Journal Square is Cool Now—Tell Your Friends

Once known mostly for its PATH station and iconic theater, Journal Square is officially in its comeback era. Nestled smack in the middle of Jersey City, it’s gone from “just passing through” to “wait, should I move here?” practically overnight. The energy is electric. The food is unforgettable. And the vibe is old-school charm meets next-gen glow-up.

Whether you're hunting for a new restaurant to obsess over or just looking for things to do in Journal Square that don’t involve transferring trains, this neighborhood is serving up surprises. With the Jill Biggs Group’s unmatched expertise, sharp instincts, and insider knowledge, we’re the best team to show you around the area.

Journal Square’s Greatest Hits (No Skip Tracks)

Journal Square in Jersey City isn’t just a PATH stop—it’s a vibe. This neighborhood is packed with history, energy, and its fair share of welcome surprises.

Loew’s Jersey Theatre – If “they don’t make ‘em like this anymore” were a building. This 1920s stunner is all velvet seats, gilded ceilings, and vintage glamour. Catch a retro movie, live show, or just go for the Insta-worthy interiors. You’ll leave feeling 10% fancier.
The Stanley Theater – Once a glittering cinema gem, now serving as an Assembly Hall for Jehovah’s Witnesses. While you can't catch a show here anymore, the grand façade is still 100% worth taking a selfie with.
Journal Square PATH Plaza – More than just a commuter pass-through, it’s a stage for street performers, a meet-up spot, and yes—even a venue for dance workshops.

Where to Eat in Journal Square So You Don’t Look Like a Rookie

One thing about living in Journal Square? You’ll never go hungry. This neighborhood’s restaurant scene is quietly crushing it, mixing local legends with bold global flavors. So if you're hunting for the best restaurants in Journal Square, you’re welcome—we’ve done the homework for you. Here’s where to dig in:

White Mana Diner – A Jersey City classic. Greasy, glorious, and exactly what you want at midnight.
📍 470 Tonnele Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307
Freetown Road Project – Award-winning Caribbean plates that you’ll be thinking about all week.
📍 640 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Korai Kitchen – Bangladeshi comfort food that hits the spot every time.
📍 576 Summit Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Cafe Peanut – Coffee, art, and vibes. Come for the latte, stay for the aesthetic.
📍 586 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Krewe – NOLA vibes in JC. BYOB and bring an appetite.
📍 673 Bergen Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304
Churrasqueria JC – Portuguese BBQ perfection.
📍 542 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Salumeria Ercolano Deli – Italian deli magic. The sandwiches? Chef’s kiss.
📍 1072 West Side Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306

Who Knew Journal Square Had This Much Swagger?

Your artistic side called and it’s telling you to visit Journal Square. Why binge-watch yet another Netflix series when this neighborhood is happening with a capital “H”?

Film buffs, rejoice! — Loew’s Theatre hosts the Golden Door Film Festival, where you can indulge your inner cinephile through indie flicks (posh mustache optional).
Art without the dress code — The pop-up art exhibits in this area show that creativity thrives in surprising places.
Seasonal shindigs — Buy handmade goods, enjoy live tunes, and mingle with your future neighbors in Journal Square.
College cool — Hudson County Community College keeps things buzzing with artsy events and performances that inject fresh energy into the social scene year-round.

Where to Chill Without Leaving Town

Need a pause button from the urban buzz? Journal Square in Jersey City knows how to hustle, but it also has pockets of peace if you know where to look. And since we like you, we’ll let you in on the secret!

Lincoln Park getaway — Five minutes in the car (seven if you forget where you parked) lands you in 270-plus acres of lagoons, ballfields, and shade-rich trails. Bring your iced latte, your dog, or your existential crisis — the park can handle it.
Take the scenic route — Bike paths loop you past mural-splashed backstreets while walking tours serve the local lore hotter than your favorite tea (double-meaning intended). Bonus: you’ll rack up enough steps to justify hitting the best restaurants in Journal Square right after.
Historic architecture walks — Brick beauties and Art Deco gems remind you why living in Journal Square feels a bit like owning a time machine (minus the pesky paradoxes).

Move Over, Manhattan—Journal Square is Having its Moment

Thinking about living in Journal Square? Here’s the insider download on why everyone from fresh-out-of-college creatives to longtime NYC devotees is staking a claim in Journal Square.

Crane City status — New towers, luxe rentals, and condos with skyline views are sprouting faster than your herb garden. Translation: Journal Square real estate values are climbing, so get in before the price tags require smelling salts.
Old soul, new perks — Historic brownstones cozy up to glass-and-steel high-rises like Journal Squared, giving you vintage charm plus modern must-haves like co-working lounges and pet spas (because your pup deserves bougie living, too).

Commute flex — The PATH train can take you to Midtown in 20 minutes. That’s less “Are we there yet?” and more “Wait, we’re here already?”
Play-where-you-live factor — Trendy cafés, street art, cultural shows, outdoor escapades, and a nonstop list of things to do in Journal Square make boredom basically impossible.

Lean on the Local Experts (AKA Us!)

There’s a lot to love about Journal Square, Jersey City, and knowing how to navigate its real estate market takes more than a few saved Zillow searches. That’s where the Jill Biggs Group Jersey City comes in: with deep local roots and a serious passion for this effortlessly cool neighborhood, we don’t just keep up with the market—we’re three steps ahead of it.

We’ve got eyes on the listings you won’t find online, insights into the next “it” block, and strategies that make your goals a whole lot easier to reach. Whether you're buying your dream home or prepping to sell with style, we tailor every step to fit.

We’re here to guide, support, and get you across the finish line with confidence—and maybe even a little fun along the way. So if you’re eyeing a move in Journal Square, you know who to call!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Journal Square known for?

A: A historic hub with a major glow-up. Journal Square’s got the iconic Loew’s Theatre, a killer food scene, and fast-growing residential spots..

Q: Is Journal Square a good area in Jersey City?

A: Definitely. With big development moves and unbeatable PATH access, it’s a magnet for commuters, families, and investors. Classic charm + new perks = one smart place to plant roots.

Q: What are the best restaurants in Journal Square?

A: Craving variety? Hit up Freetown Road Project, White Mana Diner, Korai Kitchen, or Cafe Peanut. From global eats to retro burgers, the best restaurants in Journal Square are anything but basic.

Q: How far is Journal Square from NYC?

A: Just 20 minutes to Manhattan via PATH. That’s door-to-downtown without the drama. More space, better value, and an easy commute? Yes, please.

Q: Are there new developments in Journal Square?

A: Projects like Journal Squared and new luxe rentals are transforming the skyline—and the market. Journal Square real estate is officially on the rise!

Fallen in Love with Journal Square?

If living in Journal Square is on your vision board, we’re the team to make it a reality. The Jill Biggs Group knows every block, every listing, and every smart move in this red-hot market and other in-demand neighborhoods.

We’re here to guide, strategize, high-five, and (most importantly) help you win—whether you’re buying your first place or leveling up your home.

Let’s turn “thinking about it” into “just closed,” shall we?