By Jack Marflak
There is one local event that never fails to excite the food lover in all of us. Kearny Eats! is back! Sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ), Kearny Eats! returns this Friday, June 5 and runs through Sunday, June 21. The annual program is designed to support local Kearny restaurant and food businesses as well as help consumers get great deals.
Everyone is invited to take advantage of dozens of food and beverage deals and special menu items from participating local Kearny food businesses – from restaurants to bakeries, cafes, bars and more!
The KUEZ is encouraging both residents and visitors to come out and support these local businesses. “Eat in, get takeout or delivery, call in an order — make a difference and help our local businesses!” said KUEZ Coordinator Linda D’Isa. “And while you’re at it you may discover a new favorite place to eat!”
According to D’Isa Kearny Eats! was launched in 2021 with the idea to encourage both Kearny residents and area visitors to support the hard-hit restaurants and food establishments in that post-pandemic year. “It was a huge success, popular with the businesses, so we continued it as an annual event sponsored by the KUEZ,” D’Isa said.
Local restaurants and food establishments continue to face ongoing challenges from rising food and labor costs. That’s why programs like Kearny Eats! are essential to helping Kearny businesses thrive by encouraging residents to spend locally as well as invite consumers from surrounding communities to visit Kearny.
The KUEZ’s ongoing support for the Kearny Eats! program has been vital to its continued success. The KUEZ organizes an extensive marketing campaign each year including vital social media support.
Each year they provide window posters that identify each participant in the program. “New this year we’re providing each participant with a custom poster featuring their unique special,” said D’Isa, “Our hope is that they keep it in a high-visibility location so guests are encouraged to try their Kearny Eats! Special!”
Kearny Eats! participants represent a range of culinary choices that reflect the diversity and international flare of the Kearny community.
Most of last year’s participates are back again this year. New participants this year include Leo’s Italian Ice & Ice cream, El Hornero, Big Stash’s Sub House and Sabor Cuencano Cuisine.
The following is a list of current participants in Kearny Eats!
Barbara’s Cafe • Big Stash’s Sub House • Brazilian Spices • The Crepe Escape • Polleria El Hornero • El Rincon Mexicano Restaurant • El Rincon de Dona Maria • Firepit Barbecue Kearny • The Greeks • Imagine Cookies by Maya-by Curiosity • Leo’s Italian Ices • Mi Pueblito • NaNa Noodle House • Nutrition Avenue • Q’Tal Bar & Grill • Sabor Cuencano Cuisine • Stella’s Empanadas • Tres Leches Bakery • Ultra Nutrition • Prados Cheesesteaks • Arco’s Pastry • Mina’s Cafe • Hamburgao • Q’Onda Wey
For an up to date list of participants and specials you can explore the website www.kearnyeats.com starting June 3.
Keep checking back as deals continue to be added and follow the KUEZ on Instagram and Facebook for updates on Kearny Eats! and other special events and programs happening in town.
Whether you’re craving barbecue, authentic Latin American cuisine, Greek specialties, fresh-baked treats or a healthy smoothie, Kearny Eats! offers a chance to explore the flavors that make Kearny one of the area’s most diverse dining destinations.
