The Best Outdoor Bars in New Jersey

April 24, 2025

The 2025 Edition of The Best Outdoor Bars in New Jersey is written by Vinny Parisi.

There’s nothing quite like the first sip of a cold drink on a hot day. Summers in New Jersey come with their fair share of heat, which means folks need something to quench their thirst. Outdoor bars offer the perfect mix of fresh air, lively atmosphere, and quality drinks. Enjoy the hot summer with a cold drink in hand thanks to The Best Outdoor Bars in New Jersey.

Our list features the state’s best outdoor areas for enjoying cocktails (or mocktails) and more. From outdoor bars with an ocean view to tiki bars with an island vibe, we’ve got something for everyone. Some of these spots have beautiful biergartens, while others boast deck seating right on the water or panoramic rooftop bars. But all of NJ’s Best Outdoor Bars share outdoor bars with easy access to an assortment of beverages.

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North Jersey

Featured From Bergen County:
Concourse Club

Presentation of Popular Menu items from Concourse Club in Wood-Ridge

Where: 379 NJ-17 S, Wood-Ridge
Details: Set atop the Element New York Hotel, Concourse Club is a rooftop restaurant and bar with a skyline view. Described as a swanky airport lounge, the atmosphere is inspired by the glamour of private jet travel. Their goal is to make every guest feel like a VIP. The experience at Concourse Club pairs craft cocktails and small plates with an unrivaled view of the NYC skyline. Their spacious, heated rooftop is a fan-favorite spot, particularly during the warm weather seasons. Outdoor seating offers comfy couches perfect for sunset lounging, while weekends provide exciting nightlife and live DJs. Popular plates include the Lobster Bao Bun, Crispy Salmon Sushi Rice, Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, and Butter Chicken Bao. As for signature cocktails, we recommend either the Endless Summer or One in a Melon. From corporate gatherings to special occasions, the Concourse Club is also a great option for private events. They offer specific event packages for birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, private or semi-private events, and even brunch.

Buck Hill Brewery

Where: Blairstown
Details: Buck Hill Brewery promises patrons An American Craft Beer & Food Experience. They serve favorites like Bavarian Pretzels with beer cheese fondue and beer mustard, fried pickles, and steamed clams. They also offer interesting sandwich options like Crispy Eggplant, the Buck Venison Burger, and the Jersey Burger with Taylor Ham. As for what’s on tap, they typically offer twenty different craft beers to choose from. Their selection includes a mix of IPAs, ales, lagers, stouts, and spiked seltzers.

NoHu Rooftop Bar at Envue

Where: Weehawken
Details: NoHu boasts unrivaled views of the Manhattan skyline at their scenic rooftop bar perched right above the Hudson River. In case the view isn’t enough, they also serve craft cocktails and creative Southern cooking like warm buttermilk biscuits. Other amenities at this 15,000-square-foot outdoor venue include bottle service, heated igloos, and wintertime fire-pit seating. They offer year-round happy hour specials during the week, DJ Beat weekends, and also a great Latin Jazz brunch.

The Stirling Hotel

Where: Stirling
Details: The Stirling Hotel also houses a spacious beer garden and outdoor bar. The hotel announces whenever the beer garden is open on social media. Limited openings make every time feel like a special event, typically with live music and food (like taco carts). The outdoor area features a large tent, lounge seating in the grass, and other covered areas as well. They serve over a dozen craft beers (IPAs, Ales, Porters, and more), plus seasonal craft cocktails.

Stirling Tavern

Where: Morristown
Details: Stirling Tavern is a local go-to for brunch, lunch, and dinner inside a stylish lounge-like atmosphere. But they also have a rooftop bar with a retractable canopy. In addition to an impressive list of draft beers and wines by the glass or bottle, they offer signature cocktails. Popular picks include the Pom Before the Storm, featuring tanqueray, pomegranate liqueur, St. Germain, and lemon. We recommend the “Woke Up & Chose Violettes” with Codigo Reposado tequila, pineapple-agave shrub, lemon, and creme de violette.

