Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s received final zoning approval to build a new 3,500-square-foot restaurant with dual drive-thru lanes at a former Red Lobster site. The location will have 45 parking spots and seating for 61 guests (45 indoor, 16 outdoor patio).
Pies on Main
Popular New Jersey pizza shop owned by husband-and-wife duo expanding to new location. Will be a ‘copy and paste’ of their Forked River location in a larger space, featuring pizza, Italian entrees, seafood, and other menu items. Offering dine-in, takeout and delivery service.
Mediterrano by Santorini
Mediterranean eatery serving Greek and Italian dishes with seafood-forward menu. Owner plans full transformation of former Exit Zero Filling Station space with outdoor patio and Mediterranean-themed design. Will serve dinner year-round with lunch added during busy season May-September.
DONG BEI Restaurant + Bar
Chinese restaurant and bar focusing on Northeast Chinese cuisine, taking over former Kitchen Step location. First NJ location with existing NYC locations. Serves authentic Northeast Chinese food, craft cocktails, and traditional Chinese baijiu.
Potbelly Sandwich Works
15-unit development agreement for Potbelly’s first New Jersey locations through franchise group PBNJ LLC, targeting Bergen, Passaic, Essex, and Sussex counties over 8-year development window
Wonder Food Hall
Wonder food hall and delivery concept opening in Ocean Township, featuring 15+ restaurant partners offering multiple cuisines in single orders with $0 delivery fees
First Watch
First Watch restaurant opening at Deptford Town Center as part of redevelopment project. Construction buildout underway with glass entryway removed and interior gutted. This will be the third First Watch location in the area after Washington Township and Gloucester Township.
The LOLA
A stylish new waterfront restaurant and lounge with a dynamic dinner and cocktail program. Led by executive chef Bud Carter (formerly of The Butcher’s Block), the menu will spotlight steak, seafood and handmade pastas, with weekly rotating specials. Cocktails will feature creative spins on classic drinks.
The Cowboys Mexican Restaurant
New Mexican restaurant coming to downtown Raritan, taking over the former location of El Sazon Restaurante. Banner and ‘Coming Soon’ sign are up.
Fogo de Chão
Brazilian steakhouse chain planning major 2026 expansion with 14-16 new locations. Princeton location will be New Jersey’s fourth, featuring churrasco experience with prix fixe dining and open grill concept.