In an area with so much artistic opportunity, Hudson County is a highly sought-after location for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. With such a bustling artistic community, it’s no wonder Hoboken had to create a center strictly dedicated to local artists — enter the Monroe Center for the Arts. This locale, which features some of the most unique Hoboken-based companies, opened in 2011 at 720 Monroe Street and remains a convenient space for residents all over the city. It has two main buildings, which add up to about 180,000 square feet of artist studios, offices, and retail space home to over 90 businesses. Its current owners, Basad Realty, renovated the center to adapt to Hoboken’s growing business community. Read on to learn about what’s inside Hoboken’s Monroe Center for Arts.
120 Degrees F | Suite E310A
120 Degrees F is a unisex day spa providing natural wellness services, such as energy therapy, organic facials, natural face + body sculpting, pain management, and more. Through “holistic rejuvenating and healing techniques,” as per the business’s website, this spa focuses on the entirety of the system, including the physical body, psychosomatic system, energy system, and divine consciousness.
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Adrienn Braun Couture | Suite E504
Brides-to-be can head to Adrienn Braun Couture at the Hoboken Monroe Center. This business provides a wide selection of pre-made wedding attire, custom services, and alteration services. For those looking for high-end wedding pieces, this spot offers the LuxEssentials Collection and the Bespoke Gowns Collection. However, Adrienn Braun Couture also sells affordable off-the-rack pieces for those on a budget.
Attain Medspa | Suite E407
Photo Credit: Attain Medspa
For those looking to rejuvenate, the Monroe Center is home to Attain Medspa, which provides a variety of beauty services. The spa boasts services such as Botox, fillers, PRP hair restoration, and skincare treatments to help fight the effects of time + sun exposure.
Artevino Studio | Suite C408
Artevino Studio is a space where Hoboken locals, regardless of age or artistic level, can get crafty. According to the Monroe Center website, its mission is “to create a comfortable and casual environment where attendees can enjoy creating art.” Artvino Studio provides BYOB art classes, private parties, corporate events, and children’s classes.
Bounce Mkt | Suite E410
Photo Credit: Bounce Mkt
There are many local, sustainable shops for adults, but for kids, there may be limited options. However, Bounce Mkt is a store that is curated to sell pre-loved, gently used kids’ clothing. Parents have the option of selling their children’s items to give them a second chance at life.
Blue Skies Pottery | Suite C414
Blue Skies is “a place where families, friends, colleagues, and passionate individuals can rub shoulders in an encouraging artistic environment,” as per its website. At Blue Skies, locals can engage in multi-week courses and one-time workshops that teach them the art of pottery.
Brew Watch Co. | Suite E502
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Brew Watch Co. is a Hoboken-based watch brand. The name of the business was inspired by the feeling of relaxation that comes with a coffee break. Brew Watch Co. features eleven different handmade watch collections, some of them named after different coffees, such as the Retrograph Espresso.
Bricks 4 Kidz | Suite E505
Bricks 4 Kidz, which has been operating in Hoboken for over a decade, is a children’s center that provides camp, robotics, coding, after-school programs, and more. Using LEGO® bricks, kids will “learn S.T.E.M. in a creative way,” according to its website, as this spot promotes learning through play.
Cheese + Wine | Suite C102
Photo Credit: Victoria Alcaca
Victoria Alcaca, the owner of Cheese + Wine, says her shop’s mission is to provide the world’s finest selection of artisan and farmhouse cheeses, hand-selected wines, gourmet sandwiches, and craft beers. The store, which opened in the building over 15 years ago, also crafts custom gift baskets and charcuterie boards in addition to hosting wine + cheese parties for any special event.
