One of the telltale signs that Spring is (finally) here is derby day! The Kentucky Derby continues to bring some festive fun to our neighborhood, and this year is no different. So grab your oversized hats, dress in your derby best and sip on some Juleps or other festive cocktails while you turn the “greatest two minutes in sports” into the greatest Saturday ever at these Hoboken and Jersey City spots.
Stewed Cow {Hoboken}
This spot on 4th and Adams is more than just a whiskey bar with a mechanical derby horse bull. While the traditional derby drink, a Mint Julep, isn’t necessarily on their specialty cocktail menu, the “Georgia Peach” cocktail is — and we think that makes the perfect substitute. Concocted with their own Stewed Cow Bourbon, fresh peaches, fresh mint, simple syrup and club you can enjoy this delectable drink while watching the race on one of the seven flat screens above the large bar, or multiple other televisions throughout the bar. Stewed Cow also has amazing saloon-inspired food with our favorites being the Cajun Fettuccine and cheesy loaded tater-tots. YUM!
PJ Ryan’s Tavern {Jersey City}
Head to this JC locale which features the hottest sporting events live on 8 televisions. Modeled after a traditional Irish pub and with a menu that puts a bit of a spin on Irish fare, snack on the amazing buffalo chicken quesadillas and chorizo chili as you root for your favorite horse to take the win. With impressive beer offerings and a complete cocktail menu, PJ Ryan’s is a cozy corner pub, perfect also for sticking around long after the race has been run.
Tilted Kilt {Hoboken}
While the JC location no longer exists, Hoboken’s Tilted Kilt remains one of the best {off-the-beaten-path} spots to watch a sporting event. With over 34 televisions ranging in size and ample space to gather ‘round with friends, Tilted Kilt might have Scottish/Irish vibes {with some ladies wearing some revealing outfits}, but can also be a great venue for the big event. With a special mule menu including the Caribbean (Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Gosling’s Ginger Beer, freshly squeezed lime juice & Peach schnapps) and tons of other cocktails to choose from; put on your derby best and cheer for your favorites at thus fun and festive watering hole.
South House {Jersey City}
Southern charm, craft cocktails and soulful southern-style eats? Yaaasss. Serving up Bourbon Beauties (Old Forrester bourbon, raspberry, mint, lime, cranberry and honey syrup) amongst their full bar offerings, gather round this JC hot spot with friends on Derby Day. Head downstairs to their Rec Room where you can catch the race on two large screens – and in between play darts, shuffleboard, foosball, pool and more.
Where will you be watching the big race?
*Smokin’ Barrel is now closed.
