TEMPTING TASTINGS:  “We are always planning to expand with new acquisitions and openings,” says Eben Copple, Genesis Hospitality Group’s director of hospitality. Proof Pizza on Nassau Street is one of Genesis’ popular eateries. Shown in the photo are such favorites as the Porky Pie (top left), Autostrada (top right), and Puglia Pie (bottom left). Both slices and pies are on the menu, and made with the freshest ingredients.

By Jean Stratton

New acquisitions, new ideas, and new concepts are the driving force behind Genesis Hospitality Group.

Headquartered in Hamilton, the company owns more than nine restaurants, bars, bakeries, inns, and boutique hotels in the area. In Princeton, the number includes The Peacock Inn, Chez Alice, Bread Boutique, and Proof Pizza.

Its first acquisition was the Washington Crossing Inn in 2009, followed by The Yardley Inn, Di Bartolo European Bakery in Haddonfield and Collingswood, and recently the Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn.

A division of Genesis Biotechnology. which is also headquartered in Hamilton, Genesis Hospitality came about because of the intention of Genesis Biotechnology’s CEO Eli Mordechai, Ph.D., to offer diversity and explore new concepts.

New Acquisitions

“It was Dr. Mordechai’s idea to branch out and provide these new acquisitions,” explains Genesis Director of Hospitality Eben Copple.

A former chef, Copple has been with Genesis since 2018. Previously he was chef at several restaurants in New York City, and for many years at The Yardley Inn.

The opportunity to join Genesis offered a new adventure, he says. “The development has been one of the exciting aspects of the business for me. It’s fun to create a new experience for people to enjoy. We are set apart because we always look for something different to contribute to each location. Our restaurants, bakeries, and hotels are not like other places. We strive to be different, with high quality and excellent service.” Genesis owns each site, he points out, but each entity operates independently.

Keeping costs down for customers while offering a variety of dining experiences is important, he adds. “We have made an effort to keep our prices affordable, and at the same time continue to offer the highest quality dining opportunities and service. We are also very proud of our staff members. Many have been with us for a long time.”

And there is always something new on the agenda, he adds. Currently, plans are underway for the Nassau Diner, expected to open in May at 82 Nassau Street.

Art and Science

People love diners, notes Copple. They can bring back memories of fun times, and it’s always good to have another informal eatery when you’re in the mood for something casual.

Next door to the proposed new diner is Proof Pizza at 84 Nassau Street, which opened in 2020. “The Proof is in the Pizza” is its motto, and as its website  points out, “At Proof, baking pizza is both an art and a science. Our menu is rooted in seasonality, using many fresh, local vegetables and herbs in peak season to showcase vibrant colors and crisp refreshing flavors. Whether you are seeking traditional New York style pizza, farmstead-inspired vegan pies, or thoughtfully-sourced salads, there is something for everyone.”

“We think it is the best pizza around,” says Wayne Susser, Genesis assistant hospitality director. “We have a lot of variety, it’s high quality, and our pizza is very different. It’s the way we make the dough, with its two-day fermentation, and our crispier crusts.”

Among the most popular pizzas are the square-shaped Brooklyn and the Truffle, with arugula and roasted mushrooms. A variety of toppings — from tomatoes, olives, onions and peppers to pepperoni, sausage, pork roll, and bacon — are available, and both slices and full pies are popular.

Variety and Excellence

Sandwiches, salads, desserts, and bottled drinks are on the menu as well, and the bright attractive setting with its interesting decor invites customers to spend time as they enjoy one of the artisanal pizzas. Seating is available for 28 with additional tables outdoors during warm weather. Takeout is another popular option.

The other Princeton locations all have devoted fans, including the new Bread Boutique, which opened last year. The Peacock Inn and Chez Alice are well-established mainstays in town, and also serve to demonstrate Genesis Hospitality Group’s commitment to variety and excellence.

“Princeton is an important location for us, and we are committed to crafting exceptional experiences for our guests,” emphasizes Copple. “Our priority is to make every day better than the day before and to continue to meet our standards.

“In addition, we look forward to becoming an integral part of the community. We support various organizations and charities in the community, and we always want to have a relationship with the town we are in. As we look ahead, we hope to serve even more customers, and introduce them to our special signature service.”

For more information about Genesis Hospitality Group, visit genesis-hospitality.com or email at info@genesis-hospitality.com.