THE PREMIER LGBTQ BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY Vol. 6
SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW THIS ISSUE ONLINE Bar Guide & Event Schedule
TABLE OF CON TENT S
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ARTICLE: GOOD FOR BUSINESS
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EVENTS SCHEDULE
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RESTAURANT GUIDE
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BAR GUIDE
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LGBTQ ORGS & ATTRACTIONS
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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GOOD FOR BSINESS U S I NESS GOOD FOR BU Protecting LGBTQ Americans from Discrimination is Good for Business Business leaders know that protecting every American from discrimination is good for the economy. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender adults have a combined buying power of $884 billon dollars, and business leaders know that today’s generation of consumers prefer to shop at businesses that support gay and transgender people. Business leaders across the nation are leading the charge to secure nondiscrimination protections for gay and transgender people. Fairness for All Hardworking Americans • Gay and transgender people are our neighbors, co-workers, friends, and family. Hardworking Americans deserve to be treated fairly and equally under the law. Sadly, too many hardworking Americans are facing discrimination in areas like employment, housing and public accommodations, just because they are gay or transgender. • America is a land of opportunity and freedom, where people who work hard and meet their responsibilities have the chance to get ahead. Everyone deserves the freedom to achieve the American Dream, including gay and transgender citizens. Respecting Our Coworkers and Getting the Job Done • What’s most important is focusing on what we have in common, taking pride in our work, respecting our coworkers, serving customers, and getting the job done. • Employees should be judged on their qualifications, experience, and the job they do – nothing more, nothing less. Non-Discrimination Protections Are Good for Business • Business leaders across the nation, including conservative leaders, agree: Discrimination is bad for business. Today’s top job creators seek states and communities that are welcoming to everyone, including their families, employees and customers. • When every American is given the opportunity to work hard and earn a living, our economy, communities and nation succeed. To download a PDF version of this resource, go online and visit: freedomforallamericans.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/BusinessBackgrounderFFAA.pdf
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Excerpt from freedomforallamericans.org
2021-22 EVENT SCHEDULE DECEMBER
a French 75, Bees Knees or others! Enjoy Mediterranean finger foods, a gourmet mac and cheese bar, a raw bar and a carving station featuring pork loin and roast beef. 2 levels of music: Live music from Rick Martin Swing Orchestra upstairs in The Riverview Ballroom, and a DJ downstairs in the bar. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
DEC 23
LET IT GLOW: A HOLIDAY LANTERN SPECTACULAR
Let it Glow is a symphony of vivid glowing colors to tease your eyes and dazzle the mind. Come and enjoy an enchanting stroll throughout the zoo.
DEC 31 9:00PM
These larger than life lanterns are amazing in picture but stunning in person! With over 30 scenes, these hand-made artistic wonders are more breath-taking than the last! Its one of those things you need to see in person to truly appreciate. Learn more at friendsofbergencountyzoo.org.
PARTY LIKE IT’S 1999: THROWBACK NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
Come party with us at Jersey’s first ever throwback New Year’s Eve party. 90’s/2000’s throwback with the best hits from your favorite years, BYOB and $10 entry. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
DEC 24 1:00-3:00PM THE NUTCRACKER
JANUARY
Come enjoy the classic Christmas must. The story of The Nutcracker is loosely based on the E.T.A. Hoffmann fantasy story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, about a girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King. Learn more at ticketmaster.com.
JAN 8
BOOZIN’ IN YOUR ONESIE BAR CRAWL
The weather is cold and you want to be comfy... What better way to be than noozin’ in your onesie at Hoboken’s 6th annual and world’s most comfortable bar crawl in New Jersey. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
DEC 26
HOLIDAY JAZZ COCKTAIL
JAN 8 4:00PM
Join the Trenton Branch NAACP for our Annual Holiday Party with a Purpose. Music provided by The Right Tyme Players! Food and beverages provided by 1911 Smoke House BBQ. Learn more at facebook.com.
