There’s just something special about Irish pubs. Maybe it’s the famous Irish hospitality, or perhaps it’s the authentic, one-of-a-kind cuisine; then again, it could be the camaraderie of gathering with friends and strangers and cheering on a favorite football team. Either way, the Best Irish Pubs in New Jersey evoke all of these positive experiences.
This list is for those looking to find their new go-to pub; as well as anyone who is looking for a great place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. There’s no more authentic way to “go green” during the holiday than to visit a true Irish pub. From the food to the music and, in many cases, the nearby parade, these pubs offer a unique celebration. As they say in Ireland, Slà inte! (A toast to good health.)
Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find the best Irish Pubs near you.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey |
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North Jersey
Dublin Pub
Location: 4 Pine St, Morristown
Details: Dublin Pub — known simply as “The Pub” to locals — is as authentic as possible for an NJ Irish pub. The interior is brimming with Irish culture, from the antique decor to the Irish green walls. Their food menu includes options like black bean burgers, hot corned beef sandwiches, and Jimmy’s Special Reuben. (Named after owner Jim Mongey.) Meanwhile, their drink menu includes draft beers like Stella Artois, Boddington’s Pub Ale, and Smithwick’s. Both the owners and patrons alike believe they throw the best St. Patrick’s Day bash in the area.
Why I Like it: Dublin Pub is probably the closest thing to visiting an actual native pub in Ireland.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Egan & Sons
Location: 118 Walnut St, Montclair
Details: Egan & Sons is a relatively recent pub in Montclair, having opened in 2005. In true Irish Pub fashion, it is a great spot to catch European soccer matches with friends. (Or strangers who will soon become friends.) Under the direction of Chef Tess Tripodi, their menu is actually a fusion of Irish dishes and American classics. For instance, they serve truffle mac and cheese and nachos, as well as cottage pie and fish & chips. They also have an extensive drink menu which includes wine, beer, whiskey, bourbon, scotch, cocktails, rye, and more.
Why I Like it: Their bar pies are named after soccer stars such as Pele, Tim Howard, and Gigi Buffon.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
McGovern’s Tavern
Location: 58-60 New St, Newark
Details: McGovern’s Tavern carries the distinction of being one of New Jersey’s oldest Irish Pubs, first opening in 1936. The original pub gave the Irish community a place to celebrate their heritage and socialize. But McGovern’s is now open to all, serving an eclectic food menu and unique drink specials. For example, signature shots include the Cinnamon Toast Crunch and the Green Tea. They offer mixed drinks as well, including the John Daly and Ice Tea Shandy. Be sure to also check out their signature “Dublin Decker” specialty sandwich.
Why I Like it: McGovern’s is actively involved in supporting the local community, including food donations and more.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Muldoon’s Steakhouse & Pub
Location: 301 Mt Hope Ave, Rockaway
Details: The Rockaway location of Muldoon’s (there is a second spot in Ledgewood) can be hard to miss. It is located on the lower level of Macy’s inside the Rockaway Townsquare mall. After initially being leased to different owners, the original founder (Doug Winch) is back managing both locations. With his return, the Irish Pub’s cultural roots and authentic menu have been restored. For instance, they serve Irish Stew, Beef Guinness Pie, and French Onion Soup; but the menu also extends to bar classics like sandwiches, tacos, pizza, and burgers.
Why I Like it: Their daily Happy Hour features $5 appetizers, house wines, and house liquor mixed drinks.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Mulligan’s Pub
Location: 159 First St, Hoboken
Details: Mulligan’s touts itself as a “premier football bar” that blends Hoboken style and Irish hospitality; and when they say football, they mean both NFL football as well as European football (soccer). Probably the most Pub thing that can be said about Mulligan’s is that they offer competitive pool and dart leagues. Meanwhile, the menu offers bar fare like wings, mozzarella sticks, and quesadillas, plus Cornish Pastie, sausage rolls, and Irish Breakfast. (They serve the latter all day.) As for drinks, patrons should stop by to see what’s on tap.
Why I Like it: Mulligan’s is versatile, including a private party room (with full bar) and an outdoor patio.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
P.J. Finnegan’s
Location: 274 Fairview Ave, Westwood
Details: Folks come to P.J. Finnegan’s for the Irish hospitality and charming decor, but stay for the food. Chef, and Culinary Institute Graduate, Peter Bacile has been in charge of the kitchen since they opened in the 1980’s. To this day many of his dishes are menu mainstays, including his signature sliced steak sandwich with mustard sauce. Likewise, his Red Reuben is a fan favorite. This spot offers daily specials as well as indoor / outdoor (weather permitting dining). Like most Irish pubs, they also pride themselves on pouring a great pint of Guinness.
