These New Brunswick Small Businesses Have Patch Readers Raving

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ — An upscale George Street gastropub that opened its doors to feed the hungry on Thanksgiving. A local pizzeria owner who fed the entire staff of a long-term care facility — not once, but twice.

Last week, we asked Patch readers across New Jersey to nominate their favorite local businesses, or tell us about a business that has gone above and beyond during the pandemic. We asked and you answered. These New Brunswick small businesses deserve some praise:

Catherine Lombardi in New Brunswick. Upscale Italian restaurant with a lively bar (when bars could be open). 3 Livingston Avenue New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (732) 296-9463

"Great food and atmosphere," says customer Kathleen Kavin.

Steakhouse 85 in New Brunswick. Upscale steakhouse also offering surf 'n turf; live jazz some nights. 85 Church St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"Steakhouse 85 has morphed and changed along with the COVID virus! It now offers family meals and date night specials on multiple nights! Staff was always happy to make accommodations and our orders were brought out to our car by their exuberant staff," raves customer Kathleen Reilly.

Tavern on George, New Brunswick. Cozy gastropub. 361 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"Tavern on George has dedicated many hours to feed front-line essential employees," shares customer John Cox. "They also went out of their way to open up on Thanksgiving to feed the underprivileged. Tavern on George has shown what it is to help those who have worked so hard to fight the battle against COVID-19."

Fillipo’s Famous Pizza 336 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"The owner of Fillipo’s Famous Pizza is Kamil Sahin. Kamil working the counter at his restaurant is part of the fabric of George Street," says customer Mike Armstrong. "As a long-term patron, you are welcomed to his restaurant like family each time. My wife was the director of nursing at a local long-term care facility at the height of the pandemic. Twice during that time, Kamil's restaurant provide meals to feed the staff of the entire facility!! It was his wife Sharon's idea, and called Heroes for Heroes. What a super place owned by super people. The Sahin family are incredible."

"They have the BEST pizza and appetizers. I try to eat there every time I visit New Jersey," agreed customer Becky Mladnick.

"Great personalized service. Will customize a pie for lactose-intolerant and vegetarians. Fast delivery. Always willing to go the extra mile for the customer," said Maureen Noaman.

"A great family-run business with a great variety of pizzas, plus salads, sandwiches and stromboli. The food is delicious and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable," says customer J. Brendel.

Maya Hookah Lounge in Edison 1897 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08817

"Best hookah and very clean. Aesthetic and ambiance of the lounge is amazing," said one customer.

Thomas Sweets New Brunswick Hand-crafted ice cream and chocolate. 55 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"A small LOCAL confectionery specializing in fabulous fudge of many flavors and chocolates (light & dark). You can select whatever you wish, stuffed animals, greeting cards, gift wrapping; they will also ship for you. It's a quaint & magical place. Moderately priced. It's great to support one of New Brunswick's most remarkable assets. And next door is their ice cream shop! This is where my best Christmas gifts will be purchased this year and perhaps a small treat for myself! How sweet it is!," said customer Marsha Sumal.

Havana Grocery Grocery store selling Latino specialty food items, plus homemade sandwiches and subs. Locals' secret in New Brunswick. 229 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"During the pandemic they never closed and they tried their best to have most of the products available to the customers," said customer Jose. "Always cheering their customers up to make them feel better during this hard time. If I were to rate them I will give them a big 10. Job well done, Havana."

El Oaxaqueno #2 Low-key Mexican take-out. Another locals' secret. 260 Drift St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

"Best authentic Mexican food around," said customer Ness. "Been around for years. Small place and pre-COVID it was impossible to ever find a seat available. Loved by residents and college kids."

Metuchen Corner Deli Sandwiches and deli. 640 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ 08840

"Group of young people who work hard to keep prices reasonable," said customer Carol Graham.

Sparks Hair Design Hair salon 72 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (732) 828-3131

"They will open early or even stay late for you," said customer Rose Chiodo.

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