Popular Romanian entertainers to perform tonight at Zeina
01/21/2011
Zeina welcomes Autentic, Bambi, Gheorghe Gheorghiu and Cristian Faur, four Romanian artists who are on tour in the States.
Owner said her goal is for the restaurant to become a destination place
(HIGHLAND PARK, NJ) Jan. 21, 2011 – It’s not unusual for Zeina Restaurant to have live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights, but the talent is normally local.
But tonight, Zeina is welcoming Autentic, Bambi, Gheorghe Gheorghiu and Cristian Faur, four Romanian artists who are on tour in the states.
“We’re very honored to have them perform at Zeina. These groups are really popular in Eastern Europe,” said Owner Chantal Popescu. “They travel throughout Eastern Europe, but they will be at Zeina. It’s another element that’s making Zeina a destination place.”
Popescu said the $20 tickets sold out in three days and she’s excited about tonight’s performance.
James McCrone, executive director of Main Street Highland Park, the non-profit that promotes businesses along Raritan Avenue, agreed that Zeina is becoming a destination.
“They continue to broadening their appeal with good food, a bar and quality entertainment. This is one more step in the evolution of Zeina into a destination restaurant,” he said.
In addition to the traditional Romanian live music, Zeina is building their clientele with a newly installed bar.
“It’s taking off slowly, but surely,” Popescu said. “The bar helps. It’s fun and we have great cocktails. We have two great bartenders who are developing a following because they make signature drinks.”
Popsecu said that 228 people packed into the restaurant on a Saturday night this month.
“That’s a lot people and that was on a cold night,” she said alluding to that business is usually down in the winter months. “It’s a compliment to the community.”
While tonight’s performance is sold out, you can visit Zeina at 441 Raritan Ave. in Highland Park Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 1-10 p.m.