The Journal Square PATH Plaza isn’t the only spot in Jersey City’s historic heart that’s getting some new food options. A burger franchise that first started in Israel will be opening later this year on the ground floor of a revamped office building.

Last summer, we reported on plans to activate the streetscape at 2 Journal Square. Built in 1987, the renovation currently underway is focused on converting the property’s ground floor into retail space, adding outdoor seating and a new buffer area between the building and JFK Boulevard.

BurgerIM, who dub themselves the “fastest-growing national gourmet burger franchise,” is the first tenant to secure space in the new digs. The Journal Square location is owned by George Mikhael and Oliver Hanna, who are both JC locals. For the pair, bringing the restaurant to Journal Square is personal.

“I’ve always wanted to create job opportunities in the heart of the community which I grew up in,” said Mikhael. “As a foodie and lover-of-all-burgers, I strongly believe that after a long day of hard work, there’s nothing a good burger can’t fix.”

Hanna, his business partner, echoed the sentiment. “I’m always looking for ways to give back,” he said. “I’ve been blessed to be able to bring BurgerIM to Jersey City and to have the opportunity to increase employment and provide the community with a unique place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.” For their part in supporting the city, the Journal Square BurgerIM will offer 50% discounts on meals for all on-duty first responders and 10% off for all off-duty first responders.

BurgerIM will be setting up shop in about 2,000 square feet of space at 2 Journal Square to sell their trademark burgers, which are Halal-certified and slightly bigger than sliders. The restaurant boasts eleven different patties ranging from upscale wagyu beef, angus, or Spanish beef to salmon, veggie, vegan, or falafel. Toppings like sautéed mushrooms, pineapple, avocado, and sunny-side-up eggs complement the burgers, while sides like circular-cut fries, onion rings, meaty wings, and salads round out the menu.

BurgerIM’s impending arrival will give them outposts in both of New Jersey’s largest cities, as we reported last year that a Newark location was in the works at 98 Halsey Street. Jersey City’s BurgerIM is targeting a fall 2019 opening.

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