboken

Maddy Rose at Liberty House, 76 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City

Molos | 1 Pershing Road, Weehawken

Sorellina Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, 1036 Washington Avenue, Hoboken

Son Cubano | 40 Riverwalk Place, West New York 

Perennial Local Girl Faves Not Listed Above

There are simply too many great Hudson County food options to name them all. There’s someplace for everyone and then another someplace for all the days of the month, yet the list of local “must-try”s just keeps growing. As long as they’re cooking, we will keep tasting and savoring what comes out of these kitchens. 

Antique Bar + Bakery | 122 Willow Avenue, Hoboken

Chart House | 1700 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawken

Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City

El Artesano | 4101 Bergenline Avenue, Union City

Faubourg | 544 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair + 1100 Avenue at Port Imperial, Weehawken

Flour | 500 Jefferson Street, Hoboken

Gaia + Loki | 346 Grove Street, Jersey City

Korai Kitchen | 576 Summit Avenue, Jersey City

La Isla | 104 Washington Street, Hoboken

Razza | 275 Grove Street, Jersey City

See More: A Millennial Girl’s Guide to the Jersey Shore

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

Food + Drink

The post 94 Spots That Prove Hudson County, NJ is a Foodie Destination appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

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New Jersey commuters have had a whirlwind week of news headlines coming from NJ Transit and the New York / New Jersey Port Authority. The most recent of the headlines was an announcement on Friday, November 14th, that the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail line will undergo a 10-mile expansion with seven new stops. Read on for more information about the new railway expansion plan. 

Building into Bergen County

The Hudson-Bergen line currently only extends as far as North Bergen. The new plan, titled “The Northern Branch Project”,  from NJ Transit will bring the Light Rail tracks 10 miles further north to an anticipated terminal at Englewood Hospital. There will be seven stops added across five municipalities, including North Bergen, Ridgefield, Palisades Park, Leonia, and Englewood. 

Read More: Hoboken to LA by Rail? This Transit Company is Proposing a Single Cross-Country Route

The project is still in the early stages of planning, and riders will likely have to wait a year or two before construction begins. The environmental impact statement considers potential impacts of the project on surrounding areas, including noise, wildlife, air quality, infrastructure, traffic patterns, and more. 

Per press release, NJ Transit announced that it issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to hire a contractor to prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). As the proposal is currently written, the electric railway would be located along West Side Avenue in North Bergen and the existing railroad right-of-way owned by CSX Transportation between 91st Street in North Bergen and the northern Border of Englewood. 

 Northern Branch Corridor Project Proposal via NJ Transit

A previous version of the plan, titled “The Northern Branch Corridor Project” was published for public commentary in 2011. The original plan extended service to Tenafly, which was opposed by residents and community leaders.  The Federal Transit Administration rescinded its Notice of Intent to review that Environmental Impact Statement in 2023 since environmental conditions have changed since its writing in 2007. 

What Officials Say

“NJ TRANSIT remains committed to extending the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail into Bergen County,” said NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kris Kolluri. “This RFP is a concrete demonstration of that commitment. Providing mass transit options to all regions of New Jersey takes cars off the road, cleans the air we breathe, and drives economic activity, sustainable housing, and a multitude of other benefits.” 

 “As one of the most densely populated counties in the state, Bergen County welcomes additional mass transit options,” Bergen County Executive James Tedesco added, “The Northern Branch project will fulfill that need and enhance the lives of all who call Bergen County home. I thank NJ TRANSIT for continuing this vital project.”

See More: A Guide to 16 Eateries in New Jersey Train Stations

As part of the EIS process, there will be an opportunity for public comment once the draft is complete for a minimum period of 45 days.

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post NJ Transit Announces Plans to Expand Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Service appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

From the dawn of Dutch settlement to the Industrial Revolution to the present day, Hudson County has been the starting point and arena for innovators, influential figures, monumental events, and more. So much history has occurred here: some of it even the first of its kind in the state, country, or even the world. After covering Essex County in 2022 and Bergen County earlier this year, The Local Girl is continuing its series on “famous firsts” and exploring Hudson County. Whether buried in a century-old book or part of recent headlines, we have done the research to share with you what groundbreaking and pivotal things have occurred by residents of and in Hudson County, New Jersey. Read on to learn about Hudson County’s famous firsts.

Bayonne

1. In 1928, Devora Nadworney became the first singer heard over a radio network in the United States. Devora was born to Russian immigrants and grew up in Bayonne.
2. In 1931, the Bayonne Bridge opened as the world’s longest steel arch main span bridge. While it is no longer the longest today, it is still in the top 10.

Read More: The Stories Behind Old Hoboken Signage

Harrison

1. In 1987, Francis E. Rodgers became the longest-serving mayor in U.S. history. He was first elected Mayor of Harrison in 1946 and served for 48 years until he passed in 1995. In 1987, Francis earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records when he surpassed Mayor Erastus Corning II of Albany, New York, who died in office in 1983 after serving for over 40 years. Harrison marked the occasion by closing municipal offices in the mayor’s honor and by letting students have a day off. 

Hoboken

1. Hoboken was home to the first brewery operated by a non-indigenous person in what is now North America. Aert Van Putten, a farmer from the Netherlands, built his house and business in 1643, north of what would be later known as Castle Point. During Kieft’s War, Van Putten was killed and his buildings destroyed.
2. Hoboken is home to the world’s first commercial steam ferry operation. On October 11, 1811, Colonel John Stevens’ ship, the Juliana, began to operate as a ferry between Manhattan and Hoboken.
3. The first recorded game of baseball was in Hoboken. It took place in 1846 between the Knickerbocker Club and the New York Nine at Elysian Fields.
4. Hoboken is home to the nation’s first mechanical engineering college. Stevens Institute of Technology was founded at Castle Point in 1870, at the site of the Stevens family’s former estate.
5. The first Oreo was sold on March 6, 1912, to a grocer in Hoboken. 
6. The first Blimpie restaurant opened in 1964 at the corner of Seventh and Washington Streets in Hoboken. 
7. In 2017, City Councilman Ravi Bhalla won Hoboken’s mayoral race, making him the first Sikh mayor in state history.