Why I Like it: Patrons consistently rave about the friendly staff and top notch service P.J. Finnegan’s provides.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
St. James’s Gate Publick House
Location: 167 Maplewood Ave, Maplewood
Details: The entire rest of the year is just one big countdown to St. Patrick’s Day at this spot. That’s no joke, St. James’s Gate Publick House has a continuous countdown to the holiday on their website. However, this year-round establishment keeps patrons coming back with its focus on the basics of any good gastropub. In other words, they offer simple, traditional Irish dishes and drinks that most other places try to reinvent. This is the spot for good conversation, Irish whiskey, Irish coffee, a pint of Guinness, and a warm meal.
Why I Like it: They offer their signature one-day-only menu and live music on St. Patrick’s Day.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Thatcher McGhee’s Irish Pub & Eatery
Location: 53 Broadway, Denville
Details: The Denville location of Thatcher McGhee’s (one of three in total) celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. Besides the year-round service, this is another spot that goes big on St. Patrick’s Day. In fact, each location buys about one ton of corned beef for the holiday. On normal days, this spot offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, pizza, and “Traditional Irish Fare”; which includes Guinness Beef Stew, Irish Breakfast, and corned beef and cabbage. They also have a loaded fries menu with options such as Disco, Irish Curry, Blarney, and Thatch.
Why I Like it: Happy Hour, weekly trivia night, and live weekly DJs have all returned to Thatcher McGhee’s.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Cottage Bar
Location: 178 Cedar Ln, Teaneck
Details: The Cottage Bar has been a Bergen County favorite for more than 20 years. It’s a cozy spot that charms patrons with friendly service, a lively sports scene, and an authentic Irish menu. They serve favorites such as chicken pot pie, fish and chips, burgers, Shepherd’s Pie, and more; but the real standout dish is their full Irish Breakfast, served on weekends and during European soccer games. Of course, the beer is a highlight and in particular locals love their Guinness on tap. Stop in on St. Patrick’s Day for a special menu and annual celebration.
Why I Like it: The Cottage Bar is a triple threat with great food, drinks, and bartending service.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Quiet Man Irish Pub
Location: 64 E McFarlan St Rt 46, Dover
Details: Fun fact, The Quiet Man Irish Pub is currently run by three women, daughters of the original founder. Francis Burke, and wife Anne, first opened the pub after arriving from Dublin over 40 years ago, in 1979. Decades later, the pub is still known for authentic Irish cuisine, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere. Fan favorite menu items include the Maine lobster filled ravioli, Irish Banger sausages, and “Dublin Style” fish and chips. Likewise, their bar menu features wings, quesadillas, nachos, pizza, and pot stickers. They also offer daily specials.
Why I Like it: This spot offers to-go options for their signature Irish Coffee and Irish Brown Bread.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Shannon Rose
Location: 96 Kingsland Rd, Clifton
Details: The interior of the Shannon Rose is as authentically Irish as possible; that’s because all of the furniture and decor comes straight from Ireland. Patrons love their signature Irish hospitality, offering a warm welcome to all who enter. Of course, the scratch-made, seasonal menu is a big plus as well; highlights include corned beef spring rolls, the Guinness BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Buffalo Mac and Cheese, and the Shannon Rose Cheeseburger. They also serve night caps such as Bailey’s Irish Cream Coffee, the “Irish Kiss”, and Cookies & Cream.
Why I Like it: The Shannon Rose partners with organizations like the American Heart Association and St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Central Jersey
Darby Road Public House & Restaurant
Location: 450 Park Ave, Scotch Plains
Details: Darby Road is the product of two lifelong friends combining their love of soccer and hockey into a bar. Of course, this “Irish Soccer Pub” is a great place to watch sports with friends or the friendly staff. But what may not be obvious is that it’s also a great spot for homemade desserts. Their small batch baker and pastry chef creates sweets such as banana cake, ice cream sandwiches, and cookie plates. They have a Whiskey Room with dozens of options, and an all-day food menu full of Pub favorites. Don’t skip over their signature salads.
