Dave & Busters allegedly set to open Newport Mall location
Dave & Buster’s, a leading player in the entertainment and dining sector, is reportedly considering establishing a new branch in Jersey City, New Jersey’s second-largest metropolis.
Sears, once a prominent fixture in American retail, declared the impending closure of its two-story Jersey City outlet within the Newport Centre complex this past month. This closing marks the final demise of Sears’ physical presence in the Garden State, with only 12 locations remaining nationwide.
Sources familiar with the situation allege that Dave & Buster’s is exploring the vacated Sears space as a potential location for its newest venture. The Texas-based chain, renowned for its unique blend of dining, arcade games, and sports viewing, recently launched an Atlantic City outpost in late 2023.
Obtaining a liquor license would be a prerequisite for Dave & Buster’s operation within the Newport Mall, and to date, no transfer application has been officially submitted. Notably, the mall currently possesses one non-active liquor license stemming from the 2023 closure of Kings of Kobe, a first-floor restaurant previously serving alcoholic beverages.
This potential Jersey City expansion would significantly enhance Dave & Buster’s footprint within New Jersey. Prior to a legislative revision during the Christie Administration, a state law prohibited the concurrent sale of alcohol and prize-issuing amusement games, thereby precluding Dave & Buster’s entry into the Garden State market. The 2017 repeal of this restriction facilitated the opening of the chain’s first New Jersey branch within Wayne’s Willowbrook Mall.
Sears’ impending departure from Jersey City signifies the conclusion of an era. The company, a mainstay at Newport Centre since 1987, is currently conducting a ‘going out of business sale’ with substantial discounts exceeding 70% off.