Zeppelin Hall

Where: Jersey City
Details: As far as bars go, Zeppelin Hall is massive. The indoor space alone is expansive, but the real shocker is the massive biergarten in the back. The outdoor bar — dubbed “The Polar Vortex” — serves both hot and cold drinks, as well as s’mores and fondue. The biergarten seats a lot of people thanks to family-style tables that line the yard. Overall, the bar offers about 144 European and American draft beer options, plus a variety of German-style food. We recommend “The Hindenburger” or their “Ring of Fire” for the table.

Central Jersey

Featured from Somerset County:
Stage House Tavern

Where: 1719 Amwell Rd, Somerset | 366 Park Ave, Scotch Plains | 1099 US-22, Mountainside
Details: This classic American family restaurant and tavern features scratch-made, chef-inspired favorites. Their seasonally-enclosed outdoor bar is open year round and boasts spacious outdoor seating. During the spring and summer, it’s the perfect place to enjoy signature cocktails, live music, and live fire grilling. The latter comes courtesy of their BBQ Bar, where the chefs prepare pulled pork and brisket daily. Their Raw Bar is also a big hit, featuring clams, east coast oysters, tuna poke and tuna tartar. Guests can enjoy drinks from any of Stage House Tavern’s three different bars. Popular cocktails include the Pineapple Upside Down Cake and Watermelon Cosmo. They also serve seasonal cocktails, sangria, margaritas, and two signature mocktails (the “Cos-no-politan” and “Clean Margarita”). But sometimes, nothing beats a fresh lemonade or iced tea at sunset while enjoying live music on the patio. Add some Stage House Nachos, warm soft pretzels, or pulled pork potachos and it’s the perfect summer vibe.

Featured from Middlesex County:
Orchard Park by David Burke

Outdoor Bar at Orchard Terrace in East Brunswick, part of Orchard Park by David Burke

Where: 670 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick
Details: The outdoor bar at Orchard Park by David Burke is part of Orchard Terrace. This outdoor patio area is adjacent to celebrity chef David Burke’s Orchard Park restaurant within The Chateau Grande Hotel grounds. Despite being outdoors, the structure has the ability to be fully enclosed and protected from the elements. Orchard Terrace has a full bar as well as signature cocktails that rotate seasonally. Examples include the Funny Farm, with Farmers Botanical Organic Gin, Salvia & Limone, lemon, pineapple, sage, and more. For those who do not wish to drink, they thoughtfully curate a selection of flavorful mocktails as well. Orchard Terrace also offers live music, lounge areas, outdoor fireplaces, large tables, and the full Orchard Park restaurant menu. Chef Burke serves up a modern American menu that includes many of his signature dishes. This includes his fan favorite Clothesline Bacon and DB Signature Chicken entree. We also recommend the miso glazed swordfish.

The Ciderhouse at Ironbound Farm

Where: Alexandria Township
Details: At the heart of this 108-acre regenerative organic apple orchard and vegetable farm is the Ciderhouse. This outdoor bar and dog-friendly courtyard is open Thursday to Sunday, year-round. The Ciderhouse offers fresh-pressed hard ciders, wines, hard seltzers, cider cocktails, and special releases. But patrons say nothing beats the Ironbound Original, which blends bittersweet and sweet apples for a dry, crisp finish. They also serve a farm-to-table food menu available for outdoor dining.

The Lobby

Where: Elizabeth
Details: This sports bar and lounge is known for raising the bar when it comes to live sports spectating. (Partially because of their high-end LED tvs and state-of-the-art audio system setup.) It’s definitely a party atmosphere, so expect loud music and an equally-loud crowd. Their spacious outdoor patio features both a bar and a stage. Specialty cocktails include the Raspberry Sidekick, Hennything is Possible, Naughty or Spiced, and Bananas & Creme. The latter blends Dusse Cognac with creme de banane, coconut, and pineapple.

The Tewksbury Inn

Where: Oldwick
Details: Besides the formal dining room and rustic atmosphere, The Tewksbury Inn also has a nice outdoor bar. Their covered patio still boasts white tablecloths and upscale dining options, including starters like steak tartare and butter poached lobster. As for the drink menu, The Tewksbury features seasonal cocktails like their popular “Spring in the ‘Bourbs”. This cocktail includes bourbon, bergamot liqueur, apricot liqueur, and orange bitters. They even have dessert drinks like Chocolate Martinis, Irish Coffee, and Espresso-tinis.