Jersey City

1. In 1660, Jersey City became the site of Bergen Square, the first town square in North America.
2. The Old Bergen Church, established in 1660, is the oldest continuous religious congregation in the state. The current edifice was built in 1841.
3. Jersey City is the home of Public School No. 11, the nation’s longest-continuous school site and the site of the first free public school building in the state. A school first began operating at the site in the 1660s.
4. The oldest surviving structure in all of Hudson County was built in 1690. The Newkirk House, also called the Summit House, is located at 510 Summit Avenue. It was built by Dutch settler Mattheus Cornelissen Newkirk and owned by Newkirk for two centuries. After it was sold in 1889, it welcomed a variety of businesses, like a childcare center, a tailor shop, a tavern, and restaurants. In July 2025, the property was auctioned off for $2.4 million to an undisclosed buyer.
5. In 1839, Provident Savings Institution was chartered by the state as the first mutual savings bank in New Jersey. It was also the first bank in Jersey City and Hudson County.
6. In 1868, the Jersey City Board of Aldermen opened “Jersey City Charity Hospital” and operated it as a public medical facility. This was the first place in the state where physicians provided free medical care to city residents. It is also the first medical center in the state. 
7. In 1908, Jersey City’s water supply became the first permanent chlorinated disinfection system for drinking water in the country.
8. In 1925, Mary Teresa Norton became the first woman member of the Democratic Party elected to Congress and the first woman elected to represent New Jersey, or any state in the Northeast.
9. In 2013, Jersey City became the first municipality in New Jersey and the sixth in the country to guarantee paid sick leave.
10. In 2018, Jersey City adopted the Vision Zero initiative, becoming the first city in the state to do so.
11. In 2020, Jersey City became the first municipality in the state to create a dedicated tax to support the arts.

Hudson County

1. The first established European settlement in New Jersey was carried out by the Dutch, who settled Bergen, New Netherland. Not to be confused with the current iteration of  Bergen County, the settlement of Bergen includes what is now Bergen County and Hudson County. In 1661, Bergen formed as the first independent municipality in what is now New Jersey. Prior to this, a trading post began in the Communipaw area of current-day Jersey City around 1615, and more permanent residential settlements began in Pavonia around 1630.

Secaucus

1. In 2024, the girls’ volleyball team at Secaucus High School became the first girls’ volleyball program in New Jersey to win over 1,000 games.

See More: Famous ‘First’ Occurrences That Happened in Bergen County, New Jersey

Union City

1. In 1913, Mallomars were first sold in Union City, which was then called West Hoboken. 
2. In 1986, Bob Menendez became the mayor of Union City and the first Cuban-American mayor in the state. He is possibly the first Hispanic mayor in the state’s history.

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post Famous ‘First’ Occurrences That Happened in Hudson County, NJ appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

Earlier this year, Plant Based News declared New York City the best city for vegans in 2025 with 2,420 vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free restaurants. Given Hoboken’s proximity to the Best Vegan City, some local restaurants have taken on the mission of diversifying their menu. There are even a few restaurants on the west side of the Hudson that are 100 percent vegan, some of which are homegrown in Jersey or expanded to the Garden State as a result of success in NYC. As a vegan and Hobokenite, I love the opportunity to support fully vegan businesses, but more often enjoy vegan-friendly options at non-vegan restaurants — allowing me to go out with my mostly omnivorous friends and family without being limited to a depressing spring-mix salad or fries. We can confirm: the “sixth Borough” has plenty to offer the vegan or vegan-adjacent community. Read on for a list of vegan and vegan-friendly places to dine in and around Hoboken.

Vegan Businesses

Gaia + Loki | 346 Grove Street, Jersey City

Located at 346 Grove Street, Jersey City, Gaia + Loki boasts a fully vegan menu of dishes from countless different cooking traditions. Some of my go-to orders are the Gyro, Meatball Sub, Empanadas, and Lumpia. Notably, the restaurant also has a fully vegan brunch menu on weekends, and vegans know that breakfast food options are a rare find outside of big cities.

Jerrell’s Betr Brgr | 210 Hudson Street, Jersey City

In 2021, Jerrell’s Betr Brgr opened its first location in NYC’s Soho neighborhood at 117 Sixth Avenue. The restaurant is a 100% vegan burger and fast-food joint, slinging milkshakes and double-decker sandwiches reminiscent of a Big Mac. Shortly after their grand opening, the restaurant expanded to the Garden State, opening an additional location at 324 Washington Street in Hoboken. The burger spot has since moved to nearby Downtown Jersey City and is available on delivery platforms like Uber Eats. Jerrell’s is also a great late-night eats option, which is often when vegan options can be even more scarce.

Read More: Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Hoboken

Rose Rock Bakeshop | 498 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City

Just on the other side of the 2nd Street Lightrail station, Rose Rock Bakeshop has a regular table at the Riverview Farmer’s Market each Sunday. The market is within the town lines of Jersey City, but is only steps away from Hoboken’s Housing Authority, and well worth the walk up Mountain Road’s “100 Steps.”  Rose Rock Bakeshop is a fully vegan bakery that has no brick-and-mortar storefront yet, but does frequent pop-ups at farmers’ markets, pride festivals, and more. The bakeshop offers options to pick up or doorstep delivery. Personal favorites from the bakeshop’s pop-up include the Lemon-Cardamom Roll and Strawberry Shortbread.

