Paul Kushner
Dive into the vibrant and diverse bar scene of Newark, where the city’s spirit comes alive through a spectrum of watering holes. From historic pubs to chic lounges, Newark’s best bars offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Join us on a journey through this cultural melting pot, where mixologists craft signature cocktails, and local haunts exude charm. Whether you’re seeking craft beer, artisanal spirits, or a friendly neighborhood spot, Newark has something for everyone. Explore the hidden gems and popular establishments that contribute to the dynamic nightlife of this New Jersey city, promising unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors alike. Cheers to discovering the best of Newark’s bar culture.
Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant
77 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 578-8114
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Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant, located in Newark’s North Ironbound neighborhood, sets a rustic yet contemporary vibe. Beer, wine, and cocktails are all staples, but the mixed drinks stand out with tongue-in-cheek names like Peeping Tom. Mompou’s offers a wide range of this to eat, too. They are most well-known for delicious tapas with global and Spanish influences.
McGovern’s Tavern
58-60 New St, Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 643-3984
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Located in the Central Ward near Rutgers University, McGovern’s Tavern started as a community gathering space for Irish immigrants. After the bar’s establishment in 1936, it quickly became a neighborhood bar where everyone could enjoy themselves! Though the tavern has Irish origins, it isn’t reflected on the menu where you’ll find bar food classics like nachos. Stop by to sample more than a dozen beers on draft.
Blitz Sportsbar
179 Wilson Ave #5317, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 465-1313
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Head to the Ironbound neighborhood for a sports bar experience with a modern aesthetic. Drink wine by the glass, try a draft, or take a classic Pickle Back Shot. Blitz Sportsbar caters to everyone. There’s a little bit of everything on the menu, too, from grilled kabobs to glazed salmon. The bar also has several TVs, so you can catch the game while you relax.
Krug’s Tavern
118 Wilson Ave, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 465-9795
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Krug’s Tavern is a few blocks from Blitz on Wilson Avenue. It’s one of the oldest bars in Newark, serving clients since 1932. The tavern is renowned among the locals as a relaxing place for simple eats, like their awarding-winning burger. So if you plan to eat at Krug’s, go hungry. The portions are generous, and you’ll want to save room for their shrimp appetizer!
Bello’s Pub and Grill, Newark’s First Gastropub
376 Market St, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 465-0052
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On the western edge of the North Ironbound neighborhood, Bello’s Pub and Grill, Newark’s First Gastropub provides more options than most. They have bar classics but also higher-end items like baked salmon and flank steak. Plus, they offer desserts! Bello’s has a great selection of bottled beer from breweries around the east coast.
Redd’s Biergarten
220 Market Street, 37 Edison Pl, Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 877-6600
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Redd’s Biergarten boasts a prime location across from Prudential Center, home of the New Jersey Devils, in Downtown Newark. Beer lovers flock to the traditional German beer garden with a contemporary edge for a diverse collection of brews. Redd’s offers food, too, specializing in bar food with a German flair. Try their Bavarian soft pretzel with a cheddar mustard dipping sauce with a beer of your choice for the perfect pairing.
The Deep Inn
60 Pulaski St, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 943-8008
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In the Ironbound neighborhood near Independence Park, The Deep Inn is a neighborhood dive with a historic look and a moody atmosphere. Expect low lighting at this relaxed bar. If you’re a fan of fancy cocktails and seasonally rotating menus, you won’t find them here. What The Deep Inn does have is cheap drinks, friendly service, and a great spot for locals to gather.
Pour Abbey’s Bar & Grill
107 Hawkins St, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 522-1000
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Pour Abbey’s Bar & Grill in Newark’s East Ferry region is a local favorite with an industrial edge and a few kitschy highlights but an overall contemporary vibe. Depending on the night, you’ll catch music here from DJs or live bands. Abbey’s is a high-energy but relaxing spot with bar staples like mozzarella sticks and Portuguese-inspired tapas.
Cozy Sports Bar
329 Ferry St, Newark, NJ 07105
(973) 491-9500
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Back in the North Ironbound neighborhood, Cozy Sports Bar keeps this simple and lighthearted. A sports bar with a modern but relaxed vibe, serving draft beers alongside mason jar daiquiris. The food specialties here are thin burgers stacked high with toppings and shareable finger food. Though Cozy offers something for everyone, the fun atmosphere keeps people coming back.
Why should you trust us?
We use our own local experience and contacts in the city to know which places to include in our lists. We also researched the web and read 5 reputable blogs and websites, including tripadvisor.com, newarkhappening.com, tripadvisor.com, bigseventravel.com and newarkhappening.com. So that you can be sure you’re receiving the best of the best. We compiled all the results in one spot and ranked them according to how frequently they were referenced.
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