LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER
EDITORIAL
Kim Prime Editor
Sonja Mack Copy Editor
Mahima Aktar Writer
Pamela Germain Writer Jen Braun Contributor
Shira Vickar-Fox Contributor
Carlos Ferreira Contributor
Isabella Coelho-Marques Contributor
“I believe I have ALL of the issues...
” @malcolmflex2011 (March 2023)
Publisher’s reply: Malcolm, thanks so much for your words of inspiration. An outpouring of support from readers like you has fueled us to make this issue as great as the others, if not greater. We hope you enjoy adding our latest edition to your collection.
“We (my daughter Dasani and I), make sure to snatch up a Destination Newark wherever we see one.... my daughter’s favorite is the one with Izzy on the cover, lol”
—Demaris (June 2019)
Publisher’s reply: Thank you, Demaris. We adore the Izzy issue! She was our debut cover star and set the bar very high!
“I work for the Newark Public Library. We would like to add the library to your list of distribution points. We also need some back issues for the research collection.”
—Tom Ankner, Librarian, Newark Public Library (August 2019)
Publisher’s reply: Tom, we are proud to say that issues are available at the Newark Public Library. Thanks so much for all you do to keep so many of us in Newark in the know!
“Hi! Can you please drop off copies of your wonderful magazine to our campus? Please see my contact information below.”
—Marcia Wilson Brown, Esq., Former Sr. Vice Chancellor, Rutgers University-Newark (October 2018)
Publisher’s reply: Mrs. Brown, we’ve had the pleasure of talking in person several times, but we just wanted to say again publicly, thank you! You are thoroughly appreciated. The publication lives on because of people like you who’ve made it known that you see us! dN
*Indicates that a version of this story appeared in a previous issue of Destination Newark magazine.
Send your questions
ART Mary A. Brown Creative Director mbrown@colemediainc.com
Todd Chapman Designer
EDITORIAL PARTNERS City of Newark
Newark Arts and Education District New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) Invest Newark Newark Alliance
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ASK THE MAYOR
QWhy are the arts so important?
Mayor Baraka: “Here in Newark, we are using art to expand our economy, to create jobs and opportunity, to be inclusive and leverage our diversity, to lift our spirit and to inform our direction. The expansions of NJPAC and the Newark Museum of Art, combined with the Lionsgate Film and TV Studio, are expected to generate $1 billion in economic impact. Besides those milestones, we are still going strong with our Creative Catalyst fund that has supported over 500 local artists with millions of dollars in grants, which allowed Newark to be listed as the eighth most vibrant arts city in the country. This includes countless public arts projects, and about 75 murals in collaboration with Project Empty Space.”
QWhat’s your response to those who say nothing is happening in Newark?
Mayor Baraka: “I was at a forum recently and one of the candidates said, “No disrespect, Mayor, Newark only has three cranes in the air.” Well the best way to diffuse a lie is to share the truth. Newark has billions of dollars of development going on now. This includes Newark Summit Tower at 200 Market Street. It has 579 units, with 20 percent set aside as affordable, and 11,000 square feet of retail. There is also Fireman’s Insurance Building at 10 Park Place, which transfers a historic landmark building into a 231-unit affordable housing complex. These people are talking about things they want to do. Or, ideas about what they hope to accomplish. Well, I say come visit us, we are getting it done. (Other current projects include The Ballantine Project on 80 Freeman Street, which is redeveloping an old brewery into housing; Rise Living Phase Two and Three, developed by Queen Latifah; Boraie Development’s third tower on the city’s waterfront, and 48 parcels given to 16 community development organizations, which will add 88 additional affordable units.) My mother would say: no investigation, no right to speak.”
Excerpt from Newark Mayor Ras Baraka’s 2025 State of the City address.
Mayor Ras J. Baraka, City of Newark
PHOTOS BY
MARY A. BROWN
Members of the arts community join Mayor Baraka during the 2025 State of the City address
NEIGHBORHOOD
Who is Policing Your Community?
6th PRECINCT (973) 923-1473
The role of Community Service Officers in each precinct is to serve as a point of contact for community leaders and members in each neighborhood. “The Community Service Officer engages, encourages, and educates all community members in meaningful dialogue about safety and crime prevention, and facilitates the needs of community members either directly, by contacting the appropriate service providers, or through referrals,” says a spokesperson for the Newark Police Division.
Here’s who to call depending on where you are located in the city:
6th PRECINCT (862) 448-6686
Officer Terrell Grace gracet@ci.newark.nj.us
4th PRECINCT (973) 733-6060
Officer Keyonna Eley eleyk@ci.newark.nj.us
4th PRECINCT (973) 733-6060
Officer Troy Frye fryet@ci.newark.nj.us
5th PRECINCT (973) 733-6070
Officer Jorge Miranda mirandaj@ci.newark.nj.us
Officer Joshua Droz drozj@ci.newark.nj.us
2nd PRECINCT 973-733-6080
Officer Erwin Lorenzo lorenzoe@ci.newark.nj.us
2nd PRECINCT 973-733-6080
Officer Tara Rich richt@ci.newark.nj.us
7th PRECINCT (973) 645-1819
Officer Kelvin Arroyo arroyok@ci.newark.nj.us
METRO PRECINCT (973) 733-6129
Officer Duane Martinez martinezd@ci.newark.nj.us
METRO PRECINCT (973) 733-6129
Officer Kristie Felder felderkr@ci.newark.nj.us
3rd PRECINCT (973) 733-6190
Officer Andrew Hart harta@ci.newark.nj.us
3rd PRECINCT (973) 733-6190
Officer Steve Pereira pereiras@ci.newark.nj.us
5th PRECINCT (973) 733-6070
Officer Geoffrey Tanner tannerg@ci.newark.nj.us
No
one plans
on having heart valve disease.