Why I Like it: When it returns, the annual St. Patrick’s Day festival at Darby Road is legendary to locals.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Hailey’s Harp & Pub
Location: 400 Main St, Metuchen
Details: The Hailey’s slogan is “Welcoming Pub, Brilliant Grub”, so they set high standards for themselves. But patrons agree that most of their menu is a home run and, in particular, their Sunday Irish Brunch. Once a week, Hailey’s offers Irish soda bread, spicy corned beef hash, Irish toasties, a traditional Irish breakfast, and more. As for their main menu, they serve Irish classics including Bangers & Mash and Guinness Stew. On weekends they also offer a takeout “Family Night Package” that includes a choice of two appetizers and three entrees.
Why I Like it: The Parlor at Hailey’s is just around the corner, a charming speakeasy offering classic cocktails.
More Info: Click to visit their website | Follow them on Facebook | Click to give them a call.
Mannion’s Irish Pub
Location: 150 West Main St, Somerville
Details: St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just a day at Mannion’s, it’s an entire week (and perhaps, a way of life). Even beyond the week in March, they host a “Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day” celebration on September 17. Outside of the holiday, Mannion’s is an authentic Irish pub & restaurant with a menu to match. They serve a Hot Corned Beef & Swiss Cheese Sandwich, as well as a Pub Steak and Irish Burger. Their beer tap rotates regularly, but they always have Guinness available; in addition to beers like O’Douls, Kaliber, Becks, and Smirnoff Triple Black.
Why I Like it: Mannion’s now boasts an impressive selection of Bourbon, and the locals are buzzing about it.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Mitchell’s Cafe
Location: 11 Church St, Lambertville
Details: Mitchell’s Cafe is the embodiment of a “homey” bar. It may not look like a typical Irish pub, but the Irish hospitality is undeniable. Patrons look forward to seeing owner Carol behind the bar, serving drinks and forging lasting bonds with all who enter. Some say she can remember a loyal customer’s favorite drink years — and in some cases, decades — after their last visit. They serve imported Irish beers and frequently host live Irish music sessions throughout the year. For locals, it’s simply the go-to spot in Lambertville for a good drink.
Why I Like it: Carol is also quite the keeper of knowledge when it comes to Lambertville history.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Tir na nOg
Location: 1324 Hamilton Ave, Trenton
Details: Tir na Nog has been open in Trenton for over 30 years. The name comes from Irish folklore, and translates roughly to “Land of Youth”. Live entertainment is a huge part of this pub, with a packed monthly calendar of various genres; in addition to a weekly Irish music session. In fact, their website has a dedicated “Musicians” tab to showcase the artists and bands that perform regularly. Tir na nOg offers a unique Irish Whisky Ambassadors Club; open to any patron who drinks their 32 different Irish Whiskeys (not all at once, of course).
Why I Like it: Those 32 different Irish whiskeys represent the 32 counties of Ireland, a complete Emerald Isle tour.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Jersey Shore
Angelsea Pub
Location: 116 W 1st Ave, North Wildwood
Details: Angelsea Pub is known as a “must-stop” spot for visitors passing through North Wildwood. Locals champion the pub’s authentic Irish menu, from their tender Hot Roast Beef sandwich to Sean’s Shepherd’s Pie. Likewise, other Irish favorites include the Corned Beef Special and Grilled Reuben, as well as the French Onion Soup. Angelsea further features a rotating list of dinner specials and seasonal selection of beers. Happy Hour runs at the bar from 11:00 am until 6:00 pm, with lunch specials from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm all week long.
Why I Like it: The pub also serves American classics like wings, BBQ chicken flatbreads, and Bang Bang Shrimp.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Cattle ‘n Clover
Location: 3817 Pacific Ave, Wildwood
Details: The “Steakhouse with an Irish Soul”, Cattle ‘n Clover has an accolade no other listing here can claim. They hold the Guinness World Record for the “heaviest and longest meat and potato pie” aka Shepherd’s Pie. The massive record holding pie clocked in at 250 feet long and 1,807 pounds. Of course, the potion size on the menu is a bit smaller. Other traditional Irish dishes they serve include Irish Surf N Turf, Irish Pot Pie, and beer battered fish and chips. Of course, they serve signature steaks in three sizes (Filet, Strip, and Cowboy).
Why I Like it: Their house specialties include a half dozen different mac and cheese options, including short rib.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Celtic Cottage Pub
Location: 608 2nd Ave, Long Branch
Details: Like so many other authentic Irish pubs, this one has direct roots from the Emerald Isle. Owner Kevin Martin’s parents are both from Ireland, his father is from Tullamore and his mother is from Manorhamilton. Even the pub’s interior is true Irish, representing all 32 counties through a display of flags on the ceiling. The drink menu features a selection of Irish Whiskeys as well as specialties like Irish Coffee and Irish Gold. However, the food options include a number of American favorites like beef sliders and a pork roll and cheese sandwich.