Vegan Friendly Latin + Central American Cuisine

Jajaja Mexicana | 2100 Kerrigan Avenue, Union City 

In a recent expansion upon their NYC success, the owners of Jajaja Mexicana have opened yet another restaurant location, serving a fully veganized menu of authentic Mexican recipes. Some favorites include the Birria Tacos, Taco Tazón Salad, Enchiladas Mole, and Churros. The new Garden State location is takeout/delivery-only, located at 2100 Kerrigan Avenue in Union City. Despite the distance from the Mile Square City, platforms including DoorDash and Uber Eats yield swift delivery and little to no added fees.

La Isla | 104 Washington Street, Hoboken

La Isla Restaurant is a Cuban diner located at 104 Washington Street in Hoboken, right outside of Hudson County’s Little Havana neighborhood, initially opening in 1970. The restaurant is committed to serving traditional Cuban cuisine using the “freshest and most genuine ingredients,” according to its website. The restaurant was even included in Eater’s 15 Top Restaurants to Seek Out in Hoboken. It has one standalone vegan option, which is more than enough choices since it is nothing short of fantastic. The Empanada Vegana is filled with potato, curried cauliflower, and edamame, and is served with mango-pineapple chutney.

Orale Mexican Kitchen | 341 Grove Street, Jersey City

While its Uptown Hoboken location sadly closed its doors in early July to the dismay of many, Orale still has locations in Jersey City and Morristown, New Jersey. Fully vegan menu options include the phenomenal Mushroom “Crema” Enchiladas and the Vegetariano Tacos. While this is not a plant-based business, the restaurant emphasizes being inclusive of those with dietary restrictions, curating wholesome options that make no sacrifices in protein content or flavor. About half the guacamole options are vegan to start, with the option of ordering a tasting flight to satisfy vegans and non-vegans alike. The tequila menu, weekly specials, elaborate mocktails, and fun atmosphere make it a great spot for celebrations with friends or family, with a menu that guarantees options for everyone.

Vegan Pizza + Italian Spots

The Brick | 1122 Washington Street, Hoboken

The Brick is an Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria with both a traditional menu and a separate, fully vegan menu with plenty of hearty options, including a ‘chicken’ Caesar wrap, vegan pizza pies, pastas, and desserts. The restaurant is located in Uptown Hoboken at 1122 Washington Street, and has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to dine in. It has options for takeout and delivery, and you can order delivery directly from the website.

Olivia’s Dining + Cocktails | 1038 Garden Street, Hoboken

Since most vegan restaurants and options tend to be more on the fast-casual side, one standout restaurant with an upscale atmosphere and a vegan menu option is Olivia’s in Uptown Hoboken. Located at 1038 Garden Street, Olivia’s high-end menu is reminiscent of a steakhouse; however, under the menu’s “Pasta” section, there is a Vegan Bolognese complete with vegan cheese. For special occasions or date nights, Olivia’s is a great option to accommodate all dietary restrictions without sacrificing an elegant atmosphere.

Otto Strada | 743 Park Avenue, Hoboken

Otto Strada is another pizzeria and BYOB Italian restaurant in Hoboken that recently reopened following a temporary closure after a fire earlier this summer. The menu includes personal pies and entrees, with the vegan pizza option appropriately named “The Vegan”. Pleasantly surprising, the pie isn’t a sad combo of sauce, crust, and bell peppers — but a complete dish with a roasted garlic cream sauce. The summertime ambiance of the outdoor dining area is unmatched.

Tony Boloney’s | 263 1st Street, Hoboken + 363 Grove Street, Jersey City

Tony Boloney’s Pizza is a hallmark of Downtown Hoboken’s First Street nightlife scene. While the 263 1st Street location is temporarily closed at the moment following a recent fire, the Jersey City location remains open and able to deliver to Hoboken. With five vegan pie options, two of which are new additions, the vegan options are ample, even at midnight. At any given time, they will have two vegan pizza pies available by the slice, which is rare since most often, other non-vegan pizzerias will only offer vegan options as a full pie. The slices available at the Hoboken location include Vegan Pinky and the O.G. Vegan. The pizzeria also serves vegan mozzarella sticks and subs.

Other Hoboken Honorable Mentions

Antique Bar + Bakery | 122 Willow Avenue, Hoboken

Antique Bar and Bakery is one of Hoboken’s most famous restaurants, with a rich history including a century-old 30-ton coal oven from its beginning as a bakery. In 2017, the spot reopened at its original location at 122 Willow Avenue in Downtown Hoboken as an upscale dining establishment with swanky retro decor and a seasonal menu. While there are no explicitly vegan dishes on the menu (hear me out), on two separate occasions of dining with friends, the staff has gone above and beyond to create a vegan option out of thin air, when I was only expecting to have drinks and then grab a slice from Tony’s on the walk home. On one occasion, it was spaghetti squash pasta without egg or carbonara sauce, and instead a medley of roasted tomatoes and vegetables, on another, a pomodoro pasta.

Gotan | 770 Jackson Street, Hoboken

Gotan is a café located at 770 Jackson Street in Hoboken, along with other locations in Jersey City and Weehawken. Due to its ample seating, Gotan is a great spot to grab brunch with friends on the weekend. The Cauliflower Tahini sandwich is vegan as-is without the need to request any substitutions. Gotan also has an extensive drink menu, serving almond and oat milk.

KikiLu Gelato | 900 Garden Street, Hoboken

Nestled at 900 Garden Street in Hoboken, artisanal gelato shop KikiLu will have customers lining the sidewalks waiting for authentic Italian desserts, including cannolis, affogatos made with a Lavazza espresso bar, and most importantly, gelato. Like its sister business Otto Strada, vegans were not forgotten in the curation of Kikilu’s menu, with options including a decadent Sicilian dark chocolate gelato and refreshing Sicilian mango sorbet. The menu is often changing, but there has never been an occasion where there were no vegan options available in my experience.