But you should have a plan for it.
Make a plan with New Jersey’s top TAVR program.
RWJBarnabas Health offers the state’s most innovative valve replacement procedures—our patients experience less pain, fewer complications, and quicker recovery time, often returning home the day after the procedure. Managing your heart health is a lifelong journey; know that TAVR is equally an interventional cardiology procedure as it is a surgical procedure. Trust the health system with the largest network of providers, hospitals, and adult and pediatric cardiac surgery programs in the state for all of your heart’s needs. Your heart’s in the right place at RWJBarnabas Health.
Get Moving in Newark Walk. Run. Cycle.
Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, being physically active can improve brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.
And here’s the great news: you don’t have to exercise alone. Right here in Newark there are clubs that will support you in becoming and remaining active. Challenge yourself to meet daily or weekly activity goals for 30 to 60 minutes a day to get your heart pumping and body moving.
HERE ARE 6 WAYS TO GET YOU MOVING:
MAJOR TAYLOR CYCLING CLUB
Bike riding with a group is a great way to meet your fitness goals while exercising with others. The Major Taylor Cycling Club organizes short rides throughout Newark. Longer rides such as day tours and multi-day excursions are also available for seasoned cyclists. Check out the monthly calendar! www.majortaylorclub.com
GREAT TRAILS IN NEWARK
Here are a few walking trails in and near Newark that you can look up at your leisure:
• Branch Brook Park
• Branch Brook Loop
• Weequahic Lake Trail
• Riverfront Park
SELF-GUIDED WALK
• South Mountain Reservation
• Eagle Rock Reservation
• Watchung Reservation
DOWNTOWN FITNESS CLUB
The NDD (Newark Downtown District) Fitness Club kicks off June 3, 2025 and is a great way to keep fit and meet downtown neighbors while taking in the beautiful architecture, horticulture, and other sights downtown Newark has to offer.
The NDD Fitness Club season runs from June through October and offers walks starting at lunchtime and increasing in frequency throughout the season as well as building up to other exercise activities. During these walks participants receive health tips from a certified instructor and learn new exercises to keep their bodies in motion.
Walking groups run from June to October and all walkers are invited to join. https://downtownnewark.com/program/fitness-club/
Newark is one of the thousands of cities available for a self-guided tour at the GPSmyCity app. Take a self-guided walking tour of cultural and historical attractions while reaching your exercise goals. Walkers will download the GPSmyCity to their mobile device and navigate three miles of destinations throughout Newark. www.gpsmycity.com
BRICK CITY RUN CLUB
Welcoming runners of all levels, the Brick City Run Club is on a mission to help Newark residents become healthy. The club offers two group run times:
#BrickCity 30 - Sundays at 9:30am
Location: Mulberry Commons
Visit www.brickcityrunclub.com
2 3 5 6 4
Morning Miles - Wednesdays at 7:00am
Location: Tubman Square Park — near the George Washington Monument
Jun 11 • 5:00
Jul 9 • 5:00 PM
Aug 13 • 5:00 PM
Your very own experienced guide will introduce you to the arts and culture around the Harriet Tubman Square including the new Tubman monument, murals created by local Newark artists as part of the NAC (Newark Artist Collaboration).
ARMERS MARKETMURALS TOUR AND
Tue, Jun 17 • 4:00 PM 9 Edison Pl
LIFESTYLE Here’s What Keeps This Movie Star in Newark
Just turn on BET, Hallmark, Lifetime or any other streaming service you may have, and you are very likely to see a made-for-television movie starring Tobias Truvillion. He will be the sexy, charismatic Black man who is stealing Sanaa Lathan’s character away from Taye Diggs’ character in the NBC Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters; or he is the super fine music producer Khalil, who becomes the love interest of Jill Scott in BET’s First Wives Club. He is also the leading rugged cop in Equal Standard, the crooked lawyer in Tyler Perry’s Sistas on BET, and the todie-for male lead Damon King in T.D. Jake’s Seven Deadly Sins: Lust on Lifetime. That’s the short list.
Tobias has more than 70 film and TV credits to his name, including 17 guest star roles and 10 feature film lead roles. Acting since the age of 23, Tobias has played roles in TV’s Law and Order, Chicago P.D., New Amsterdam, FBI, and most recently, The Equalizer
Tobias sat down with the team at Destination Newark to explain why he calls Newark home, and what makes him come back, no matter how far away acting takes him.
Born in Queens, New York, the 47-year-old actor moved to Newark about 10 years ago to settle down
VISIT the pool at
John F Kennedy Aquatics Center
211 West Kinney St., Newark, N.J.
1 The JFK Pool
Tobias encourages Newarkers ‘not to sleep’ on the Olympic-sized pool at the JFK Recreation Center. Home to the largest indoor/outdoor pool in New Jersey, Tobias uses the pool at the center to stay in Hollywood shape.
