Even if you are not acquainted with Grove Street in Jersey City, the name of this restaurant ought to give you an indication of what it was in its earlier avatar. The Merchant was a bank, and the new owners have refurbished it, keeping in mind that the industrial look it exudes gives it that edgy look which many young people are partial to, especially for lounging around for after work drinks.

The 'happening' tag also is due to the popularity of the contemporary American food that you can enjoy there, which doesn't stop with lunch or dinner, but starts off with brunch. Appetizers include crab cakes, mini cheese burgers, sweet and spicy shrimp or panko crusted chicken fingers, and try the bacon wrapped meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach and pan gravy for entrees. Don't miss out on the creatively concocted martinis although the presence of crisply chilled beer and other spirits should keep you satisfied too.