I’m not sure exactly why the summer and co*cktails go hand-in-hand. Maybe it’s the ice on a hot summer day. But let’s face it, something about the warm weather and the freedom associated with summer makes you want to go out and chill with a few friends at your local watering hole.
We talked to our listeners to find out what they had to say about their favorite bars in New Jersey. And then we hit up Facebook to hear what people’s favorite hot spots are to grab co*cktails.
And — we know — we’ve focused a lot on North Jersey bars. People write to us all the time and say, “hey? What about us here in South Jersey?“ To that I say, here are some of our favorite spots in South Jersey to get a good co*cktail and a great vibe.
The Old Causeway in Manahawkin
We spoke to Rose in Beach Haven West who recommended the The Old Causeway in Manahawkin. With raw bar, seafood, steak & co*cktails, plus live weekend music it’s one of the many great things about South Jersey. It’s pretty much the only place that has a shuttle that will pick you up and drop you off to do your evening drinking.
Wonder Bar in Atlantic City
A local bar, grill, and a happy hour spot, Wonder Bar in Atlantic City takes advantage of its beautiful coastline location by inviting you to visit either my land or by sea. One of the many attractive things about the Wonder Bar in AC is that you can pull right up in your boat to grab your co*cktail and the locals love it.
The Old Causeway via Google Maps
The Jug Handle Inn in Cinnaminson
Affectionately known by locals as “The Jug,” this is the epitome of a South Jersey bar. Small, intimate, local, and where a young local crowd hangs out to meet old friends and drink themselves into a frenzy.
The Jug Handle Inn via Google Maps
Bally's Carousel Bar in Atlantic City
Bally's Carousel Bar at Bally’s Hotel and Casino In Atlantic City is a brand-new and immersive experience featuring an elevated 24-seat rotating bar with 360-degree views of the casino and hotel lobby. The décor is a nod to the Atlantic City amusem*nts of yore. And, just to elevate the experience, they offer Jersey Shore-themed drinks like funnel cake and saltwater taffy.
Bally's via Google Maps
The Crab Trap in Somers Point
Crab Trap on the bay in Somers Point has an outdoor bar and deck with amazing Harbor views. A perfect way to end a summer beach day with delicious food and a beautiful waterfront location that attracts visitors from all over as well as locals, who love the place. The bar here is worth the drive from anywhere.
The Crab Trap via Google Maps
Redstone American Grill in Marlton
Most people in South Jersey think of Redstone in Marlton as that dependable restaurant where you know you will always enjoy the atmosphere and get a good meal. But what people don’t think about is that the bar is amazing.
Redstone has one of the happiest and most happening bars in South Jersey. Of course the restaurant is great, too, but some people just go to hang out at their chill but hopping bar area. (If those two things can exist at the same time.)
Redstone American Grill via Google Maps
Ark Pub & Eatery in Point Pleasant
Argue geography with me all you want but The Ark in Point Pleasant is, in fact, in South Jersey — if you live where I do. The homiest place in New Jersey, The Ark features outstanding food, a friendly casual vibe, and a bar area that attracts people from all over. Famously one of Chris Christie’s favorites.
The Ark via Google Maps
As I mentioned above, We took a look at Facebook to see what bars in South Jersey our friends there are loving.
Dr. Brewlittle's Beer Co. in Maple Shade.
Allison Coulter writes that she loves Dr. Brewlittle's Beer Co. in Maple Shade. Dr. Brewlittle's is an awesome spot for a variety of beers. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is inviting and the décor is very cool. Like great tasting room and a pleasant outdoor beer garden are some of the things that bring people here
Dr. Brewlittle's Beer Co. via Google Maps
Erlton Social Craft Bar & Kitchen in Cherry Hill
On Facebook, Maggie Parker-Goins says she loves the Erlton Social Craft Bar & Kitchen in Cherry Hill. Fans rave about the classic American food and the hand-crafted and approachable vibe. People say that Erlton is the best combination of sophisticated and casual.
Erlton Social Craft Bar & Kitchen via Google Maps
Blue Monkey Tavern in Merchantville
Ashley Christine DiSantis is a fan of the Blue Monkey in Merchantville. And who wouldn’t be? Craft beers, artisan co*cktails, a zillion star reviews from everyone all over the place, take one look at this Renovated historic property and you’ll be drawn in. With a mahogany bar & TV sports, plus craft beers & pub food classics, what’s not to love?
Blue Monkey Tavern via Google Maps
Jay's Elbow Room in Maple Shade
On Facebook, Eden Aaronson and Sarah Galdo both recommendedJay’s Elbow Room. It's a super popular local dive bar that has been around since 1948, and they have 20 rotating craft beer handles.
Jay's Elbow Room via Google Maps
Next time you are in South Jersey, these are the bars you have to check out! Keep scrolling down to see our Beach Tag Guide for Summer of 2022.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Judi Franco only.
You can now listen to Hear New Jersey’s favorite best friends anytime, anywhere and any day of the week. Download the Dennis & Judi show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now.
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
NJ beach tags guide for summer 2022
We're coming up on another summer at the Jersey Shore! Before you get lost in the excitement of sunny days on the sand, we're running down how much seasonal/weekly/daily beach tags will cost you, and the pre-season deals you can still take advantage of!
Every NJ pizza joint Barstool's Dave Portnoy has reviewed
Dave Portnoy, commonly known as El Presidente, is the founder of Barstool Sports. Somewhere along the way, he decided to start reviewing local pizzerias, and the concept took off. Here is every New Jersey pizzeria Dave has stopped in, along with the score he gave them.
