The best bars & nightlife in Union County

39 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 39 places · showing the latest additions first

La Griglia

Nightlife

White-tablecloth Italian restaurant with seafood-centric fare, including raw bar options.

740 Boulevard (Kenilworth)

“White-tablecloth Italian restaurant with seafood-centric fare, including raw bar options.”

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Sun Tavern

Nightlife

Relaxed restaurant & bar with a warm, traditional atmosphere offering pizza & American comfort food.

600 Westfield Ave W (Roselle Park)

“Relaxed restaurant & bar with a warm, traditional atmosphere offering pizza & American comfort food.”

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Classic Irish bar offering sandwiches & traditional pub grub, plus TVs & live music.

117 Chestnut St (Roselle Park)

“Classic Irish bar offering sandwiches & traditional pub grub, plus TVs & live music.”

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Microbrewery producing traditional beers, offering regular tours to the public.

112 Valley Rd (Roselle Park)

“Microbrewery producing traditional beers, offering regular tours to the public.”

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Family owned since 1992, Suspenders Restaurant & Pub keeps things easy with an outdoor patio, 16 TVs for the game, and a draft lineup plus…

1131 Magie Ave (Union)

“Family owned since 1992, Suspenders Restaurant & Pub keeps things easy with an outdoor patio, 16 TVs for the game, and a draft lineup plus cocktails that actually hit. It’s close to Kean and the trains, and weekly Name That Tune, trivia and bingo keep bragging rights in play.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 27, 2026

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Whether you’re closing a deal or treating yourself, Ristorante da Benito delivers refined Northern Italian cooking with a serious wine…

200 Walton Ave (Union)

“Whether you’re closing a deal or treating yourself, Ristorante da Benito delivers refined Northern Italian cooking with a serious wine list, polished service, and that old-school Union warmth. Great for business dinners, anniversaries, or when only signature pastas and pristine seafood will do.”

From the Union newsletter, October 6, 2026

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Burgers, steaks, seafood & cocktails served in a casual atmosphere with unfussy decor.

455 St Georges Ave (Rahway)

“Burgers, steaks, seafood & cocktails served in a casual atmosphere with unfussy decor.”

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If your week calls for pristine seafood and a proper raw bar, 100 Steps Kitchen + Raw Bar in nearby Cranford delivers with…

215 Centennial Ave (Cranford) · ✓ checked Sep 3

“If your week calls for pristine seafood and a proper raw bar, 100 Steps Kitchen + Raw Bar in nearby Cranford delivers with fresh-from-the-market oysters, seasonal New American small plates, and a supper club feel where you inevitably bump into someone you know. Relaxed, neighborly, consistently delicious.”

From the Westfield newsletter, September 9, 2026

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Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.

225 Central Ave (Clark)

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

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Rocky's Bar & Grill is the nearby Rahway spot locals lean on for gourmet grilled dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, plus a deep…

710 W Grand Ave #14 (Rahway)

“Rocky's Bar & Grill is the nearby Rahway spot locals lean on for gourmet grilled dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, plus a deep bench of craft beers and signature cocktails.”

From the Linden newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Oh' Brian's on the Green pairs global pub grub and craft beer on tap with a patio view of Hyatt Hills that makes even a triple bogey feel…

1300 Raritan Rd (Clark)

“Oh' Brian's on the Green pairs global pub grub and craft beer on tap with a patio view of Hyatt Hills that makes even a triple bogey feel fine. Expect chef-driven specials, tacos, a spicy crispy chicken sandwich, and a Reuben, plus occasional live music.”

From the Rahway newsletter, September 11, 2026

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Kokuyo Cocktail Bar brings island-inspired plates, creative craft cocktails, and breezy vibes to Roselle, an easy hop from Rahway, making…

1135 Chestnut St (Roselle)

“Kokuyo Cocktail Bar brings island-inspired plates, creative craft cocktails, and breezy vibes to Roselle, an easy hop from Rahway, making it a chill spot for weeknight catch-ups or weekend hangs. The kind of neighborhood third place where one drink turns into stories and laughs.”

