Mathews, the latest venture from the owner of Whitestar (renowned for arguably the best burgers in Jersey City), has quickly become a downtown hotspot. Located on Grove Street, near the PATH train, Mathews offers a unique “Williamsburg” vibe without venturing into Brooklyn, and importantly, it delivers on delicious food and drink. While not exclusively vegan, Mathews is decidedly vegan-friendly, catering to a diverse range of palates.
The restaurant embraces a “Southern Hospitality” theme, symbolized by pineapples throughout the decor – a universal emblem of welcome. The ambiance is undeniably charming and inviting, encouraging guests to linger at the bar and enjoy the company of the talented bartenders. And the drinks are certainly worth savoring. Beautifully garnished and bursting with flavor, the cocktails at Mathews require pacing, especially if you’re visiting for a midday lunch.
Freshness is key at Mathews. They boast fresh pineapple juice on tap, alongside daily squeezed juices including cucumber, grapefruit, orange, lemon, and lime. Even the cocktail syrups are made in-house, ensuring quality and unique flavor profiles. For those seeking something special, the menu features a Glitter Cocktail, adding a touch of whimsy to the drink selection. Garnishes are meticulously crafted, ranging from delicate edible flower petals to roses carved from lemon peels and even jack-o-lanterns fashioned from orange peels. The beverage menu at Mathews Food And Drink truly leaves no detail overlooked.
This same dedication to detail extends to the food menu. While Southern cuisine isn’t always synonymous with healthy eating, Mathews manages to offer incredibly wholesome options, including a delicious vegan soup. Executive Chef Jon Mecca and Chef de Cuisine Mike Kedala, previously of the renowned One if by Land, Two if by Sea in Manhattan, helm the kitchen, bringing a wealth of culinary expertise. The carrot soup of the day, featuring a coconut cream base and spicy notes of fresh ginger and coriander, is a standout. The shaved vegetable salad is also a perfect light and flavorful lunch choice. For vegan diners, Mathews thoughtfully marks all vegan items directly on the menu, making ordering straightforward and enjoyable.
For those who enjoy meat and seafood, Mathews offers must-try dishes like the grilled octopus, praised for its perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior, and the lamb and shrimp bucatini, a flavorful pasta dish. Lunch prices range from $9 to $14, while dinner menu items average around $25.
Overall, Mathews food and drink provides a fantastic ambiance with an upscale yet cozy Southern charm. It’s a welcome addition to the Grove Street dining scene in Jersey City, offering a memorable experience for both food and drink enthusiasts. Have you visited Mathews yet? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
