Today is Father’s Day, and in dedication we wanted to dedicate this month’s babes of Jersey City to local hot dads doing their thing. They are all so cute!! Meet the 14 dads who made our list:

Eddie Gonzalez – @Itsjust_eddie

My name is Eddie, I’m 29, and I’m the General Manager of one of the best bar/restaurants in Jersey City. Aside from managing full time, I’m a full time Dad. I’m an avid hiker or anything outdoorsy, into fitness/working out. Aside from that, I love spending time with my perfect boy.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I currently am the GM of SOUTH HOUSE. I’m in the process of studying for my NASM Certification. I plan to continue studying and to potentially work with young athletes or anything in that nature.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

One of my favorite places to hangout and eat because of the great food, drinks and atmosphere, is Low Fidelity (LoFi) in the Heights.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

Honestly, I’m flattered. It’s weird lol

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

After becoming a Father on May 16th, 2016 – which is my birthday as well, yes we share a birthday – it made me feel like I had to really raise the bar and work harder and set the best example for my son.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

– I hate olives

– I’ve never watched Scarface

– I really dislike bugs

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

The craziest thing I‘ve ever done is bungee jump in Mexico off a cliff in Playa Mujeres. Planning to go skydiving this summer…

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I love the diversity and how it’s a very big and small town, It’s like a big family. If that makes sense lol

What do you love most about being a dad?

Where do I begin? I love every single thing about it! I love teaching Noah everything there is to know. I love teaching him to use his scooter, how to say thank you and please and nice to meet you. I love him waking me up in the morning wanting waffles and ice cream. (He doesn’t get the ice cream) I love playing with him until he gets tired. I love how much he loves me and trusts me. This isn’t a fair question for any dad because we can go on and on.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Be genuine, kind, and humble.

Javier Ortiz – @jav_legend

I was born and raised in downtown JC. Back then it was NOTHING like it is today, so my parents moved us to the ‘burbs.  Fast forward 20+ years later, and now I’m raising my daughters (2 & 5) in the same neighborhood I grew up in! Except instead of opening up the hydrant on hot summer days, they get to cool off in the fancy Hamilton Park playground.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I work in Supply Chain for a top 10 Fortune 500 company and I dabble in entrepreneurship.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

XP Rooftop has one of the best views in JC and the vibe is dope.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

Awesome! Props to Chicpea for showing the hardworking dads some love as well.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Being a dad to two young girls comes with enormous responsibility. I am teaching them the kind of respect and attention they deserve so that when they’re much older and start dating, they will not accept anything less than the treatment they have experienced with me. Constantly raising the bar and striving to be the best version of myself contributes to my “hotness.”

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

I make a bomb ass chili.
I have an obsession with patterned/colored socks – over 60 pairs.
I just started learning magic. Hire me for your kid’s next party! haha

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Got my nips pierced when I was 21.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I love how it has transformed into such an eclectic city. Regardless of where you come from or what you’re into, JC has something to offer everyone.

What do you love most about being a dad?

Honestly, I love it all! They say the funniest things that have me cracking up, and it’s a reminder to not take life so seriously. Then on the toughest days they’re teaching me patience and understanding. Becoming a dad has been the best thing to ever happen to me, it’s indescribable.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Remember that your words become your children’s inner voice so be mindful of what you say (and what you don’t).
Lastly, balance is key! Being a dedicated parent doesn’t have to come at the expense of everything else. It’s important to focus on your needs as well: mind, body & soul.

