Alexandra Bongiovi, Restaurateur... Calls Elizabeth Home

Located at 1109 Elizabeth Ave., City Tavern Restaurant & Bar has been delighting the palates of diners with its fusion of European and Latin American cuisine since 1994. With generous portions of authentic food, an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere and attentive service, City Tavern is an Elizabeth staple and a true dining destination as well as a favorite among locals.

Alexandra Bongiovi is at the helm of this thriving second-generation family-owned and operated restaurant which was founded by her parents, Stefano and Concetta. She joined the family business at age 18, and today oversees all aspects of City Tavern’s operations.

City Tavern’s longevity is easy to explain, according to Bongiovi. “We are celebrating our 30-year anniversary this July. Although it has been three decades since we first opened our doors, not much has changed. We maintain the same values and consistency in everything that we do. Everyone that dines with us enjoys high-quality food and exceptional service in a community-built environment,” she said.

Bongiovi’s commitment to the community is not just a business strategy -- it's a way of life. “From the moment someone walks into City Tavern – whether you are a long-time customer or first-time visitor – the care we show to all our guests is evident,” she said. “Customers become family and we are now serving several generations of clients. I have known many patrons since I was a child. They have seen me grow and go through life’s ups and downs to become the person I am today. Likewise, I have shared in their milestones as well.”

Open daily for lunch and dinner, City Tavern is the ideal choice whether you are hungry, thirsty, celebrating one of life’s special occasions or simply looking to socialize with friends, family or coworkers. The restaurant can host private in-house parties for up to 40 guests; catering for off-site events is also available.

An expansive lunch and dinner menus feature appetizers, salads, a varied selection of entrees, desserts and innovative drink options, including City Tavern’s renowned house-made sangria. A highlight of City Tavern’s menu is its famous skirt steak with several varieties from which to choose.

City Tavern is open Sunday-Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Thursday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Happy hour takes place Monday-Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.​​ The Annex, a speakeasy-style lounge located inside City Tavern, serves up creative cocktails and tapas; it is open Thursday-Saturday starting at 6 p.m.

For more information or to make a reservation visit citytavernnj.com or call 908-353-7113. Follow the City Taven (@citytavernelizabeth) and The Annex (@theannexnj) on Instagram to stay up to date on specials and upcoming events.

“I love connecting with our many long-time patrons, and meeting new customers as well,” concludes Bongiovi. “Elizabeth is a city but still has a small-town feel; everybody knows each other and there is so much to do. It is just a great community to be a part of.” It is the reason Alexandra calls Elizabeth home to this day!

DISCOVER CITY TAVERN AT: www.citytavernnj.com