From the Rahway newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Trendy, industrial-inspired restaurant/bar featuring lots of draft beers & a diverse menu.

1079 US-22 (Mountainside)

“Trendy, industrial-inspired restaurant/bar featuring lots of draft beers & a diverse menu.”

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387 Oyster House & Bar brings ocean-friendly practices, crisp pours, and a menu of locally sourced, seasonal dishes. It’s the kind of…

387 Park Ave (Scotch Plains)

“387 Oyster House & Bar brings ocean-friendly practices, crisp pours, and a menu of locally sourced, seasonal dishes. It’s the kind of Scotch Plains spot where the oysters are cold, the bar is lively, and dinner turns into lingering conversations with friends.”

From the Plainfield newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Watt Lounge

Nightlife

Just down the road in Rahway, Watt Lounge pairs an industrial-chic vibe and state-of-the-art lighting with globally inspired small plates…

1403 Irving St (Rahway)

“Just down the road in Rahway, Watt Lounge pairs an industrial-chic vibe and state-of-the-art lighting with globally inspired small plates and handcrafted cocktails, so it works for date night, catching up with friends, or even hosting a private shindig when you want the place to feel a little extra.”

From the Linden newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Casual option for craft beers, wings & other pub basics served in comfy digs with outside seating.

99 Center St (Garwood)

“Casual option for craft beers, wings & other pub basics served in comfy digs with outside seating.”

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Bareburger

Nightlife

Casual, eco-minded regional chain for organic burgers (from beef to bison) & more, plus beer & wine.

126 Central Ave (Westfield)

“Casual, eco-minded regional chain for organic burgers (from beef to bison) & more, plus beer & wine.”

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Crossroads

Nightlife

When you want New Orleans flavor without leaving North Jersey, Crossroads brings the heat with hearty Cajun plates and live rock and jazz…

78 North Ave (Garwood)

“When you want New Orleans flavor without leaving North Jersey, Crossroads brings the heat with hearty Cajun plates and live rock and jazz in a legit music-venue setting. Check the calendar, rally the crew, and let dinner roll right into the show.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Orgreen poke

Nightlife

When you want a quick, flavorful lunch, Orgreen Poke nails it with super fresh ingredients, crisp add-ins, and signature sauces that hit…

132 E Broad St (Westfield)

“When you want a quick, flavorful lunch, Orgreen Poke nails it with super fresh ingredients, crisp add-ins, and signature sauces that hit just right. Everything's customizable, so keep it light or go big, make your perfect bowl, then call it a win and get back to your day.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Rancho Mateo Colombian Steakhouse keeps it classic with carne a la llanera kissed by open wood fire, a hearty bandeja paisa that means…

248 Morris Ave (Elizabeth)

“Rancho Mateo Colombian Steakhouse keeps it classic with carne a la llanera kissed by open wood fire, a hearty bandeja paisa that means leftovers tomorrow, and plenty of beer, wine, or cocktails to match.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 15, 2026

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Equal parts cozy restaurant, lively bar and karaoke hangout, ParkView Tavern & Restaurant leans Italian and Spanish, with sangria, shrimp…

2048 E St Georges Ave (Linden)

“Equal parts cozy restaurant, lively bar and karaoke hangout, ParkView Tavern & Restaurant leans Italian and Spanish, with sangria, shrimp parm, and chicharrón con tostones. It’s the kind of Linden staple where you pop in for dinner and end up belting a duet with your neighbor.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Pier 73

Nightlife

Skip the usual and slide into Pier 73 for upscale lounge energy on the water, polished cocktails, and a kitchen that actually backs it up.…

