PARSIPPANY — The ongoing transformation of The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, a significant historical and cultural landmark in Parsippany, has been a remarkable journey that began in April 2023. This project’s primary goal is the complete reconstruction of the Annex, which suffered severe damage due to an uprooted tree during the devastating Tropical Storm Isaias. Alongside this critical restoration, the Log House kitchen will undergo a thorough rehabilitation, while both buildings will receive substantial enhancements.
One of the most compelling aspects of this extensive renovation is the collaboration between the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills and the NJ Historical Trust to fund the project. This partnership underscores the dedication to preserving the rich history and heritage that The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms represents.
On Saturday morning, February 3rd, Councilman Justin Musella was greeted by Vonda Givens and Barbara Weiskittel, who embarked on a tour of the ongoing renovations. Councilman Musella was recently appointed the Council Liaison to the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms.
During their tour, Musella witnessed firsthand the meticulous work done to bring The Stickley Museum back to its former glory. With their dedication and attention to detail, the restoration team ensures that every facet of the project is carried out with the utmost care and precision.
As the renovations progress steadily, the anticipation for the project’s completion continues to grow. It is expected that the extensive renovations will conclude by late summer. The community eagerly awaits the grand finale of this transformation, which a joyous ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark.
The restoration of The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms is not merely a construction project but a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to preserving its history and cultural heritage. This significant endeavor will undoubtedly ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from the legacy of the Craftsman movement and the life and work of Gustav Stickley.
BOONTON — On Sunday, January 21st, at approximately 10:50 p.m., Saddle Brook Police Officer Adam Georgaros received a dispatch call to respond to an incident at Walmart, located within the Saddle Brook Mall at 189 Route 46 West. The call pertained to an alleged case involving child luring.
Upon arrival, the officer met with Mr. Ramy El-Daly, who is the leader of OB Global. OB Global is a vigilante organization on social media, usually on YouTube and Rumble platforms. They use decoys to pose as juveniles and set up sting operations with sexual predators.
According to OB Global, Mr. Elliott Ruga was trying to lure a 15-year-old boy back to his apartment for sexual intercourse. He confessed to hooking up with a 17-year-old before and possessing child pornography.
Mr. Eliott Ruga, 68, Boonton, was arrested and charged with 2C:13-6A (Lure/Entice child by various means) and 2C:24-4A(1) (Endangering the welfare of a child/sexual conduct).
Mr. Ruga was fingerprinted, photographed at the Saddle Brook Police Headquarters, and released with a Central Judicial Processing Court date.
Mr. Ruga recently served an unexpired term on the Boonton Town Council and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Boonton Historic Preservation Commission.
According to statements to the Saddle Brook Police Department he is employed by the NJ Highlands Coalition, also located in Boonton. The website for NJ Highland Coalition lists Ruga as Policy and Communications Director.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
FAIRFIELD — The Fairfield Police Department is currently investigating alleged illegal activities at a local business after receiving a tip from the cleaning staff reporting that stolen motor vehicles were being chopped up at the location.
On January 29, 2024, at approximately 2:33 a.m., the police department received information indicating that Veracity Stone Fabricators, located at 23 Daniel Road East, was being used to house and disassemble stolen motor vehicles.
Further information provided by the caller stated that this evidence would be removed before 6:00 a.m. The caller also provided police with photos showing vehicles disassembled at the business. All of the vehicles were Honda CRV’s. They became a popular car to steal following an online video posted that taught techniques on stealing the vehicle.
Fairfield Police Officers immediately responded to the location to investigate and found no one present. It is alleged that what they did find was a stripped-down 2016 blue Honda CRV in the rear parking lot. It was discovered that this vehicle had been reported stolen by New York City police on December 11, 2023. The engine of this vehicle was later found inside of the Veracity business.
While the officers were at this location conducting their preliminary investigation, it was alleged that a suspicious Honda Ridgeline came to the property twice. It was eventually stopped, and its three occupants were detained. It is further alleged that one of the occupants, identified as Hector Ramirez-Alfaro, 29, of Ridgewood, was found in possession of suspected cocaine. He was arrested, charged, and later released.
Further investigation by Fairfield police detectives allegedly resulted in the discovery of a second, chopped-up vehicle which was a 2016 grey Honda CRV inside of the building. This vehicle was also reported stolen to New York City police on January 5, 2024.