VISIT Gant-Gilbert Arts Creative
505 Clinton Ave., Newark, N.J.
The Gant-Gilbert Arts Creative is an artist hub located in the Clinton Hill section of the city. Two of Tobias’ favorite spots are located in the building, renovated in 2022:
2 Plants and Poets Café
This quaint cafe specializes in vegan dishes named after legendary artists, singers, poets and leaders like the Amiri Baraka lentil soup, Chuck Berry smoothie, Naughty by Nature salad and the Patty La Melt.
Actor Tobias Truvillion takes us to his favorite locations when he’s at home!
with his wife, Michele, who is a Newark native with her share of film and TV credits including New Jersey Drive and Eddie Murphy’s animated series, The PJs.
With Newark a booming location for film production, living downtown Newark affords certain luxuries to the veteran actor. For instance, The Best Man: The Final Chapters was filmed in the city, and one of Tobias’ scenes was filmed at a farmer’s market in Military Park.
When asked ‘Is that the life, or what?’ Tobias decides to go deeper. “Let me break it down for you... I’m in the middle
of a love triangle with Deborah Cox and Jill Scott (on the set of First Wives Club in New York). They are the goddesses... I leave that, and I come home (to Newark) to shoot The Best Man and the first day on set I’m in a scene with Regina Hall and Sanaa Lathan. And on top of it all, I rode my scooter to work, not even 10 minutes from my home. You couldn’t tell me nothing!” exclaims the actor with a hearty laugh.
Sakina
Spruell Cole
3 BlkBoxNwk Studio
An art gallery and performance space where Tobias conducts his Tru Acting workshop periodically for rising actors.
VISIT “Electric Avenue”
547 – 551 Central Ave., Newark, N.J.
This strip of Central Avenue, nicknamed by Tobias as ‘Electric Avenue’, has three vegan eateries and a quaint gym that the plant-based actor regularly frequents:
4 Blueberry Cafe’ Juice Bar & Vegan Grille
This vegan cafe and juice bar inspires its customers to take the healthy route with their organic food and drinks.
5 Zucchini Bar
Tobias loves the variety at this eclectic eatery that offers a selection of comfort food and coffee, including mushroom gyros and hash.
6 Magic Cones Vegan Ice Cream Parlor
When it’s time for a sweet treat, Tobias can be found at this plant-based, ice cream parlor.
7 Aqua Phit Water Bar & Gym
With a focus on aquatic fitness classes and stateof-the-art gym equipment, Aqua Phit provides a refreshing and effective approach to staying active and healthy.
First Wives Club with Jill Scott
The Best Man with Sanaa Lathan
First Wives Club with Deborah Cox
PHOTOS
10 Celebs Who Went to Newark’s Arts High School EDUCATION
Newark’s Arts High School is lauded as the first formed public school in the United States to specialize in visual and performance arts curriculum. It opened in 1931 and served as the model for the ‘famed’ High School of Art & Music in New York City. The rigorous curriculum is intended to “train students with a sense of harmony, form, rhythm, design, color, movement, and theater,” according to the school’s philosophy. The school is still thriving and has a competitive audition and enrollment process that is open to all high school aged students living in Newark.
Look at the famous faces that once graced the hall of Arts High School!
MICHAEL B. JORDAN, ACTOR/PRODUCER
Michael Bakari Jordan graduated from Arts High School in 2005. His drama major propelled him into an acting and producing career. He became popular for his roles in Ryan Coogler films including Oscar Grant in the drama “Fruitvale Station” in 2013; Adonis ‘Donnie Creed in “Creed,” and as Erik Killmonger in “Black Panther” in 2018. In 2022, Jordan starred in “Creed II” and in 2022 he directed “Creed III.” Jordan is currently starring in Coogler’s unique box office hit “Sinners”.
MICHAELA ANTONIA Jaé RODRIGUEZ, ACTRESS/TV PERSONALITY
Born and raised in Newark, Michaela Antonia Jaé Rodriguez, formerly known as Mj Rodriguez, is a 2009 graduate of Arts High School. In 2023, she was the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a television series drama. Michaela won for her role as Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista in the groundbreaking FX series “Pose.”
CONNIE FRANCIS, SINGER/ACTRESS
MELBA MOORE, SINGER/ACTRESS
Melba Moore graduated from Arts High School in 1958. She received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023. She was nominated for a Grammy for her cover of the Aretha Franklin classic “Lean On Me” earned a Tony Award for her performance as Luttie Belle Gussie Mae Jenkins in “Purlie,” and became the first African-American woman to perform the role of Fantine in “Les Misérables.”
Connie Francis was born and raised in the Ironbound section of Newark, New Jersey and attended Arts High School in the early 1950s. Connie was the first female vocalist to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 list and had 53 hit records during her career.
JD WILLIAMS, ACTOR
J.D. Williams was a drama major at Arts High School in the early 1990s. He is known for his starring roles in the HBO television series “Oz” as Kenny Wangler, “The Wire” as Bodie Broadus, “Pootie Tang” as Froggy, and he was a member of the cast of “Saints & Sinners.”