Evan Gilbert – @stowstpheonix | @codewizjerseycity 

Massachusetts born and raised and married to an amazing and beautiful Jersey Girl (@katemgilbert). Father and super-dad to two awesome little people (Caden 8 and Lilah 5). As a 37 yr old active dad with big dreams and a desire to live an unconventional life, we broke out of the MA ‘burbs and moved to JC this spring to be closer to family and “re-urbanize” our lives. I’m launching a business: Code Wiz Jersey City, which is the fulfillment of a life long dream for me. I’ve always dreamed of running a business in the community I live in, like my grandfather did with a local chain of liquor stores and retail properties in Lexington, MA. When I’m not setting up Code Wiz, I’m outdoors with my kids, cooking, traveling, and learning new skills. Or hanging out with my dog and sidekick, @rumitheratter

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I am working hard to launch Code Wiz Jersey City, coming Fall 2019. It’ll be an after school enrichment center for K-8 kids to learn coding and robotics. I want to help kids become active tech users so they can open more doors for themselves as they grow. Code Wiz offers classes in coding (HTML/CSS/JS), Python, Minecraft mods, Java, and more. Plus we’ll be running FIRST Lego League Teams through our robotics program. Owning my own business and working with kids has been a life long dream, but my ultimate dream job would be as a stay at home dad.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

We’re still exploring since we just moved here May 15th, but compared to Acton, MA, JC is a culinary carnival. So far, I love the following places and will be returning many times: Prato Bakery (espresso and artisanal baked goods? YES PLEASE!), Gringos Tacos (Tacos outdoors is my favorite meal), and White Star Bar (across the street from our building, casual and awesome). We’re excited to discover more.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

(big blush) Flattering. Who doesn’t like a compliment, right? With kids and work and life, you tend to forget about yourself, so being recognized feels really good. Thank you!

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

I would say it has made me feel more confident. Not just in my own abilities, but in the sense that life will “work out.” I’m still afraid of mistakes and failures, like everyone, it is just that the cost of those seem much smaller now. I never thought about it contributing to my “hotness” before, but everyone loves confidence. When I think about it like that, I have to admit it sounds pretty hot.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

I know how to build a house. I owned a minivan before I got married (a gold Plymouth voyager). And I’m now the first Gilbert male, in my family, to raise kids outside of MA in over 100yrs.

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Moving my family to JC and launching a business has been pretty crazy, so far. Exciting and awesome and fun, but also kind of crazy. I’ve always wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail, and I still have time. It’s #1 on the bucket list.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

It feels like such a welcoming place, as it should, with Lady Liberty over looking it. Everyone we’ve met has been so nice and hospitable. In such a dense urban environment, the warm and friendly people have been the best part, hands down. From our commercial realtor and fellow business owners, Donovan and Elizabeth Cain, to our doorman and the locals I meet at the dog park. It just feels like a really positive and inviting place.

What do you love most about being a dad?

The hugs, and it’s not even close. I am definitely here for the hugs. Also, their curiosity and energy never ceases to amaze me, it makes me feel young.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

What you do will be remembered far better than what you say. Choose to exercise, choose to play, choose to answer the questions, and always offer a hug.

Philip Testa – @philthytesta | @dadstamonials

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I’m currently the Beverage Manager for Tao Group at the Dream Midtown Hotel. My dream job is to own my own small bar in a nice town and write novels in my down time.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Mathew’s

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

It’s actually a great surprise and extremely humbling – I’ll take it!

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

My guilty pleasure movie that I’m not at all guilty about is Independence Day.
I’m a writer
I was a contributing creator of a cocktail book written for Traeger Grills

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Have a drunken karaoke party with Joseph Gordon Levitt. We embraced and shared a microphone for Bohemian Rhapsody.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

Now, I appreciate JC for how baby-friendly it is. Bars like Pet Shop let me hang with my son, Word has all kind of reading events, multiple playgrounds… It makes urban life feel more suburban.

What do you love most about being a dad?

Tough question… I love just being a dad. The whole thing. Everyday growing up, I wanted to live through the acceptance of my father. Not because he was a hard-ass but because his pride was important to me. He was always proud of me nonetheless, and now that I get to watch my son and be proud of my son for everything he does, just as my dad did is an incredible, indescribable honor.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Virile Barber & Shop, and confidence. Know that your kid thinks you’re a hero whether you wear a cape or not and that’s about as much reason as any to feel amazing about yourself.

Luck Sarabhayavanija – @itsmeluck

After my Fam….I Love Ramen, Pizza, Cars & Kicks. Raised as a restaurant brat and never got out. Founder of Ani Ramen House.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

Owner of Ani Ramen House and my dream job would be… a tour manager for CyAnne (@cyannemusic) Facts!