Further investigation by Fairfield police detectives allegedly resulted in the discovery of a second, chopped-up vehicle which was a 2016 grey Honda CRV inside of the building.
Two additional vehicles were found at the scene and impounded as suspicious. One, a chopped-up black Honda CRV, had its VIN number defaced. The other, a black Honda CRV, had its VIN number concealed. Police will be seeking search warrants to obtain information for these two cars.
At this time, the Fairfield Police Department is now trying to determine if this was part of a larger organization.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — A lineup of distinguished figures including Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Morristown Mayor Timothy Dougherty, Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, and the 200 Club of Morris County is thrilled to announce the return of Law Enforcement Night to Mennen Arena.
This exciting event is scheduled for Friday, March 15 at 7:00 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has gained recognition in Morris County for its numerous initiatives and the valuable information it provides to combat drug and alcohol abuse. The Coalition advocates for introducing children to new activities and promoting substance-free events to boost their self-esteem. Comprising elected officials, law enforcement personnel, educational leaders, and concerned citizens, the Coalition stays current with the latest trends and challenges affecting our children.
Law Enforcement Night brings together officers and police departments from across the state. It offers youngsters a firsthand look at how law enforcement officers positively impact our community. This event has a history of fostering relationships and often opens up career possibilities for teenagers who may not have previously considered such a path. Typically, people only encounter law enforcement officers and first responders on their worst days, but this event provides a unique opportunity to interact with them on a very positive note.
The array of equipment on display at this event never fails to impress, even adults. Attendees can explore the Morris County Hope One Van, examine various ambulances and emergency vehicles, try on riot gear, handle handcuffs, and engage with the law enforcement community in a fun and engaging atmosphere.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Anthony Bucco, R-Morris, has asked Community and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Singleton to work with Republicans to solve New Jersey’s affordable housing crisis.
“Everyone supports safe and affordable housing in their communities. How that is achieved is subject to debate. Unfortunately, Republican legislators and local leaders have not been given a seat at the table when it comes to this very important issue. Democrats and their one-party rule are ignoring the very real concerns of those who would be most impacted,” said Senator Bucco. “They are attempting to force through a bill that not only leaves the affordability problem unsolved but will most likely make things even worse for everyone.
In its present form, Bucco says this legislation “will have a direct negative impact on the quality of life in our communities that will only get worse over time.”
“We must work alongside our municipalities with sound land use planning to ensure each community has the infrastructure, mass transit access, job market, and open space to support growth without overwhelming local services and further driving up already-sky-high property taxes,” he said in a release issued Wednesday.
“I have brought the concerns of my constituents to the attention of legislative leadership and the bill’s sponsors in the hope of finding a bipartisan solution that works for everyone. While I hope my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will accept our suggestions, one-party rule has made it very difficult if not impossible for Republicans and local leaders to get the input they deserve,” he said.
“Without changes, this bill will forever change the character of our communities, giving a clear advantage to developers and creating harmfully high densities that cannot be supported by our municipalities. I will continue to fight on behalf of my constituents and the municipalities that serve them.”
Senate bill S-50, as is, would make significant reforms to a highly controversial area of law, Bucco maintains.
Among the most pressing concerns articulated by constituents:
• Immunity from builder’s remedy lawsuits obtained through compliance with third-round rules would be subject to revocation during the fourth-round certification process for reasons unrelated to third-round compliance.
• Builder’s remedy immunity obtained through compliance with fourth-round rules would be weakened as compared to prior rounds.
• Official fair share calculations have not yet been made using the new formula in the bill, so municipalities will have practically no notice of what is required of them before being subject to costly litigation.
• A municipality would remain subject to challenge even if adopting the DCA’s calculation of its fair share obligation.
• Unlike COAH, the dispute resolution program lacks representation from municipalities and low- and moderate-income households and does not require partisan balance.
• The bill lacks clarity as to how new regulations would be adopted that would previously have been adopted by COAH.
• The current 1,000 unit cap for a municipality’s total fair share obligation would apply only to the prospective need portion of the obligation under the bill.
• The bill may hold municipalities responsible for units not constructed by developers even if a municipality adjusts its zoning ordinances to accommodate such housing.
• The bill does not account for housing that is approved under a third-round settlement agreement but not yet constructed.