Why I Like it: Like any good hole in the wall, the conversations are just as good as the drinks.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Dublin House Restaurant & Pub
Location: 30 Monmouth St, Red Bank
Details: Locals love the Dublin House for the food above all else. From their shepherd’s pie and Gaelic Chicken to the fan-favorite fish-n-chips, it’s an authentic Irish menu. The Dublin House loves St. Patrick’s Day, and even sells t-shirts for patrons to showcase their loyalty. Otherwise, they host regular sports broadcasts for fans to watch both football and soccer. This is another spot that excels in the customer service department, with a great wait staff and bartenders. In particular, many first-time patrons leave feeling like a part of the family.
Why I Like it: The Dublin House is Guinness Academy certified, with the Perfect Pint badge to prove it.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Harrigan’s Pub
Location: 703 Baltimore Blvd, Sea Girt
Details: Harrigan’s touts itself as “the premier Irish pub at the Jersey Shore” with a focus on Irish cuisine. The menu features their signature sizzling sliced steak sandwich, as well as burgers, salads, soups, starters and more. Appetizers include the 12″ bar pie, Irish Quesadilla, Celtic Nachos, and the Pots O’ Gold; potato skins with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Harrigan’s Pub is the place locals go for live music and a pint of Guinness. For St. Patrick’s Day, that live music is typically traditional Irish music, complete with bagpipers.
Why I Like it: Harrigan’s hosts a weekly Tuesday trivia night, complete with prizes like merch and t-shirts.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Kelly’s Tavern
Location: 43 NJ-35, Neptune City
Details: This authentic Irish Pub is a Jersey Shore landmark, with over 70 years of history to its name. For generations, the Kelly family has designed taverns that pay tribute to their Irish heritage. The current incarnation of Kelly’s Tavern is no different, emphasizing good food, good drinks, and great service. The menu features Guinness beef stew, French onion soup, Fish and chips, a corned beef platter, and more. Meanwhile, patrons with a sweet tooth can order the homemade cheesecake, ice cream sundae, or warm brownie cake for dessert.
Why I Like it: Live bagpipers and authentic Irish food make Kelly’s Tavern a great spot for St. Patrick’s Day.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
McDonagh’s Pub
Location: 2 West Front Street, Keyport
Details: McDonagh’s Pub enjoys the benefits of being in a prime location within the heart of Keyport. They offer great views of downtown along with live music and a choice of indoor, outdoor, and patio dining. Most of the menu is classic bar fare, with options such as sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and appetizers. However, they have a dedicated Irish Favorites section of the menu with Shepherd’s Pie and the “Mile High” Reuben; in addition to Bangers and Mashed and Fish & Chips options, with plenty of beers on tap and signature cocktails.
Why I Like it: McDonagh’s Pub hosts live music and entertainment every Friday and Saturday evening.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
O’Donnell’s Pour House
Location: 3907 Landis Ave, Sea Isle City
Details: O’Donnell’s Pour House is the only Irish Pub in Sea Isle City, and focuses on upscale casual dining. The menu is definitely what sets this pub apart from the pack, with a number of unexpected choices; like Shrimp & Chorizo Sausage Skewers, Bacon Wrapped Pork Filet, Ginger Soy Marinated Swordfish, and Ham & Fig Crustini. Of course, they have traditional Irish options too, including braised short ribs and their signature O’Donnell’s Pour House Burger. They also have a children’s menu, with chicken fingers, pasta, and grilled cheese.
Why I Like it: O’Donnell’s Pour House typically serves a special Irish menu all day on St. Patrick’s Day
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
P.J. Sweeney’s Irish Pub
Location: 447 Brick Boulevard, Brick
Details: Though P.J. Sweeney’s has only been around since 2015, the owner’s history of Irish pubs dates back further. Gene Gillespie came to America in 1972 and has been working and, soon after, running taverns ever since. Now, P.J. Sweeney’s serves as a hub for locals to enjoy sports broadcasts, live music on weekends, and entertainment; as well as classic bar favorites and authentic Irish meals like Corned Beef and Cabbage and Guinness Beef Stew. Speaking of Guinness, they of course offer a cold pint of the signature Irish favorite on tap.