SAVION GLOVER, DANCER/ACTOR/ PRODUCER
Savion Glover, a dance superstar and a leader of jazz tap, graduated from Arts High School in 1991. Savion’s career took off when he was cast as the lead in the 1985 play “The Tap Dance Kid” followed by his Tony-nominated performance in the 1989 Broadway musical “Black and Blue.”
TISHA CAMPBELL, ACTRESS/SINGER
Tisha Michelle Campbell graduated from Arts High School in 1986, the same year that she made her screen debut in the musical comedy, “Little Shop of Horrors.” She went on to star in the NBC musical comedy, “Rags to Riches.” She is best known for her role as Gina Waters in the hit sitcom “Martin” and later as Janet ‘Jay’ Kyle in “My Wife and Kids”.
WAYNE SHORTER, MUSICIAN/COMPOSER
Wayne Shorter, a pioneer of Jazz and a legendary saxophonist, graduated from Arts High School in 1952. The New York Times said Shorter shaped the color and contour of modern jazz as one of its most intensely admired composers. Shorter received 12 Grammys and was nominated 23 times. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys, as well as Kennedy Center Honors and the Polar Music Prize.
SARAH LOIS VAUGHN, SINGER
The incomparable Sarah Lois Vaughn transferred to Arts High School in the 1930s. Ella Fitzgerald called her the world’s “greatest singing talent.” Her career spanned nearly 50 years and she won three Grammy Awards including Best Jazz Vocalist for her album, “Gershwin Live!” a Lifetime Achievement Award nominations for nine Grammy Awards, and the NEA Jazz Masters Award.
KAT DeLUNA, SINGER
Kathleen (Kat) Emperatriz DeLuna graduated from Arts High School in 2003. While a student, she formed a R&B group called Coquette. She signed with Epic Records and released her debut single, “Whine Up” in 2007. Her hit “Run the Show,” made it to No. 2 on the Hot Dance Club Play chart. She released “Hottie With a Body” in 2023.
—Pamela Germain
There’s Always a Festival in Newark
Your Summer Guide to Outdoor Entertainment
It’s truly common to happen upon an authentically cultural burst of music, laughter, aroma or energetic experience just by walking down a street or through a park during the summer in Newark. From pop-up street fairs on Treat Place outside of Source of Knowledge bookstore to several citywide festivals, Newark is an epicenter for summer fun.
Recently, a consortium of festival organizers bonded together under the Newark Alliance to ensure that Newark remains a year-round destination for cultural celebration and community engagement. So, 2025 promises to bring even more excitement to the stage. “These festivals, each with its unique flair, collectively showcase the rich tapestry of Newark’s arts and culture scene,” says Ashley Mays, Chief Marketing Officer at the Newark Alliance. “By uniting under the Festivals United banner, we aim to pool resources, coordinate programming, and amplify the collective impact.”
Festivals United is a collaborative initiative that brings together six of Newark’s most vibrant cultural events: AfroBeat Fest, Halsey Fest, Lincoln Park Music Festival, Newark Arts Festival, Newark Pride, and Newark Winter Village along with the Newark City Parks Foundation, a critical stakeholder in the production of several of the coalition’s events.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Downtown Newark faced challenges with reduced foot traffic and business activity, says Mays. “By supporting Festivals United, the Alliance seeks to mitigate this negative impact by leveraging the festivals and authentically engaging Newark’s residents and visitors, which will stimulate local businesses, and reinforce Newark’s identity as a hub of cultural vibrancy,” she explains. “Our involvement underscores a commitment to inclusive growth and the belief that arts and culture are pivotal to Newark’s continued growth.”
HALSEY FEST
September
18,
2025 Halsey Street
The annual Halsey Fest welcomes thousands of new and returning visitors to the historic Halsey Street district in downtown Newark. The celebrated festival stretches several city blocks and includes activations, giveaways, a fashion show presentation, a vibrant market of local ar tisans, and a lively festival mainstage. Halsey Fest attendees have a unique opportunity to experience the Halsey Street neighborhood firsthand with a delicious array of food options, exciting programming, and special performances from local DJs and arts organizations. Festival goers include a diverse mix of residents, students, community partners, stakeholders, the community at large as well as visitors.
AFROBEAT FEST
July 12th, 2025
Military Park
Founded in 2017, Afro Beat Fest is an annual one-day family festival in Newark, occurring on the second Saturday of July. Celebrating the art, food, fashion, music, and culture of the African diaspora, it stands as the largest such celebration in the state, drawing more than 10,000 attendees and 300 vendors from Newark and beyond. Inspired by Ghana’s vibrant markets and the culture of the Ashanti people, the event offers a free and open cultural space with a vendor’s market, children’s village, community pavilion, and live performances.
20TH ANNIVERSARY LINCOLN PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL 2025
Week One: July 23rd -27th, 2025
Week Two: August 1st-5th, 2025
Lincoln Park
The annual Lincoln Park Music Festival (LPMF) is the largest music experience rooted in traditions of the African American and Afro Caribbean diaspora in the tri-state region. LPMF has expanded into an audience of 50,000-60,000 international attendees that come together for a full season, peaking over two weekends in July and August, to experience dedicated days to genres of music including Gospel, Jazz, House, Hip-Hop, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae, Dancehall, Soca, Kompa and of the Latinx/Hispanic diaspora.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF AFROBEAT FEST
NEWARK LGBTQ PRIDE FESTIVAL
20th Anniversary Newark Gay Pride Festival 2025 • July 7th-13th, 2025
For the last 19 years, the Newark Pride Festival has served to increase the awareness, visibility, and participation of Newark’s LGBTQ+ community. Highlighted by a Pride Flag Raising ceremony, a parade down Broad Street, and Newark Pride in the Park across various locations, the week-long experience attracts nearly 5,000 participants to the Downtown Business District.
