Japanese Izakaya Restaurant Opens At Urby Newark Near Rutgers

NEWARK, NJ — A Japanese-inspired izakaya restaurant recently opened its doors within a residential community in downtown Newark.

Kinjo is now open at Urby Newark, located at 159 Washington Street near Rutgers University. Learn more about this local business here.

Kinjo – which translates to “neighborhood” in Japanese – is the brainchild of owner and chef Jamie Knott. Collaborating with business partner Robert Palmer, Knott has seen praise for creating dining establishments in Jersey City, including Madame and Cellar 335, as well as the Saddle River Inn.

Kinjo marks Knott’s fifth venture in the culinary world.

Here’s what diners can expect, according to a news release:

“Kinjo’s menu, curated by Jamie Knott and Executive Chef William Sanders, offers a contemporary interpretation of Japanese cuisine, featuring a diverse selection, including dumplings, bao, sushi rolls, and Ramen. The restaurant boasts 120 seats, a full bar, and a captivating cocktail list. A design collaboration between Urby and Kinjo, the restaurant blends Japanese-inpsired elements with modern design features to create an atmosphere that feels lively and fresh, sun up to sundown. The restaurant includes five separate yet cohesive dining areas, including the Bar Room, Dining Room, Salon, Courtyard, and the Private Dining Room. From the coral pink alligator wallpaper in the Bar Room, and a wall-to-wall hand-painted Japanese-inspired mural in the Dining Room, to the fourteen-foot Koinobori Windsock that hangs above the Salon entrance, the restaurant features bold colors and patterns that make the spaces feel distinct.”

“Newark is a city known for its cultural hub and diverse dining options,” Knott said. “We are thrilled to bring Kinjo to this dynamic community, adding another vibrant thread to Newark’s dining fabric.”

Knott said that they’re aiming to make Kinjo a “neighborhood gathering place” where Urby residents can mingle with the surrounding community.

Urby founder and CEO David Barry gave the Kinjo team a warm welcome.

“We are thrilled to introduce Kinjo to Newark Urby, a thriving enclave that draws its vitality from Newark’s diverse and dynamic spirit,” Barry said.

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