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, Slàinte! (A toast to good health.)
Quick Click Guide: Keep scrolling to see the statewide list, or select an NJ Region below to find the best Irish Pubs nearby.
| North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey |
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North Jersey
Featured from Morris County:
Dublin Pub
Where: 4 Pine St, Morristown
Details: The Dublin Pub has all the trademarks of a classic Irish Pub. A neighborhood atmosphere, mainstay in the community for over 50 years, frequent live music, and classic Irish pub food. Stepping inside the pub is like entering a love letter to the history of Dublin. From the murals depicting Dublin’s downtown to the antique street lamps and artwork, it feels like a visit to Ireland. The daily lunch and dinner menus fuse Irish tradition and elevated modern pub fare. Whether stopping in for a casual midday bite or a relaxed evening meal, every plate delivers bold flavor and quality. For an authentic Irish dinner, go with either the Shepherd’s Pie or Fisherman’s Stew. Behind the bar, The Dublin Pub boasts an impressive collection of over 100 whiskeys in addition to handcrafted cocktails. Of course, guests can also expect perfectly poured pints of Guinness. The pub hosts live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, with the lineup always posted on their website.
| Visit Their Website | Reserve a Table | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-538-1999 |
Featured from Bergen County:
Tommy Fox’s Public House
Where: 32 S Washington Ave, Bergenfield
Details: Folks passing through Bergenfield may not realize the town is home to one of New Jersey’s best Irish pubs. The menu fuses Irish-American favorites, but their dedicated “Pub Stuff” menu section is full of traditional Irish fare. This includes Shepherd’s Pie, Tommy’s Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash, and an All-Day Irish Breakfast. For anyone not in the mood for traditional Irish fare, we recommend their Cajun Dry Rub wings. They also host a weekly Burger Night every Thursday, boasting $9.95 burgers that include two toppings of choice. Locals know this is the area’s go-to spot for a perfect pour of Guinness. But there’s even more to Tommy Fox’s than meets they eye. Just below the pub is The Basement at Tommy’s, a dedicated event venue for comedy shows and entertainment. The spacious restaurant is also available for private parties of up to 100 guests. It’s a great option for bridal showers and wedding rehearsals, as well as Birthday/Bachelorette/Graduation/Retirement parties.
| Visit Their Website | Order Online | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 201-384-0900 |
Featured from Passaic County:
Celtic Corner
Where: 312 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne
Details: Game day at Celtic Corner comes with its own dedicated Football (NFL) menu. Highlights include bar bites like fried pickles and specialty fries alongside tossed tenders, sandwiches, and sausage rolls. The pub also plays UFC and Premier League soccer matches. Popular authentic entrees range from Irish Chicken Curry to their Shepherd’s Pie made with bone-in lamb shank served over mashed potatoes in a Mirepoix and Guinness demi-glace. Sunday Brunch at Celtic Corner is also a popular event. This Irish-American fusion brunch features menu favorites like eggs Benedict, corned beef hash, full Irish breakfast, and bottomless mimosas. Weekly events include trivia night every Monday, Taco Tuesday, and live music on weekends. With 20 beers on draft plus a selection of cocktails, wines, and bottled/canned beers, there’s always plenty to drink. Keep an eye out for bi-weekly dinner specials as well as Happy Hour (only at the bar) from Monday – Friday. Their back room is perfect for private events and special occasions.
| Visit Their Website | Follow on Instagram | Follow on Facebook | Call 973-949-3767 |
McGovern’s Tavern
Where: 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. Now, McGovern’s is open to all, serving an eclectic food menu alongside unique drink specials. (Don’t forget to ask about their shots.) Their popular burgers features options like the “Scully” topped with Taylor Ham and cheese. The pub is also active in supporting the local community, providing food donations and more.
St. James’s Gate Publick House
Where: Maplewood
Details: St. James’s is so Irish, they have a year-round countdown clock to St. Patrick’s Day on their website. The pub’s commitment to creating an authentic Irish Pub atmosphere can be distilled into a simple mantra: Good food, good drinks, and good music. First-timers simply have to try the signature St. James’s Burger with Rashers (Irish bacon), cheddar, lettuce, and tomato. The pub hosts an annual Golf Classic, often benefiting local medical centers and charities. The outing also includes a ticketed raffle to win a trip for two to Ireland.