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Too many damn good places. If I forgot you, I owe you a bun & bowl.

Kitchen Step
Razza
Cellar 335
Gringos
Mathews
Hamilton Pork
Piggyback Bar
Satis Bistro
Left Bank
Pizza Vita
Modcup
District Kitchen

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

Can’t wait to show this to the boys haha. Hopefully now they’ll think their Papa is cool.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Makes you grind and push for more than yourself.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

I was born in Zurich. I can eat pizza every day for the rest of my life. I was 21 when I had my first boy!

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Open a restaurant or two…

What do you love most about Jersey City?

The people. Hands down! JC keeps it real. Don’t ever change 🙏

What do you love most about being a dad?

Watching your mini me’s grow up to be the crazy kid I once was. Legacy!

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Balance over everything! Nothing else matters.

Darren Conway – @darren_conway

Darren Conway was born and raised in Hazlet, NJ. He now resides in Downtown JC with his wife and daughters. Darren previously worked for EMM Group (Catch NYC//LA, Chandelier Room, etc) where he worked for 8 years. During that time, Darren worked on the idea of opening up his first venture Pier 13 Hoboken (with partner Rebecca Tarantino). Over the last few years, Darren has worked on a concept and team for what is now Gringo’s Taco.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I currently own Pier 13 in Hoboken as well as Gringo’s Taco Restaurant and Food Truck in downtown Jersey City.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Oh that’s a tough question because there’s so many great places. However, my family and I tend to gravitate to Kitchen Step and Ani Ramen the most.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

It’s the second best thing to having children LOL

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Well for one thing I decided a Dad Bod was needed so i let myself go and boom, I got nominated for JC HOT DAD, so exercise isn’t everything. As for being a Dad, it’s cliche but it’s the best feeling in the world.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

I’m a great thumb wrestler, I have a tattoo of animal from the Muppets on my thigh, and I’m good at building sand castles.

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

They called me Cancun Conway in college so I’ll leave it at that. However, I want to go shark diving off the coast of Cape Town before I’m 40.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

The diversity

What do you love most about being a dad?

Having your child smile because of something you did for them.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Be yourself, instill great values but most importantly show them love and respect for their mom

Jesus Amaro – @zeus_classic_physique

Hello, my name is Jesus and a proud member of the Amaro-Vaamonde clan. Thank you for the nomination! Being a dad is the best thing that ever happened to me. I’m on my pursuit to becoming a professional bodybuilder in the classic physique division, and I’m fortunate enough to have the love and support that I do from my family. Follow my journey if you’d like, I try to motivate and give tips to everyone looking to change their bodies.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

Currently a Physical Education and Health teacher in Newark, my dream “job” would be to reach my goal of becoming a professional bodybuilder.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

We love hanging out in downtown JC (Grove St.), but our favorite place to eat is Fox & Crow in the Heights.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

It’s pretty cool, feels like my hard work in the gym is paying off.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Everyday it makes me wake up even more motivated than usual, now there is someone else relying on me and I definitely do not want to let them down.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

– I’m a fat kid at heart
– I played semi-pro soccer
– I love Disney/Pixar Movies

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Jump off a cliff in Puerto Rico

What do you love most about Jersey City?

Good food!

What do you love most about being a dad?

I love spending time with my girls; napping, watching TV, going to the pool/park/beach. Most importantly kisses, hugs, high-fives, and fist bumps.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Always remember that there is someone that is always looking at you and learning from you. Do not give them a reason to believe that giving up is an option.

David Trotta – @whealthandco

David Trotta, father of one newborn baby boy Wells! Literally being born as this article drops! Proud father of the Whealth Fam over at @whealthandco.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

Doing it! Working with a great group of people called the WHEALTH Fam.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Antique Bar and Bakery (Hoboken, I know).

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

Haha amazing! My wife is likely in labor with our first as this is being posted, so happy to be able to be a dad and make the list with the little guy on the way!

