August 27, 2025
The overhaul of the Journal Square Transportation Center is continuing, and this time it involves a space that has sat vacant for more than a year. A new sports bar, JJ Sports Bar, is slated to take over the former Emma’s space at 4 PATH Plaza, near the high rises that have been rising around the station.
Signage for the somewhat mysterious concept went up earlier this summer. Emma’s, a comfort food restaurant, closed last year after a four year run at the location, and the space had already seen P.J. Ryan’s come and go before that.
The Deal Is Becoming Official
The move toward a new tenant took a real step forward when Jersey City’s Alcoholic Beverage Control heard an application to transfer the liquor license during its August 19 meeting. The license is being moved to an entity called JJ Sora LLC, based out of Northvale, New Jersey. The company is solely owned by Jay Sorathiya, who also runs BCSJ Construction.
There is not much public information out yet on what JJ Sports Bar will actually look like day to day. The concept does not appear to have a social media presence, but temporary signage at the property promises the basics people expect from a sports bar: beer, games, and food. No exact opening date has been announced, though the liquor license transfer moving through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board is a good sign that things are progressing.
More Momentum for Journal Square Retail
JJ Sports Bar will be the second new restaurant heading to the PATH Plaza area, joining a Teriyaki One Japanese Grill outpost opening just steps away. Both additions reflect how much activity is happening around the Journal Square Transportation Center right now, as a construction boom unlike anything the neighborhood has seen in generations continues to bring new residents into the area.
A once tricky space finding new life is a good sign for the surrounding retail market. Spaces that see a few tenants come and go can be a hard sell, but Journal Square’s growing residential base and heavy daily foot traffic are clearly still enough to draw new concepts willing to take a chance on a space with some history.
If you are interested in retail space at Journal Square or elsewhere in Jersey City, GRID’s leasing team can help.
Contact GRID Real Estate
Bobby Antonicello Jr., Licensed Real Estate Broker
bobby@gridcre.com | O: (201) 300-6489
https://jerseydigs.com/jj-
The information contained in this post has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. GRID Real Estate LLC has not independently verified this information and makes no guarantees, warranties, or representations as to its accuracy or completeness.