• Litigation costs may increase under the bill.
• Limitations on bonus credits will make it harder for municipalities to meet their obligations.
On January 19, Sen. Bucco sent this memo to Senate President Scutari and Community and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Singleton to share the concerns brought to his attention by various constituents with the hope that, with these concerns in mind, Democrats and Republicans can work together to accomplish the laudable goals of S-50 in a manner that works best for all those who would be affected.
PARSIPPANY — On January 25, 2024, at 11:18 p.m., during a routine patrol, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers Ryan Taylor and Justin Gosden noticed a 2015 Ford Explorer displaying a license plate that was not registered to the vehicle. The officers activated their emergency lights and sirens, attempting to initiate a motor vehicle stop near the intersection of Route 46 West and North Beverwyck Road.
The driver, later identified as Ivin Gregory Bynum, a 35-year-old male from Parsippany, disregarded the stop signal and continued driving. The vehicle proceeded down Route 46 West, and exited onto the Baldwin Road off-ramp, but again failed to stop at a stop sign. It then turned left onto Baldwin Road and re-entered Route 46 West.
Subsequently, the suspect attempted to enter the driveway of 1480 Route 46, known as Troy Hills Gardens. However, he was unable to complete the turn, resulting in a collision with a utility pole retention/support wire, causing it to become vertical and rest on the wire.
The driver quickly exited his vehicle, disregarded the officers’ commands to stop, and fled into the nearby apartment complex. Following a brief investigation, he was located inside his apartment and taken into custody. Mr. Bynum was then transported to the police headquarters for processing, where he was charged with the following offenses:
One count of 3rd Degree Eluding
Reckless Driving
Failure to Give Proper Signal
Driving an Unregistered Vehicle
Disregarding a Traffic Control Device
Failure to Possess an Insurance Card
Failure to Maintain Lane
Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle
He was subsequently released on his recognizance, pending his scheduled court appearance.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, January 26, at 10:00 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers responded to a disturbance call at Avis Rental Car located at 379 Parsippany Road. Upon their arrival, officers engaged with Luis Hidalgo, a 36-year-old male from Paterson, as well as the Avis employees who had reported the incident.
It was established that the callers had witnessed Mr. Hidalgo in the act of stealing tires and rims from rental vehicles.
Subsequently, Mr. Hidalgo was placed under arrest and transported to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters for processing. While at the station, he was charged via a Complaint-Summons with the following offenses:
One count of 4th Degree Theft by unlawful taking
Criminal Trespass, classified as a Disorderly Persons Offense
Manufacture/Possess to use Burglary Tools, also categorized as a Disorderly Person Offense
He was released on his recognizance, pending his scheduled court appearance.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, January 29, at 6:46 a.m., law enforcement responded to a residence on Faber Road regarding an attempted burglary of an occupied home.
The suspects involved had already left the vicinity by the time officers arrived. Upon contacting the occupants, they disclosed that they had been awakened by a knocking sound on a first-floor window. One of the residents noticed that the rear sliding door was slightly ajar and observed two males dressed in dark clothing leaping over a fence. Subsequently, the individuals entered a gray BMW and fled the scene.
On the ring camera, the three guys leave the White BMW X7 and run to the back of the yard.
During the preliminary investigation, it was determined that three suspects had exited the stolen BMW, which had been reported as stolen in another jurisdiction earlier in the morning.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and anyone possessing relevant information is urged to contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — A Lake Parsippany resident visited the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters to report the theft of the catalytic converter from his 2010 Volkswagen Jetta. The victim stated that this incident took place sometime between the evening of Saturday, January 27, and the morning of Saturday, January 28.
The investigation into this matter is currently in progress. Individuals possessing relevant information are urged to contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — On January 29, 2024, at 9:29 p.m., while conducting a routine patrol, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Jesse Hughes observed a 2018 BMW deviating from its lane.
He initiated a motor vehicle stop in the vicinity of Route 46 East and New Road. During the verification of the driver’s credentials, Officer Hughes received an alert indicating that the driver, identified as Januari Patterson, a 36-year-old female from Missouri City, Texas, had an active warrant issued by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office.
This warrant, carrying full extradition, was related to a probation violation. Consequently, officers placed Ms. Patterson under arrest and conveyed her to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters for further processing.