More Summer Happenings in Newark
PORTUGAL DAY BY SOL-MAR
June 6-8, 2025 Ferry Street www.portugaldaybysolmar.com
BROWN MILL BLOCK PARTY
June 7, 2025
Halsey Street www.BrownMill.co
NEWARK BLACK FILM FESTIVAL
July 16-20, 2025
The Newark Museum of Art newarkblackfilmfestival.com
BRAZILIAN DAY FESTIVAL
August 30-31, 2025 Rome Street Brazilian-day.com
NEWARK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
September 2-7, 2025 CityPlex 12 Theater, Tryp Hotel newarkiff.com
24 HOURS OF PEACE FESTIVAL
September 5-6, 2025 Central Avenue @24hoursofpeace
PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE
September 21, 2025 Bloomfield Ave prdpnj.org
For more events in the Arts and Education District, visit newarkartsandeducation.com
2ND ANNUAL NEWARK FIT FEST
June 7th - 8th, 2025
Fit Fest is a fitness and movement festival in the five downtown parks. Designed to get Newarkers moving towards a healthier lifestyle, the festival hosts sporting activities to include basketball, soccer, baseball, kickball, boxing, yoga, and dance, to name a few.
13TH ANNUAL RIVER DAY
June 14th, 2025
Riverfront Park
Newark celebrates its triumphant return to the Passaic River and Riverfront Park with this annual event that highlights the environmental conditions of the Passaic River and presents a snapshot of activities for the summer calendar at the Park. The day includes sustainable vendors, boat tours, environmental workshops, art making, dance and music performances and a keynote speaker.
2ND ANNUAL NEWARK CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL
August 16th, 2025
Mulberry Commons
Co-produced with Tempo Networks, the Newark Caribbean Festival celebrates the rich diversity of the Caribbean with music, dance, and cultural events along with a vibrant market that showcases food and products from the Dutch, English, French, and Spanish-speaking nations.
8TH ANNUAL DANCE NEWARK!
September 13th, 2025
Riverfront Park
Hosted and curated by tap master Maurice Chestnut, Dance Newark! showcases different styles of dance, local dance companies, and dance classes.
DJ WALLAH
Business Development Services
Here’s
a
Great Place in Newark for That!
by Destination Newark Editors
You may not need to leave the city at all. Invest Newark, the city's economic development organization, recently conducted research to assess the types of services people were leaving Newark to buy elsewhere. Here are some of their findings and a few hometown recommendation so you can support local businesses!
Where to go for spa treatments?
Newark residents made over 188,000 trips outside the city last year just for beauty services. You don’t need to! Here are a couple places in town where the owners have completed Invest Newark’s Executive Business Accelerator program, proving their commitment to run a sound local business.
HL Med Spa
This spa has two locations in the Ironbound and boasts a hi gh-end
beauty and wellness care center with a team of industry-leading professionals. The list of services
Where to go for wine?
Where to go for pharmacy?
includes a variety of procedures such as body and face contouring, microneedling, facials, sclerotherapy, and more. They have two locations in Newark at 275 Chestnut Street and 278 Ferry Street. Visit hlmedspa.com for more information.
BWS Massage on Demand
BWS on Demand will come to you so there is no need to leave the city. BWS is an acronym for Bodies with Style. The company’s mission is to improve the quality of movement through therapeutic touch. They offer customized massages and other modalities to position the body and mind in a place for success and happiness. They say, at BWS, it’s all about you —what your body wants and what your spirit needs. Check out their services at bwsmassage.com
CoolVines
CoolVines is a go-to for a large selection of wines and spirits. They often host weekly tastings in the attractive Hahne Atrium, located in the Hahne's Building at 625 Broad Street. Visit newark.coolvines.com
Consigliere
Consigliere is a brand new wine, cocktail and sound bar nestled in University Heights that specializes in small plates and exploratory wines. They are located at 31 Warren Street . Check out their well designed space on Instagram @consiglierewine.
Newark residents spend over $132 million on health and personal care outside the city each year. There are dozens of pharmacies in Newark including Walgreens and family-owned stores. Here’s some local options that have been serving the community for decades!
There are two pharmacies in the North Ward with a long hist ory of
community service: Liss Pharmacy at 794 Mount Prospect Avenue, and Heller Pharmacy at 664 Mount Prospect Avenue . Liss has been in business for more than 85 years and they have several registered pharmacists, plus they offer delivery service, ear piercing, notaries and more. Give them a call, Liss Pharmacy: (973) 483-4749 or Heller’s Pharmacy: (973) 482-5353
Popular Fish Market
Popular Fish Market on Ferry Street in Newark’s Ironbound was a featured backdrop in the Amazon Prime film "Musica"—and for good reason. They are a mainstay of the neighborhood. Check them out at 129 Ferry Street or call 973-344-7939
Mi Lindo Ecuador Seafood Market
This fish market and the adjacent restaurant provides an authentic Ecuadorian experience with a focus on fresh seafood. Check them out at 182 Bloomfield Avenue
Want to learn about more businesses in Newark?