55 Elizabeth Ave (Elizabethport)

“Skip the usual and slide into Pier 73 for upscale lounge energy on the water, polished cocktails, and a kitchen that actually backs it up. Gather the crew for live music, brunch or a celebratory night with bottle service, then act surprised when Elizabeth suddenly feels like a mini getaway.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Vintage Italian Restaurant & Catering is that cozy, long-running mom-and-pop spot locals trust for scratch-made classics and a proper…

9 Westfield Ave W (Roselle Park)

“Vintage Italian Restaurant & Catering is that cozy, long-running mom-and-pop spot locals trust for scratch-made classics and a proper cocktail. Family recipes 60 years strong, plus private party rooms, express takeout, and off-site catering with delivery anywhere in New Jersey, make it an easy yes when you’re hungry.”

From the Linden newsletter, September 3, 2026

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Parador Rojo Restaurant is a spacious, bi-level spot that nails traditional Colombian meals across carnes, mariscos, and pollos, then seals…

582 Morris Ave (Elizabeth)

“Parador Rojo Restaurant is a spacious, bi-level spot that nails traditional Colombian meals across carnes, mariscos, and pollos, then seals the deal with bakery breads and desserts. It’s the kind of neighborhood standby you keep in your back pocket… come hungry, leave happily plotting round two.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 29, 2026

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For a legit taste of home cooking without overthinking dinner, El Roble "Restaurant & Bar" serves traditional Colombian plates and fresh…

306 Morris Ave (Elizabeth)

“For a legit taste of home cooking without overthinking dinner, El Roble "Restaurant & Bar" serves traditional Colombian plates and fresh baked goods in a cheerful, relaxed spot with TVs, plus a proper bar for a well-made drink, quick service, and that everyone’s-welcome vibe locals swear by.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 20, 2026

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When you want classic Italian that actually tastes like a celebration, III Amici Ristorante delivers with seafood salad, zuppa di mussels,…

1700 W Elizabeth Ave (Linden)

“When you want classic Italian that actually tastes like a celebration, III Amici Ristorante delivers with seafood salad, zuppa di mussels, stuffed shrimp, and veal chops, plus pastas you actually crave. Established in 1990, it’s the kind of spot locals keep in their regular rotation.”

From the Linden newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Easygoing sports bar offering craft beers as well as clams, pizza, burgers & other pub grub.

19 S Wood Ave (Linden)

“Easygoing sports bar offering craft beers as well as clams, pizza, burgers & other pub grub.”

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Nola Social

Nightlife

Craving real NOLA flavors without leaving Linden? Nola Social delivers slow-simmered Gumbo Ya-Ya, Shrimp & Grits, a proper Sazerac, and…

100 S Wood Ave (Linden)

“Craving real NOLA flavors without leaving Linden? Nola Social delivers slow-simmered Gumbo Ya-Ya, Shrimp & Grits, a proper Sazerac, and heavy pours in a lively cocktail lounge that feels made for catching up, celebrating, or just letting the good times roll a little longer.”

From the Linden newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Seafood restaurant chain where seafood boils are a specialty.

687 W Edgar Rd (Linden)

“Seafood restaurant chain where seafood boils are a specialty.”

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Skip the same-old this week and slide over to Linden Sports Bar & Restaurant for traditional recipes done right, from garlicky skirt steak…

700 E Elizabeth Ave (Linden)

“Skip the same-old this week and slide over to Linden Sports Bar & Restaurant for traditional recipes done right, from garlicky skirt steak with shrimp to a bright avocado salad, plus crafty cocktails that actually taste like something. Their specials keep things interesting, so bring your appetite and curiosity.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, August 26, 2026

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The Red Cadillac dishes Abuelas Empanadas, sizzling fajitas, and slow-roasted pork shoulder tacos with pickled red onions, then levels up…

2258 Morris Ave (Union)

“The Red Cadillac dishes Abuelas Empanadas, sizzling fajitas, and slow-roasted pork shoulder tacos with pickled red onions, then levels up the night with in-house infused tequilas... usually 10 to 15 flavors. Hyper-fresh, locally sourced, and exactly the kind of pick-me-up your week deserves.”