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

More focused on longer term goals and setting a better example with my own actions. I also think a lot about the words I choose and how small changes in phrasing may have a profound impact on myself and those around me especially the little guy who is a sponge.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

1. I cry at almost every movie, like every movie example, Avatar, lol!

2. Used to be a singing waiter

3. Grew as a goofy really really chubby kid, still goofy, not as chubby!

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Have a baby and open a cafe in the same month.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

What do you love most about being a dad?

The sense of responsibility in helping prepare someone to take on the world!

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Try not to mess up your kids too much!

Robert Williams – @bizznice

My names BizzNice, I’m a father to three beautiful daughters (Jennalee, Emily, & Riley).

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I currently run Bob’s Parking of Jersey City, a family owned business where I practically grew up, and I’m the owner of a Food Truck (@ParkNMunch). I am also a DJ & co-founder of Society Needs Culture.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

As far as hanging out, I love the whole city, I don’t have a favorite place. I go where the wind blows. I go where my gut tells me to go. And for food, I’m honestly a diner guy. I love diners, especially Jersey diners. It just gives me this nostalgic vibe, and the menus are pretty diverse. Like you can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner at anytime of the day. I like that. A lot.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

To be nominated as a hot dad?? Actually caught me by surprise haha. But no, I’m honored and thank you. I do my best to be good father to my children. They are by far my biggest blessings.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Becoming a Dad at an early age in an inner city environment changed my entire life. I was headed nowhere fast. My first born (Jennalee) really opened my eyes, and made me take my life more seriously. I needed a sign and she was definitely it. I thank god everyday, and I wouldn’t of had it any other way. It also gave me a certain sense of confidence, like I had someone looking up to me. I had no choice but to man up and be more responsible human being. Maybe that’s hot just being a good human.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

I’m a nerd (I listen to like 20+ hours of audio books or read each week)
I’m obsessed with Clarke’s Wallabees
I meditate

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Craziest thing I’ve done?! I kinda live my life on the mild side lmaoo but I’m pretty spontaneous. I like to have fun. And the crazy shit I’ve done in my days, I probably wouldn’t want to mention on a public forum so no comment.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I feel like I was destined to be born here. I grew up around everything that ever interested me (All the elements of HipHop, culture, art, energy, like-minded people etc ) I always think about if I were to be born in another part of the world & I can’t even imagine it. I love Jersey City, every inch of it. From the Hill to the Heights and back, it’s all love. At a very young age, I had this vision of what I thought Jersey City would be, as far as art culture, and diversity. It’s here, it’s alive. I don’t agree with everything that’s changing around me but for the most part, I’m happy to see the good change .

What do you love most about being a dad?

Being a father is truly an amazing experience.. It’s just an honor to be there and do my best everyday to provide for mine. They gave me a reason to want to do better. I’ve learned so much about myself through them. Definitely wasn’t an easy road but I am eternally grateful.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

If I had to give some advice about being “HOT” dad (cracks me up every time I say it) I would say fellas be present, be true, be humble, show love, teach your children to trust their heart and follow their passions.Lets lead by example.We are only here for a limited time, gotta make the best of each moment. Bless up 

Zach Michaelson – @zackmichaelson | @zackinaction

Zack Michaelson is a father of two, professor, and hedge fund portfolio manager. He’s also thought of by some in JC more for his hobbies and part-time jobs over the years as a model, bartender, or powerlifter.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I divide my time between working in portfolio management for a large hedge fund and also teaching finance at NYU (and Columbia over the summer). The mix of these two exact jobs is actually what I had dreamed about doing since I was a teenager. But I also think it would be fun to write books. Maybe one day…

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Bistro at Grove is my home away from home. I was even briefly a bartender there. Like family, through the ups and downs and mistakes we both make, Bistro and I will always have love.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

🙈

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

I remember feeling the moment my first child was born that no matter what else I’ve done, no matter what else I do in the future, having them will always be the most important thing I do.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

A. I have a hobby appearing on the cover of romance novels.
B. I actually didn’t know that any books with me on them existed until my 10th grade girlfriend who lives in Missouri sent me a message that she is in a store with her kids and could swear she recognizes the face on these covers…
C. I didn’t tell my kids until they were in Target buying bathing suits and stopped me in front of the books and were like “Wait, Dad!!! Whaaat??? Is that book about you? Isn’t that a book about kissing?? Gross!!”

