Butcher Shop Evolves into Deli and Cafe

The former at 918 Washington Street is currently undergoing a transformation into the new Cugini Kitchen. Once the project is completed the former butcher turned deli and cafe will have a new menu featuring sandwiches, pastries and coffee, with seating to serve customers who want to dine inside.

Co-owner Todd Baily said the transformation began in late February. Baily bought the business with his partners Maria Hojnowski, Veronica Mijares and Augie Ramirez. Ramirez worked at the location when it was Joe's.

Baily said he and his partners bought the business as the previous owner was ready to sell.

“A butcher is one of those professions that isn't lucrative anymore,” Baily said. “A cafe works a lot better.”

Baily also owns the Hoboken Catering company. He said Cugini will serve as a retail arm of that operation.

“A lot of people have been coming in,” Baily said. “There's a lot of foot traffic and people looking in the window and asking what's going on.”

Baily said that since the renovation began customers have been coming in for breakfast and lunch especially, and that among them were many local workers and students from nearby Stevens Institute of Technology.

Cugini, which is the Italian word for cousin, is decorated with vintage pieces and work by local artists, which Baily said is for sale.

Baily said he and his partners will continue to renovate the location, including altering the present counter space, re-purposing fixtures and installing new signage.

Coming soon: two new home décor stores open and a craft shop moves.

The Business Beat covers businesses opening, closing, renovating, relocating and celebrating anniversaries in the Mile Square. Have a Hoboken related business tip? Send an email to alanskontra@hotmail.com.