Tune in to the Newark Made podcast on Apple and Spotify produced by Invest Newark.
Brick City Pets
This downtown pet shop owner’s mission is to provide city pet owners with quality food, supplements and gear for their furry friends. Check them out at their cozy brownstone location at 9 Warren Street. Visit brickcitypets.com for more information.
Fluffy Paws by Brittany
This friendly groomer with fun painted windows is a neighborhood favorite who has a 4.8 star rating on Google. The shop is by appointment only and located at 504 South Orange Avenue . Check them out on Insta gram @fluffypawsbybrittany or call 973-573-5596 for more information. dN
By Carlos Ferreira and Isabelle Coelho-Marques
There are many factors that contribute to Newark’s uniquely flavorful nature. Founded in 1666, it is one of the oldest cities in the country and the largest and most populous city in New Jersey.
Such seniority has fostered a rich history and unmatched culinary tradition. Located just a few miles from NYC, the authenticity you can taste in Newark’s restaurants is something you won’t find in the Big Apple or any other city in the country. We are convinced that Newark is America’s authentic food capital. We can’t wait for the world to know it.
In an era when everything seems to be faster, more accessible, and artificially enhanced, the city of Newark reminds us of how truly tasteful authenticity can be. More than just flavorful dishes, Newark offers real family traditions that have withstood the test of time. Its proximity to the airport has turned the city into a sought-after destination for hundreds of thousands of immigrants who found their pathway to the “American Dream”. Over the past 100 years, it is believed that Newark has received 300,000 immigrants, who, in addition to their resilient spirit, brought with them the flavors of their nostalgic memories. This diverse contribution not only made the city more flavorful but became an integral part of its identity.
Newark’s authentic flavors hail from every corner of the globe: Asia, Latin and Central America, Africa (including African American soul food), and Europe. Located in the city’s East Ward, the neighborhood known as the Ironbound is a “foodie’s Mecca” — a portal to a universe of authentic flavors that you will never forget. In the Ironbound, you’ll find bakeries, fish markets, and supermarkets that cater to the diverse communities through meticulous supply chains, ensuring that traditional dishes are prepared with original spices. Everything aligns to transport you to countries like Portugal, Spain, and Brazil—the three predominant ethnic cuisines in the neighborhood. Believe us when we tell you, you’ll experience the same level of rigorous authenticity you can find in any of these countries.
When it comes to the Ironbound, given our Portuguese background and extensive travels throughout these countries, we can vouch for Newark’s authenticity. We’ve had the opportunity to host Portuguese, Brazilian, and Spanish food connoisseurs who can attest to that. In a neighborhood where you’ll find restaurants like “O Escritório,” “Seabra’s Marisqueira,” and “O Preguinho,” it’s clear that “Americanizing ethnic traditions” is not even an option. This unwavering pursuit of authenticity makes Newark the food destination that every food lover should experience.
Where to Find Authentic Cuisine?
Writing about Newark’s rich flavors is very challenging being that we find the levels of authenticity worthy of a socio-cultural PHD thesis. Newark is a destination that can expose you to a universe of authentic flavors that will take you around the world. All of it because of the contribution of multiple families whose traditions have been kept alive.
We’ve compiled a list of restaurants we personally recommend. From Europe to Latin America to Africa, in Newark you can travel the world without having to leave the city.
Allegro
(Portuguese)
58 Kossuth Street
Allegro is a sought-after restaurant known for its amazing outdoor area that will make you feel like you’re in a distant tropical paradise, all while staying local. Famous for its seafood and the best wild berry sangria, Allegro guarantees a great time.
Adega Grill
(Portuguese, Iberian Fusion)
130 Ferry Street
If you’re looking for an elegant atmosphere, Adega’s décor, menu, wine selection, cocktails, and breathtaking rooftop all contribute to an unforgettable experience. Adega offers a wide variety of Mediterranean flavors including Vegan options.
Boi Na Brasa
(Brazilian)
70 Adams Street and 1 Merchant Street
The owner of Boi na Brasa hails from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, where “churrasco” is more than just barbecue— it’s a way of life. Rooted in the “gaucho” traditions of the southern plains, grilling meat over open flames, seasoned simply with salt, and shared with friends and family is the essence of the experience.
At Boi na Brasa, you’ll feel like you’re in Brazil’s southern region.
Café Avenida
(Portuguese)
123 Wilson Avenue
At Café Avenida, you’ll enjoy a cozy atmosphere and traditional Portuguese flavors that transport you straight to Portugal.
Seabra’s Marisqueira
(Portuguese)
87 Madison Street
One of the most iconic Portuguese restaurants in Newark, Seabra’s Marisqueira will transport you to a classic Lisbon-style brewery. The restaurant offers a great variety of Portuguese delicacies, from seafood to juicy meat dishes. An absolute must-try.
