In Edgewater, New Jersey, a celebration went down that was as unforgettable as the music it was inspired by. Publicist Lynn Hobson gathered friends and colleagues at Life After Restaurant & Lounge to honor Courtney Brown, Editor at The Source, with a birthday brunch that perfectly blended food, culture, and Hip-Hop.
From the moment guests walked into the sleek restaurant, it was clear that this wasn’t just another brunch—it was an experience. Owners Jas and O set the tone, laying out an atmosphere that paid homage to the Notorious B.I.G., Courtney’s favorite rapper of all time. A neon sign glowing over the bar read: “We sip champagne when we’re thirsty!”—a reminder that every corner of the venue echoed the energy of Biggie’s legacy.
Life After’s Prix Fixe Brunch Menu added its own rhythm to the day. Dishes like the “Waffle Anthem”—cornbread waffles topped with buttermilk-brined chicken drizzled in honey-infused syrup—and the “Wu Wings,” tossed in bold flavors like Lemon Pepper and Honey Ginger Bourbon, brought Hip-Hop to the plate.
But the standout was the “Steak, Cheese & Eggs with Welch’s Grape”—a direct nod to one of Biggie’s most quoted rhymes. Juicy grilled steak with fluffy scrambled eggs, served alongside an ice-cold glass of Welch’s Grape juice, gave guests not just a meal but a lyrical moment they could taste. It was the type of dish that reminded everyone why the restaurant’s Biggie theme hit differently.
Other menu highlights like “Eggs Benny From The Bronx” and “Shorty Stacks Pancakes” carried a Bronx-to-Brooklyn vibe that tied the entire experience together, ensuring each bite connected back to the culture.
Courtney Brown, known for her sharp editorial vision and dedication to pushing Hip-Hop culture forward, was celebrated in a way that truly reflected her impact. Surrounded by friends, colleagues, and the beats of the greatest to ever do it, Courtney’s brunch was less about formality and more about family—one that has been built through years of Hip-Hop storytelling.
As glasses were raised, it wasn’t just a birthday toast. It was a recognition of Hip-Hop’s legacy and a salute to editors, writers, and culture keepers like Courtney who make sure the stories live on.
Life After Restaurant & Lounge, with Jas and O at the helm, delivered a brunch that was part feast, part tribute, and all Hip-Hop. Just like Biggie once said, “Spread love, it’s the Brooklyn way.” And on this day in Edgewater, that love was spread in Courtney’s honor.
by Lynn Hobson