Here's Why This Surf And Turf Spot Chose Summit For Its New Location

SUMMIT, NJ — A restaurant known for its lobster rolls, burgers and seafood favorites is preparing to open a new location in Summit, and owner Greg Markarian said the city stood out for more than just its downtown storefronts.

Jack's Surf & Turf, which operates locations in Montclair and Short Hills, is bringing its first fast-casual concept to Summit. The new restaurant will focus primarily on takeout and quick service while offering many of the menu items customers have come to know from its full-service locations.

"Summit felt like the perfect fit for our next chapter," Markarian said. "We've built a loyal customer base throughout the area, and many of our guests already come from Summit and the surrounding communities."

Markarian said the decision came down to the city's strong sense of community and the opportunity to create a restaurant that fits into the day-to-day routines of local residents.

"As a small independent business, we look for communities where we can become part of the neighborhood, and Summit immediately felt like one of those places," he said. "The downtown energy, strong sense of community, and family-oriented atmosphere made Summit an easy choice."

The Summit location will feature a streamlined menu built around some of the restaurant's most popular offerings, including lobster rolls, premium burgers, fish and chips, lobster bisque and chowders.

"We wanted to create a place where parents can grab dinner after a busy day, commuters can pick up a meal on the way home, and families can enjoy quality food without the time commitment of a full-service restaurant," Markarian said.

The opening marks the third location for Jack's Surf & Turf, but it also represents a new chapter for the business.

"This location is our first fast-casual concept, designed primarily for takeout and quick service," Markarian said. "It's a different format, but the same commitment to quality ingredients, scratch-made recipes, and hospitality that built our brand."

Markarian said growing the business was never the original goal when he opened the first restaurant.

"When I started Jack's, I wasn't thinking about multiple locations," he said. "I was focused on serving great food, treating people well, and building something the community could be proud of."

He added that opening in Summit carries personal significance.

"My father taught me the value of hard work and treating people right, and those lessons have shaped every step of this journey," Markarian said. "Opening in Summit is a milestone I wish my father could have seen, and it means a great deal to me personally."

Among the restaurant's most popular menu items are its lobster rolls, which Markarian said are built around a simple philosophy.

"The secret is actually pretty simple: start with great lobster and don't overcomplicate it," he said. "A great lobster roll should let the lobster be the star."

For those unfamiliar with the restaurant, Markarian describes it this way: "Jack's Surf & Turf is a family-friendly neighborhood spot serving Maine-style lobster rolls, great burgers, and quality food that makes every meal feel a little like a vacation."

Jack's is set to open in the coming weeks.