Central Jersey
Darby Road Public House and Restaurant
Where: Scotch Plains
Details: Darby Road is the product of two lifelong friends combining their love of soccer and hockey into a bar. So not surprisingly, 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 from scratch, so be sure to ask about daily dessert specials. Their drink menu has dozens of options, plus the all-day food menu features Pub favorites like signature Gaelic nachos.
Hailey’s Harp & Pub
Where: Metuchen
Details: There’s always something good going on at Hailey’s. 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 eggs Benedict, poutine, a traditional Irish breakfast, spicy corned beef hash, and more. As for their main menu, they serve Irish classics including Bangers & Mash and Guinness Stew. Another popular weekly special is Thirsty Thursdays, which offers a night of discounts on signature cocktails. Options include Astro Pop, Pear Cosmo, and the Urban Bourbon.
Mitchell’s Cafe
Where: Lambertville
Details: Don’t let the name fool you, Mitchell’s Cafe is a neighborhood Irish bar that is over 80 years old. They even host a bi-monthly Irish Night to celebrate the bar’s cultural heritage. One thing that might surprise you about this Irish bar is their fondness for live jazz music. In addition to other live music and a jukebox, Mitchell’s Cafe hosts a monthly Jazz night. They don’t have a food menu, it’s an old-school bar with a classic beer, wine, and drink list. But the building does have a restaurant attached to it (most recently Aztlan Mexican Grill).
Nugent’s Tavern
Where: Elizabeth
Details: There is no shortage of drink options at Nugent’s Tavern. In fact, they have over 150 different Whiskeys to choose from, in addition to craft beers and cocktails. The Irish-infused pub menu features unique options like Guinness Cheddar & Pretzels and Dragon Fire Dumplings. The latter are fried dumplings tossed in the tavern’s signature spicy sauce with shredded carrots and sesame seeds. We also recommend Nugent’s Irish Loaded Tots, topped with homemade Corned Beef with Chipotle aioli and their signature Guinness Cheese.
Tir na nOg
Where: Trenton
Details: Tir na Nog has been a Trenton staple for 30+ years, popular for its Irish Whiskey selection. The name comes from Irish folklore, and translates roughly to “Land of Youth”. Everything about “The Nog” is authentic, including the photos, and mementos adorning the interior. They’re also serious about darts, providing four dart boards and sponsoring two teams in the Greater Trenton area. In addition to weekly live Irish music, they host a traditional music session at least once per month. Note: This spot is BYO food (They only serve drinks).
Jersey Shore
Angelsea Pub
Where: North Wildwood
Details: Angelsea Pub is known as a “must-stop” for visitors passing through North Wildwood. The tavern itself is historic, as the building dates back to 1885 when it first opened as the Germantown Hotel. Locals champion the pub’s authentic Irish menu, from their tender Hot Roast Beef sandwich to Sean’s Shepherd’s Pie. Other Irish favorites include the Corned Beef Special and Grilled Reuben, as well as the French Onion Soup. Besides Guinness, the pub serves 17 beers on tap in addition to rotating seasonal cocktails and Irish Whiskey.
Dublin House Restaurant & Pub
Where: 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 pub is also Guinness Academy certified, with the Perfect Pint badge to prove it. Otherwise, they host regular sports broadcasts for fans to watch both American football and soccer. They notably excel in the customer service department, with a great wait staff and bartenders. It’s always a good sign when so many first-time patrons leave feeling like family.
Josie Kelly’s Public House
Where: Somers Point
Details: This local favorite Irish Pub is situated in a hundred-plus year old building. A great number of owners and businesses have passed through during that time, leading to Josie Kelly’s Public House. The pub invites patrons to experience the traditions and hospitality reminiscent of the western coast of Ireland. That includes a brunch, lunch, and dinner menu of authentic favorites like Bangers & Mash or Beef & Guinness Pie. For drinkers and nondrinkers alike, they serve a number of signature craft cocktails and alcohol-free libations.
Kelly’s Tavern
Where: 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, great drinks, and impeccable service. The menu features filet Mignon sliders, French onion soup, Fish and chips, a corned beef platter, and more. Don’t leave without ordering the homemade cheesecake, ice cream sundae, or warm brownie cake dessert.
