50 Best Bars near Middletown

“We had empanadas and tacos, both were excellent“

“Great local bar. Friendly bartendress Donna sold me on a delicious new mixed drink from a local distillery. Yum!Nice outside area to smoke, play corn hole or horse shoes. Almost don't want to leave such a good review.. Gotta keep this place aNeighborhood gem! ❤️“

“Great food, great vibe, fun location! What more is there?“

“I had a great experience at The Squire at Branches in West Long Branch. My food was absolutely delicious and came out quickly, exactly when I expected it, which made the whole visit even better. The service was outstanding, and both managers, Stacy and Faye, were amazing—friendly, attentive, and clearly dedicated to making sure guests are happy. Everything from the atmosphere to the quality of the food made this a place I’ll definitely be coming back to and recommending to others.“

“Amazing food, view and atmosphere! Darrel and his team are top notch. Highly recommend lunch, dinner or happy hour at this spot!“

“I can't say enough good things about this place, obviously a waterfront beach bar has an amazing view and cool atmosphere, they're constantly hosting events, live music, which attracts a great crowd as well. And by the way, in my opinion as far as bar food goes they're top tier. Not just burgers and chicken fingers but kabobs and short ribs and things you typically see as bar food. Awesome bar food, get a spot on a couch in front of a fire pit next to the water with live music... hard to beat that“

“Food was delicious and service was great.“

“Good vibes , friendly staff“

“Awesome terrific food no doubt 100pct. People like Soria are the best in the business..but but but Jesus Mary&Joseph omg when u call there and whoever might pickup the phone all you hear is an enormous background noise like I'm in Las Vegas. That must stop. Not at all professional not in the least. Move the woman who answers the phone to a separate non loud room. Not close to acceptable. I couldn't hear myself placing my order“

“I was here when they first opened. it was not really "for me". Recently tried it again and loved it. I am vegetarian and my friend is vegan. we found options. Really enjoyed the eggplant sandwich. Would love more options (saw on one of the burger challenges a portobello on a burger, so loose the beef and just do the portobello) then I would definitely be there more often. Plan to check out the events that they have in the winter. So nice to have a quality and nice place locally to go out to at night.“

“Everyone was accommodating, a friend sent back drunken clams cause it had meat in it as well. She asked for buttered garlic steamers instead recieved them in dipping oil. I don't know where the mix of communication is at between servers to kitchen. I've been here 3x's and sorry to say I won't be going back. They do have cold beers and it's a nice place, maybe the kitchen doesn't understand English very well? I don't have the answer but spending $ here isn't doable“

“Visiting from out of town and stopped by based on other reviews. This place did not disappoint! Great food and drinks. Bartenders and staff were very friendly. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area!“

“This place is awesome! Family & dog friendly! Such a great vibe.. delicious lobster roll from the food truck, frozen margaritas from the bar & a band covering all the hits. Plenty of parking outside & plenty of seating inside - adirondack chairs by the band & picnic tables w/ umbrellas to eat. Or bring a beach chair & post up on the sand or take a dip in the water. Can't wait to go back!“

“Boyle's is an enduring neighborhood bar that has been in business for decades. It's unassuming and sits in the middle of a quiet residential neighborhood. Don't let that deter you from visiting. The drinks are very good and the staff is consistently friendly and accommodating.“

“wow, the best tacos anywhere in monmouth county! they were so full, the berria was delicious, and the fish taco was fresh local fluke, so good, almost a whole filet or more was in the 3 soft tacos, so good. also enjoyed the guac and chips platter that came with a tomatoe salsa and a mango salsa, so good. nice beer and wine selection. live music was great. sat inside due to weather. next time will try the outside bar.“

“I really enjoyed the casual vibe here and the staff made me feel right at home as soon as I walked through the door. The slice I ordered was cooked just right with a nice crispy crust and plenty of cheese, which is exactly what I was hoping for. It’s a great spot to grab a simple, satisfying meal without breaking the bank, and I appreciate how consistent they are. I’ll definitely be coming back whenever I’m in the neighborhood and need a quick, tasty fix.“

“I am eager to share my review of this exquisite restaurant in Long Branch Maltese. The cuisine is exceptional and the staff go above and beyond to ensure a special experience, which is why I highly recommend this establishment 100%. Thank you for providing us with unforgettable moments.“

“This bar is exactly what your looking for. I don’t even know what else to say. I’ve never been there but I spoke to someone on the phone and had an A+ experience. My buddy Was hiding from his soon to be wife and they absolutely held their part. Can’t wait to go slam some beers!!“

“First time here and I wish it wasn’t love loved this place everything was beyond perfect and delicious food drinks (wish I took pictures but when something looks and smells that good u don’t think of pictures)service definitely coming back.“

“I love buffalo chicken sandwiches and have gone as far as Philadelphia to get one. However, I recently tried a buffalo chicken sandwich at Nicholas. I was speechless…literally. My brain instantly went into survival mode trying to calculate how and why this sandwich was at least ten times better than any other buffalo chicken sandwich I have ever eaten. Not even a close second place. Game changing. Life changing. It’s like I knew nothing about buffalo chicken a moment before taking a bite. I was humbled instantly. Nicholas Barrel and Roost found the cheat code!“

“awesome place ,food is great, atmosphere is awesome ,workers are great and friendly, love this place“

“you dads famous pizza💖 not to mention ur dads award winning personify 🥰🧡“

“It was are first time in highlands we went to clamfest and decide to walk around the area and found chubby pickle . I have to say Bob and Kelly were awesone , very professional , friendly, and give us alot of information to do in the area such as the twin lights observation and mount Michelle . I also have to say the drunken clams they had were the best that i had of the day. The sauce it was made in was great for dipping. I have too thank Bob and Kelly for making a great day for us . thank you we will be back for Bob breakfast pizza !! :)))“