Organic Basic Food | 204 Washington Street, Hoboken

The natural foods store at 204 Washington Street in Hoboken isn’t exactly a restaurant; however, Organic Basic has an entire case of prepared vegan foods near the front of the store. The prepared options include wraps, sandwiches, cakes, mac + cheese, and hearty bean salads. In addition to those, plenty of vegan grocery items are available at the small business that would normally only be found at bigger stores farther away. Some favorites include Abbot’s Butcher meat products and all Forager products. HG pro tip: this store has an extensive selection of vegan ice cream.

Tosti Cafe + Kitchen | 1024 Washington Street, Hoboken

Tosti is another spot where one can find the elusive vegan brunch option. The cafe has been serving a “contemporary American menu” in the Uptown Hoboken area since 2018 at 1024 Washington Street. Since the menu includes tofu scramble as a side or addition, I was easily able to order the Huevos Rancheros with tofu instead of egg and without mozzarella. The lunch and dinner menus also include a vegetarian chili, which can be made vegan by omitting cheese. There is also an abundant coffee, tea, and bubble tea menu with the almond and oat milk options.

See More: Where to Find Vegan Food in Montclair

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post A Guide to Vegan Dining in the Hoboken + Jersey City Area appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

The Garden State is filled with plenty of internet lore that New Jerseyans have come to know and love. But in this little corner of Union City, a true trove of lore exists at 502 New York Avenue. Local Lore is a self-proclaimed “thrifty and gifty” shop that caters to those with niche interests in fashion, handmade jewelry, nostalgia, astrology, and metaphysical trinkets. The one-of-a-kind array of items is all sourced by the hands of local founder Elle Lensink, who has an eye for some of the most striking finds and creations around. Keep reading to learn more about Local Lore in Union City and the star behind it all.

How it Started

Founder Elle Lensink, who now resides in Jersey City, once spent her childhood in the cornfields of Illinois, right next door to the famed city of Aurora (where Wayne’s World was filmed). Since she can remember, thrifting (back then, it was swap meets and garage sales) across the Midwest as a way of life, rich with vibrant childhood memories. She was taught the art of “the hunt” at a very young age by her dad, who she referred to as an “OG thrifter.” Every weekend, Elle and her dad would wake up extra early, fuel up with breakfast, and hit the road for a day full of thrifting. Elle said her dad has a special way of finding the items you didn’t know you needed until you saw them, which is what made it seem like such a superpower. To this day, Elle’s dad still ships the occasional box of Midwest thrift goodies to her store in Jersey City.

Read More: A Guide to Vintage + Thrift Stores in Hudson County

After spending most of her childhood as “the new girl” attending five different high schools in three different states, Elle decided at the age of 17 that she would move solo to New Jersey to pursue the art of fashion, freedom, and self-expression she craved. After rerouting her dream to attend FIT in New York City, she took it upon herself to pivot, becoming a self-taught Adobe Photoshop and CorelDRAW expert.

Soon, Elle was able to flex her skills and landed a job as a sales and PR assistant at a small wholesale jewelry company. During her time there, she began studying the behind-the-scenes noise of the fashion industry. Elle observed and absorbed it all, from trend reports to creating micro-collections and presenting to buyers. Eventually, Elle worked her way up by advocating for herself and stepped into an open designer role at the company. Here she was able to manage her own accounts and travel overseas to shop for new collections and meet with production partners.

During her downtime, Elle would use discarded samples and jewelry scraps to create her own upcycled designs. She began hosting jewelry parties for her friends, and it sparked something in her. After honing in on her craft,  Elle began working in high-end design, creating looks for celebrities like Nicki Minaj, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, and Gwen Stefani’s L.A.M.B. show. She even spotted one of her designs on the cover of Elle Magazine, which she shares was a surreal pinch-me kind of moment. She eventually began selling her designs to mass market brands like Express. Hot Topic and Urban Outfitters, but felt restrained with her creativity, and ultimately, the corporate world just wasn’t her jam.

In 2016, she launched her own jewelry line, Originelle, which began at consignment shops and pop-up markets throughout Jersey City. During the markets, Elle slowly started adding in more than just jewelry and infused collections of vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories that began to catch on. She gave a big shout-out to Brittany Graziosi, the wonderful mind behind Jersey City Oddities + Twilight Estate Services, for giving Elle an opportunity to host a pop-up inside of Twilight Thrift store in 2024, which contributed to her growth.

During this time, Elle was also deepening her spiritual journey and began working closely with tarot, symbolism, manifestation, herbal work, and crystal work alongside her astrology practices — which all shine through in her jewelry and art. Then, in January of 2025, she finally found a physical space for her designs, which would be called Local Lore, which is an ode to her full name, Loren, and quite literally means the lore of Loren (Elle), herself, adding “Local Lore, is just that. The Lore of Elle, because I couldn’t be Loren without the Lore, and I couldn’t be Elle without either. IMO Thrifting is just that, lore. It’s all the items we once loved, and all the things we want to pass on, and that’s the experience I hope to pass on.”

Elle also shared that local Jersey City designer and friend Midge Blitz helped give her the nudge she needed to open Local Lore’s storefront and played a big part in helping things come together. Customers can also shop a select few upcycled vintage items from Midge’s collection at the Local Lore storefront. 

Today, after less than a year, Local Lore is already leaving its mark on Union City as one of the few places that offer all of the things that Elle does under one roof. From vintage shopping to jewelry repair and astrology readings, Local Lore houses all things mystical and magical, making it the ultimate “thrifty and gifty” destination.