Jersey Shore

Featured from Ocean County:
Bird & Betty’s

Young Adults Posing with Drinks at outdoor bar. — Photo by LJ Hepp | Tide Table Restaurant Group

Where: 529 Dock Rd, Beach Haven
Details: For folks who miss the good ol’ days, a visit to Bird & Betty’s feels like a fond memory. Capturing the spirit of a classic Beach Haven night spot, the restaurant provides creative cocktails, fresh food, and live music. Late night crowds can expect dance parties, popular bands touring through, local acts, and an all-around good time. The menu includes sandwiches, seafood, pizza, and a variety of popular starters such as their Short Rib “Disco” fries. Their cocktail menu includes martinis and spritzers, as well as a selection of drinks either frozen or over ice. One popular martini is the Farm to Disco, with Strawberries, basil, and Supergay Handcrafted Vodka. Meanwhile, their spritzers come in flavors like blueberry lemon, guava limeade, and jalapeno ginger lime. Of course, Bird & Betty’s also boasts an outdoor bar on their deck overlooking the water. Come for the sunset, stay for the exciting nightlife. But to us, nothing beats some fresh ceviche, the perfect cocktail, and great music right on the water.

Featured from Monmouth County:
AVA Beach Bar

Where: 23 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch
Details: AVA Beach Bar is the ultimate oceanfront destination at the Jersey Shore. With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and a stylish, laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind. This outdoor bar is part of Avenue Long Branch, one of NJ’s Best Brunch Spots. AVA Beach Bar’s outdoor deck allows guests to step right out onto the beach. In fact, it’s one of only a few spots where guests can enjoy a drink with toes in the sand. The laid back atmosphere is perfect for a casual afternoon with friends. But it works just as well for a romantic date night under the stars. Of course, there’s nothing like catching the sunset while enjoying great food, refreshing drinks, and the cool sea breeze. They even have covered areas and cozy spots in case of sudden rain. AVA Beach Bar offers weekly drink specials, national DJs, and live entertainment all season long. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind beachside experience.

Featured from Ocean County:
Chef Mike’s ABG

Ladies enjoying cocktails in the sand at Chef Mike's ABG.

Where: 10 24th Ave, Seaside Park
Details: Renowned Chef Mike pushes his culinary skills to the limit to create a unique dining experience at his restaurant. (Which is why it’s also one of NJ’s Best Outdoor Dining spots.) Chef Mike’s ABG delights patrons with a mix of fresh seafood, Filet Mignon, famous creamy crab bisque, and more. They serve both red and white wine by the glass, as well as an assortment of martinis and cocktails. Popular martinis include The King’s Breakfast, with gin, Italicus Bergamot Liquor, strawberry preserve, and lemon juice. As for cocktails, the Spicy Mango Maragarita features 21 Seeds tequila, Triple Sec, mango puree, and lime. Other flavor-packed picks include the Germain Shepherd, Chef Mike’s Mai Tai, and Pear Elderflower Mule. The latter is a signature blend that features Absolut Pear Elderflower, pear puree, and ginger beer. Their outdoor seating is a fun beach vibe that comes with a picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean. Sitting out in the sun is even better with a group of friends and a pitcher of Fresh Fruit Sangria.

9th Ave Pier

Where: Belmar
Details: 9th Ave Pier is the place for fresh seafood, an ice cold raw bar, and waterfront outdoor dining. Set within the Belmar Marina, this spot is famous for their rum buckets which come in seven different flavors. Popular picks include the Tropical Adventure, Miss Belmar, and Ocean Explorer. Locals know 9th Ave Pier is also the spot to go to see the Jersey Shore’s hottest bands playing live. If great music, killer seafood, and top notch drinks aren’t enough, the restaurant also has a mini golf course.

