The Port Tavern — Restaurant in Elizabeth

My friends and I visited this establishment, and at first everything was fine. We ordered a margarita pitcher, but the taste was horrendous, so we sent it back. The waiter took it to the bartender to be remade, but it was still terrible. We then decided to order a different margarita pitcher instead.

At no point did the waiter mention that we would still be charged for the first one, nor did he clarify whether it would be taken off the tab. Any professional waiter would have communicated that upfront. To make matters worse, my card was charged immediately without even being shown an itemized receipt.

When I asked the waiter about the charge, he said we were being billed because we had taken a sip—after my card was already swiped. I then asked to speak with the manager, Christopher, who was extremely disrespectful. He became aggressive and used derogatory language toward my female friend and me. It was completely unprofessional and disappointing.

We eventually spoke with Odis (I believe that was his name), who refunded the money. However, the issue was never about the money—it was about how poorly the situation was handled. The lack of professionalism and respect was unacceptable.

I will not be returning, and I would not recommend this...

I am currently in this establishment and reading the latest most current review while seated. I am astonished at the racial comments I am reading. This place is the farthest from racial, bias, or any form of prejudice. There are more blacks (me being one) who frequent here than any other race. It’s ridiculous and sad that when there are rules to follow the race card is pulled.

There is an entire designated smoking area OUT BACK where you can do as you please rather than sitting inside at the bar. Whether being weed, black and milds, cigars, cigarettes, etc. Any other lounge, bar, restaurant, you would have to stand outside and not even allowed to enter until your tobacco product is finished.

The owner Bobby, is one in a million! Best believe he respects everyone, ALL RACES! Like a previous review titled “DON’T SLEEP ON THIS PLACE” please believe it. Great food, Great drinks, Genuine people. Guaranteed an amazing time EVERYTIME!

Signed, A satisfied...

I recently visited The Port Tavern and unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations. The menu offered very few options, which was a big letdown. I opted for a pasta bolognese and a glass of sangria, but neither was impressive. The sangria tasted more like cough medicine than the refreshing drink I was expecting.

What made matters worse was the high cost. For a simple pasta dish, a glass of sangria, and a single crab cake, the total came to almost $95—this price included a $15 tip, which seemed excessive for the quality of the food and drink.

Given the limited menu and the steep prices, I definitely wouldn't recommend The Port Tavern. There are much better options in Elizabeth, NJ, with a wider variety of dishes and more...