What to Expect

Walking into Local Lore is like stepping into a mystical time machine. With everything from oddities, spells, crystals, candles, matches, and astrological trinkets to secondhand clothing, vintage media (like books, DVDs, and retro video game consoles), to handmade jewelry and way more on the shelves. Local Lore is the kind of store that is small but mighty. Customers could spend hours sifting through every treasure, and like a true treasure chest, it’s packed to the brim with gift-worthy items and must-have nostalgia. When team HG stopped by for a visit, we were able to get a great grab of gifts for three friends for under $50.

Speaking of price points, shoppers can find everything from $1 friendship bracelets to a $400 acoustic electric guitar. Within the lineup of goodies, there is clothing that ranges from $8-$80 (including jeans in the $10-$50 range), jewelry from $8-$100, and printed matchbooks, which are 2 for $5. While there is (literally) too much lore to list here, we have to mention another stand-out feature of Local Lore: the Tarot Roulette Readings invented by Elle herself. For $13, you can sit with Elle and over a board of various tarot cards, then you roll three dice (representing astrology, numerology, and planetary symbols). Where they land reflects the message of your tarot reading that Elle will then interpret for you.

Elle has been studying astrology for over 20 years and participated in an 80+ hour course where she was able to dig even deeper. She holds an entire library of reference material books on everything from lunation to aspect patterns to rising sign oracles, with over 100 saved charts that she compares and cross-references in her work. She also conducts natal chart readings upon request and conducts 30-minute virtual sessions for $60. Elle taught us that even businesses can have astrological charts, sharing that Local Lore’s store is a Capricorn sun, Aries rising, Libra moon, and Pisces in Venus.

See More: A Guide to Thrift Stores + Antique Shops in Montclair

Visiting Local Lore

Local Lore is located at 502 New York Avenue in Union City, just over the Jersey City border, just blocks away from Washington Park. Elle shared with HG that “Often, when someone stops in, they will say how excited they are for this area to have a store like Local Lore, stating that it is just what UC needs, which makes me feel like, once again, the universe gives you what you want – when the time is right.”

The store is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11AM-7PM and Saturdays and Sundays from 12PM-5PM. For more, be sure to follow along with Local Lore on Instagram or Facebook for information about upcoming pop-ups and events. Plus, to take a sneak peek at some special merch, visit Local Lore’s Depop shop, Mercari, and Etsy shop for some more exclusive pieces.

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post Local Lore: A One-of-a-Kind Thrift Shop in Union City appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

Each year on September 11th, the communities of Hoboken and Jersey City band together to host ceremonies, memorials, vigils, and more in remembrance of those who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001. In commemoration of the 24th anniversary of 9/11, several local memorial events are set to take place this year. Read on for a list of 9/11 memorial events happening in 2025 in Hoboken, Jersey City, + beyond.

[tribe_events tribe-bar=”false” start_date=”2025-09-04″ end_date=”2025-09-30″ view=”list” category=”9-11″ debug=”false”] 

The post September 11th Memorial Events in Hoboken, Jersey City, + Beyond for 2025 appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

There are so many ways to be sustainable in Hudson County and you don’t even know it. Whether you are checking out new second-hand shops or learning how to compost, it’s easy to incorporate sustainability into your daily routine. Keep reading for a guide to staying green right here in Hudson County, New Jersey.

Simple Ways to Stay Sustainable

Buy Nothing

The Buy Nothing movement is a nationwide initiative that gives lightly used items a second life, all within your own neighborhood.

Right here in Hudson County, these hyper-local groups are a great way to give away unwanted items, borrow something temporarily, or even find that one thing you’ve been searching for.

There is also a Buy Nothing app, which allows you to share, lend, and give away items within your local neighborhood.

Click here to learn more about the Buy Nothing movement, and find some of the Hudson County Buy Nothing Facebook groups below:

• Buy Nothing Hoboken
• Buy Nothing Jersey City
• Buy Nothing Downtown Jersey City
• Buy Nothing The Heights, Jersey City
• Buy Nothing West Side, Jersey City
• Buy Nothing Port Imperial/West New York

Read More: A Closer Look at Hoboken’s Department of Climate Action + Innovation

Second Hand Pop-Ups

Trendy, fun, and one of the most cost-friendly ways to practice sustainability = pop-up events for buying second-hand. Here are some thrift shops and pop-up events that you should check out in the Hudson County area:

Pop-Up Events

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Corr Collective | Virtual

Corr Collective hosts pop-up thrift events called “Nice Rack,” which make the closet clean-out experience more fun and community-driven. These events encourage sustainable fashion choices while bringing together shoppers and sellers, while reducing textile waste.

Learn more about Corr Collective here and find out where Corr Collective is popping up next here.

Jersey Girl Thrift | Virtual

Jersey Girl Thrift is a local pop-up boutique thrift experience throughout North Jersey. They often feature stylish, affordable finds that promote secondhand fashion in a modern and approachable way. The events are usually promoted on social media and draw a strong local following.

Learn more about Jersey Girl Thrift here and find out where they’re popping up next here.

Sew & So’s | Virtual

Sew & So’s is a pop-up with various locations throughout Hoboken with fashion classes, sewing, and upcycling clothing for kids and teens. Half-day summer sessions are hosted at the Mile Square Theatre at 1400 Clinton Street in Hoboken.

Find out where Sew & So’s is popping up next here.

Hoboken’s Vintage + Thrift Stores

^ Thrifted by J&D

2nd Street USA | 200 Washington Street

2nd Street USA is a Japanese second-hand clothing chain with a selection of vintage and streetwear pieces, designer items, collectable sneakers, and luxury accessories.

6th Street Vintage | 408 6th Street

6th Street Vintage features one-of-a-kind pieces from the 40s and 50s. After running a brick-and-mortar for 36 years, 6th Street does mostly pop-ups and estate sales.