Following processing, she was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where she awaits an extradition hearing.
The investigation into this matter remains ongoing, and individuals possessing pertinent information are encouraged to contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — On January 31, 2024, at 12:24 p.m., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers were called to Ulta Beauty at 46 Waterview Boulevard following a report of a recent shoplifting incident.
However, by the time officers arrived, the suspects had already left the vicinity. According to information provided by store employees, three females entered the establishment, allegedly shoplifted products exceeding $400 in value, and then quickly departed the scene.
The investigation into this matter is currently underway, and individuals with any relevant information are urged to contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 31, at 6:50 p.m., law enforcement personnel were dispatched to Homesense at 56 Waterview Boulevard in response to a reported shoplifting incident.
The Loss Prevention Officer provided details, stating that two Caucasian males dressed in black had entered the store at approximately 1:20 p.m. on Thursday, January 25. They were alleged to have shoplifted merchandise valued at around $490 before departing the area.
The investigation into this matter remains ongoing. If you possess any pertinent information, please contact the Investigative Division of the Parsippany Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany teenager Eashan Iyer has earned a spot on the prestigious International Research Olympiad (IRO) leadership team, led by renowned Harvard researcher Rishab Jain, who is recognized as one of TIME’s 25 Most Influential Teens and America’s Top Young Scientist.
The IRO is changing the landscape for students in grades 6-12 seeking research opportunities at local universities and summer programs, equipping them with the necessary skills to make practical contributions. Eashan Iyer, a senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering in Rockaway, and an incoming student at Brown University’s Class of 2028, expressed his excitement about this pioneering competition and the opportunity to lead an international team of high school students.
The 2024 IRO, overseen by the Samyak Science Society, a nonprofit promoting science research and STEM education, aims to become a global science competition. It seeks to foster a passion for research worldwide, with plans for country-based open examinations, semi-finals, and finals to award future gold, silver, and bronze accolades. In the coming years, the IRO plans to conduct examinations on a country-by-country basis, host a camp, and hold finals at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA.
For more information, visit the International Research Olympiad website before the official registration opening in early February.
Eashan Iyer, part of the International Research Olympiad leadership team, manages a group of 10 students to develop the organization’s curriculum and create practice exam materials. He is a senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering with a keen interest in theoretical physics. In December 2022, he published his first research paper titled “Quantization of the ModMax Oscillator” in Physical Review D (PRD), a leading journal in physics. He is currently engaged in computational research in quantum cohomology and will attend Brown University in the fall of 2024 to continue his physics research and applied mathematics. Eashan is also an Eagle Scout and enjoys origami. Learn more about him by clicking here.
About the IRO: The International Research Olympiad is a groundbreaking competition promoting science research skills for students in grades 6-12. Administered by the parent nonprofit organization Samyak Science Society, the IRO aims to inspire the next generation of scientists. For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, contact iro@samyakscience.com.
PARSIPPANY — The residents along River Drive in Lake Hiawatha are earnestly urging the extension of the Flood Wall to cover the entire stretch of River Drive. The Rockaway River, an integral part of the Passaic River system, interconnects with various rivers and tributaries, influencing water flow in both directions.
Constructed in 1986 in compliance with state standards and Army Corps of Engineers’ specifications, the Lake Hiawatha Flood Wall was originally engineered to withstand a 100-year flood. However, recent changes in Lake Hiawatha’s flood risk due to shifting environmental factors have heightened concerns. Events of all kinds now pose a greater threat to properties within our community. Consequently, extending the current Flood Wall along River Drive is imperative.
As taxpayers and residents, we have a fundamental right to live without the constant fear of losing our homes or lives. Given the alterations in flood maps and climate patterns since the Flood Wall’s construction, it is now an urgent necessity for the Township of Parsippany Troy Hills to address the pressing flooding issue along the Rockaway River, which directly impacts the residents of River Drive in Lake Hiawatha. We implore the Township to promptly consider the construction of either an extended Flood Wall or a Flood Levee along the Rockaway River/River Drive.
