From Main Street excellence to artistic wonders, the district continues to thrive

This year's Pride celebration took place on June 7th and was, as always, full of energy and fun.

Speaking of overachievers, Metuchen, named the 2024 Destination of the Year by Jersey's Best—because we know a good thing when we see it—has now been named one of Money Magazine's 50 Best Places to Live. Another accolade for this quaint and often wacky town, which also won the 2023 Great American Main Street Award.

And now, following an eventful first half of his year in office, which included celebrating Chinese New Year, finding love downtown on Valentine's Day, Restaurant Week and the new Game On Metuchen – Come Out and Play event, the district is in full swing for the summer.

In addition to its already appealing aesthetic, Metuchen has installed two new pieces of art for you to admire.

A 3D mural made from recycled, locally sourced materials, Metuchen artist Julia Win's “Preserve” showcases the charm of Costa's Ice Cream Shop, formerly housed at 16 Pearl Street, where the artwork is located. It's a fitting homage to the past and also serves as a tasteful selfie spot.

700 Middlesex is home to the just-opened Starbucks store, and Starbucks is home to a recently commissioned mural by contemporary artist RH Doaz. His painting, which has yet to be unveiled at the time of this writing and is known for its bold hues and whimsical interpretations of nature, will add a vibrant pop of color to your daily dose of coffee.

Downtown Summer Sounds for 2024 did not disappoint. Photo courtesy of Metuchen Downtown Alliance

Back on the Plaza, Downtown Metuchen is back in full swing and fills the calendar with a ton of attractions that shouldn't be missed.

Here is a brief summary of this summer's events.

June 7 – Annual Pride Event

Held on a Friday night for the first time this year, the Pride celebration was full of energy and joy. Guests danced with the LGBTQ squad of NYC Cheer, enjoyed a drag performance by Screaming Queens, and danced with DJ Sabine, resident DJ at Brooklyn's House of Yes. The Glam Bar's face makeup station painted everyone in Pride designs.

June 15 – Annual Juneteenth Celebration

This year, the Young Picassos brought their distinctive genre mix of R&B, hip-hop, pop and neo-soul, paying a funky tribute to 60 years of funk in 2024. Positive Movement Entertainment's drumline marched with their rhythm straight from Philly and the Step Dancers upped the ante – just a few of the highlights among the many performances that provided entertainment throughout the evening.

Concert series in July – Downtown Summer Sounds

In the tradition of summers past, like 2023's ode to the '80s with Tiffany and the Swiftie Dance Party and songs from You-Know-Who, Downtown Summer Sounds 2024 did not disappoint.

• 10th of July – Yacht Rock brought the soft rock sound of the '70s to Metuchen, covering hit ballads such as “Sailing,” “Reminiscing,” and “Steal Away.” Attendees were encouraged to dress in their best “yacht rock” attire for the occasion.
• 30th July – Hip-Hop Night took the participants back to the 80s and 90s with live performances by the Sugarhill Gang and C&C Music Factory.

Meximodo's menu features classic Mexican dishes with a fresh, modern twist, along with a record-breaking selection of tequilas. Photo courtesy of Metuchen Downtown Alliance

Outdoor dining is a delight, especially in Metuchen, where the culinary skills of local restaurants are a trademark.

Relative newcomer Mexico has made a name for itself as one of Jersey's best new restaurants. Located on Pearl Street in the heart of the Plaza, its decor is a feast for the eyes and its record-breaking selection of tequilas will make for a round of aye-aye-aye! The menu offers classic Mexican dishes with a fresh, modern twist, which can be enjoyed in the stunning dining room, on the rustic patio or with a hand-crafted cocktail at the bar.

Also recently on the scene is Namkeen Hot Chicken + Wafflesthis third location on Metuchen's Main Street brings the influence of Pakistani flavors to its hot, crispy chicken. Whether on a bun or between two waffles, the chicken is hot, crispy, spicy, juicy and sensational.

“preSERVE” by Metuchen artist Julia Win is a 3D mural made from recycled, locally sourced materials and showcases the charm of Costa’s Ice Cream Shop, formerly located at 16 Pearl Street, where the artwork is located. Photo courtesy of Metuchen Downtown Alliance

When it rules, it soars high!

“It was a great pleasure to be named Destination of the Year because it was a welcome welcome to so many visitors who had never been here before,” noted Dawn Mackey, Executive Director of the Metuchen Downtown Alliance. “I firmly believe that once you discover Metuchen by chance, you'll keep coming back, and that's just how we like it!”

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Jersey's Best. Subscribe here to get in-depth access to everything that makes the Garden State great.