MARCH UPDATE! Maplewood at Moorestown Mall will be closing on Sunday, March 8th! A bit sooner than anticipated. PLUS The Ember Note WILL NOT be opening in its place!
BREAKING NEWS: Joe Italiano’s Maplewood restaurant at the Moorestown Mall will close its doors on March 31, 2026, after over six years at the mall. It was not able to reach a suitable lease extension agreement with mall management.
Despite reporting the unhappy news of Maplewood’s imminent closure, owner Jimmy Italiano was pleased to confirm that the space will be home to an exciting new concept.
A jazz-centered dining venue called The Ember Note is set to take over the current bar and restaurant space, with a planned transition period in 90 days.
Maplewood will continue normal operations through March 31 to ensure a smooth handoff for staff, guests, and the incoming ownership team. The Maplewood name at the mall will be officially retired after that date, with the venue expected to fully reflect its new identity beginning April 1, 2026.
The Ember Note aims to introduce a fresh and immersive experience to the area, focused on live jazz and elevated dining. Planned renovations include adding a performance stage, lighting, and sound systems. During the renovation period, the bar area is expected to remain open, providing continued employment to its current staff.
Jimmy and his son Justin will work closely with The Ember Note team throughout the transition, and mall leadership has expressed confidence in their ability to help guide the changeover. The new concept is expected to retain staff who wish to stay aboard and bring additional job opportunities as it prepares to launch.
“At The Ember Note, our vision is to create a warm, welcoming destination where exceptional cuisine and enchanting live jazz come together,” said Todd T. Whitmore, Executive Partner at The Ember Note. “We’re investing in thoughtful renovations, including a state-of-the-art performance stage, dynamic lighting, and premium sound systems to elevate every guest experience.”
“As we begin this exciting new chapter, we remain deeply committed to honoring the sense of community and outstanding service that Joe Italiano’s Maplewood has long represented in Moorestown. We look forward to introducing a refined yet approachable space where fine dining meets captivating music, and where unforgettable moments are made. We can’t wait to welcome the community and share more details in the months ahead.”
Further details about The Ember Note’s opening timeline and programming are expected to be announced in the coming months. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
Yes, while the news is very sad that Maplewood’s days at the Moorestown Mall are numbered, there should also be excitement about what is to come. It will add a new vibrancy to the Mall, which has already seen some rousing additions, and with more to come!
In the meantime, please visit Joe Italiano’s Maplewood in Moorestown a few more times and be sure to send them off on a high note for the next 90 days. Let’s show them the love!
Of course, you will still be able to enjoy legendary Italian dining at Joe Italiano’s Maplewood locations in Hammonton and Mays Landing after March 31.
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