Archives 007 | 1 Newark Street

Archives is a bold and vibrant vintage shop full of retro inspiration, with its original location in Guttenberg.

The Armoire Thrift | 60 Newark Street

Owned by Sherley Coutois, Armoire Thrift is a vintage second-hand clothing, housewares, and jewelry store with an eclectic vibe.

Olijon’s Thrift Store | 138 Park Avenue

Olijon’s brings a heartfelt touch to Hoboken’s thrift scene, founded by cancer survivor Joann Saitta, who turned her longtime passion for uplifting others through fashion into a community-centered boutique.

Revival Vintage | 86 Park Avenue

Revival Vintage features must-have pieces dating back three centuries and along with seamstress services. They got their start as a vendor at the Brooklyn Flea, and after finding success, they now have a brick-and-mortar shop on Park Avenue.

Thrifted by J&D | 526 Adams Street

Run by married couple Jason and Derrick, this shop is a treasure trove of name-brand and vintage finds. Shoppers can uncover anything from vintage music players to wine glasses to handbags, where every visit promises a surprise.

Jersey City’s Vintage + Thrift Stores

^ Cranky Angel

Another Man’s Treasure Vintage Store | 195 Montgomery Street

This JC shop is a renowned vintage shop recognized by Elle, with pieces dating back to the Victorian era. Vintage finds from Another Man’s Treasure have been featured in pages of publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, New York Magazine, Time Out NY, and many others.

Calentadoo | Online

Calentadoo is a Latinx-owned digital shop for reworked, recolored second-hand fashion.

ConSHINEment | 910 Bergen Avenue

ConSHINEment is one of Jersey City’s sustainable fashion spots that has premium, one-of-a-kind pieces ranging from casual streetwear to vintage and designer clothing. The shop offers cash or store credit on the spot for any items you sell, allowing you to help the environment by recycling your clothing.

Cranky Angel | 304 Newark Avenue

This is a nostalgic spot with affordable pieces from the ‘90s and 2000s. The team also has additional services available, such as tailoring, styling, and customization, such as rhinestone or stud application and airbrushing.

The Loop Jersey City | 280 Newark Avenue

The Loop JC buys and sells rare and limited vintage clothing and sneakers daily, with statement pieces to elevate your look.

Mint Market | 339 Grove Street

Mint Market is a locally-owned shop featuring a curated mix of contemporary and vintage finds, including a range of designer pieces. They specialize in designer bags and upcycling vintage textiles to create one-of-a-kind treasures.

The Thriftique Warehouse | 40 Carbon Place

This is a place to rummage through old books, paintings, and antique records.

Union City’s Vintage + Thrift Stores

MyUnique Thrift Store | 3196 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Boulevard

MyUnique is a large thrift shop that adds new items daily, with many locations throughout NJ and NYC.

Quality Thrift Shop | 1107 Summit Avenue

Quality Thrift Shop has a diverse lineup of both new and gently used pieces.

The Family Thrift Store | 810 31st Street

The Family Thrift Store is a second-hand store that has good-quality pieces.

View more Hudson County vintage and thrift spots here.

Get Your Groceries from the Farmer’s Market

^ HDSID Farmers’ Market

To discover locally grown produce, meat, baked goods, dairy, and maybe even handmade jewelry, clothing, or art pieces, check out your local farmers’ market. It’s a great way to support small businesses while enjoying local farm-to-table flavors made using sustainable practices. Plus, since items don’t have to travel too far, it’s a more eco-conscious way to shop. Click here for a roundup of all the local markets.

Hoboken

Hoboken Farmers’ Market | Church Square Park, Garden Street between Fourth Street + Fifth Street

Every Saturday from 9AM-1PM until November 18th.

Hoboken Farmers’ Market (Southwest Park) | 58 Jackson Street

Every Thursday from 3PM-7PM, ends on October 30th.

Uptown Farmers’ Market | 404 14th Street, Hoboken (under the 14th Street Viaduct)

Every Saturday from 9AM-1PM, ends on December 20th.

Jersey City

Coles Street Market | Coles Street Park at Coles Street between 16th and 18th Streets

Every Tuesday from 3PM-7PM.

Hamilton Park Farmers’ Market | Basketball Court at Hamilton Park (8th Street, Jersey City)

Every Wednesday from 4PM-7PM, ends in December.

Historic Downtown Jersey City Farmers’ Market | Grove Street PATH Plaza, Grove Street + Newark Street

Every Monday + Thursday from 3PM – 7PM, ends on December 22nd.

Paulus Hook Farmers’ Market | Washington Street South of Dudley Street, Jersey City

Every Saturday from 9AM-2PM, ends November 22nd.

Riverview Farmers’ Market | Riverview Fisk Park, 498 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City

Every Sunday from 10AM-2PM, ends November 23rd.

Van Vorst Park Farmers’ Market | York Street

Every Saturday from 9AM-1PM, all year.

Visit Your Local Libraries

^ JCFPL

Going to the library is one of the most timeless ways to live sustainably. It’s an easy way to share resources so countless people can enjoy them without creating waste. Beyond books, you can borrow electronics, movies, and other media, making it a true community resource. Here is a list of libraries in Hudson County:

Bayonne

• Bayonne Public Library | 697 Avenue C 

Hoboken

Hoboken’s Public Library | 500 Park Avenue

Hoboken’s Public Library has a selection of items to borrow, from books to electronics to arts and crafts, all for free with your library card. Additionally, they recently introduced the Library of Things, which allows card-holding residents to check out unique items for two weeks at a time.

The Little Free Library | Multiple Locations

It’s as easy as it sounds. You take a book, and leave a book. This public book exchange is typically a very small box placed outside of residents’ houses and businesses, and it’s a great way to increase accessibility to books for all. Check out their website to track where a Little Free Library is located near you.

