Where Hylan Blvd Begins…

Just off the corner of Bay Street & Hylan Boulevard is J’s on the Bay.
This is where Hylan Blvd. begins and Alice Austen ends.

This is where Chef Joe creates his seasonal master pieces.

Yes, yes, we all have that ONE DISH,
we ALL do that we ALL think is amazing.
However, do know that here is a huge
difference between a basic line cook
who works a kitchen and the trained chef.

Chef Joe Salimeni is a celebrated culinary figure known for his inventive flair, deep respect for fresh ingredients, and a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. 

Born into an Italian family that valued food as the heart of human connection, Joe Salimeni’s early experiences revolved around home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. 

Over the years, Joe has carved a niche for himself in the gastronomic world by blending his classical Italian Heritage and (French Culinary Institute) training with a modern, contemporary sensibility that resonates with both seasoned gourmets and elevated casual restaurants. 

These early, formative moments planted seeds into a lifelong passion for the culinary arts. After completing his formal education, he pursued professional training at one of this nation’s top culinary schools: the French Culinary Institute. There, Salimeni honed his technique under the mentors who taught him discipline, respect for seasonal produce, and the intricate balance between temperature, flavor and presentation.

Joe studied under Chef Craig Koketsu of the Quality Branded/Meats‘ (restaurant group).

Salimeni’s career took off in a series of acclaimed restauranteurs where his technical precision and artistic imagination began to draw attention. Whether crafting intricate tasting menus or designing bold new interpretations of classic dishes, his approach was always rooted in curiosity. 

Executive Chef Mike
said of Joe’s cuisine:

Chef Joe’s warm personality and devotion to
his craft are evident in every delicious dish,
showcasing a true mastery of culinary art.”

Chef Mike

His food is not just sustenance but a form of storytelling—a visual exploration of texture, memory, and creativity that reflects his journey through kitchens around New York City.

Joe became known for taking humble ingredients and transforming them into extraordinary experiences. His plating style—clean, elegant, and intentional—reflects a belief that food should appeal to all the senses. Each dish tells a story that lingers from the first to the last bite.

Central to Chef Salimeni’s philosophy is the idea that great cooking connects real people. He believes food has the power to transcend boundaries and spark genuine human connection. In his kitchen(s), collaboration is paramount. He nurtures young chefs and encourages them to experiment fearlessly, viewing mistakes not as failures but as opportunities for new discovery. This spirit of mentorship has shaped dozens of emerging talents in the culinary industry, many of whom credit Salimeni for instilling in them the confidence to create and innovate.

Beyond the restaurant scene, Salimeni has become an advocate for sustainability and responsible food sourcing. He partners with local farmers and artisans to ensure his ingredients are fresh, ethical, and environmentally responsible.

Additionally, his commitment extends to the Staten Island community and it is through these efforts, he continues to influence how chefs think about their role beyond the kitchen walls. Chef Joe Salimeni remains humble.

For him, success is not measured solely in recognition but in the reaction of a patron’s dining experience, who finds joy in his culinary creations. His work exemplifies the harmony between creativity and craft, tradition and innovation, artistry and authenticity.

J’s on the Bay have a full bar that serves craft cocktails.
Yes, they serve both alcohol and hard liquor.
Reviewers have praised the cocktails, calling
them “top notch” and “phenomenal“. They also
offer wine, beer, sangria, and classic drinks like
the Bloody Mary. The bar is known for its…

Signature Cocktails: 

• Kentucky Bourbon Mule: Mitcher’s bourbon with ginger beer, lime, and mint. 
• J’s Collin: Hendricks Gin with cucumber, agave, basil, and club soda. 
• Mia Rita: 1800 Blanco Tequila with Mia’s Mix, lime, and Tajin. 
• Pina – Penorita: 1800 Blanco Tequila with jalapeno, pineapple, and Tajin.

Today, Chef Joe Salimeni stands as one of the culinary world’s more respected voices. He is both critical and discerning. His dedication to excellence and education, combined with his deep-rooted love for the art of food preparation, has left an enduring mark on modern Staten Island cuisine. In every dish he creates, there is a reflection of his journey—a reminder that food, at its best, is both an act of love and the legacy of imagination.

CONTACT

WHY & WHAT : It’s a Gourmet Eatery.
WHO & WHAT : Chef Joe Salimeni
WHERE : 1189 Bay Street, Staten Island, NY 10305
WHEN : Right Now or early Tomorrow.
Email : chefjoe@jsonthebaysiny.com
HOW : Walk, run, bike, car, trolley, ferry
CALL : (718) 720-0922

R . S . V . P . Open Table
Instagram: @jsonthebaysiny

by Breuk Iversen
SI-nyc.com + siff.nyc + 8grape.com

House of 8grape