Sabor Unido
(Brazilian and Portuguese)
77 Jefferson Street
Sabor Unido serves homemade food in an elegant yet cozy setup. It offers a variety of Brazilian and Portuguese dishes. Equipped with a state-of-the-art audio system, Sabor Unido has become the new listening bar in town for true lovers of tasteful sophistication.
Casa d’ Paco
(Spanish)
73 Warwick Street
Have you ever felt that you wanted to go to Spain but for some reason that dream trip keeps getting postponed? Well, we have good news! This family-run operation has made sure that true Spanish flavors have remained intact in Newark, from the Leston family to ours.
Sol-Mar Restaurant
(Portuguese)
276 Ferry Street
A beloved Portuguese restaurant located in the heart of Newark’s Ironbound district, Sol-Mar offers an authentic taste of traditional Portuguese and Mediterranean
Vonda’s Kitchen
(American Southern and Soul Food)
183 W. Kinney Street
Chef Vonda McPherson is a standout in Newark’s culinary scene, combining business savvy with a passion for food, culture, and community. After a successful corporate sales career, she launched her first restaurant in Elizabeth in 1998, paving the way for Vonda’s Kitchen—a local favorite known for its fresh, nutritious takes on Southern comfort food. It is considered one of the best Black-owned restaurants in the state. She’s also a dedicated mentor, educator, and advocate for Black-owned businesses, committed to building community and inspiring the
Sabor Latino (Ecuadorian)
24 Wilson Street
Sabor Latino is a vibrant Latin American restaurant nestled in Newark’s Ironbound district at 24 Wilson Ave. This cozy eatery offers a delightful fusion of Ecuadorian and broader Latin American flavors, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The menu at Sabor Latino is a celebration of traditional dishes, including favorites like ceviche, bandeja paisa, and pescado frito. Whether you’re craving seafood, grilled meats, or comforting classics, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Mi MexicoPequeño
(Mexican)
Swahili Village
Swahili Village brings the vibrant flavors of East Africa to the heart of New Jersey. Located across from NJPAC, this fine dining restaurant offers a rich blend of African, Arabian, Indian, and Persian influences, creating a unique
Taino’s Kitchen is a vibrant Puerto Rican and Caribbean restaurant with two locations in Newark—one on Mount Prospect Avenue and another in the heart of downtown on Halsey Street. Known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality, Taino’s Kitchen offers a diverse menu that captures the essence of
81 Ferry Street
Mi Pequeño Mexico is a cherished Mexican restaurant nestled in Newark’s Ironbound District at 81 Ferry Street. Known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality, this cozy eatery has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a light bite, Mi Pequeño Mexico provides a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine.
Sihana Bistro
(Georgian)
159 Washington Street
Sihana Bistro offers an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine in a contemporary setting. Helmed by Kreshnik Berisha and David Khabuliani, the restaurant seamlessly blends Mediterranean influences with traditional Georgian flavors, creating a unique dining experience.
Compiled by Carlos Ferreira and Isabelle Coelho-Marques who run Plusable PR based in Newark, NJ.
NJPAC Summer Arts Program for Youth
by Shira Vickar-Fox
Multiple summer experiences at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) are designed to help young people learn, grow and discover themselves through the power of the arts. NJPAC summer classes emphasize self-expression, collaboration and community building. Children are nurtured and engaged by NJPAC teaching artists—all of whom are working professionals in creative fields including dance, musical theater, hip hop and acting.
Full-day camps, running July 8 through August 8, are for ages 9 – 18 and include free add-on programs that further develop talent and self-expression. Excitement builds throughout the four weeks as the programs culminate in final presentations before an audience of family and friends.
Every student is accepted; scholarships for summer camp tuition are available, and the application process is easy. Don’t delay—registration is ongoing.
Creative Arts Camp
For
the youngest artists, ages 9 – 12
Every day they will dive into acting, musical theater, hip hop (including dance and emcee/ music production) and visual arts—all while building friendships and collaborating with talented teaching artists. One of the collaborative projects is designing a museum. Campers will develop exhibits, write artist statements and plan how their exhibits will come to life at night. Spoiler alert: After-hours at the museum is the theme of the end-of-summer share. Campers will create an original piece, performed before a friendly audience of family and loved ones.
Creativity on the Grand Stage!
For students ages 13 – 18
Students choose a focus of hip hop arts and culture, acting or musical theater. In addition to learning from talented teaching artists, participants can join master classes with industry professionals, including NJPAC mainstage performers. What also makes this program special is the opportunity to perform on an NJPAC stage! Campers will collaborate to create an original work that will be presented in a grand finale on the Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Stage of the Victoria Theater.
In the Mix
A free add-on for those enrolled in Arts Education programming. It’s a student-driven, multidisciplinary project with a civic engagement focus. The purpose of this project is for students to recognize their potential to become community-engaged artists and leaders, and establish their voices in creative, civic initiatives to make their world a better place. Students showcase their work on a podcast they create, produce and host themselves.
Creative Coaching
A free add-on for participants in NJPAC Arts Education summer programs.
Students set a goal and are matched with a professional artist for guidance and support in achieving their goal. Aspirations can include perfecting a skill, developing a new talent, overcoming an obstacle or preparing for academic success. Creative Coaching turns young artists into unstoppable creative forces! This program is supported, in part, by the Ed Hajim Professional Readiness Program and is part of the Colton Institute for Training and Research in the Arts at NJPAC.