Guttenberg

• Guttenberg Resource Center | 7002 JFK Boulevard Unit 115

Jersey City

• Jersey City Free Public Library | 472 Jersey Avenue, 678 Newark Avenue, 326 8th Street, 489 Bergen Avenue, 1841 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 546 West Side Avenue, 1017 West Side Avenue, 275 Martin Luther King Drive

Kearny

• Kearny Public Library | 318 Kearny Avenue

Secaucus

• Secaucus Public Library and Business Resource Center | 1379 Paterson Plank Road

Union City

• Union City Public Library | 1800 Summit Avenue

Weehawken

• Weehawken Free Public Library | 49 Hauxhurst Avenue

Participate in Clothing + Book Swaps

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Local clothing and book swaps are low-key ways to refresh your wardrobe and your bookshelf. Not only does it lower your carbon footprint, but it is also an opportunity for you to give a loved item a second chance at life. Many public libraries also now host book swap events or maintain ongoing community shelves where you can take or leave a gently used read, which makes sustainable choices more accessible than ever.

Events to Enjoy

Jersey City Connects, Xtina’s Variety and Vintage Swaps, and the Completely Booked Book Swap.

Read more about Hudson County libraries and book stores here, and clothing and book swaps here.

Furniture + Home Goods in Hudson County

^ Sure Things

Jersey City

Casa Clasen | Online/Pop-ups

Casa Clasen curates and upholsters one-of-a-kind furniture pieces and sells them through Instagram, providing delivery throughout Jersey City, and often features items at Kanibal + Co.

Into the Void | 117 Brunswick Street

This vintage furniture shop has 1,800 square feet of eclectic décor, unique pieces, and quirky art, which are fun picks for adding personality to any space.

Salvation Army | 248 Erie Street, Jersey City  + 900 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Boulevard, Union City

This is a go-to place to stop for second-hand furniture without big box prices with a bonus — all of the proceeds go to a good cause. The Salvation Army thrift stores support the Adult Rehabilitation Centers throughout New Jersey.

Sure Things | 561 Palisade Avenue

Fans of Downtowner Sandwich Shop may recognize Sure Things from Saturday pop-ups or through founder Marinell Montales. Marinell now has a storefront on Palisade Avenue with a beautiful selection of curated home goods.

Twilight Thrift Shop | 2845 John F Kennedy Boulevard

Twilight Thrift Shop has furniture, home décor, clothing, and unique items like model trains and figurines. It is located in Journal Square and is open six days a week. Owner Brittany Graziosi also founded the Jersey City Oddities market.

Online

Vintage Crush | Online

Vintage Crush is your go-to Instagram account to explore standout mid-century ‘80s retro furniture and décor, from stylish side tables to eye-catching artwork that can transform your space. Founded in Weehawken, Vintage Crush is now all online and accessible for you to browse through the shop’s Instagram.

Shoptainable | Online

Shoptainable is a Latina-owned digital boutique that has a curated selection of sustainable, women-owned products that range from jewelry to home goods. Shoptainable’s home is in West New York and can be found on Instagram, and you can shop their products on the website. Additionally, Shoptainable is often featured at The Hive Goods in Jersey City.

If you’re looking to donate used furniture and clothing, check out WomenRising, located at 270 Fairmount Avenue in Jersey City, which is a Hudson County domestic violence prevention program that provides resources for women and families in need.

Read more on second-hand furniture and home good spots in Hudson County here.

Refill + Reuse

Refill stations around Hudson County create an easy way to stock up on shampoo and conditioner, soap, cleaning products, and more.

Located at 487 Palisade Avenue (lower level) in Jersey City, Lucky Honey Bee features a soap refill bar made with a variety of eco-friendly formulas. Kikilu Gelato, located at 900 Garden Street in Hoboken has an olive oil refillery set up. 

Though refill stations in Hudson County are limited, check out these spots in other nearby areas in NJ:

• Bear Minimum | 618B Main Street, Boonton
• Frank’s Market + Refillery | 658 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park
• Greater Goods Refillery | 11 Parker Avenue, Manasquan
• Good Bottle Refill Shop | 1875 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood
• Dry Goods Refillery | 193 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
• Woodlawn Refills | 314 Woodlawn Avenue, Pompton Lakes
• Rahway Refillery | 1425 Main Street, Rahway
• Sustainable Haus Mercantile | 221 Broad Street, Summit

BYO Bags, Cups, + Utensils

Bringing all of your own reusable cups, bags, and utensils when you’re out and about can make a huge difference. Many spots in Hudson County allow you to supply your own cup.

Here are some shops that use sustainable takeout packaging:

Jersey City

• Alfalfa | 160 1st Street
• Busy Bee Organics | 451 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
• Bwè Kafe | 140 Drive South
• Cavany Foods | Retail #1, 235 Grand Street
• Hudson Greene Market | 77 Hudson Street
• Juice Basin | 336 2nd Street
• Plant Base | 370 Pacific Avenue

Hoboken

• Alfalfa | 1110 Washington Street + 92 Bloomfield Street
• Black Rail Coffee | 800 Jackson Street
• Bwè Kafe | 1002 Washington Street, 1401 Adams Street
• Organic Basic Food | 204 Washington Street
• Shaka Kitchen | 110 Washington Street + 720 Monroe Street E103, Hoboken

Several Hoboken businesses participate in the citywide Hydration Station program.  There is also a list of city-approved Green Businesses, including an interactive map to find what’s closest to you. 

If you’re in Hoboken, the “Skip the Stuff” law focuses on reducing single-use plastic waste for takeout food orders, helping restaurants to also save money. This is a nationwide trend, and while customers can request disposable service items, this will all help us have fewer plastic forks floating around in our junk drawers.

Check out our full list of eco-friendly businesses in Hudson County here.