We, the people of Lake Hiawatha, passionately request that the Township of Parsippany Troy Hills, a part of Morris County, take immediate action on this matter before a catastrophic event occurs. Please show your support by signing and sharing this petition by clicking here. Thank you for your cooperation.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany School District in New Jersey will receive $167,152 in funding from the state. This funding is part of a $75 million allocation by the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) to support emergent construction and capital needs in school districts across the state. These funds can be used for various purposes, including emergent or capital maintenance projects, offsetting eligible project or maintenance costs incurred during the current fiscal year, and addressing critical school infrastructure needs.
The funds may be directed towards projects such as:
Site upgrades
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) repairs or replacement
Renovations to the building envelope (masonry, roofing, etc.)
Safety and security enhancements
Building maintenance activities
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of improving education outcomes and ensuring safe and conducive classroom environments for students. Other Morris County Districts that will also receive funding from this allocation include East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover Township, Madison, Roxbury, Randolph, Montville, District of the Chathams, Denville, Bulter, and Kinnelon.
The funding aims to support necessary renovations and facility upgrades in school buildings across the state, with a focus on creating safe, secure, and supportive learning environments. The NJDOE website provides additional details on the funding available to local school districts for eligible project costs in this round of funding.
PARSIPPANY — Join the Golden Age Club of Saint Peters Today!
Are you someone who enjoys socializing and good company? If so, we extend a warm invitation to become a member of the Golden Age Club. The club offers a variety of activities, including luncheons, guest speakers, entertaining performances, exciting trips, and plenty of laughter.
Membership Requirements:
Age 60 and above
Resident of Parsippany
A penchant for socializing and connecting with others
Where: The Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.
When: The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.
Time: The gatherings start at 11:30 a.m., but on the next meeting day, February 5, we invite you to join us for coffee and cake at 11:00 a.m.
For any inquiries or to express your interest, please don’t hesitate to contact Doris O’Rourke via email at dior2m@yahoo.com.
PARSIPPANY — Join Saint Ann’s for the 2024 Fish & Chips Dinner on Friday, March 8. This delectable dinner will be catered by Argyles and held at the Parish Center, located at 781 Smith Road in Parsippany.
Here are the details:
•Take-out dinners can be picked up from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
•Sit-down dinners will be served from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
•Advance sale tickets are priced at $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for children.
•Tickets can be obtained after Mass on March 2nd, and 3rd, or at the Church Office.
•Please consider purchasing your tickets in advance, as only a limited number will be available on the day of the event.
The proceeds from this dinner will contribute to our charitable work.
For further information, please don’t hesitate to call us at (973) 884-1986. We look forward to sharing this delightful evening with you.
PARSIPPANY — Once upon a time, in a world filled with wagging tails and joyful barks, there lived a two-year-old Havanese named Vail. She is a little pup with a heart full of hope, seeking her forever home.
Vail longed for a home where patience and understanding would be her guiding stars. She needed time to build her confidence and emerge from her shell, but once she did, she promised to be the most loyal friend anyone could ever wish for. With her mostly calm and easygoing nature, she would be a perfect fit for a quiet, low-activity household.
Vail’s personality was as sweet as the honeyed sunshine, and her eyes held an eagerness to please and love like no other. She was incredibly clever and knew how to gently paw at you, asking for your attention and affection. Trust was her currency, and once she deemed you trustworthy, she would revel in belly scratches, ear massages, and holding “paws” with you. Vail’s heart was a snuggle enthusiast, and she always kept a watchful eye on her chosen person. Toys were a curiosity she was just beginning to explore, preferring the company of her human companion for playtime.
Around children, Vail’s timid side occasionally surfaced, making her more comfortable around kids above the age of 13. However, when it came to her fellow canines, she was all smiles and tail wags. Cats remained a mystery to her.
Vail had also learned the art of crate training. A few barks at first, but then she settled down and behaved quite nicely. House training was still a work in progress, but she was eager to please and showed enthusiasm for outdoor potty breaks.
In terms of training, Vail had never experienced the warmth of a home until her foster family took her in. Thus, she needed a patient owner who would help her blossom and continue her socialization journey. Walking on a leash was a skill she was mastering, and her intelligence and eagerness made her a quick learner. Already, she knew the command “sit” and responded well to a firm “no.”
Vail’s journey to finding her forever home was a story of resilience and hope. She had once been part of the heartbreaking world of puppy mills, where dogs were overbred and rejected for reasons beyond their control. Some were deemed undesirable due to birth defects or the wrong color of fur or eyes. Unwanted and unloved, these dogs faced a grim fate. But Vail was fortunate to find her way to WISE ANIMAL RESCUE, a compassionate haven that saved dogs like her from needless destruction.