CUPCAKE DECORATING MASHUP
Learn how to make Cupcake Flowers! There is no “Painting Between the Lines Here!” We will get together and go at it, meet new people pat our backs & make fun our fails. Most of all we will have fun and make a mess! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
DEC 31 8:00PM THE GATSBY EXPERIENCE: NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SW
JAN 15
Men, break out your fedoras and bow ties. Ladies, let’s see those pearls and feather boas because we are ready for a roaring good time! Gatsby-themed dress encouraged! Festive Specialty Cocktails: Get in the festive mood with
15TH ANNUAL NEW JERSEY CONVENTION AND EXPO CENTER WINTER BRIDAL SHOWER
Find everything to plan an amazing New Jersey Wedding. All the best vendors
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RESTAURANT GUI DE Vincenzo’s
Erini Restaurant
White-tablecloth Italian spot with wines by the glass & traditional meat & pasta entrées. 665 Bound Brook Road, Middlesex, NJ
Mainstay for Mediterranean-inspired meals using area-sourced products, with a bar & outdoor patio. 29, 1140 River Rd, Ewing Township, NJ
Masala Bay
Enzo’s La Piccola Cucina
Counter-serve Indian eatery with build-your own naan wraps & bowls, and vegan options. 1135 Easton Avenue, Somerset, NJ
Plates of pasta & other Italian staples served in an old-school space with live jazz monthly. 1906 Princeton Ave, Lawrence Township, NJ
Hong Kong Garden
Sit-down eatery for familiar Chinese dishes, from chow fun to sesame shrimp. 1760 Easton Avenue # 4, Somerset, NJ
Ganesh Divine
Cahoot’s
Girasole
Great Indian cuisine and friendly atmosphere. 619 Bound Brook Rd, Middlesex, NJ
This steakhouse is a local ‘hidden gem.’ 624 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ
Family-run BYOB restaurant serving traditional Italian fare with creative touches. 502 W Union Ave, Bound Brook, NJ
House of Thai
Stan’s Chitch’s Cafe
Curries, rice dishes & vegetarian Thai entrées served in a casual eatery with vibrant decor. 319 Route 22, Green Brook Township, NJ
Old-school bar known for its thin-crust pizza, Italian fare & lively atmosphere and sports TV. 14 Columbus Pl, Bound Brook, NJ
Steakhouse 85 Restaurant
Sophie’s Bistro
Steakhouse with a surf ‘n’ turf menu in an upscale space with live jazz on some nights. 85 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ
Bistro offering French comfort foods in a country antiques-adorned space. 700 Hamilton St, Somerset, NJ
Josanna’s Italian Take-Out
Blue Point Grill
Family-run place serving hearty portions of Italian food in a casual environment. 409 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ
Lively dinner-only spot serving up seafood from the neighboring market. 258 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ
Ferraro’s Pizzeria & Pub
Rat’s Restaurant
Great food, very friendly staff and good selection of quality craft beers. 275 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ
Country-style French dishes presented in a chateau-like setting surrounded by a sculpture garden. 16 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton Township, NJ
Roxana’s Pupuseria
Great food and friendly atmosphere 621 Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ
Agricola Eatery
Creative farm-to-table fare is the draw at this modern eatery with an open kitchen & hip atmosphere. 11 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ
Seafood Boil
No frills atmosphere with flavorful seafood. 201 North Avenue, Dunellen, NJ
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2022 EVENT SCH E DULE and venues will be on hand with hundreds of amazing wedding ideas. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
JAN 22
CLASSY WOMEN BRUNCH
Classy Women Brunch is for all women, including business owners and entrepreneurs to network, support one another and have a great time. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
JAN 30
CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP
Join us for a candle making workshop in our brand new studio space, where Diana, owner and candle maker behind Brighter Days Co, will give you detailed instructions and tips on how to make the perfect soy wax candle! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
FEBRUARY FEB 2
message. Gather up your peeps. Reorder your top MySpace top 8. And grab your portable CD player because we’re playing 2000s Pop Culture Trivia! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
FEB 10
THAI COOKING CLASS: INTRO TO THAI
Join Maricel for an Introduction to cooking Thai food. This class is perfect for cooks of all skill levels from beginner to pro. This is a hands on class. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
FEB 11
VALENTINE’S DAY DECADENCE
Nothing says love like treating yourself and a companion to this night of indulgence. We’ve paired 5 of our most delectable cheeses with some of our favorite compliments to create a dream of a plate.
Taylor is known for her incredible voice and her award winning songwriting; we all know the song titles and the lyrics, but how well do you know the singer herself? Learn more at eventbrite.com.