O’Donnell’s Pour House
Where: 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. This includes standouts like Shrimp & Chorizo Sausage Skewers and Pan Blackened Swordfish topped with grilled pineapple. Of course they have traditional Irish options such as braised short ribs, Shepherd’s Pie, and their signature O’Donnell’s crab cakes. Kids can enjoy options like chicken fingers, pasta, and grilled cheese.
St. Stephen’s Green Publick House
Where: 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. The cozy atmosphere and attentive staff really help sell the authentic Irish hospitality St. Stephens Green is going for. Their must-try desserts include Irish Bread & Butter Pudding and Banoffee Pie.
South Jersey
Featured from Camden County:
Holy City Publick House
Where: 332 Jersey Ave, Gloucester City
Details: Perhaps the most authentic Irish pub in South Jersey, this spot pairs traditional Irish spirit with inventive modern flavors. Holy City Publick House is rooted in the strong Irish heritage of the community, bringing together the warmth, music, and spirit that make a true Irish pub feel like home. St. Patrick’s Day is of course a huge celebration at the pub, kicking off at 8:00 am with a $15 Traditional Irish Breakast and live Irish music from until 11:00 am by Chuck Lawyery. Throughout the day, they also serve Ham and Cabbage or Corn Beef and Cabbage platters for $15. Live music continues up on their newly-renovated second floor from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm courtesy of The Broken Shillelaghs. There will also be a special pop up performance by the Gloucester City Irish Society’s Pipes and Drums. Throughout the rest of the year, Holy City is a local favorite for their selection of craft burgers and entrees. Highlights include the Bangin’ Burger and Holy City Secret chicken sandwich, but don’t miss their award-winning wings.
| Visit Their Website | Order Online | Follow on Instagram | Follow in Facebook | Call 856-456-3343 |
Dooney’s Pub
Where: Delran | Vorhees
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. Kids can enjoy a modern American menu that includes desserts like Brown Butter Cake and a Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, so there’s always a reason to stop in and see what’s new.
Kavanagh’s Irish Pub & Grille
Where: Malaga
Details: Kavanagh’s relies primarily on word of mouth, with some limited social media, to draw in their patrons. Locals love their daily specials menu, with deals on wings every Monday, steak sandwiches every Wednesday, and burgers every Thursday. (Not to mention a popular Taco Tuesday!) Once the weekend hits, they offer drink specials Friday – Sunday on domestic drafts and more. The menu also features rotating favorites like the Cajun Ranch Chicken Sandwich and Irish Cheesesteak with Jameson fried onions and Monterey Jack cheese sauce.
Schileens Pub
Where: Westville
Details: Schileens Pub first opened in 1995 and continues the three-generation Schillig family tradition of South Jersey eateries. Owners John and Eileen run a true family business, receiving help from each of their five kids. Locals swear by their draft beer selection, roast beef sandwiches, and commitment to going all-out during St. Patrick’s Day. In fact, the pub typically opens early on the holiday and serves Irish Breakfast with green eggs and ham. But save room for desserts like funnel cake fries, the brownie sundae, and fried cheesecake.
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Yes, many Irish pubs in New Jersey offer traditional Irish dishes. For instance, Hailey’s Harp & Pub in Metuchen serves classics like Bangers & Mash and Guinness Stew. Similarly, The Quiet Man Irish Pub in Dover is known for its authentic Irish cuisine, including wild mushroom ravioli and “Dublin Style” fish and chips.
Tir na nOg in Trenton hosts live Irish music on Wednesdays and Fridays, as well as traditional music sessions on the first Sunday of every month. Additionally, The Dublin Pub in Morristown typically features live music three nights a week.
Of course! Many Irish pubs in New Jersey celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with special events. For example, Schileens Pub in Westville is known for going all-out during the holiday, typically opening at 8:00 am and serving Irish Breakfast with green eggs and ham.
Darby Road in Scotch Plains is renowned as an “Irish Soccer Club,” catering to both European football and hockey fans. Dublin House Restaurant & Pub in Red Bank is also a great spot to catch live NFL or European soccer matches.
Indeed, several Irish pubs in New Jersey have a storied past. McGovern’s Tavern in Newark opened in 1936 and has been a cornerstone for the Irish community. Meanwhile, Kelly’s Tavern in Neptune City has survived and thrived for over 70 years.
Top (Hero) Photo: © McGovern’s Tavern / Facebook