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

I spent a honeymoon volunteering at an orphanage in rural Tanzania. Maybe the next time that I’m lucky enough to have a honeymoon, we can pick an orphanage closer to home. 😅

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I love the community. Everywhere I go I find familiar, friendly faces. Everyone is a friend, a friend of a friend, or a friend I just haven’t been introduced to yet. We’re the most diverse city in America, but also the tightest.

What do you love most about being a dad?

Their company. I used to have babies. Now they’ve started to become companions.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Lead by example and give your children a world that’s better than you found it.

Brian Platt – @briandavidplatt

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I am currently the Business Administrator for the City of Jersey City, which is equivalent to City Manager or Chief Operating Officer for a city.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

I’m a big fan of Jersey City’s coffee shops: Vogue Cafe, modcup, the Grind, and Snapdragon are a few of my favorites.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

I feel like I am finally being recognized for my accomplishments. It’s hard work being a babe.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Being a dad is like nothing else in the world. It’s of course a ton of work and has flipped my life upside down but it also brings so much joy and happiness.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

Where in here do I get to talk about my daughter? Her name is Essie and she is almost 1 and so adorable.

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

I’m not that exciting of a person.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

The energy and the diversity. This place is like nowhere else in the world, all because of the people.

What do you love most about being a dad?

How much less my in-laws talk to me now.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Always do the night shift. It will destroy your gym time but save your relationship.

Lorenzo Pickett – @Lorenzopphotogrpahy

Lorenzo Pickett, is a New Jersey based, published Artist and Photographer. Art has always been an element surrounding his life, he has been drawing and painting for as long as he can recall. He attributes most of his intense training to the “Visual Performing Arts Program” he attended while in High School. In 2008, After receiving his Associates Degree in Fine Arts he started his photography journey. In pursuit of improving his art portfolio, he picked up a camera to take high-resolution photos of his artwork. Blown away by the sheer quality of his new DSLR Camera, it spawned an entirely new career path for him. Lorenzo’s passion for “Creating” led him to new heights. His philosophy is simple, “Live to Create” and Lorenzo is doing a phenomenal job at articulating that through his life’s work.

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I currently work as a teacher’s where I particularly focus on the arts. Working with children, I am constantly reminded of the importance and impact art has on them. Art has saved my life and it has the power to do the same for others. I do not have a dream job; however, I will use the arts to help change the landscape in our culture and its appreciation for it.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

One of my favorite places to grab a bite to eat is LITM. their sliders are delicious; I also admire the intimate relationship they have with the artist community. Gia Gelato is another one of those gems here in Jersey City that hold a special place in my heart.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

Honestly, I am flattered, being a parent is something I take great pride in. I don’t know about the hot part lol.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

Becoming a Dad definitely reshaped my perspective on life and how I feel about myself. I am more conscious of what I intake mentally, physically, and spiritually because it all reflects. I love the fact that I am constantly challenged, exercising unconditional love, and practicing patience.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

1. I love making “DIY” projects and turning trash into treasure.
2. I shoot with a Canon 5D MarKIII+Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L is II USM
3. My favorite book is “The Alchemist” by author, Paulo Coelho

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

In attempts to conquer my fear, the craziest thing I have done was skydive, it was my very first time on a plane!! A quote I live by is “Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.” -George Addair.

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I look at Jersey City as the Golden Door of America— a huge melting pot of cultures and complexities. Being fortunate enough to have been a resident of Jersey City for my whole life, I have been exposed to it’s not only those diverse cultures and complexities, but it’s growth as well. Our city has enriched my life and it’s important for me to give back to Jersey City. As a Black American, I am proud to be a native of this special place.

