Snug Harbor Seafood and Grill — Restaurant in Kearny

I will preface this with admitting that I've never met a dive bar that I didn't like. I walked into this one and was welcomed by some great music they had playing that was loud enough to enjoy but low enough to effortlessly share a conversation even across the bar. Simply put, perfect volume for me. Call me old, but even in my youth, I just never saw the point nor cared for non-live music being blasted at levels that make it a strain to enjoy a casual conversation. I also never liked being packed into a crowd, and what some might call "dead", I call it "not overcrowded". If I can immediately find a seat, I'm a happy camper.

So I walked in to some great classic rock played at a good volume, was able to sit right down at the bar, was greeted by a perfectly cordial bartender, and found myself enjoying a double of Woodford Reserve while making friendly chat with other customers.

Not uncommon look/decor for a dive bar, this is one of those that isn't dimly lit. Also this one is obviously kept clean. What stuck out most to me about the place was its vibe. It immediately strikes you as a friendly and comfortable environment in which to sit and enjoy a drink and a nice conversation.

I have to say, I've been to dive bars and even... "regular" bars? that run cheaper than this. That's the star drop, and what would keep me from being a regular. That being said, if this place was close or along my usual commute, it's still the kind of place that makes me want to be a regular. It's just that inviting and pleasant. This would be my dive bar Cheers. And let's face it, stocking your own liquor cabinet and fridge is a lot more cost-efficient than going out to ANY bar. When you go to a bar, you're really paying for the experience. This place, to me, is a very pleasant experience. My friend, who arrived a bit later to join me for some drinks and darts and catching up, had the same impression of the place. We both want to go back.

If you're looking for a club, lots of people, loud music, flashing lights, pick up some girl and step outside to throw up on each other's shoes and then go someplace to do whatever, then I'd say it's all good but maybe wait and try this spot in 5 or 10 years. If you just want a pleasant spot to sit down, relax, and enjoy a good drink and some conversation with genuinely friendly and polite people, well in that case I highly recommend this place to you. ...

Wish this bar was not on a residential block. The patrons have no consideration for the residents who live here. They take up all the parking spots. Residents are forced to park 2 blocks away from home. Some of us have school age children. They make noise late hours on school nights. Guys with loud cars purposely revving up cars and motorbikes, playing loud music 2 or 3 o'clock in the morning while kids are sleeping. Nothing is done about it because I think some of the local police are some of the...

Real nice place. I work a part time job and went about 7:30 am and I was treated by the barmaid like I was one of the regular costumers. I felt great in this place even though it was for a little while. When I get of work and want a 🍻 early in the morning, this is the place I will choose...