Everyone loves a makeover. We all love to see someone or something go from good to great. This is exactly what has happened to the Hard Grove Café, a legendary Cuban restaurant across the street from the Grove Street PATH station.

What used to be an overly kitsch, jungle-themed resto, with monkeys and coconuts hanging over each table, has been transformed into a trendy, eclectic, and classy establishment.

Evelyn Padin and Carmen Mendiola bought the restaurant in 2005 from its original owner, Domenick Santana, and you can definitely see the feminine influence. Flowing white curtain panels separate the interior dining room from the bar area. The walls are painted a bright, summery yellow and feature colorful art pieces that depict the island of Cuba and its environs. Each individual tabletop has been beautifully designed by a different commissioned artist. Even the screen door frame showcases the signature drawings of Keith Haring.

Hard Grove Café's menu impresses as well. You'll find most of your favorite Cuban dishes right alongside some of your favorite Mexican flavors. One of Hard Grove Café's most unique offerings is the Cuban Skillet, featured on the restaurant's brunch menu. A bed of home fried potatoes is topped with layers of cheddar cheese, onions, peppers, scrambled eggs and bacon, then served on a hot, sizzling skillet.

When the sun goes down, the party really gets started at the Hard Grove Cafe. Nightly happy hour, frequent live music and dancing are a part of the long history of this establishment. The spirit of Cuba is alive and well in Jersey City.

Hard Grove Café

319 Grove Street

201.451.1853