From the Union newsletter, September 29, 2026

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Cioffi's Restaurant-Bar-Pizzeria has been keeping Union fed for 60 years with homestyle Italian plates and award-winning thin-crust pies,…

470 Chestnut St (Union)

“Cioffi's Restaurant-Bar-Pizzeria has been keeping Union fed for 60 years with homestyle Italian plates and award-winning thin-crust pies, plus a fully stocked bar and signature cocktails. It’s the kind of old-school spot locals claim as their sports-bar hangout, and their go-to for easy catering.”

From the Union newsletter, September 26, 2026

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Two Ton Brewing Co. keeps 20 rotating lines flowing across three cozy taproom spaces, all brewed with local passion. Swing by this week for…

730 Federal Ave (Kenilworth)

“Two Ton Brewing Co. keeps 20 rotating lines flowing across three cozy taproom spaces, all brewed with local passion. Swing by this week for fresh pours, friendly bartenders, and a lineup that changes often so there’s always something worth a second round.”

From the Union newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Untied Brewing Company keeps North Jersey beer folks happy with fresh, locally brewed pints that taste like someone actually cares. When…

140 Spring St Unit C (New Providence)

“Untied Brewing Company keeps North Jersey beer folks happy with fresh, locally brewed pints that taste like someone actually cares. When the group text says beers, skip the guesswork and head here for a dependable, flavorful lineup and easygoing good times.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Make this week the one you try Bull N Bear Brewery, where the taps rotate with handcrafted seasonal beers brewed for drinkability, plus…

425 Springfield Ave (Summit)

“Make this week the one you try Bull N Bear Brewery, where the taps rotate with handcrafted seasonal beers brewed for drinkability, plus private brewery tours if you're the curious type. Chill vibe, indoor and outdoor seating, and a seasoned head brewer dialing in the flavors.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, August 18, 2026

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Craving a low-key spot where you can catch the game, crush some Latin-plus-American comfort, then slide into DJ-fueled weekend energy? Don…

559 Elizabeth Ave (Elizabeth)

“Craving a low-key spot where you can catch the game, crush some Latin-plus-American comfort, then slide into DJ-fueled weekend energy? Don Felix Bar & Restaurant nails that mix with TVs inside and an enclosed patio outside. Grab the crew this week, stay for the vibes.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Rahway’s go-to for no-fuss comfort, The 'World Famous' Waiting Room serves the greatest hits of pub food, from messy nachos to juicy…

66 E Cherry St (Rahway)

“Rahway’s go-to for no-fuss comfort, The 'World Famous' Waiting Room serves the greatest hits of pub food, from messy nachos to juicy burgers and saucy ribs, backed by a full bar. Call up a friend this week, claim a table, and let the neighborhood vibe do its thing.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, August 5, 2026

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Destino Lounge in the heart of Elizabeth shakes up seasonal, signature cocktails that lean fresh and trendy, with music and a curated vibe…

185 Elmora Ave (Elizabeth)

“Destino Lounge in the heart of Elizabeth shakes up seasonal, signature cocktails that lean fresh and trendy, with music and a curated vibe that turns an ordinary weeknight into a story. Grab your crew, slip into the VIP Members Room, and make the night feel intentional.”

From the Elizabeth newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Blue Sunday Bar & Grill brings a polished, Asian American menu to nearby Linden with prime steaks, seafood, sushi, and cocktails that…

830 W Edgar Rd (Linden)

“Blue Sunday Bar & Grill brings a polished, Asian American menu to nearby Linden with prime steaks, seafood, sushi, and cocktails that actually earn the second round. Think grown-up vibe without the stuffiness, a diverse wine list, and a bar perfect for catching up.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, September 3, 2026

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