This is the second year Invest Newark is hosting the event, which runs through Sept. 17. More than 30 eateries are taking part in the food extravaganza that Mayor Ras Baraka says "empowers our economy, and adds to our luster as a tourist destination."

A report from the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association finds that 54% of operators believe business conditions are worse than just three months ago.

Gov. Phil Murphy visited Vesta Wood-Fired in East Rutherford to sign legislation that continues authorizations for restaurants, bars, distilleries and breweries that were enacted during the pandemic to aid the industry.

Garden State residents came in at No. 2 nationally in the rankings, which break down the dollar amount by weekly and yearly average.

Back in September, the fast-casual restaurant announced it would enter the state after inking a 14-location franchise agreement with Amit Patel to expand the brand to Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson and Union counties.

"It's nice to finally be recognized as a whole for the work that all of these individual restaurants and chefs are doing all these years. It in many ways is a team effort to be recognized as a city. You can't get recognized with just one restaurant. Many work together to create the food and culture and nightlife here," said Mayor Steven Fulop.

The new spot comes amid a rapid national expansion and marks the bakery's second store in the Garden State.

The eighth location of the Montclair-based restaurant will serve lunch and dinner daily, with to-go and delivery options.

Jersey-born Victor Cruz and Krystal Restaurants are partnering to bring the brand's iconic square-bunned burgers and other offerings out of the region for the first time in its 99-year history.

The Audible initiative that has delivered more than 1.2 million meals in the state's largest city is expanding its options thanks to a grant from the NJEDA's Sustain and Serve program.

“Today more than ever, it’s fundamental that the restaurant business propose food characterized by top quality ingredients and love for tradition, but also authentic experiences that allow the customer to feel the cultural imprinting of where the dishes comes from,” Owner Ciro Iovine said.

In operation for about 40 years, the eatery includes a fine dining restaurant and an inn housed in a restored 19th-century train station that dates back to 1867.