March means two things: both spring and St. Patrick’s Day have finally arrived. Here in Essex County, we have no shortage of Irish pubs to help ring in the upcoming holiday. So we’ve compiled a list of 13 Irish pubs to set the scene for your 2025 St.Patrick’s Day celebrations. Read on for our list of the best Irish bars in the Montclair area.
Cloverleaf Tavern | 395 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell
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Located on Essex County’s ever-bustling Bloomfield Avenue, Cloverleaf Tavern opened its doors 92 years ago when the original owner purchased the first liquor license in Caldwell post-prohibition. The Irish nature of this space is definitely in the name and logo. The tavern’s cozy, dark wood interior combined with low lighting really set the vibe of an Irish Pub. Try ordering the beer battered fish (three fresh cod fillets cut, beer battered and fried, tartar sauce + choice of potato) + wash it down with a Schlafly Irish Style Extra Stout (Irish Dry Stout) or a Toms River St. Johns Irish Red (Irish Red ale).
Danaher’s Irish Pub | 31 Passaic Avenue, Fairfield
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Danaher claims it is the closest New Jerseyans will get to an authentic Irish Pub. From the Celtic symbol in its logo to Irish food favorites, this place is worth stopping by. MG’s top menu items to try are shepherd’s pie, Guinness beef stew, + Irish potato skins (topped with mashed potatoes, cheese, + bacon served with sour cream).
Read More: St. Patrick’s Day 2025: Events + Things to Do in Montclair and Northern New Jersey
Dillon’s Tavern | 45 Freeman Street, West Orange
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Dillon’s Taverns sits on Freeman Street, between Cross Street + Valley Street. This dive-bar -meets-sports-bar is a place to sit back, grab a pint, and watch a game. Sports paraphernalia, a rustic wooden bar, and low lighting create an authentic pub feel. For something even more authentic, try ordering the corned beef.
Dowling’s Irish Pub + Restaurant | 117 Chestnut Street, Roselle Park
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Downling’s Irish Pub is a place where everyone will feel like a local. Patrons can enjoy breakfast lunch or dinner here. If stopping by early, try the Irish Man: traditional Irish breakfast with Irish sausage, two eggs over easy, bacon rashers, black + white puddings, Irish beans, + homemade wedges with toast. If popping in later during the day try the Irish nachos for sharing, and then order the corned beef sandwich. MG suggests finishing the meal with a Baily’s Irish Cream Pie. Take a look at the events calendar to see when to enjoy this Irish meal with some live music.
Egan + Sons | 116 Walnut Street, Montclair
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Egans + Sons’ origin story begins when a Dubliner + a Montclairian met and created a space with community, cocktails, good beer, + Irish cuisine. MG suggests starting the meal with Irish toasties (bacon, cheese, red onion, tomato, Thousand Island dressing), The move on to the cottage pie (slow braised angus beef pie with root vegetables, + golden mashed potato crust). Naturally, the best way to this meal down is with Ireland’s Harp Lager.
Kilkenny Alehouse | 27 Central Avenue, Newark
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Those from the Essex County area have probably passed by KilKenny’s Alehouse many times, as it is conveniently located near NJPAC. This Irish pub provides patrons with live music every Thursday and karaoke every Tuesday. Menu items to try are Irish chips (cheddar jack, bacon, sour cream), Kilkenny chicken (sauteed chicken breast, Jameson mushroom sauce, mashed potatoes, spinach), + shepard’s pie.
McGoverns Tavern | 58060 New Street, Newark
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McGoverns sits near the corner of Washington Street + New Street and was a popular place to visit at a time when there weren’t many Irish establishments in the area. The tavern serves classics such as a pint of Guinness + Irish coffee, as well as including a more modern twist of favorites such as an Irish mimosa (Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, grapefruit juice), + an Irish mule (Jameson, ginger beer, lime juice. MG suggests ordering the Dublin Decker (corned beef, turkey, Swiss cheese, coleslaw + Russian dressing served on rye) for lunch.
Michael’s Roscommon House | 531 Joralemon Street, Belleville
Although Michael Roscommon House sits on one of Belleville’s busiest roads, when patrons step inside they will soon feel the vibe of stepping into a sports bar that feels like home. Those passing by can’t miss its green lettering, shamrock on the side of the building, + outdoor seating in front of the establishment. Some classic entrees available here include the corned beef + cabbage, shepherd’s pie, or fish + chips. A local favorite is also the French onion soup, which is a great start to any of these meals. Michael’s Roscommon House also has Guinness pints + Irish mules on the menu for beverages.
Obal’s Inn | 439 Broad Street, Bloomfield
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Obal’s Inn is located on Bloomfield’s Broad Street just south of Brookdale Park. This establishment screams Irish pub with its cozy stone exterior, green roof, + welcome message that reads “Good Food + Drink” on its sign outside. Inside, Obal’s Inn has a classic pub feel. The inn also has events like DJ nights, trivia, + live music.
