American Dream Mall: Legal Battle & New Kosher Spot

American Dream Mall continues to make headlines, caught in a fierce legal dispute over New Jersey's controversial Blue Laws while simultaneously expanding its dining options with the opening of a new kosher burger spot. This megamall in East Rutherford is at the center of a battle between commercial interests and century-old regulations, all while attracting visitors with fresh culinary experiences.

The Sunday Showdown: Blue Laws Lawsuit

In a move that has drawn national attention, American Dream Mall is challenging a lawsuit filed by Paramus officials over the mall's decision to remain open on Sundays. Bergen County's Blue Laws, dating back to the early 18th century, prohibit non-essential retail operations on Sundays to provide a weekly day of rest and alleviate traffic congestion in the retail-heavy region. However, American Dream argues it operates on state-owned land, exempting it from these local regulations—comparing its status to MetLife Stadium, where team merchandise is sold during Sunday games.

Paramus, home to three other malls that comply with the Blue Laws, sued the mall's developer (Ameream) and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) in August 2025. The borough seeks compliance and escalating fines for violations. In response, both defendants have filed motions to dismiss the case, asserting that Paramus lacks jurisdiction over state property and cannot demonstrate direct harm from the mall's Sunday operations.

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco criticized the mall's actions, stating: "When American Dream was preparing to open, its operators personally assured me and the state that they would honor the Sunday closing law... They broke that promise." The legal saga continues with court hearings scheduled for January 2026, leaving the mall's Sunday operations in limbo.

New Flavor: Smash & Grab Kosher Burger Launch

Amid the legal turbulence, American Dream is sweetening its appeal to visitors with the grand opening of Smash & Grab, a kosher burger spot in its Kosher Food Court. Operated by Chickies, the fast-casual counter replaces the former Falafel & Chips location and adds a made-to-order dining option for mall-goers.

Smash & Grab's menu features indulgent options like:

• Signature Smashes: Classic Smash ($14), Double Trouble ($20), and the decadent American Dream ($25)—a beef patty topped with grilled onions, a fried egg, pastrami, and cheese.
• Creative Sides: Frickle Chips (Cajun-spiced pickle chips), Truffle Fries, and a Bloomin' Onion ($16).
• Over-Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Including Chopped Cheese ($15) and Mushroom & Truffle ($15) varieties.

All offerings are Kof-K kosher-certified, catering to Jewish dietary laws and expanding the mall's diverse culinary landscape. This addition aligns with American Dream's strategy to blend entertainment, shopping, and dining into a year-round destination, even as it navigates regulatory challenges.

What's Next for American Dream?

As the Blue Laws lawsuit unfolds, American Dream's future hinges on judicial rulings that could set precedents for retail operations on state land. Meanwhile, attractions like Smash & Grab underscore the mall's commitment to innovation and inclusivity. Whether you're drawn by legal drama or delicious burgers, American Dream remains a focal point of New Jersey's commercial and cultural scene.

[IMAGE_1: Exterior of American Dream Mall at night with illuminated signage]

[IMAGE_2: Close-up of a Smash & Grab burger with pastrami and fried egg]