Christina Andersen Floral Design | Suite E506
Photo Credit: Christina Andersen
Christina Andersen Floral Design has been in business for 20+ years in the same Monroe Center location. The company specializes in custom arrangements for events, gifts, and weekly flowers for corporate buildings or households. Passionate about handmade pottery, Christina also sells flowers in stoneware or porcelain vases created by local artists Daniel Bellow and Kevin Wilcoxson. Some of her most notable clients and events include Mayor Ravi Bhalla, Halifax, the NJ Symphony Orchestra, and the 9/11 commemorative flowers on Pier A.
CycleBar | Suite C301
Self-proclaimed as “the world’s best cycle class,” as per its website, Cycle Bar provides Hoboken residents indoor cycling rides guided by an experienced instructor and designed for all fitness levels. This fitness spot has classes every day, so those looking to join have plenty of options. See here for the weekly schedule.
David Branch Jiu Jitsu | Suite C411
For those looking to dive into the world of Martial Arts, check out David Branch Jiu Jitsu in suites C410 and C411 in the Monroe Center. David and his instructors are highly skilled in the art and are open to training anyone at any level. In addition to Jiu-Jitsu, you can explore Muay Thai, Judo, wrestling, yoga, and mixed martial arts.
EatMetal, Inc. | Suite E511
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Elizabeth Tokoly is the owner of EatMetal, which has been operating in Hoboken since 2011 in suite E511. She hosts jewelry-making classes, in-depth workshops, and fun DIY events for small groups in the EatMetal showroom. Recently, Elizabeth was asked to participate in the mystery box challenge hosted by the Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America. The challenge involved making a piece of jewelry in four weeks using unknown materials, and the money raised from their art contributed toward scholarships for other jewelers.
Electric Picks | Suite C511
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Founded by the best friend duo, MJ Carlson and Chantel Gia, this jewelry brand calls the Monroe Center its home. Necklaces, bracelets, rings, and anklets are just some of the jewelry pieces sold at Electric Picks. This brand has been recognized nationally by outlets like Sports Illustrated, VOGUE, Forbes, Buzzfeed, E! News, and The New Yorker — and was even on the Tarte influencer Dubai trip in 2023.
For Cup Sakes | Suite C316
Photo Credit: For Cup Sakes
Founded by Hoboken resident + entrepreneur Caroline Henderson, For Cup Sakes is serving up delicious, personalized cookies right here in the Mile Square. Caroline is originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, and moved to Hudson County with her two children about 10 years ago.
Jane DO | Suite C106
Founded by fitness trainers Jacey Lambros and Danielle DeAngelo, Jane DO provides total-body workouts that focus on women’s empowerment. As former professional dancers and Radio City Rockettes, they incorporate their artistic experience and athletic ability into each class. Classes are mixed-level, 55 minutes, and incorporate each part of the body. The schedule incorporates classes every day of the week in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Local Barre | Suite C300
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Hoboken has no shortage of workout studios, and inside the Monroe Center is no exception. Local Barre can be found at suite C300 in the center and is a barre studio that provides classes that both barre newbies and seasoned professionals can enjoy. The studio was founded by Jen DeMarco in 2010 and has been keeping Mile Square residents fit ever since.
The Local Thread | Suite E402
The Local Thread is an apparel company specializing in screen printing, embroidery, sublimation, and promotional products. At this store, Hobokenites can order custom prints and shop for blankets, t-shirts, mugs, hoodies, and more, all featuring local gems and landmarks.
Lo-Fatt-Chow | Suite C103
Lo-Fatt-Chow is exactly what its name is — low-fat Chinese food. The spot has all of your regular menu items, but made without MSG, essentially making the food a bit healthier than most spots. Whether you’re craving chicken and broccoli, dumplings, wonton soup, lo mein, or even stir-fry dishes, Lo-Fatt-Chow has it all. There are also unique menu items like Chinese food wraps, as well as a kids’ menu. HG recommends the orange chicken; it is one of the best in town.
