New Jersey Malls: Forums of Entertainment
From Paramus to Cherry Hill, indoor malls have long been hallmarks of New Jersey’s shopping experience. The role of malls has been changing, however, over the past decade with the rise of online shopping. By the time pandemic restrictions lift ed in 2021, it was clear that stores alone would not bring customers back. Enter experiences. From craft festivals to popup cooking demos to dance competitions, malls are becoming forums of entertainment—and restaurants are playing a major role with a number of big-name culinary players heading to the mall with new ventures and expansions.
In East Rutherford, celebrity chef Marcus Samuelson opened his 7,000-square-foot Marcus Live! Bar & Grille at the American Dream mega mall in December with a menu showcasing his famous dishes, including Old Bay Crabcakes, Hot Honey Chicken and Cornbread Waffles. MLB&G marks the chef’s second restaurant stake in New Jersey; he has owned and operated Marcus P&B in Newark since 2017. Eataly, the highly acclaimed gourmet eatery and market, which originated in Torino and has locations in NYC, Chicago, Boston and other major cities, has announced plans to open at The Mall at Short Hills later this year. Meanwhile, Atlantic City’s Ryfe Bar and Restaurant will open its second outpost when it brings its mix of music, comedy nights, wine, food, and more to the Moorestown Mall in March. Look for more food-related concepts, large and small, coming soon to a mall near you.
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille
American Dream
1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford
201.340.0076.
marcuslivebarandgrille.com
Eataly
The Mall at Short Hills
1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills
shopshorthills.com
Ryfe Bar and Restaurant
Moorestown Mall
400 Route 38, Moorestown
856.290.RYFE.
ryferestaurant.com
