Jersey City Ward F Councilman Jermaine Robinson is hosting a block party tomorrow to celebrate his restaurant’s 10-year anniversary.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“When I opened the doors 10 years ago, I couldn’t be sure the doors would still be open
10 years later. Opening a restaurant anywhere is risky. Opening a restaurant in our community where we’re fighting against discriminatory lending practices by banks, as well as crime and violence in our neighborhoods is even harder,” Robinson, who owns the Light Rail Cafe, said in a statement.
“However, I’m driven to fight for my community and support all the minority business enterprises (MBEs) in the community. I was and still am determined to see new generations of MBEs thrive in Ward F.”
Tomorrow’s block party will run from 12 noon until 8 p.m. on Union Street between Garfield and Arlington Avenues.
There will be merchandise vendors, food trucks, music, free raffles with prizes, senior bingo games, live art mural painting, free cotton candy and face painting for kids – among other activities.
Additionally, Robinson has committed sell 1,000 draft beers at 10 cents each to celebrate being in business for 10 years.
The history of the Light Rail Cafe dates back to the previous owner, Fred Robinson, Sr.,
Jermaine’s father. Purchased in 1991, Robinson Sr. and his partners owned the bar then known as the Corner Pocket.
Prior to their ownership, the establishment also operated under names including Zimps, Star Dust, and The Meat Market.
As a young teen, Jermaine Robinson’s first job was at the Corner Pocket, cleaning up,
mopping, and handwashing all of the barware for hours on end.
Finally, on his 21st birthday, his father finally gave him the opportunity to work as a bartender.
After significant construction rehabilitation on the entire building and rebranding of the bar, today it is recognized as one of the more successful restaurants in Jersey City.
A great time was had by all!