Businesses Near MetLife Stadium Feel Impact of World Cup
Carlstadt, New Jersey — Many local businesses were hoping for a surge in customers during the World Cup, but it seems that excitement didn’t materialize. Instead, some establishments are struggling to stay afloat.
Steve’s Sizzling Steaks, located just five minutes from the stadium, has been a fixture on Route 17 since 1936. The restaurant is normally lively, but on match days, it resembles a ghost town. The manager, Henry Ditonto, reports a staggering 60% drop in business on those days, leading them to reduce staff.
The New Jersey Department of Transportation has issued alerts about heavy traffic and suggests drivers avoid certain routes on match days. One customer noted, “People are just steering clear. It’s like they’re all paying attention to the warnings, and it’s empty here.”
Ditonto expressed frustration, wondering why traffic concerns are suddenly a priority now when they hadn’t been in the past. To attract customers, the restaurant has even set up a live webcam on their website to show the empty parking lot, hoping it might encourage diners to stop by.
Despite the hope for an economic boost from the World Cup, Ditonto sensed trouble before the games began. He mentioned that when they approached nearby hotels about promoting their menus, they learned that the hotels were operating at only 40% capacity.
As the World Cup continues, local businesses reflect on missed opportunities and the unexpected challenges they face.
