Mack-Cali Realty Corporation announced that Piggyback Bar has opened at Harborside, the Hudson River strip the companyʼs has “recreated as a one-of-a-kind cultural district.ˮ
The restaurant, owned by chef Leah Cohen and partner Ben Byruch, will serve a menu of elevated American bar fare fused with Asian flavors.
Harborside is a transit-oriented, cultural district that blends offices, luxury living, locally inspired shopping and dining, and open public spaces.
Cohen and Byruch’s are the owners of Pig and Khao, which has served Southeast Asian cuisine on the Lower East Side for the past five years. The duo is excited to bring their newest venture to Jersey City.
“We have been looking to expand our brand outside of New York City; Harborside in Jersey City was a logical choice since it is so close to the city and is a beautiful area with amazing views,” said the pair. “After learning more about the area we were totally sold on Jersey City for our next venture.”
Piggyback Bar’s menu includes signature dishes such as Mussels with Chinese sausage, Dashi broth and fried Mantao buns; Mapo Chili Dog topped with crispy shallots and scallions; and Korean Gochujang Honey Butter Wings. It offers Asian-inspired cocktails, beer and wines.
The restaurant, with direct NYC views, will span a total of 6,000 s/f with a 1,000 s/f bar that seats 50, a main dining room that will host a maximum of 100 guests, and a 1,600 s/f outdoor area that seats 100.
“Harborside is a major driver helping to transform the face of the Jersey City waterfront, and we’re thrilled to have partners like Piggyback Bar as an anchor for its continued growth,” said Michael J. DeMarco, chief executive officer of Mack-Cali.
“We love style and talent and Leah and Ben bring a ton of that to the table. Their approach of superb food in a great atmosphere will make them a greater success.”
Harborside’s transformation will continue throughout 2017 and 2018, including additional restaurant openings; The Marketplace, which will house a range of diverse dining options as well as entertainment and cultural events at the Lutze Biergarten and the Atrium at Harborside.
