After the past year and a half, we can all agree that socializing via Zoom has gotten stale. Not just during the holidays but all year-round, offices, networking groups, book clubs, and alumni associations are once again planning in-person gatherings with both fun and safety in mind. We’ve rounded up some of the best and brightest venues in Jersey City and Hoboken to host your crew for some cheer and camaraderie.
Hoboken
Amanda’s | 908 Washington Street
Nestled into the heart of Hoboken, Amanda’s provides a quaint atmosphere for a sophisticated event. Amanda’s has five private dining areas accommodating anywhere from 10-90 people. Although each of the rooms provides a memorable dining experience, we are partial to the Reserve Room, which features vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and vineyard-inspired stained glass windows.
Anthony David’s | 953 Bloomfield Street
Anthony David’s is a fan favorite for a reason. The consistently great menu items, clever cocktails, and pitch-perfect wine list make this spot a versatile venue for your group. Even the most choosy colleague will find something to love here. The cozy backroom fits up to 20 guests, and outside catering is available.
Antique Loft | 33 Newark Street
This choice is sure to make a splash. The Antique Loft is located at the corner of Newark and River Streets just steps away from the PATH. It is a 4,000 square foot space that is a blank canvas full of natural light and high ceilings. The space has on-site management, hi-speed Wi-Fi, and gourmet cuisine from Antique Bar + Bakery. There is a wrap-around terrace that boasts panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline not available anywhere else in Hoboken. The recommendation is a minimum of 25 guests for a seated affair and a 40 person minimum for a reception. The maximum number of guests is 100 for a plated event and 175 for a cocktail party. Click here to reserve.
ArteVino | 720 Monroe Street
Looking for something more than just your average party? ArteVino Studio Hoboken is your answer. ArteVino Studio is a great place for colleagues to unleash their artistic sides and create their own masterpieces under the guidance of the studio’s instructors. Each event is 2.5 to 3 hours long and costs approximately $45 per person. Food and beverages can be arranged through the studio’s catering partner or you can choose BYO and the staff will assist with setup. Free public parking is available nearby.
Backstage Lounge | 1039 Washington Street
(Photo credits: @backstagehoboken)
Backstage is a cocktail lounge located in the back of Sirenetta in uptown Hoboken. It is both quaint and dimly-lit, making for a cozy spot to get together with colleagues — plus, it can hold up to 45 guests, so it’s suitable for larger parties. Its comfy seating also probably beats most office chairs. You can inquire about a private event here.
Barsky Gallery | 49 Harrison Street
Barsky Gallery is a loft-style gallery that features original contemporary art. Guests will have the opportunity to catch up with colleagues while taking in artwork from around the globe. Event size is flexible ranging from intimate two-person dinners to cocktail events for 60+. Barsky Gallery does not offer food + beverages, but the gallery works with several local caterers and vendors to truly customize your event’s menu. Event duration is typically four hours and pricing and availability will be provided upon request.
Bin 14 | 1314 Washington Street
Bin 14 offers both private (15 guests and up) and semi-private (14 guests and smaller) party options. Hoboken’s original wine bar has a cozy-but-classy vibe that is a great setting for a celebration. Enjoying a meal in the charming heated outdoor patio, with its cafe lights and tons of plants, feels like visiting your best friend Martha Stewart’s house: you know your guests and being taken care of.
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Birch Hoboken | 92 River Street
Birch has recently reopened and is ready to host your gathering. Birch has two levels of private event space, totaling 4,000 square feet, with two private bars and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Birch can accommodate up to 500 guests, making this the ideal space for larger events and your guests’ plus ones. The team at Birch will work with you to make sure each detail is perfected – from the menu and bar choices to the music and lighting.
Brass Rail | 135 Washington Street
Whether you are looking for a sit-down dinner, buffet, or a cocktail-style event, The Brass Rail is able to accommodate any of your event needs. Event space is available in the formal upstairs dining room and can accommodate up to 70 people. Standout menu items include a raw bar, braised short ribs, and Nutella creme brulee.
Carpe Diem | 1405 Grand Street
Located in the northwest corner of uptown, Carpe Diem offers guests modern American fare in a cozy relaxed atmosphere. A private party room located on the restaurant’s second level can be arranged for dinner, or dinner and dancing, for parties of 20 or more. Amenities include an audio hookup for music, DJs for hire, a designated bartender, and private restrooms. Menu selections can be found here, and we highly recommend offering one (or all) of the chicken wings.
City Bistro | 56 14th Street
City Bistro’s three-story space contains a bar, restaurant, and lounge/rooftop all in one. City Bistro serves traditional American dishes with a modern twist and has added some gluten-free and vegetarian options, making this a fun dining experience for all palates. City Bistro has two private event areas located on the second floor: the private lounge and a semi-private dining room. Cocktail-style parties can include a bar package as well as passed hors d’oeuvres or sit-down prix fixe or buffet-style dining events are available. A minimum of 20 guests is needed to book this venue.
