It hit the local Facebook groups like a ton of bricks. One minute you're thinking about grabbing a drink at that familiar spot on the corner of Gaston and Union Avenues, and the next, there’s a "permanently closed" sign staring back at you from the internet. The social restaurant closure Somerville NJ wasn't just another business folding in a tough economy. It felt personal. For anyone who grew up in the area, this wasn't just Social; it was the evolution of a local landmark that had been part of the town's fabric for three full decades.
Honestly, the news felt abrupt to those of us just looking for a Friday night reservation. But if you talk to the Qiku family, the reality is a lot more human. This wasn't a case of a failing business or a sudden eviction. It was simply time for a break. After 30 years of late nights, holiday shifts, and the relentless grind of the service industry, owners John and Peggy Qiku decided to retire.
Why Social Actually Closed Its Doors
There’s always a rumor mill when a popular spot shuts down. People start whispering about rent hikes or staffing shortages. But Bekim Qiku, the owners' son, cleared the air pretty quickly. He told local reporters that the decision was centered around his parents finally getting some well-deserved rest.
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They started back on New Year’s Eve in 1994. Back then, it was Ciao Bello, a straight-up Italian joint. They fought the odds, survived the lean years, and eventually pivoted to the "Social" concept to keep up with changing tastes, adding sushi and more of a lounge vibe. To run a single restaurant for 30 years is a feat. To do it as a family—with sons Izzy and Bekim managing the floor—is a marathon.
The Retirement Factor
- Longevity: Thirty years in Somerville is an eternity in restaurant years.
- Family First: The family also operates Ovations in South Bound Brook. Managing two high-volume spots is a lot for any family to juggle.
- The Next Chapter: By closing Social, the family can focus their energy on Ovations while letting the parents actually enjoy their retirement.
A Look Back at the 156 North Gaston Avenue Legacy
You can't talk about the social restaurant closure Somerville NJ without mentioning the building itself. It’s a 4,239-square-foot space that’s seen a lot of history. It wasn't just a place to eat; it was where people went after engagements, for milestone birthdays, or just to catch up after not seeing each other for years.
The transition from Ciao Bello to Social was a gamble that actually worked. A lot of old-school Italian spots in New Jersey struggled to adapt to the "small plates and cocktails" era, but the Qikus managed to bridge that gap. They kept the soul of the place while modernizing the menu. Losing that middle ground—the spot that's nice enough for a date but casual enough for a burger—leaves a real hole in the Somerville dining scene.
What Happens to the Space Now?
So, what's next for that prime corner? The building at 156 N Gaston Ave was recently listed for sale, with an asking price around $1.3 million. That’s a significant chunk of change, but it includes the infrastructure of a fully functional restaurant and lounge.
There's also the matter of the liquor license. In New Jersey, those things are basically liquid gold. Bekim Qiku mentioned they were considering selling it, and in a town like Somerville, which is seeing a massive influx of luxury apartments and new developments, that license is a hot commodity. Don't be surprised if a new entrepreneur steps in soon to try something completely different with the space. The family has expressed a desire to "pass the torch" to someone with a fresh vision.
Where to Find Those Familiar Faces
If you’re mourning the loss of their Penne Vodka or the general vibe of the place, there’s a silver lining. The Qiku family isn't disappearing from the Somerset County food scene entirely.
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Ovations in South Bound Brook is still very much open.
A lot of the staff and the familiar faces you grew to love at Social have migrated over there. It’s only a few minutes down the road, and while the atmosphere isn't an exact replica, the DNA of the hospitality is the same. It’s where the "social" spirit lives on, just under a different roof.
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Actionable Steps for Former Social Patrons
If you’re feeling the void left by the social restaurant closure Somerville NJ, here’s how you can navigate the change:
- Visit Ovations: If you want to support the Qiku family and see the old crew, head to 295 Canal Rd in South Bound Brook. It's the best way to say thanks for the 30 years they gave to Somerville.
- Watch the Gaston Ave Space: Keep an eye on local permits. With the building on the market, the next "it" spot in Somerville is likely already in the planning stages for that corner.
- Explore the "New" Somerville: While Social is gone, the downtown area is booming. Spots like Alfonso’s (which recently bounced back from a major flood) are still anchors for the community.
- Check Your Gift Cards: If you have old gift cards, your best bet is to reach out via the Ovations contact info to see if they’ll honor them at the sister location. Most family-run spots are pretty cool about this during a transition.
The end of Social marks the end of a specific era of Somerville nightlife. It was a place where generations of families grew up—kids who came in as babies eventually came back as adults to buy their first legal drink. While the closure is bittersweet, it’s a rare "happy ending" in the restaurant world: a family leaving on their own terms, with their legacy intact and a new chapter ahead.