In the mid-1900s, matchbooks were a normal, everyday item. They were used as a form of advertising, as a token of appreciation after dining at a restaurant. As one could imagine, since the popularity of cigarette smoking slowed down, so did the presence of matchbooks. Now they are seen more as a keepsake after a memorable meal or an exciting find at a vintage store. People take their matchbook collections seriously these days. With viral obsessions on TikTok or aesthetically pleasing Instagram feeds, matchbook collection has become a real sport. A recent headline in the WSJ even read “We’re In a Matchbook Renaissance.”
With all the matchbook hype we thought it was time to start recording a collection of our own for fellow matchbook collectors. We even turned to our Hoboken Girl Insiders Facebook group to ask: Where can you find matchbooks in Hoboken and Jersey City? Keep reading to learn where to find matchbooks in Hoboken and Jersey City, New Jersey.
HG Note: Where else have you come across matchbooks in Hoboken and Jersey City? Share with us!
The Hair Room | 467 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
Jersey City’s most vibrant hair salon is filled to the brim with colorful, nostalgic touches, one being branded matchbooks at the counter. HG pro tip: The Hair Room previously had two locations but now operates out of its Jersey City Heights location.
Read More: A Guide to Vintage + Thrift Stores in Hudson County
Jane Doe | 333 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
Jane Doe has become a go-to date night spot since it entered the Jersey City restaurant scene in August 2023. Its dark moody lighting and vinyl-filled ambiance are topped off with matchbooks at the host stand.
Kanibal + Co. | 197 Montgomery Street, Jersey City
Kanibal + Co. has a whimsical array of lifestyle goods waiting around every corner. Just when you think you’ve seen the perfect gift, another one jumps out. Besides great gifting items Kanibal + Co. also has an impressive selection of candles, incense, and matches.
Little Bar | 1401 Hudson Street, Hoboken
Little Bar may just have some of the coolest matchbooks we’ve ever seen. With detailed matches with a thick rectangular cut and a printed fish on the front, these are without a doubt a collectible item.
Lucky Honeybee | 487 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
Lucky Honeybee is a one-of-a-kind gift shop, apothecary, and refill bar all in one. The cozy shop in Jersey City Heights is known for its eco-friendly candles. Matches are also available.
Martha’s | 25 12th Street, Hoboken
Martha’s in Hoboken has already left its mark after opening in 2023. This upscale American dining experience has show-stopping cocktails and unique takes on classic comfort dishes. On your way out be sure to grab a matchbook for the memories.
Onieal’s | 343 Park Avenue, Hoboken
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Onieals was named The Hoboken Girl’s 2023 winner for Best Burger by loyal locals. Besides a fantastic burger, drinks, and more, matchbooks are also available.
Pet Shop | 193 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
Pet Shop is a go-to for downtown locals. With top-notch drinks and a unique vegetarian bar menu, it’s no wonder it’s a fantastic hang-out. Pet Shop has lots of fun and quirky touches that make this spot special, and the matchbooks at the bar are certainly one of them.
Phantasm | 379 Monmouth Street, Jersey City
Phantasm is one of Jersey City’s newest vintage stores. This space is filled with colorful finds and perfectly captures a mixture of disco and art-deco styles. In addition to some insanely cool vintage finds, the store has matchbooks with a little surprise inside.
Revival Vintage Boutique | 86 Park Avenue, Hoboken
Vintage lovers know that Revival is a true treasure in Hoboken. With wall-to-wall vintage clothing, vinyl, and more, you can also shop a colorful array of vintage matchbooks.
The Shepherd + The Knucklehead | 1313 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
The Shepherd + The Knucklehead’s Joe Schiavo told us in the HG Insiders Facebook group that this spot sells custom design matchbooks and all proceeds go toward charity. To find out more, inquire directly with the restaurant or stop by for a visit.
Sky Tobacco Company | 344 Grove Street, Jersey City
Sky Tobacco Company in Downtown Jersey City is one of the few niche cigar shops in the area. This spot is praised by locals as a go-to and has dozens of wonderful Google reviews from happy customers. Branded matchbooks are also available in-store.
Sirenetta + Sorellina | 1039 + 1036 Washington Street, Hoboken
These sister restaurants are some of the best that Hoboken has to offer. With its chic-upscale ambiance and memorable selection of food and drink, matchbooks here came highly recommended in our HG Insider’s Facebook group.
See More: Where to Get Merch From Businesses in Montclair
Sure Things | 561 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
Sure Things is a vintage gem in the heart of Jersey City Heights. The selection of vintage matches is so fun to sort through. You are sure to dig up a treasure when hunting for matches here. The owner told us that a great deal of these matches came from estate sales.