Clark's Paragon Reopens Sept. 10 as American + Italian Gastropub

Paragon Tap & Table closed on Monday, August 24, 2026, to undergo a transformation that brings back celebrated chef Eric LeVine after an eight-year absence. The restaurant at 77 Central Avenue in Clark will reopen Thursday, September 10, 2026, as Paragon American + Italian Gastropub.

Owners Purvi Shah and Akik Shah brought LeVine back to lead the restaurant's evolution. "This isn't simply a menu update or renovation," the owners said in a statement. "We wanted to rethink what Paragon could be while keeping the welcoming, neighborhood feel that has always been important to us. Bringing Eric back gave us the opportunity to do that in a much bigger way."

LeVine's credentials span New York's finest kitchens. A Culinary Institute of America graduate, he began his career under chef David Burke at the River Café in New York City. He later served as chef de cuisine at the Marriott Marquis in Manhattan. LeVine won Food Network's Chopped in 2011, has authored multiple cookbooks, and has been invited to cook at the James Beard House. He played a role in developing Paragon's culinary identity when the restaurant first opened, making his return symbolically significant.

The new menu blends American gastropub fare with Italian and Italian-American flavors. Featured dishes include a Giant Meatball designed as a shareable portion for four, breakfast pasta with an Italian spin offered during weekend brunch, and pizza. A revamped beverage program adds new cocktails, craft beer, and wine selections.

Paragon sits just off the Garden State Parkway and draws diners from Clark and nearby communities including Westfield, Rahway, Cranford, and Scotch Plains. The restaurant's welcoming neighborhood atmosphere has made it a destination for a broad regional audience.

Union County Life covers Clark restaurants, businesses, and community dining. Find more Clark events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Deborah Smith

FAQ

Q: When does Paragon reopen in Clark?
A: Paragon Tap & Table closed August 24, 2026, for renovations and will reopen Thursday, September 10, 2026, as Paragon American + Italian Gastropub.

Q: Who is the chef at the new Paragon?
A: Chef Eric LeVine is returning to lead the restaurant after an eight-year absence. LeVine is a Culinary Institute of America graduate who has worked at the River Café in New York City under chef David Burke and served as chef de cuisine at the Marriott Marquis. He won Food Network's Chopped in 2011 and has authored multiple cookbooks.

Q: What is the new menu concept?
A: The new menu blends American gastropub fare with Italian and Italian-American flavors. Featured dishes include a Giant Meatball (shareable for four), breakfast pasta with Italian flavors during weekend brunch, and pizza.

Q: What is the new beverage program like?
A: The revamped beverage program includes new cocktails, craft beer, and wine selections.

Q: Why is chef Eric LeVine significant to Paragon's history?
A: LeVine played a role in developing Paragon's culinary identity when the restaurant first opened. His return after eight years brings a founder's vision back to lead the restaurant's transformation.

Q: Who are the owners of Paragon?
A: Purvi Shah and Akik Shah own Paragon American + Italian Gastropub. They brought chef LeVine back to rethink the restaurant while keeping its welcoming, neighborhood feel.

Q: Where is Paragon located and what communities does it serve?
A: Paragon is at 77 Central Avenue in Clark, just off the Garden State Parkway. It draws diners from Clark and nearby communities including Westfield, Rahway, Cranford, and Scotch Plains.