BEHIND THE BUZZ: FOOD, COMMUNITY & AUTHENTICITY WITH KIM JANEL
If you’re a foodie in Mercer, Bucks, or Central New Jersey, chances are you’ve stumbled
across the vibrant online community Mercer Bucks and Central NJ Eateries. With nearly
36,000 members, this Facebook group has become a go-to resource for discovering
new local restaurants, supporting small businesses, and sharing the joy of food. In our latest episode of The Jersey Buzz Podcast, we sat down with the powerhouse
behind it all — Kim Janel.
FROM PHOTOS TO A MOVEMENT
Kim never set out to become a local tastemaker. Like many of us, she loved taking
pictures of food when dining out. But what started as a personal passion grew into
something much bigger: a thriving online hub that connects diners to hidden gems,
family-run restaurants, and neighborhood bars that often don’t have advertising
budgets.
“It’s not about writing reviews,” Kim explained. “It’s about sharing authentic experiences.
If you had a great meal, post it. If you didn’t, just move on.
The group is about positivity, discovery, and helping restaurants that give so much to
our communities.”
THE POWER OF LOCAL SUPPORT During the interview, Kim highlighted stories of small restaurant owners who went from kitchen experiments to multi-location success stories. From Hopewell to Newtown, from ghost kitchens to family-run gems, Kim has been there to cheer them on, spread the word, and help bring customers through the door.
And the community feels that impact. Whether it’s a converted church-turned-restaurant
in New Hope or a tiny neighborhood bar in Ewing, members share photos, menus, and
recommendations that reach over one million people a week.
“You’re not flipping burgers in the back, but by posting, you’re helping bring people
through the front door — and that changes everything.” – Kim Janel
FOOD, FAMILY, AND T-SHIRTS
One of the most heartwarming parts of our conversation? The story behind Kim’s “favorite T-shirt.” What started as a quirky family tradition of thrifting and collecting reunion tees turned into a fun twist for the podcast — encouraging guests to wear their favorite branded or meaningful shirts.
It’s these personal touches that make Kim’s story (and her group) so authentic. She’s not just building a food directory — she’s creating a movement of people supporting people.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Kim isn’t stopping at Facebook. She’s now launching a digital magazine to showcase
local eateries, highlight food culture, and keep the focus on community-driven content.
Just like the group, it will be colorful, positive, and built for the way people consume
content today — on their phones.
👉 Join the Facebook group: Mercer Bucks & Central NJ Eateries - https://bit.ly/Mercer_Bucks_CentralJersey_EateriesGroup
👉 Watch Interview with Favorite Bartender in Mercer Bucks & Central Jersey – “THE CAP”