This isn’t your basic chocolate and cheese night, we go beyond to treat your tastebuds in ways sweet and savory. For a teaser, think: triple creme Brillat Savarin with sweet raspberries, caramelized pecans and a fig crisp. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
FEB 9
FEB 25
Create your angsty teenage away
Lets get ready for a great night with
TAYLOR SWFIT TRIVIA
2000’S POP CULTURE TRIVIA
SALSA FRIDAYS
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BAR GU ID E Blend Bar & Bistro Unfussy, industrial-chic spot featuring local craft beers, cocktails & late-night bar fare. 911 NJ-33 Hamilton Township, NJ
Six26 - Lounge and Rooftop Sleek, modern gay bar & rooftop lounge featuring American eats, weekend drag shows & DJ music. 128 Christopher Columbus Dr, Jersey City
The Dinky Bar & Kitchen A onetime train station offering beer, cocktails & small & large American plates amid rustic decor. 94 University Place, Princeton, NJ
Club Feathers Buzzing gay nightclub featuring DJs, dancing & drag shows, plus go-go boys & basic bar food. 77 Kinderkamack Road River Edge, NJ
Championship Sports Bar & Grill Lively, laid-back hangout offering basic pub grub, billiards & regular live music. 931, 3705, Chambers Street, Trenton, NJ
Tir na nOg - Trenton’s Reel Irish Pub Easygoing and festive watering hole with regular live music performances, including Irish artists. 1324 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ
Fire and Ice Exotic bi-level lounge with hookahs, a Middle Eastern menu, dance floor & entertainment most nights. 85 Lafayette Road, Fords, NJ
HOB Tavern Old-school corner pub serving up beer, wine, spirits & traditional American meals in cozy surrounds. 146 2nd Stree, Bordentown, NJ
Perle Lively nightclub offering bottle service & cocktails, with casual American snacks & small plates. 13 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ
Alchemist & Barrister Quaint restaurant offering up standard American bar food in a rustic interior & on a patio. 28 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ Ivy Inn Enduring, laid-back watering hole featuring DJs, live music & karaoke, with pub grub & a patio. 248 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ
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2022 EVENT SCH E DULE the best latin salsa dancers in the local and tri-state area. Latin Salsa Nights every Friday with our featured DJ El Commandante. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
Diva Royale restaurant is the ultimate drag dining experience and Jersey’s #1 bachelorette party & gay bachelor party heaven! Dinner or brunch will be a celebration you won’t forget, where you are treated like a queen! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
MARCH MAR 4
MAR 19
ILLUSIONS THE DRAG QUEEN SHOW
THE ART OF MAKING PYSANKY EGGS
Come see this amazing New Jersey drag queen show and laugh your butt off all night long while being amazed by the stellar performances in tribute to some of your old-time favorite classics as well as the latest pop favorites. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
Come celebrate spring with Jenny Santa Maria in this unique opportunity to learn Pysanky - also known as Ukrainian eggs, a folk tradition that is both art and prayer. This is a skill that is traditionally passed down by the Matriarch of the family. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
MAR 10
MAR 27
Throughout history, women have played a vital role in the evolution of cheese. As farmers, cheesemakers, affineurs, and food scientists, women are responsible for artisanal cheese and its success. In honor of these women, we will taste through six cheeses, each reflecting the heart and mind of an individual (or several women). Learn more at eventbrite.com.
The Wedding Bliss Expo is New Jersey’s Premier Wedding show designed for brides with high attention to detail and interest in the finest design-led products and services.
2022 WEDDING BLISS EXPO
WOMEN IN CHEESE
Our stunning, centrally-located venue of Hotel LBI will be transformed into a wedding wonderland to delight both couples and the industry alike as attendees are introduced to the area’s top creative professionals, industry leaders, planners, entertainers and vendors while enjoying a chance to
MAR 11
DIVE ROYALE DRAG SHOW
The divas have arrived in New Jersey!
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LGBTQ COM MU NI TY ORGANIZATIONS & ATTRACTIONS
HUDSON PRIDE CONNECTION CENTER LGBT community center providing support, services and resources. www.hudsonpride.org 32 Jones Street, Jersey City, NJ
NORTH JERSEY GAY LESBIAN BOWLING LGBT Sponsored Bowling League. www.njglb.net 291 Bloomfield Ave #2, Nutley, NJ 07110 Phone: (201) 452-4216
GAAMC Not-for-profit volunteer-run organization that provides social, educational, and outreach programs. www.gaamc.org
THE PRIDE CENTER Serving the LGBTIQQA community 25 years as a resource and service center. www.pridecenter.org 85 Raritan Ave #100, Highland Park, NJ Phone: 732-846-2232
GARDEN STATE EQUALITY New Jersey’s largest LGBT organization HEADQUARTERS - 1408 Main Street, Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712 NORTH JERSEY OFFICE - 40 S Fullerton Avenue Montclair, New Jersey 07042 www.gardenstateequality.org
NORTH JERSEY PRIDE LGBT events and activities to promote inclusivity, equality, awareness. www.northjerseypride.org Phone: 124 Dunnell Rd, Maplewood, NJ QSPOT LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER Providing resources, referrals, education, and outreach. www.qspot.org 66 S Main St, Ocean Grove, NJ Phone: (732) 455-3373
NEWARK LGBTQ COMMUNITY CENTER Community center providing safe space, programs, and services that support the well-being of the LGBTQ community. www.newarklgbtqcenter.org Location: 11 Halsey Street, Newark, NJ Phone: 973-424-9555