Bahrs Landing

Where: Highlands
Details: Barhs Landing has been a landmark in the community for over 100 years. The restaurant first opened in 1917, and has been a go-to spot for lobster and fresh seafood ever since. The interior boasts a nautical theme, while the outdoor deck is the perfect spot to spend a warm summer evening. Their signature cocktail menu includes The Lobster Boss Martini, with Bahrs-branded craft vodka, ruby red grapefruit juice, citrus zest, and cherry. Other warm weather favorites include the Caramel Apple Martini and Bahrs Lemonade.

Beach Bar

Where: Asbury Park
Details: It doesn’t get much more outdoor than the Beach Bar in Asbury Park. This oceanfront spot is part of the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk and Convention Hall Pier overlooking the South Beach. Of course, the upscale lounge serves a variety of signature cocktails and rum buckets. (They typically also introduce a few new specialty drinks each year.) Guests can order a drink and enjoy elevated bar food while overlooking the beach and ocean. For beach-goers looking for live music, open-air dining, and a laid-back atmosphere, this is the spot.

D’Jais Oceanfront Bar & Grill

Where: Belmar
Details: D’Jais is known as the original Jersey Shore Dance Club, in operation since 1959. Locals head to this popular seasonal bar to cool off from the summer heat or to enjoy the bustling nightlife. The food menu offers burgers, wings, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and popular apps like mac n cheese bites. The calendar is usually brimming with weekend activities, from live music to bingo nights. As for the drink menu, fan favorites include the Espolon Margaritas and Tanteo Spicy Jalapeno Margaritas.

Donovan’s Reef

Where: Sea Bright
Details: This beach bar is only for adults 21+ and they require photo ID for entry. But once inside, regulars know to expect a party-like atmosphere with live music and daily drink specials. Donovan’s Reef offers multiple open-air decks and bars, as well as ocean views and a sandy tiki bar. The bar leads out to a private, lifeguarded beach, and even has a beach cam live on their website. In addition to rotating summer cocktails and daily drink specials, their menu includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

LandShark Bar & Grill

Where: Atlantic City
Details: The Atlantic City location of LandShark Bar & Grill is at Resorts Casino Hotel. This popular spot is actually the only year-round, full-service bar on the sand side of the boardwalk. But it’s a particular favorite during the summer thanks to their spacious deck and specialty margaritas. This includes the Fins Up Margarita with Margaritaville Gold Tequila, Triple Sec, and their house margarita blend. Their popular Shark Tank option takes the frozen version of the Fins Up Margarita and further adds Shark® Lager.

The Point

Where: Somers Point | Sea Isle | Wildwood
Details: The Point offers a one-of-a-kind tiki bar experience to guests along the shore. It’s all about upbeat energy, white sand, and refreshing drinks. Popular cocktails include the Frozen Daiquiri, Tiki Zombie Punch, Frozen Chocolate Expresso, The Rum Runner, and Mango Pineapple Crusher. The Point hosts live music all summer long, often featuring local acts and crowd-requested favorites. They also have cabanas available to rent (minimum 2-hour rental is required). We recommend pairing a cocktail with a Classic Philly Cheesesteak.

Water Star Grille

Where: Stone Harbor
Details: The Water Star Grille is part of The Reeds at Shelter Haven. (Which also houses The Salt Spa, one of New Jersey’s Best Spas.) The restaurant boasts a gorgeous deck overlooking the water, which also houses their covered outdoor bar. Their dinner menu includes sides, plates, and salads to share, while breakfast offers a family-friendly kids menu. Meanwhile, popular seasonal drinks include the Hibiscus Margarita, Rose Sangria, and Pineapple Rum Mai Tai. The vibe is perfect for a relaxing evening after a long day.

South Jersey

Creekside Bar & Grill

Where: Cinnaminson
Details: The Creekside Bar & Grill is the outdoor grotto part of the Jug Handle Inn. Giving off backyard oasis vibes, the spot offers live music and outdoor games like horseshoes, bean bag toss, and washers. (The latter is similar to horseshoes.) In addition to food specials, Creekside Bar serves up signature buckets and specialty cocktails from their outdoor bar/gazebo. Popular picks include the Corona Sunrise Bucket, with Cuervo Silver Tequila, orange juice, and grenadine over ice, topped with Corona.

