Urban Edge Properties has officially announced a major addition to the local dining scene: The Mango People Collective is bringing a new, full-service Indian restaurant and bar to The Plaza at Woodbridge.
The 9,462-square-foot eatery will occupy the standalone building on Route 1 formerly home to TGI Fridays. The move signals a strategic shift for the shopping center, replacing a traditional casual dining chain with a high-growth, modern ethnic concept that blends authentic cuisine with a sports-focused atmosphere.
The Mango People Collective (formerly known as the Fine Indian Dining Group) is a powerhouse in the regional culinary world. The family-owned group is behind some of the most highly rated Indian spots in the tri-state area, including:
- Social Hub and Jashan in Parsippany
- Dhaba, with popular locations in both Parsippany and New York City
For co-founders Ankush and Avineet Punhani, the Woodbridge opening is more than just a business expansion—it’s a homecoming.
“When our dad immigrated to the U.S., he chose New Jersey to build a life for our family. Woodbridge is where he was given his first real opportunity,” the Punhanis said in a joint statement. “This expansion and return to Woodbridge is a full-circle, ‘pinch-me’ moment for us.”
The Plaza at Woodbridge is already one of the most heavily trafficked open-air centers in the region, boasting a tenant list that includes Best Buy, Raymour & Flanigan, Ross, and the recently opened Trader Joe’s.
By adding a full-service restaurant and bar centered around sports, Urban Edge Properties is aiming to increase the center’s “dwell time”—the amount of time customers spend on-site.
“The Mango People Collective is a top-quality operator,” Josh Birns, SVP of Leasing at Urban Edge Properties said. “We are anticipating a full-service restaurant and bar centered around sports which creates another compelling reason for the community to visit the center.”
Situated on the highly competitive Route 1 corridor, The Plaza at Woodbridge sits directly across from the Woodbridge Mall and just two miles from Menlo Park Mall. The addition of a specialized, modern Indian concept allows the center to differentiate itself from the standard food court offerings at the neighboring enclosed malls.
The deal was facilitated by William Lenaz of Bennett Realty & Development, representing the tenant, while Urban Edge’s in-house team managed the transaction for the property.
Additional details regarding the restaurant’s name and official opening date are expected to be released in the coming months.