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BUSINESS D IRECTO RY BURIALS & CREMATIONS Somerset Hills Memorial Park................................ 23
MEN’S HEALTH Family Planning Center of Ocean County....... front cover, 1
CEMETERY Somerset Hills Memorial Park................................ 23
MENTAL HEALTH COACHING Kairos Chronic Pain Coaching................................. 23
DIVORCE LAWYER Paras, Apy & Reiss PC.............................................. 15
MORTGAGES Fulton Mortgage Company/ Fulton Bank............... 13 The Rate House Mortgage Company...................... 21
EMPLOYMENT LAW Savo Schalk Law Offices............................................ 5
NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION Habitat for Humanity in Monmouth County.......... 27
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Benchmark Human Services.................................. 18
PAIN MANAGEMENT Kairos Chronic Pain Coaching................................. 23
FAMILY LAW Paras, Apy & Reiss PC.............................................. 15 Warshaw Law Firm LLC........................................... 10
PERSONAL INJURY Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law.................... 19
FINANCIAL ADVISOR New Century Financial Group................................... 5
PLUMBING Brown’s Heating Cooling & Plumbing.... front inside cover Queen B Plumbing Heating Cooling..................... 24
FINANCIAL PLANNING Northwest Criterion Asset Management LLC.......... 27 FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS Bouquets to Remember......................................... 24
REAL ESTATE Berkshire Hathaway Home Services....................... 27 Donna T. Wilson: Keller Williams Preferred Properties........................ 7
GIFTS Bouquets to Remember......................................... 24
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE Family Planning Center of Ocean County....... front cover, 1
GYNECOLOGICAL SERVICES Family Planning Center of Ocean County.......front cover, 1
RESORT Mirror Lake Inn..................................................16-17
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Brown’s Heating Cooling & Plumbing.... front inside cover
SPA Mirror Lake Inn..................................................16-17
HEATING & COOLING Queen B Plumbing Heating Cooling..................... 24
TREE SERVICES Bartlett Tree Experts-Lebanon................................. 25
IMMIGRATION LAW Law Office of Susan G Roy LLC................................ 27
WEALTH MANAGEMENT Jeffrey Ball - RBC Wealth Management.................. 11
JEWELER Roman Jewelers....................................................... 9 KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM General Plumbing Supply........................................ 3 KOHLER SIGNATURE STORE BY GENERAL PLUMBING SUPPLY General Plumbing Supply........................................ 3
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2022 EVENT SCH EDULE network, exchange ideas and walk away empowered and inspired. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
APRIL APR 1
YOU SLEUTH AUGMENTED REALITY DETECTIVE EXPERIENCE
Looking to get outside and enjoy a new experience that can be done safely during the pandemic? This is not a traditional event so there is no need for you to be close to anybody who is not in your own group and you will be outdoors at all times. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
APR 7
STAND UP COMEDY AT LENORA’S Watch some of your favorite comics workout their new material at Lenora’s the first Thursday of each month! They have awesome food, and it’s always a blast! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
APR 10
HELLO SPRING
Let’s network and discover great skin and hair. We will also be collecting donated canned goods for those in need as we want each pop u[ to make a small difference in our communities. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
APR 29
DUELING PIANOS
Dueling Pianos is a featured event that draws in a high energy crowds! Come down and listen to all the hit songs everyone enjoys! Not only is some of the best music being played but you can also enjoy all the drink specials that are offered! Learn more online at eventbrite.com.
MAY MAY 6
RED VELVET BURLESQUE SHOW With burlesque shows every week,
we provide some of the most intricate and exotic burlesque and cabaret performances in the country. We offer new and exciting performances that have never been seen before. With a combination of unparalleled choreography mixed with classical burlesque dance routines, we strive to outperform any other burlesque show in the industry. Visit eventbrite.com.
MAY 18
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR FOCUS AND LIMIT DISTRACTIONS
Learn how to sharpen your focus so you can get more done! This class is ideal for students, professionals and lifelong learners. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
MAY 26
READY SET GLOW 5K NIGHT RUN
Runners and walkers of all speeds are encouraged to decorate themselves in light-up costumes and participate in this annual run. Participants will receive a T-shirt, finisher’s medal, and more. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
JUNE JUN 2
ALL YOU CAN EAT WINGS
We all know wings is the ultimate bar food that you would want on your plate! However we aren’t just talking about one plate here as Jersey is serving you with unlimited all you can eat wings! You wouldn’t have to leave until you feel full! Learn more at eventbrite.com.
JUN 17
BLACK EXCELLENCE FESTIVAL
The Black Excellence Festival will have a positive impact on Black America by providing tools, information and resources to navigate and address critical issues within our communities. The festival will highlight and provide opportunities to exclusively showcase the African American culture. Learn more at eventbrite.com.