What do you love most about being a dad?

What I love most about being a Dad is knowing that the seeds planted will someday blossom into a beautiful garden.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

My dad passed away in 1995, some of my fondest memories are when we were doing push-ups with him, and I am now doing them with my children. He taught my brother and I the importance of being mentally and physically fit. I encourage more Dads to get the kids involved with their workout. Their children will remember it for the rest of their lives. In addition, they get to share the journey of you becoming a hot Dad.

Shane Timberlake – @iamshanetimberlake

My name is Shane Timberlake and i am the father to a beautiful young princess named Averie Rose Timberlake. I’m a huge health and fitness advocate. I’m a personal, group, and bootcamps fitness trainer. I own my own fitness brand, which I currently work on day and night!

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I’m currently the head coach of F45 in Bloomfield NJ , as well as own my personal brand B.A.M.N (By any means necessary) FIT . My dream job is to own and operate a place where all athletes, as well as non athletes, can come and play any sport for fun or competitively.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

Honestly, you can catch me at a few gyms during the week with a group of people or by myself with my headphones on just getting my workout on. The gym is my sanctuary.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

It feels great to be nominated as a hot dad lol this wouldn’t be possible without my baby girl Averie! I’m flattered

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

It was an amazing feeling to become a dad, it’s a hell of a learning process to raise another human being in the fast paced world, but I adapted and improve on being better a dad daily. I guess it contributes to the “hotness” by bringing out my nurturing and caring side, how my relationship is with my princess.

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

The first fact is that I have a soft spot for animals, especially dogs. Second, I would say that I had to learn how to walk again a few times due to my knee surgeries, one on each knee 7 years apart, one almost killed me. 3rd random fact, I still eat cereal and watch cartoons when ever I get the chance. I’ll never get too old for some Family Guy and some Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

The craziest thing I’ve ever done was that I actually stripped for a family friend’s grandmother for her birthday. The money was pretty good, I thought about doing it again but I’ll pass lol

What do you love most about Jersey City?

What I love the most about Jersey City its diversity and that it’s relatively close to everything, very convenient, and it’s always on the up and up.

What do you love most about being a dad?

Wow, to be honest, there a a lot of things that make being a dad great! For one, I get to raise and mold a little human being to grow up and want to be great in whatever she decides to do! To see her grow up and use the values that I’ve taught her and apply them at such a young age amazes me.

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

I really have no tips on being a hot dad lol It’s just really cool and humbling to be nominated.

Ryan De Persio – @chef_rd

I’m Ryan DePersio, Chef Partner of Fascino – Montclair, Battello, and The Kitchen Step – Jersey City. I’ve been cooking for 20 years, I trained in NYC, Florence, Italy and Paris, France.
I have 3 kids: Nicholas -13, Luca -5, Willow-2.
I’m married to Stephanie DePersio for almost 7 years and I’m head over heels for her every day I wake up next to her!

What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?

I am a Chef/Partner for 3 restaurants and opening a 4th. Dream job, living it.

What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?

I don’t get out often being a dad/business owner, but one of my favorite places is Razza.

How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe/hot dad?

It’s an honor because I take pride in every aspect of keeping myself out together.

How did becoming a dad change the way you feel about yourself? or contribute to your hotness?

I’ve always kept a healthy lifestyle and wanted to continue that to be a good example to my kids. If that is a contribution to my “hotness” then I’ll take that lol

What are 3 random facts about yourself?

What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?

Many things between ages 17-30 I shall not say 😏

What do you love most about Jersey City?

I started my career in NYC and reminds me of a mini NYC. With an eclectic Style & diversity .

What do you love most about being a dad?

The love they give you, the laughs they give you, the happy tears, the challenge to raise them right…

Any tips/secrets you can share about being a hot dad?

Don’t give up yourself, I’m up at 530am to work out for 1 hour, 5-6 days a week. Eat healthy, and yes I cheat, but I balance a healthy lifestyle 5 days a week. I also use an Italian tailor for almost all my clothes. A right fit is a perfect fit.