Now, Vail was waiting patiently, her heart filled with hope, for that special family who would cherish her for the beautiful soul she was. To connect with WISE ANIMAL RESCUE and embark on the heartwarming journey of welcoming Vail into your home, click here to learn more about Vail.
PARSIPPANY — Many people don’t seem to mind dealing with the traffic, bridges, tunnels, parking, and what I find other inconveniences, that one can inevitably expect to encounter when treading over the state line to dine in one of those trendy, hot spot eateries in Manhattan. Don’t get me wrong, I also enjoy the City when I get there, but I don’t enjoy the trip.
The Social Hub by Dhaba, a relatively new to the area, Indian-inspired, multi-cuisine, sports-themed, premium restaurant and lounge has brought the same quality of food, service, and excitement you look for in NYC right here to Parsippany-Troy Hills with their new location on Route 46 East, taking over the location formerly occupied by Houlihan’s. I was fortunate to be at the Social Hubs soft opening in May of 2023 and it was time for a return visit.
The attention-grabbing artwork adorning the front coupled with the imaginative and playful art installations and embellishments thoughtfully scattered throughout the interior space.
It is notably rare to find a sports-themed Indian restaurant but to find one at this elevated level has to be unique. A definite Indian theme is prominent throughout the venue, yet as I stated, there is a definite NYC vibe and ambiance, particularly in the lounge area. You can’t help but be impressed with the interior décor and design. The softly lit lounge area is elegantly embellished with a warm and comfy cultured stone fireplace, brick veneer and off-white walls, a black ceiling with recessed lighting and ceiling fans, dark chocolate, soft wooden seating, and accents, with attractive upholstery. Romantic alcove seating and individual seating along the wall are available. Something for everyone’s preference. The utilization of color, design, Bollywood artwork, and ethnic garnishments certainly adds to the elegance of the upscale, yet casual, immaculately clean, and comfortable setting.
Executive Chefs Vivek Rana, Rakesh Prasad, Pat Minutillo, Bartender Pranay Raj and Manager Sharma
With soft-club/techno music comfortably playing in the background we chose to sit at their spacious, gorgeous rectangular bar for one of their signature cocktails, and to order a few appetizers, or as they listed them, “finger foods,” to later go into their separate dining area for our entrees. Bartenders Pranay Raj and Teresa Vaca were the best, amiable, helpful, and professional in helping us navigate through Social Hub’s menu options; an extensive menu filled with authentic Indian flavors in traditional and fusion dishes. I should note the menu also offers non-traditional food, veg and non-veg, including such things as onion rings, nachos, fish and chips, burgers, pizza, and pasta for those looking for other options.
While Pranay offered some requested suggestions for our appetizers, I was able to peruse the multiple large-screen televisions mounted throughout the restaurant. What a great place to catch your favorite game, be it football, baseball, cricket, or whatever!
Methi Murgh Tikka (a delicious, mildly flavored, boneless, white meat chicken curry dish)
I started with a Smokey Negroni (Rozaluna Mezcal, Campari, Sweet Vermouth), while my friend ordered a Spicy Mango Martini (Tito’s Vodka with Siracha, fresh lime, mango puree). Teresa prepared them perfectly. Delicious Negroni! I was also informed that all the bar ingredients at Social Hub are fresh and made in-house every day. The cocktail menu was just as impressive as everything else at Social Hub and included many unique and interesting libations, along with mocktails for those who prefer their drinks without alcohol. A large selection of draught beers, including IPAs, and craft selections are also available, and yes, you can even get a Guinness Irish Stout if that’s your preference. I did have to try a TAJ Mahal Premium Lager before I left.
Social Hub Cauliflower Manchurian (Fried Cauliflower tossed in Manchurian Sauce)
Our appetizers arrived quickly. We started with and shared, Veg Momos – Tandoori Flavored (Steamed Dumplings made with paneer, onion, ginger, and veggies in tandoori marination); Social Hub Cauliflower Manchurian (Fried Cauliflower tossed in Manchurian Sauce); Kat-E-Soya (Skewered soya chunks in a pickle marinade); and Methi Murgh Tikka (a delicious, mildly flavored, boneless, white meat chicken curry dish). Every dish was a treat! Packed with flavor! We both enjoyed every bite and even though we were both quite full, as every dish was plentiful, I insisted on having at least one of their entrees.