Creator’s Room
Anyone is welcome to join this series of free conversations about the behind-the-scenes journey of artistic work.
The Ultimate Show & Tell will take place June 18, 2025, at 6:30PM in the NJPAC Center for Arts Education. Learn from a panel of producers, directors and stage technicians about backstage careers that are essential to on-stage storytelling.
Visit njpac.org for more information about these and other enriching programs and performances.
Performances on a Spectular New Plaza
ENTERTAINMENT
When Horizon Sounds of the City kicks off this summer—with the much-anticipated return of WBGO deejay Felix Hernandez and his rollicking, old-school Rhythm Revue Dance Party the dance floor will be bigger.
Fancier, too.
In summers past, New Jersey Performing Arts Center's (NJPAC) free Thursday-night outdoor concert series has often filled the Arts Center’s front yard, Chambers Plaza, to overflowing. Roughly 3,000 people boogied on the brick-paved space each week.
Now, those dancers will have more room to spin, shuffle, and spread out. After roughly a year under construction, Chambers Plaza officially reopened earlier this month, gorgeously reappointed. Its familiar curved brick terraces have been replaced by a wide-open space floored with smooth gray stone. For those who prefer to people-watch, a new addition to the Arts Center’s campus, the Essex County Green, offers a
grassy lawn for reclining, relaxing and taking in the show.
“We can’t wait to welcome all our neighbors and friends over for a good, old-fashioned dance party in the beautifully redesigned Chambers Plaza,” says John Schreiber, President and CEO of NJPAC.
“This is the first piece of our whole-campus redevelopment project to be finished. By 2027, Chambers Plaza will be the nucleus of a whole new neighborhood on our campus. But this summer, we’re excited for our community to rediscover Chambers Plaza and the new Essex County Green as a wonderful space to people watch, soak in the sun and listen to some wonderful music.”
The reimagined space will also have movable seating and sun umbrellas. But some of the biggest innovations can only be appreciated once the show starts: On four “totems” that now rise from the flat plaza, state-of-the-industry audio and light equipment has been permanently installed, making for a better outdoor musical experience—and more elaborate lighting.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Free Outdoor Summer Concerts at NJPAC
For the Horizon Sounds of the City series, Felix Hernandez’s Rhythm Revue Dance Party will kick off the summer at 5 PM on Friday, June 27, with a festival of old-time R&B mixed with hip hop. Another headliner (to be named later) will appear on Saturday, June 28
And at 5 PM on Sunday, June 29, Lettuce, the GRAMMY-nominated music collective, mixes it up with their blend of funk, hip hop, rock, soul and go-go.
In July, the free series returns to Thursday nights with a lineup that encompasses a range of global musical styles:
JULY 10: THE LEGENDARY WAILERS WITH JUNIOR MARVIN
Bob Marley’s guitarist Junior Marvin carries on the legacy of reggae with a performance of Marley’s hits and more.
JULY 17: LYFE
JENNINGS
The platinum-selling R&B star Lyfe Jennings will take us on an intimate musical journey with his raw talent and personal lyrics.
JULY 24: DJ TUNEZ AND BAND
North to Shore Festival Comes to Newark
June 14 through June 29
In a departure from the typical Horizon Sounds of the City schedule, the series will kick off with three back-to-back shows in one weekend, as part of the NJPAC-produced Prudential North to Shore Festival
The multi-city summer music and comedy festival runs June 14 through June 29 in Newark and Asbury Park, and year-round in Atlantic City. For full details on all the festival’s headlining and community events, please visit northtoshore.com
The Nigerian-American deejay from South Brooklyn is renowned for his mixes of Afrobeat and dance hall tunes that keep the party jumping.
JULY 31: CIMAFUNK
GRAMMY-nominated Cuban musician Cimafunk blends funk and hip hop with Latin tunes; both Rolling Stone and NPR called his 2021 album El Alimento one of the year’s best.
AUGUST 7: MC LYTE
A hip hop pioneer, MC Lyte rose to fame in the 1980s as the first female rapper to release a solo album, Lyte as a Rock.
Kumail Nanjiani June 21
Fri, Jul 25 @ 8PM
Chicago plays hit after hit: “Make Me Smile,” “25 or 6 to 4,” Saturday in the Park,” “Beginnings,” “Hard Habit to Break” and more!
segura
Come Together Oct 15 @ 8PM
Laugh it up with comedian Tom Segura, the host of fan-fave podcasts Your Mom’s House and 2 Bears 1 Cave
the last airbender frankie valli avatar: in concert & the four seasons
The 20th Anniversary Tour Fri, Oct 3 @ 7:30PM
The animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender comes to life on the big screen, with a spectacular full orchestra.
diana ross
Oct 27 @ 7PM
Diana Ross: radiant icon, trailblazing entertainer, unstoppable creative force, rewriting popular culture with unparalleled vocal artistry performing live at NJPAC!
The Last Encores Sat, Oct 11 @ 8PM
The original Jersey boy still loves performing at 90 years young. Come celebrate the legendary man and his immortal music.
with a Symphony Fri, Dec 5 @ 8PM
The holidays sparkle when Trisha Yearwood (“She’s in Love with the Boy”) performs with a symphony.