(Bistro La Source at 87 Sussex, Magic Johnson Marketplace new at 95 Greene.)
Wednesday was the grand opening of Magic Johnson Marketplace which one could either describe as the Jersey Journal has as a "waterfront area restaurant" or as may be more apt an office building's daytime cafeteria operated by Sodexo. When we walked by yesterday all we saw was the above sign locked behind one door and columns wrapped with photos of the NBA great inside the main dining area. But that's not the only dining news in the neighborhood.
Up the block Canadian coffee chain Van Houtte Cafe's first foray into the American market opened a few weeks back in the Montgomery Greene complex. It features oversized tables and pastries, (a $3.95 chocolate cheesecake easily feeds two,) a row of coffees you can pump yourself, and free wifi. Just avoid the espresso drinks unless you're patient and don't come expecting anything reminiscent of Canada, Tim Horton's this is not. If you're looking for faux-regional cuisine, try the Philly Pretzel Factory next door. And if you're looking for something especially obscure, check out the massive new menu from the Iron Monkey's and Automata Chino's new delivery service. This is a massive menu none of which appears to be available in their restaurant and bar at 99 Greene which we hate to say makes ordering in a more desirable option than a night out. The pork belly poutine still hasn't returned to the menu - can you get on top of that chef? - but what's this new obscurity? A chicken fried Chicago hot dog with tomato, relish, onions and mayo on a butter toasted bun. Surely this is due some love from This Is Why You're Fat once a photo surfaces.
What's surfacing on Sussex Street, after the jump...
(84 1/2 Sussex, formerly La Rustique. The market in Liberty Towers shows signs if not progress.)
Down on Sussex Street it's worth noting Triumph Bistro has since been reopened under new management as Bistro La Source. Opposite it at 84 1/2 Sussex renovations appears to be progressing although it doesn't appear to be taking shape as a cafe. Heading west signs are finally up to validate what we first predicted here a year ago, it's a "Manhattan Style Gourmet Market" opening on the south side of Liberty Towers and not a true grocery which the neighborhood desperately needs. With announced offerings such Mexican and sushi this sounds like a midtown deli for the office crowd more than anything else. It remains to be seen what impact this will have on the pharmacy in the building which sells groceries to serve locals even though its lease specifically prevents it.
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