Panello | Suite C105
Panello is a cozy, artisanal pizza restaurant in the Center. Prior to opening Panello, Chef Iggy Sciancalepore graduated from the French Culinary Institute and then went on to be sous chef for the French restaurant Bouterin in Manhattan. This spot boasts an authentic LePanyol wood-burning oven and a BYOB atmosphere. The menu features a variety of pizzas and some great choices for pasta and traditional Italian meat dishes.
Pilates Fitness Boutique | Suite E308
Pilates lovers can flock to this fitness center in Suite E308. Pilates Fitness Boutique provides private sessions, semi-private sessions, and general classes that aim to sculpt the body in a fun yet relaxing environment. To see the weekly schedule of classes, see this link.
Prime Gourmet Inc. | Suite C101
Prime Gourmet was founded in 2015 and sells all kinds of snacks and treats, such as ice cream, cereal, coffee, condiments, produce, and more. Prime Gourmet also provides pre-made lunches like chicken and veggie wraps and chicken and tuna salad sandwiches for those on the go.
Prime Taekwondo | Suite C214
This Taekwondo spot has martial arts classes for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Prime Taekwondo also provides its space for birthday parties and other events. To see the current schedule, click this link.
PUSH | Suite C307
For any moms-to-be looking for fitness help, PUSH is a place that assists women pre and post-natal. Founded by Emily Claman, this organization helps women practice a safe fitness routine. There are also special programs for women who are not pregnant and virtual options to choose from if the in-person location is not accessible.
School of Rock | Suite E104
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School of Rock is a performance-based music education school for ages three and a half and up. Owner Jeremy Pores takes a unique approach to practice through rock band-style group rehearsals and live shows. He says students learn faster, practice more, have more fun, and build life-long friendships while part of the group experience. School of Rock considers music, learning, and safety as a top priority for students who join their Hoboken community. All instructors are professional musicians currently working in the industry.
Shaka Kitchen | Suite E103
Açai, pitaya, and poké haven Shaka Bowl will have locals fantasizing about their next vacation in just one bite. After founders Kiersten and Krista moved from Hawaii, they decided to open a healthy and delicious eatery inspired by their travels. At this spot, customers can also find coffee, brunch, and tacos. The HG team recommends the buffalo shrimp.
Skinn by KJO | Suite E520
This wellness spot has services like European facials, cemé de la cremé waxing, organic spray tans, Yoni V steam, and more. Skinn by KJO also provides a variety of men’s beauty services such as waxing. See the full list of offerings here.
Somewear In Between | Suite E521
Photo Credit: Somewear In Between
Somewear In Between is a boutique where locals can find unique, feminine, and classic clothing pieces. As per the business’s website, this spot “was established with the desire to create a curated marketplace for women who appreciate trends, but value timeless and effortless pieces.” Hoboken customers can shop the store via online or in person by appointment.
Urban Arts | Suite E216
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Whether it’s intricate drawing or a preschool art class, Urban Arts is a great outlet for self-expression and creativity. The studio provides age-appropriate projects, including early-age art exploration, comic book illustration and digital art, and even independent study classes. Founders Justine Uva and Patricia Morale are passionate about all facets of artistic expression and have put a lifetime of hard work into Urban Arts.
Victoria Balson Interiors | Suite E307
Victoria Balson Interiors is a high-end residential interior design studio. Hoboken locals can go to this spot for all of their design needs, as it provides services and products like architectural details and finishes, kitchen and bath design, and the remodeling of functional spaces with furniture. Victoria Balson Interiors also provides artwork and accessories to elevate any space.
Yuki’s Coffee + Bakery | Suite E101
Photo Credit: Yuki’s Coffee + Bakery
These days, finding a coffee shop is an easy feat — but finding one that serves babka, challah, and hamentashen? Much harder. Luckily for us, Hoboken’s Israeli bakery and cafe, Yuki’s Bakery, has been serving up just that for the past two years. Since its initial opening at the Monroe Center in 2021, Yuki’s has become a favorite among locals — so much so that it expanded into the space next door to keep up with customer demand this past August. Yuki (Aviyah) Levinson, a native of Israel, moved to the United States after finishing her time in the Israeli army. She has almost a lifetime of experience in cooking and baking, having managed kitchens and whole restaurants and having been a pastry chef for renowned NYC restaurants and cafes.