Saint James’s Gate Publick House | 167 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood
Located near the three-way intersection of Maplewood Avenue + Highland Place, Saint James’s Publick House considers itself the “Soul for an Irish pub.” The pub is open for lunch, dinner, + brunch on the weekends. MG likes to start a meal with Galway salmon (smoked salmon, toast points, capers, red onions + sour cream), and pub chips (hand-cut chips served with homemade Marie Rose sauce). Saint James’ menu suggests a pint of Guinness for a starter, and we’re here for it.
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub | 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton + 1200 New Jersey 17, Ramsey
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The Shannon Rose has two locations: Clifton in Passaic County + Ramsey in Bergen County. This family-owned + operated pub has the cozy Irish pub feel with paraphernalia, extensive beer options, whiskey flights, live music, + more. There is a section of the menu titled “Foods of Ireland” including shepherd’s pie croquettes (mashed potatoes, NY cheddar, horseradish gravy), bangers + mash (Irish sausage, mashed potatoes, garlic spinach, horseradish gravy), + Guinness beef stew (Guinness-braised beef, parsnip, potato, carrots, celery, beef jus, Irish soda bread).
See More: Your Guide to St. Patrick’s Day Events in Hoboken + Jersey City for 2025
The Shillelagh Club | 648 Prospect Avenue, West Orange
This Irish/American cultural organization has a goal to preserve Irish traditions. The establishment opened its doors over 50 years ago and hosts events to help spread Irish traditions and welcoming vibes throughout the year. Some events include the Irish Sports Expo, Irish New Year, + more. For patrons in the area, one of the biggest events is the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Menu items to try are the Paddy melt (10-ounce ground beef, sauteed onions, and choice of cheese on toasted rye and served with fries), or Irish loaded fries.
Tierney’s Tavern | 136-138 Valley Road, Montclair
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Located near the corner of Valley Road + William Street, Tierney’s Taverns where friends to go meet, have a pint, + listen to good music. With options like blues, jazz, Indie, Rock, + more, there’s a tune for everyone. Menu options to try are the Corned beef, a burger, or a roast beef club.
17 DIY Spots in Montclair + Essex County for Crafty Activities
Sometimes, the saying “if you want it done right, you have to do it yourself” is worth living by. Whether it be envisioning a painting, crafting the perfect design on a piece of pottery for fresh-cut flowers, or finding just the right color of glass for a window display, DIY can be the way to go. For those who need home improvements or to scratch a crafting itch, DIY places + spaces have become favored in post-pandemic life. However, now do-it-yourselfers don’t just have to experiment at home. Keep reading for DIY spots to explore in the Montclair + Essex County area.
Alchemy Scent Bar | 30 Church Street, Montclair
Alchemy Scent Bar is a custom scent experience in the heart of downtown Montclair. Guests can create their own custom-fragranced candles as well as home and body products from a wall of more than 100 different scents. The candles are natural soy and use pure fragrance oils, burning longer and truer to scent than others in the marketplace.
Read More: 12 Ways to Make New Friends in Montclair + Essex County
Bass Art Studio | 202 Park Street, Montclair
Bass Arts Studio is a space that provides art and creativity for kids, teens, + adults. Painting, drawing, + mixed media is an example of a class provided for youths. Summer camps are also available for kids. Introduction to Painting with Oil + Cold Wax and Mosaics, Merlot, + Mozzarella are examples of two class options for adults.
Board + Brush | 25 West Northfield Road Suite 3, Livingston
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Board + Brush is a creative space that hosts crafting events and workshops for the Livingston area. DIY events can be held for gatherings like bridal showers, birthdays, children’s parties, fundraising, + more. The calendar on Board + Brush’s website shows when the studio’s events and workshops are held. Many works run PYP (Pick Your Project). There is also an inspiration gallery for those who aren’t sure where to start.
Casa De Flora Bar | 75 Washington Street, Bloomfield
Guests can turn brunch or a coffee date into a crafting session at Casa De Flora Bar. Weekend brunch is available, as well as breakfast and coffee items, but this space is more than its delicious coffee drinks. Planners can bring up to 40 friends for a Sip + Clip Event that allows guests to enjoy brunch and a floral experience.
CLAY by Indigo Road Studio | 10 Vose Avenue, South Orange
Indigo Road Studio is a space to visit in South Orange for those passionate about DIY clay projects. Owner Lindsay has a background in teaching art at many levels including high school art education. The studio began classes in January of 2023. It provides options like Try It Wheel Throwing Workshop + Throwing Larger Workshop which will focus on techniques to center larger amounts of clay and then how to use the clay efficiently through pulling tall cylinders or forming larger bowls.