Support Low-Waste Organizations

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Non-profit organizations that work to reduce waste are an impactful way to stay sustainable right here in Hudson County. This is a great, eco-friendly way to get rid of your things when you are done using them.

Hoboken

Hoboken’s Zero-Waste Initiative

Launched in 2022, the Zero Waste initiative works to rethink how Hoboken manages waste to improve the quality of life for locals. These efforts go beyond recycling and composting — they seek to find innovative waste management strategies and reduce solid waste volume. The Zero Waste Plan provides solutions for reducing landfill waste while aligning with climate goals and improving city operations.

Jersey City

Sustainable Jersey City

Sustainable Jersey City is a collaborative network that works to keep Jersey City and the surrounding areas the greenest and most sustainable city it can be. This group’s efforts aim to reduce emissions and improve green infrastructure and waste streams.

Here are some more low-waste organizations to check out:

Table-to-Table

Table-to-Table is a local non-profit serving Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Morris, and Passaic Counties that rescues fresh, nutritious food that would otherwise end up in landfills. Instead, that food is taken and delivered to food pantries, homeless shelters, and senior citizen homes, benefiting both the planet and the community.

Too Good To Go

Too Good to Go is a mobile app that connects consumers with local restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores that have a surplus of food. To reduce food waste, these businesses sell a discounted “Surprise Bag” filled with leftover items that would otherwise be thrown away.

Round 2 Resources

Round 2 Resources is a Hoboken-based non-profit organization that is dedicated to giving back and protecting the environment by donating to the community.

Check out more Hudson County organizations that help solve food waste here.

Composting

It doesn’t cost anything to make a difference in the environment. Composting is simply recycling your food scraps to help reduce waste and improve the health of our soil.

The Community Compost Company is a composting service that gathers food scraps and transforms it into nutrient-rich compost, which is sold under the Hudson Soil Co. brand.

Here are the spots to compost locally:

Hoboken

• 7th + Jackson Plaza | near Portland Loo restroom on 7th Street between Monroe + Jackson Streets
• Church Square Park | near restrooms in the center of the park
• City Hall | near patio behind City Hall on Bloomfield Street between Newark + First Streets
• Columbus Park | near 9th + Clinton Street
• Elysian Park | near restrooms on the north side of the park
• Harborside Park | near shade structure in the center of the park
  
• Jackson Street Community Garden
  
• Maxwell Park | near Boathouse
  
• Multi-Service Center | near rink on 2nd Street between Grand + Adams Streets
  
• Southwest Park | Harrison Street between Observer Highway + Paterson Avenue
  
• Stevens Park | 4th Street at River Street
  
• Viaduct | 14th Street at Adams Street
  

Jersey City

• Brunswick Community Garden | 174-176 Brunswick Street
• Canco Park | 70 Dey Street
• City Hall | 280 Grove Street
• Department of Public Works | 13-15 Linden Avenue East
• Five Corners Library | 678 Newark Avenue
• Greene Street + 2nd Street
• Lafayette Park | Lafayette Street & Woodward Street
• Learning Community Charter School | 2495 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
• McWilliams Place + 8th Street
• Municipal Court | 365 Summit Avenue
• 9th Street + Jersey Avenue
• Riverview Community Garden | 285 Ogden Avenue

Read more on Hudson County composting spots here.

See More: 11 Eco-Friendly Businesses in Montclair + Essex County

Sustainable Transportation

Getting to where you need to go can add up quickly. Here are some tips for traveling to these locations more sustainably:

PATH

Your speedy underground chariot to Manhattan and other parts of NJ, perfect for skipping tunnel traffic and keeping your sanity (if it’s up and running).

NJ Transit Light Rail

Hop on for an easy ride between Hudson County’s key destinations.

Ferry

Like the PATH, but with better views and a breeze in your hair.

Hoboken Hop

Hoboken’s free little shuttle that zips you around town — an upgrade of your friendly neighborhood bus.

Uber/Lyft

Always there when you need it, but you might want to save it for those “I can’t walk in these shoes” moments.

Citibike

Pedal your way around town like a local, fast fun, and with zero emissions. Plus, it doubles as a mini workout during your commute.

Taxi

Classic, convenient, and always ready to get you to where you need to go — just don’t forget to tip your driver.

Via

Uber’s cooler, thriftier cousin who carpools.

NJ Transit Bus

Your ticket to getting around Hudson County while catching a glimpse of neighborhood sights — just hold on for the turns.

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post Secondhand Shopping, Farmers’ Markets, + Transit: A Guide to Living Sustainably in Hudson County appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

New Jersey health officials have issued a warning about possible measles exposure on NJ Transit and PATH trains. A local Hudson County resident who was later diagnosed with measles had used public transportation including the light rail and PATH while potentially contagious, according to the New Jersey Department of Health as of August 23, 2025. The possible exposure times below indicate where this person had frequented. If you were in these areas at this time, monitor for symptoms.

Possible exposure times and locations include:

NJ Transit Hudson-Bergen Light Rail: 8th Street, Bayonne to Hoboken branch

• August 13, 14, 15 between 9–11:30 AM and 6–9 PM

8th Street Light Rail Station, Bayonne

• August 13, 14, 15 between 9–11 AM and 7–9 PM

PATH Newark–World Trade Center Line

• August 13, 14, 15 between 9:15–11:45 AM and 5:45–8:30 PM

Exchange Place Station, Jersey City

• August 13, 14, 15 between 9:15–11:45 AM and 5:45–8:30 PM

Anyone exposed during these times may develop symptoms as late as September 11, 2025.

Follow @thehobokengirl on social + subscribe to our newsletter for more updates.

The post Warning Issued About Potential Measles Exposure on NJ Transit Light Rail + PATH Trains appeared first on Hoboken Girl.