New American Restaurants near Monroe, NJ

“Originally a blacksmith shop and inn before turning into a tavern with the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. I may have been thrown out of here, several times. This bar is proudly #14 on NJ.com's Best Dive Bars list. I really like this place, wish it was closer to home. We used to find it by the giant satellite dish they had outside. I once tried to kiss a girl who worked here. She was so horrified she ran into the street. "Nooo..." Good times. Recently renovated before Covid. Bar top is lacquered plywood with a knotty pine fascia and walls. No foot rail but the floor is burnished (scorched) plywood. Stools are metal frame backed with cushion seats. Open 11AM to 2AM. Package goods available. Allegedly, there's a prison style two seater bathroom, sans privacy screen. More local history at keenbug.blogspot.comEvidence of billiards and electronic darts. Unused fireplace and hearth. They should should throw the Mp3 juke in the fire. Outside pen for smokers & dining al fresco. I'm told they have better food. I've seen the new menu and it looks like standard bar fare with a few salads thrown in to confuse you. Still, I miss it so...keenbug.blogspot.com/202…“

“We were just as surprised as were impressed with the quality of our meals, coffee flights, and service. We recommend everyone come here and you will be back bringing your friends and family. Absolutely recommend asking specifically for Diane she was a treat and made the great experience even better. We are full but already looking forward to our next visit.“

“What an AMAZING experience! The food is sophisticated, seasonal, creative, and absolutely delicious. The staff are incredibly personal and kind - Mike and Phil did a fantastic job. The atmosphere of the kitchen was very fun as well. We will definitely be back.Dietary restrictions: The staff are very accommodating with dietary restrictions, making sure to ask before the meal.Parking: Parking in strip mall area. Crowded but parking spots available.“

“Went on a Sunday afternoon to watch some NFL Playoff football. Bartenders were fast/friendly, drinks were cold/served perfect, and food was good. There are TV's everywhere, so there really isn't a bad seat. Great atmosphere, friendly crowd, with a sports bar look and feel. Plenty of parking and bathrooms are spotless. When in town again, we will definitely stop in.“

“Had my daughters first birthday party here after looking at multiple other restaurants. This restaurant had the nicest party room and the food was delicious. The day of the party, I was able to come early to decorate and set up. The owner and his family were very kind and helped set up the room and accommodated our requests.They continually checked in throughout the event to make sure we were happy and if we needed anything. The waitresses made sure we had enough food and the kids were all given kids meals which they loved. My guests raved about the chicken francese and baked clams.It was a great day and I felt very at peace knowing how helpful staff was and didn't have to worry about the party going smoothly. Definitely recommend Ruoccos!“

“My fiancée and I decided to dine here for the first time the other day just because she wanted to try the crème brûlée. But what we didn’t expect while dining here was the outstanding service from our waiter Ted who made the whole dining experience perfect. Along with Josh who was super welcoming and friendly. Definitely will be coming back often??“

“The food is really good they have a standard gastropub type menu and then a seasonal menu on rotation the chef mixes up. Very large bar area that can get quite busy. Many craft beers on tap and they offer flights. There are tvs in the bar area for sports and a space for live music. Parking is adjacent to the restaurant never had an issue finding a spot. In the summer there is a larger outdoor seating area“