Kat-E-Soya (Skewered soya chunks in a pickle marinade)
As I stated earlier, initially we had planned on moving into the dining room for our entrée, but we were having such a good time at the bar we decided to finish off our meal there. For that entrée, we decided on Bhuna (a rich, bold, and flavorful, thick curry dish, cooked along with chicken). You have a choice of several proteins that you can have your Bhuna cooked with, including lamb, goat, shrimp, or veg. This dish was fantastic and came with sides of Basmati rice and Naan (for dipping into that wonderful sauce)! The taste created by the layers of spices was obvious. The taste was bold, rich, and spicy. Spicy, and yet quite mild, and it came covered in a deep, flavorful sauce. I would certainly order this dish again.
Veg Momos – Tandoori Flavored (Steamed Dumplings made with paneer, onion, ginger, and veggies in tandoori marination)
Never one to give up, we moved on to desserts. Once again, on Pranay’s suggestion, we went with the Tres Kesar Leches and the Social Falooda. The Milky Tres Kesar Leches was excellent. Spongy, rich, light, and soaked with a saffron-infused milk sauce, and topped with sweet fresh cream. Thumbs up on that one! Our second dessert, a Social Falooda, is a dessert I’ve never heard of, but it was delicious and a nice change of pace. It had a sweet and rosy floral flavor and was full of different textures. This dessert ice cream provided yet another layer of creaminess which complimented the vermicelli, basil seeds, and nuts that comprise this dessert. Great meal all around!
It’s no wonder Indian cuisine is growing so rapidly, not only in the U.S. but worldwide, and it is easy to understand why, considering the vibrant, complex flavors, bold spices, interesting textures, and aromatic fresh ingredients that this cuisine is known for. No doubt you will experience taste combinations and overlapping flavors unlike those you will find with any other cuisine in the world.
The Milky Tres Kesar Leches was excellent. Spongy, rich, light, and soaked with a saffron-infused milk sauce, and topped with sweet fresh cream. Thumbs up on that one!
Social Hub by Dhaba is brought to us by the Fine Indian Group. The group owns 11 restaurants in New York and New Jersey, with four in Parsippany. The ones in Parsippany include Jashan, Dhaba Express, LaZeez, and of course Social Hub. The interesting thing is that all their restaurants are unique in their way and each offers diners a different dining experience.
Looking for a great venue for date night, a place to catch a game, a place to meet and hang out with friends, have a business meeting, or just looking for a cool place to enjoy a great meal? Social Hub by Dhaba might be just what you’re looking for. Give it a try, I think you’ll enjoy your visit.
Social Hub by Dhaba, 1735 Route 46 East, Parsippany-Troy Hills. (862) 401-2800.
Social Hours Special Menu Available at Bar Every Weekday From 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Available for Events & Catering – Birthdays – Wedding Receptions – Corporate Events.
Celebrates all Traditional Indian Holidays (follow on social media for details)
Valet Parking on Weekend – Large Private Parking Lot – Outdoor Dining (weather permitting). Take Out
Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight and Friday and Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to read.
PARSIPPANY — During a routine patrol on the evening of Sunday, January 21, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Jesse Hughes noticed an individual, whom he recognized as homeless, peering out from the second-floor window of a commercial building located at 1259 Route 46 at 8:49 p.m.
Officers subsequently approached and identified the individual as Vrajesh Patel, a 33-year-old male. Following a brief investigation, it was determined that Patel had not unlawfully entered any locked offices within the building. However, it was discovered that he had been previously advised by the building owner not to enter the premises.
Further checks revealed that Patel had an active traffic warrant issued by the Hardyston Township Municipal Court, with bail set at $4,500, and an active criminal warrant for his arrest issued by the Parsippany Municipal Court for failure to appear.
Consequently, he was taken into custody and transported to the Parsippany Police headquarters. There, he was processed and provided with a new court date for the Parsippany warrant.
Subsequently, the Hardyston Police Department responded to Parsippany Police headquarters and took custody of Patel since he was unable to post bail. Notably, the building is largely vacant in preparation for its demolition to make way for the new Top Golf facility.