Craft Club Studio | 122 South Orange Avenue, South Orange
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Craft Club Studio is located in South Orange Village and is a great spot to test DIY skills. With options like needlepoint, beading, embroidery, weaving, painting, knitting, + more, it’s hard not to find something to love. Events available within the space can be family affairs, adults/BYOB, or just for kids. Classes to try are Stitch + Sip: Mood Embroidery, Bedazzle-It Night, + Harry Potter Craft Workshop (for the kids).
Creatif | 565 South Livingston Avenue, Livingston
This creative space in Livingston has options for planners like workshops and classes, but also is available for walk-in creators. Some classes to consider are Comic Book Drawing, Abstract Art, Still Life Painting, Anime Drawing, + more. Workshop times and spaces are available for both kids + adults. Creatives can walk in alone or with friends, while parties of more than six people will need to make a reservation.
Crystals + Candle | 195 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
Located in Upper Montclair, Crystals + Candle hosts many different candle-making classes. At these classes, guests can choose a jar size, mix and match scents, and decorate their creations with energy-infused crystals and gemstones.
Doin’ Dishes | 50 Church Street, Montclair
Far from chores, this Church Street space provides nothing but creativity and fun with pottery painting. The selection may seem endless because crafters have choices like plates, mugs, ornaments, tiles, piggy banks, vases, + more. Patrons can call to inquire about classes like Finger Painting + Splatter Painting.
The Eclectic Chic Boutique | 547 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
If looking for a DIY and shop small combo, check out The Eclectic Chic Boutique located in Montclair’s town center, near the corner of Park Street + Bloomfield Avenue. Items for purchase in the establishment are locally sourced or handmade. The boutique prides itself on being a welcoming space where all are free to express creativity. Some classes to try are Cricut Machine Basics, Shrink Film Jewelry Making Class, Donut Decorating Workshop, Chinese Calligraphy Workshop, + more. If working on something already, there are a few Bring Your Own Project Classes available for knitting, crocheting, Cricut, + sewing machines.
Express Yourself Studios | 1877 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood
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This creative hub is located in Maplewood near the corner of Springfield Avenue + Prospect Street. Options for adult workshops available are Studio Pottery, Acrylic Painting Class, Wine Glass Painting, + more. If feeling creative on a snow day, Express Yourself Studios also has virtual painting workshops available.
The Glass Gallery | 140 Chestnut Street, Nutley
If interested in creating a DIY piece that can be lovingly displayed as part of the home, plan to visit The Glass Gallery. From lamps to put on display to stained glass windows and cabinets that can become part of the home, The Glass Gallery has it covered. Classes available at The Glass Gallery include three, four, + five-week courses and the studio provides tools and resources for week one.
Kitchen a la Mode | 59 South Orange Avenue, South Orange
This little spot is meant for those who like to have their cake and eat it too. While it may not be a cake that visitors are baking, Kitchen a la Mode has options for classes like Cherry Pie, Pasta Making, Soups + Stews, Mozzarella Making, + Cookie decorating classes for almost every holiday. If looking to DIY with little ones, there is a Mommy + Me Pizza class on the schedule.
LIT Cafe | 25 Church Street, Montclair
LIT Cafe is a great space to stop for DIY fans that are particularly sustainably conscious. Candles made in this facility are “petroleum-free, cruelty-free, phthalate-free, and 100% vegan.” Products are available for purchase within the space. Be sure to visit the website’s workshops tab to find DIY events like a Candle Making event.
Mud Clay Studio | 370 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
DIY fans can get in touch with their inner child by setting up a claydate at Mud Clay Studio. Bring a minimum of six friends together for a private claydate event where crafters will get a brief introduction to hand-building with clay followed by a potter’s wheel demo, before trying the wheel. If coming alone, try one of the one-day workshops like a Wheel Workshop or a Handbuilding session. Passionate crafters should consider signing up for an eight-week intensive course or inquire about the membership program.
Wine + Design | 1 Greenwood Avenue, Suite 101, Montclair
Wine + Design provides a BYOB space for all levels of DIY inspiration. If guidance is needed, paint-and-sip events are available under the calendar section. If choosing a guided design, owner Rachel Moehl assures all crafters that “each design is sketched, tried, tested, perfected, + photographed before we offer it to the public.” For those who have the basics down, try stopping in during the Open Studio - Independent Painting times. True DIY-ers should inquire about Wine + Design’s Paintings Without Parameters, where anything can be a canvas, like home decor, glassware, + more.
See More: 20 Groups + Clubs to Join in Hoboken and Jersey City
Yarnia | 127 Watchung Avenue, Montclair
Yarnia is a space that provides group classes, private classes, + virtual classes. Some of the classes available are basic levels like Knitting 101 + Crocheting 101, classes to make a specific item like Knit a Sweater, and social craft gatherings like Knit Night Live at Yarnia where people can come in with their own crafts. For those stuck on a project, Yarnia also has Help Times available for those who need assistance working with dropped stitches or misunderstood patterns.
