Food Network Champion Returns to Clark's Paragon After 8 Years

Chef Eric LeVine, a Food Network "Chopped" champion, is returning to Clark after an eight-year absence to reopen the restaurant at 77 Central Avenue. The venue, formerly known as Paragon Tap & Table, will relaunch as Paragon An American Italian Gastro Pub, blending classic American gastropub fare with Italian-inspired dishes.

Union County Life is covering this business reopening as part of our ongoing coverage of downtown development, economic development, and local dining across all 21 Union County municipalities.

LeVine is partnering with Purvi Shah and Akik Shah on the relaunch. The collaborative team brings restaurant expertise and a clear vision for the revitalized concept. The new Paragon represents more than a change in name or menu—it signals a return of professional culinary leadership to a Clark dining destination.

The restaurant is expected to reopen on September 10, 2026. The American Italian Gastro Pub concept positions Paragon in a competitive dining landscape where restaurants increasingly blend cuisines and cooking styles. The gastropub model emphasizes elevated comfort food and craft beverages, appealing to diners seeking quality dining experiences in neighborhood settings.

LeVine's "Chopped" championship credentials bring professional credibility and media recognition to the Clark reopening. His background in competitive cooking and Food Network exposure provide a marketing foundation as the restaurant launches and builds its customer base.

The return of an established restaurant location with new professional leadership and refined concept contributes to Clark's downtown dining vitality and represents the kind of business investment that strengthens community commercial corridors.

Explore Clark businesses, dining, and economic development news on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: When is Paragon reopening in Clark?
A: Paragon An American Italian Gastro Pub is expected to reopen on September 10, 2026, at 77 Central Avenue in Clark.

Q: Who is reopening Paragon?
A: Chef Eric LeVine, a Food Network "Chopped" champion, is reopening Paragon after an eight-year absence from Clark. He is partnering with Purvi Shah and Akik Shah on the relaunch.

Q: What will Paragon's new concept be?
A: The relaunched restaurant will operate as an American Italian Gastro Pub, blending classic American gastropub fare with Italian-inspired dishes.

Q: What was Paragon called before?
A: The restaurant was previously known as Paragon Tap & Table.

Q: Where is Paragon located?
A: Paragon is located at 77 Central Avenue in Clark, New Jersey.

Q: What makes Eric LeVine notable?
A: Eric LeVine is a Food Network "Chopped" champion, bringing professional culinary credentials and media recognition to the restaurant reopening.

Q: What is a gastropub?
A: A gastropub is a restaurant that combines gastropub atmosphere and service style with elevated comfort food and craft beverages, offering quality dining experiences in neighborhood settings.