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Zoku Home | Suite C308
Photo Credit: Ken Zorovich
Zoku Home is well-known for its attractive and functional houseware products, including water bottles, barware, and ice cream makers. Company president Ken Zorovich says Zoku’s mission is to improve people’s lives through thoughtful design. In 2002, he launched his first business, a product design firm called Propeller, but opened Zoku Home in 2009 in an exclusive partnership with Williams-Sonoma. The company’s first product was the Quick Pop Maker, which freezes a popsicle in less than seven minutes. Ken says the Monroe Center provides a flexible workspace optimized for creativity, and it’s great for business-to-business collaboration.
From Hoboken Hot Dog Cart to Passaic Restaurant: The Story of Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos
For North Jersey’s Cruzado family, the hot dog business and entrepreneurship have been in their DNA for two generations. The family business is celebrating one year at its Passaic storefront, Cruz Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos, located at 73 Gregory Avenue. This establishment is home to an extensive menu that can’t be found at just any other hot dog joint while highlighting the importance of family and community support. Read on to find out more about how Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos came to be, as well as its exclusive Snap-O-Razzo hot dogs that aren’t available anywhere else in New Jersey.
Behind Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos
Photo Credit: Alexandra Cruzado
Reinaldo Cruzado, Jr. was born and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, and always had a passion for cooking. He helped his father with his hot dog cart in the 1990s (you can still find his father behind the cart at 4th + Willow). After a few years working in the postal service and retiring as Sergeant of the Secaucus Police Department, Reinaldo’s love for food and entrepreneurial spirit made him want to invest in his dream of opening a restaurant serving hot dogs like his father. The business started as a hot dog cart moving between Essex and Bergen counties before landing a storefront business at its current location in Passaic in February 2024.
Photo Credit: Alexandra Cruzado
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Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos sets itself apart from other hot dog eateries with its Latin-infused menu and the dogs it serves. “We are the only establishment in New Jersey to offer the Snap-O-Razzo hot dog— a premium, all-beef hot dog that is hickory-smoked with hints of garlic and delivers an unmistakable ‘snap’ when you bite into it,” Reinaldo said.
Snap-O-Razzo is a renowned family-owned business based out of Las Vegas, Nevada, which is, according to Reinaldo, “highly sought after in the hot dog world.” The only other close establishment that carries this dog is Sarge’s Deli in New York City, but locals now have the luxury of indulging in “the Snap” right here in Passaic.
The Menu
The menu is designed to introduce new customers and satisfy familiar faces with its Latin twist on a traditional American hot dog restaurant menu. There are specialty dog creations like The Hot Cruz-Missile (topped with spicy chili, hot onions, jalapenos + spicy mustard) and the Mofongo Bacon Dog (fried mashed Plantain with bacon, garlic, and butter), served alongside sandwiches, pinchos (skewers of either beef, pork, or chicken served with two slices of buttered toast and a side of chimichurri sauce), and smash burgers that give the flavors of Snap-O-Razzos a run for their money. Every item is made to order. The restaurant also has a daily specials menu including fun additions like empanadas, fruit shakes, and tater tots to jazz up any order.
Photo Credit: Alexandra Cruzado
Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos is always looking for more opportunities to expand and grow — for instance, it just recently served out of its mobile truck for a sorority event at Rutgers University. While the Cruzado family is eager to keep incorporating its Latin culture into the menu and hopes to open a second storefront in the area in the future, the Snap-O-Razzo might just be the new talk of the “hot dog” town.
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Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs + Pinchos is currently open Monday through Saturday from 11AM-5PM.