“Beautiful and clean with a wonderful, friendly staff!“

“Most amazing views you could ask for on the water. \nWatch the boats come in and the ferry go out. \n\nThe sangria comes by the picture and is exceptionally good. \nThe service was very good and bar scene was vibrant. \nThe food is very good too. \nYou go here for the view and get good eats to top it off!“

“We ordered dinner from Keelen’s tonight as we’ve done many times in the past. The two specials were incredible and our children’s food was awesome as always. The staff was very friendly and happy to help us right before closing with our late night dinner tonight. Such a friendly atmosphere with great food“

“I mean this is the best plaza because there is shoprite, there is party city , a movie theater frozen yogurt and more but we need a target please“

“First time to the restaurant last night and we loved everything! Had pork dumplings, spaghetti with clams and the crab cakes. Great service too! We will be back 😀👍🏼“

“Step through the doors of The Globe and into a world where time slows, where laughter mingles with the hum of the game, and where the clink of a perfectly poured pint feels like a familiar embrace. Since 1840, this hallowed spot has anchored downtown Red Bank—not just a sports bar, but a living relic of camaraderie, tradition, and the simple pleasure of a burger and a beer.

Once an inn sheltering weary travelers, today it shelters the spirit of the town. The barstools tell stories, the taps flow with over 30 stellar brews—domestic and foreign alike—and the famed Globe Burger is a rite of passage for any local or visitor. And if you're in the know? The pork roll fries—golden, crisp, and utterly decadent—are a must.

Fifteen flat screens glow, capturing every play, every moment, while seasoned bartenders—some here for decades—pour with precision and warmth. Their tenure speaks volumes: a sign of a place run right, of ownership that cares, of a bar where you’re not just served—you’re known.

In a world that races ahead, chasing trends and fleeting fads, The Globe remains steadfast, a beacon of what a bar should be. No pretense, no gimmicks—just good company, great drinks, and the kind of authenticity you can’t manufacture. Pull up a seat, order a Guinness (poured to perfection), and soak it in. Some places fade. The Globe endures.“

“We had such an amazing experience at The Rock House! From the moment you walk in, the vibe is incredible — everyone’s in a great mood, super friendly, and ready to have fun. We went for the Halloween party, and they absolutely nailed it. The band was fantastic, the music was excellent, and the whole place had this awesome ‘80s throwback feel — from the décor to the energy. The food came out fast, tasted great, and the prices were very reasonable. The Halloween-themed drinks were creative and fun, and the bar staff was quick, smiling, and clearly enjoying the night. The place was packed but still felt friendly and comfortable — we ended up meeting so many great people. You can tell The Rock House puts a lot of heart into what they do. Overall, this is a class act bar that knows how to throw a party. Beers are always cold, the food is consistently good, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend checking it out — and whatever you do, make sure to try their candied bacon. It’s amazing!“

“The staff is incredible. They do not serve desert, BUT they are affiliated w Copper Canyon which is next door. The bartender told me if I got dessert from them I could sing happy birthday here.
I called the copper canyon, and that only did they give me dessert, but they delivered it on a plate with candles over to gaslight! Thank you to the bartender at GL and server at Copper Canyon who helped me 2-28-26!🎉“

“We split the Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich and the kitchen sink fries, and it was ok. I guess it would be good bar food, but the fries weren't seasoned, so it was good with the sauce they put on, but when we got fries with the sandwich, the plain fries were unseasoned. We didnt really think this should be under "dive bar" so yea. Refers to food as nips and idk if it was the chicken tenders or just some other item used“

“Disco night was fabulous! More disco nights please! 🪩💃🌅“

“Great place to hang and watch a game or two.“

“Came here twice so far both times was amazing. Service was great food was great. Nice atmosphere decor is great it’s a great hidden gem.“

“Great area.,Great friends.Great service...Food.Notta so much..overall Good Time.“

“This place is amazing, the owners are friendly and alwaya open to suggestions. They have the best DJs playing great music. Beautiful outside patio which you can view the sunset over the ocean. They have a hookah patio as well. I recently celebrated my sister's 50th bday there while they had a paint and sip evening, thank you for all ya did for her . My family can't wait to come back“

“great place to meet old friends and make new“

“My first time here. Loved it. The food was delicious! Felt like I immediately was in a neighborhood restaurant. And the prices weren’t over the top. Very reasonable.“

“A little riverside deck cocktail bar with a more than decent grill in Sea Bright's north end overlooking sunsets behind the Highlands. Great place to grab a quick nosh and beverage alcohol while enjoying some of the most beautiful vistas the Jersey Shore has to offer. During the summer you can expect live musical entertainment from many local artists that make this spot a definite must for an enjoyable and casual evening out.
PS...come by boat too“

“Great food, service and atmosphere! Cynthia was a friendly and caring waitress. We really enjoyed her service. She added a lot to our experience.“

“Great food amazing service and wonderful warm hospitality“

“Great place to come and have a great bloody Mary and other drinks“

“I’ve been going to W’s for years now. The burgers and wings are off the hook good. The waitress can’t do enough for you. Great restaurant to take the family to eat and also a friendly bar to watch sports. Very reasonable priced. You definitely won’t go hungry or thirsty at W’s. Well worth trying out. Your first time will not be your last.“

“awesome place ,food is great, atmosphere is awesome ,workers are great and friendly, love this place“

“The food is excellent. Fast service. Friendly staff. Pinnell was an excellent waiter. I give them 5 stars.“