Lake House Restaurant

Where: Newfield
Details: There are plenty of ways to enjoy the American menu and craft beers available at Lake House Restaurant. In addition to their dining room and lounge, they have an all-season deck and covered patio. Their rotating selection of beers on tap typically feature local brewers like Spellbound, Bonesaw, and Urban Village. IPAs, stouts, bocks, porters, and more provide options for every taste. We recommend ordering the Bacon Wrapped Chicken Parmesan and current recommended beer pairing while dining out on the patio.

Nipper’s Pub

Where: Deptford
Details: Nipper’s is Deptford’s — or Westville’s, depending on your GPS app — oldest pub. Known for being a casual spot that’s equal parts fun and charming, their outdoor seating is perfect for warm weather. Their patio hosts a full size outdoor bar with plenty of beverage options. Nipper’s is a fan-favorite for their amazing selection of fries. This includes seafood fries, Spanish fries, disco fries, BBQ pulled pork fries, pizza fries and more. Wings, shared plates, and other handhelds round out the menu of popular pub fare.

Oaklyn Manor Bar & Grill

Where: Oaklyn
Details: Oaklyn Manor offers draft beers as well as a wide selection of liquor. Options include vodka, tequila, whiskey, bourbon, rum, gin, and other specialty drinks like Baileys Irish Cream. The rotating draft list frequently features a mix of lagers, pale ales, IPAs, sours, and more from local craft breweries. Their patio is the perfect place to enjoy popular picks such as Hennessey, Jagermeister, and Black Haus Schnapps. As for the food menu, expect familiar favorites like buffalo chicken cheesesteak rolls, firecracker shrimp, and BBQ brisket tacos.

Uncle Ricky’s Outdoor Bar & Grill

Where: Vineland
Details: The crowd at Uncle Ricky’s is older than the other outdoor bars on this list. With the exception of younger first-timers just passing through, most of the regulars have been going for years. The food menu includes sandwiches, pizza, wings, sliders, jalapeno poppers, and more. Popular “bar delights” include steamed clams, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and BBQ pork sliders. Uncle Ricky’s is totally outdoors, and includes a tiki bar and frequent live music. The welcoming staff makes it a great weekend hangout bar to visit with friends.

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Best Outdoor Bars in New Jersey FAQs

What Are the Best Rooftop Bars in North Jersey with Skyline Views?

For those seeking rooftop views and upscale ambiance, North Jersey delivers with standout options like Concourse Club in Wood-Ridge. This chic rooftop bar sits atop the Element New York Hotel. Over in Weehawken, NoHu Rooftop Bar at Envue provides panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline paired with creative Southern cuisine.

Which Outdoor Bars in Central Jersey Offer Live Music and Spacious Patios?

Stage House Tavern in Somerset checks all the boxes. With its seasonally enclosed outdoor bar, BBQ pit, and live music events, it’s an ideal summer hangout. Another local gem is Orchard Park by David Burke in East Brunswick. Its Orchard Terrace patio offers signature cocktails, fireplaces, and lounge seating.

Where Can I Find Beachfront Bars at the Jersey Shore with Ocean Views?

Nothing says “shore vibes” like sipping cocktails at an oceanfront bar, and AVA Beach Bar in Long Branch delivers that. Here, guests lounge oceanside with live DJs, drink specials, and romantic sunset views. In Beach Haven, Bird & Betty’s brings retro flair with its deck overlooking the bay. Enjoy live bands, frozen cocktails, and menu items like Short Rib Disco Fries for the perfect night out.

What are Some Popular Outdoor Bars in South Jersey with a Laid-Back Atmosphere?

In South Jersey, Uncle Ricky’s Outdoor Bar & Grill in Vineland offers a relaxed vibe complete with tiki bar service. Similarly, Creekside Bar & Grill in Cinnaminson creates a backyard-style oasis with outdoor games, specialty cocktail buckets, and live music.

Which Outdoor Bars in New Jersey Offer Unique Cocktails?

For standout cocktails with a view, Stirling Tavern in Morristown offers a rooftop bar with a retractable canopy. Their signature “Woke Up & Chose Violettes” is a tropical blend of tequila and creme de violette. Likewise, The Tewksbury Inn in Oldwick serves up seasonal creations like the bourbon-based “Spring in the ‘Bourbs”.

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