Why I Like it: This pub delivers on its promise of bringing “a wee bit of Ireland” to Brick.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
St. Stephen’s Green Publick House
Location: 2031 Rt 71, Spring Lake Heights
Details: Top notch service and quality Irish cuisine combine to make St. Stephen’s Green a winner. This Irish pub offers lunch, brunch, dinner, and dessert, with everything from traditional Irish breakfasts to Irish bread pudding. Patrons also praise their “Celtic” chicken wings, which come in Buffalo, Irish Whiskey BBQ, or Dublin dry rub flavors. (All are served with bleu cheese and celery.) The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff really help sell the authentic Irish hospitality St. Stephens Green is going for; but the Irish coffee helps, too.
Why I Like it: The range of desserts here is great, from the homemade carrot cake to rice pudding.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Irish Pub
Location: 164 St James Pl, Atlantic City
Details: Known only as “Irish Pub”, this Atlantic City spot doubles in the tourist-filled summer months as a hotel. The building is a cornerstone of the area, still standing after prohibition, two world wars, hurricanes, and high tides. Some even say the red hotels used in the Monopoly board game are based on the architecture of Irish Pub. The menu features their signature app, the St. James Potatoes, in addition to sandwiches, platters, salads, and more. After a day of celebrating on St. Patrick’s Day, the real fun begins the following afternoon…
Why I Like it: Irish Pub is famous for creating their own holiday, Bag Day, an annual March 18 tradition.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
South Jersey
Dooney’s Pub
Location: 1361 Fairview Blvd, Delran
Details: Dooney’s Pub is known for consistently excellent food, which is impressive given the vast array of menu options. They serve appetizers, soups, and salads as well as flatbreads, sandwiches, and burgers. Of course, their entrees include authentic Irish options like Fish n’ Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and Guinness Beef Stew. (The Voorhees location also has a gluten-free menu.) They have a modern American menu for kids, in addition to a delectable dessert menu; with choices such as Brown Butter Cake and a Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae.
Why I Like it: The cocktail menu changes seasonally, but winter favorites include Drunk Uncle and Crime & Punishment.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Harper’s Pub & Restaurant
Location: 1 Gibbsboro Rd, Clementon
Details: Harper’s is a hotbed for live music and entertainment. For instance, they currently host a weekly Open Mic night and a monthly Drag Queen night. They also offer a variety of takeout and late-night specials, offering discounts and deals off their regular menu; like their Mix N Match deals where patrons can order any 3 burgers, sandwiches, or appetizers for $25. Harper’s is “Irish-inspired” with a modern American bar menu featuring favorites such as burgers, cheesesteaks, and wings. But they do host a big St. Patrick’s Day bash every year.
Why I Like it: Harper’s happily modifies menu items, and even makes custom dishes by request. (Based on availability.)
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Old Oar House Irish Pub
Location: 123 High St, Millville
Details: Authentic home-style cooking and traditional Irish hospitality meet at Old Oar House. Patrons praise the top notch bar service, in addition to the menu brimming with Irish favorites and bar staples. Standouts include the Corned Beef Special and Classic Grilled Reuben, as well as the Panko Encrusted Salmon; but no trip to Old Oar House is complete without trying their signature Reuben Balls; house made corned beef brisket with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese that’s breaded, then deep fried and served with Russian dressing.
Why I Like it: Their Pub Sampler features wings, chips with spinach and artichoke dip, Reuben balls, and onion rings.
More Info: Look for them online to learn more.
Schileens Pub
Location: 32 Delsea Dr, Westville
Details: Schileens Pub first opened in 1995 and continues the three-generation Schillig family tradition of South Jersey eateries. In particular, this pub offers Irish cuisine and much more. Locals swear by their draft beer selection, roast beef sandwiches, and commitment to going all-out during the holidays; which, of course, includes a big St. Patrick’s Day bash. In fact, the pub opens at 8:00 am on the holiday and serves Irish Breakfast with green eggs and ham. But save room for desserts like their funnel cake fries, brownie sundae, and fried cheesecake.
Why I Like it: Together with help from their five children, owners John and Eileen run a true family business.
More Info: Click to visit their website | Follow them on Facebook | Click to give them a call.
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Top (Hero) Photo: © P.J. Finnegan’s & Frant Visuals (@frantvisuals) / Facebook
Other Photos (In Order):
Dublin Pub / Facebook
Hailey’s Harp & Pub / Facebook
O’Donnell’s Pour House / Facebook
Old Oar House Irish Pub / Facebook
