Raval to Become Pasta e Vino

Passerby on the Pedestrian Plaza yesterday were taken aback to see a new sign at Raval, 136 Newark Ave, showing the name Pasta e Vino. 

It seems that RDG Hospitality, the owners of Raval, have decided to switch things up and will no longer be focusing on tapas; instead, they're working on creating an Italian trattoria and wine bar in the same space. While there are currently two other Italian restaurants across the street from Pasta e Vino, neither of them have a heavy focus on wine, helping to set this venture apart. RDG Hospitality also owns and operates Satis Bistro so Italian dishes and wine bars are familiar territory for them. 

The change came unannounced but everything seems to be moving ahead quickly. The permanent sign is up and some minor interior renovations are already underway. Red, the recently opened cocktail and dance lounge in the basement of the space, will remain as is with Pasta e Vino on the main floor. 

If you'd like to keep up with the progress, keep an eye on their new FB and IG and stay tuned for more details here as they get closer to opening. 

*UPDATE* - Raval put out a statement with some thoughts on the new concept and when they anticipate being open:
"On behalf of Raval and all of us at RDG Hospitality, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, especially our regulars and loyal customers for coming and enjoying tapas and sangria over the past 2 years. Unfortunately, we could not make this concept work they way we had envisioned so a change is needed. And change is good!

The transition from Raval to Pasta e Vino will be rather quick with PeV opening its doors quietly sometime in the next 10 days. This transition has been in the works for months and we are in the midst of preparation, training as well as cosmetic changes to the interior. Thank you for your patience during this time and the opportunity to continue to serve Jersey City.

It is our goal that Pasta e Vino will become a local favorite restaurant complimenting to JC's already hot restaurant scene. PeV will feature cuisine from all of Italy in a casual and family friendly setting. Fresh, housemade pasta will be at the core of our menu along with small plates, a bar menu, a kids menu and brunch in a few weeks.

Red Lounge will continue to operate as it has for the past several months, as we hope to continue to attract top musical talent and be one of the favorite and most intimate late night spots in downtown JC"