Dozzino’s | 534 Adams Street
Located at the corner of 6th and Adams, Dozzino’s is a cozy Italian spot serving wood-fired pizzas and other farm-to-table offerings. Dozzino’s has a big area that is rentable for parties in the back + an outdoor space in the spring, summer, and fall months. A common spot for baby and bridal showers, it’s an easy pick for a company office party too — especially as a BYO.
The Ainsworth | 310 Sinatra Drive
Located on Hoboken’s picturesque waterfront, The Ainsworth is an ideal location for groups of all sizes. There are four shared spaces accommodating up to 75 people and one private room accommodating 20 people. The eclectic interior spaces, modern American food, and unbeatable views make this a must-see venue. Menus can be customized to any budget and include signature dishes, stationery and passed hors d’oeuvres, and handcrafted cocktails.
The Gravity Vault | 1423 Clinton Street
The Gravity Vault is Hoboken’s newest alternative workout gym catering to rock climbers of all ages and abilities. While your first thought may be that the event space is limited to children’s birthday parties, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The Gravity Vault staff will tailor team-building exercises and rock climbing to fit the size and skill-set of your organization. After you have experienced new heights in their 25,000 square foot gym, you and your colleagues can enjoy refreshments in Gravity Vault’s event room.
Halifax | 225 River Street
Known as the home of one of the best bottomless brunches in Hoboken, Halifax’s dining space is available for private party rentals outside of the weekend brunch schedule. Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and organic decor will definitely lighten the spirits of your guests during the busy holiday season. For further info and event inquiries check out Halifax online.
House of Que | 340 Sinatra Drive
According to House of Que, the restaurant is THE place for traditional cafeteria-style service, live music, communal seating and unique cocktails. While NJ may not be top-of-mind when it comes to BBQ, House of Que has continued to wow patrons with their brisket, smoked, chicken and hearty southern sides. If you’re looking to spice up your annual event with a southern chic atmosphere and comfort food, submit an event inquiry online.
Hot House Pizza | 200 Monroe
Owned and operated by former mayoral candidate Karen Nason, Hoboken Hothouse is a unique indoor + outdoor event space located in West Hoboken. The cafe serves a variety of Italian pastries, sandwiches, brick oven pizza, and more, all of which can be added to your customized event menu. Additionally, Hoboken Hothouse is BYO, making this event space an affordable option for your next corporate event.
Hudson Table | 1403 Clinton Street
Hoboken’s first cooking studio is usually booked up a few weeks to months out, but it can’t be overlooked as an awesome option for some holiday cooking and cheer with your co-workers. Enjoy BYO + the private space with your own personal chef, and cook and eat the night away in their beautifully-designed commercial kitchen.
The Madison Bar and Grill | 1316 Washington Street
“Daytime eats and nighttime beats” is the best way to describe The Madison Bar and Grille. Whether you decide to host an event in the charming dining room or the livelier bar section you can’t go wrong with the food, drinks, and ambiance at The Madison. Standout menu items include French onion dumplings, short rib ricotta ravioli, and chicken parm. Rumor has it that the bartenders will make champagne towers upon request so be sure to inquire about the many specialty items/services that may not be on the menu. The Madison Bar offers a variety of menu and beverage options starting at $46 and $17 respectively. Add-ons such as hors d’oeuvres and sweet are available for buffet and plated meals.
Tipsy Tie Dye | 155 1st Street
The brother-sister duo behind Tipsy Tie Dye has created a unique space for people to channel their creative side through the art of tie-dying. This is a great activity for a group of people – the shop can be booked ahead of time. The team will walk you through all of the different types of tie-dye patterns, how to create them, and assist when needed. There are clothes and other items in the shop that visitors can purchase to tie-dye or they can bring their own pieces. Visitors can also bring the beverages of their choice.
Paul Vincent Studios | 49 Harrison Street
Paul Vincent Studios is a magnificent space that holds a cutting-edge contemporary art gallery, located just minutes from the Holland Tunnel. The venue is over 2500 square feet and has 20-foot ceilings. There are four distinct rooms, including a private lounge area that can be customized to meet any event need. The venue rental includes all the rooms and amenities including a surround sound system, fridge/freezer, table and chairs, hi-speed Wi-FI for $150 per hour Catering is available. Call 973-464-1893 or email Paulvincentstudios@yahoo.com to see the space.
Pilsener Haus & Biergarten | 1422 Grand Street
Whether you are planning an Oktoberfest celebration or a holiday soiree, Pilsner Haus & Biergarten is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Reservations for private events of 20 or more individuals are taken on a limited basis so be sure to act fast. One table seats 20-34 people and can be reserved free of charge for up to three hours. Pints of beer, oversized pretzels, and traditional German meats are all available for consumption. An online reservation form and additional FAQs can be found here.
Saku | 936 Park Avenue
This elegant sushi spot, known for its excellent rolls and creative cocktails, is a fun choice for a party. You could even have an interactive event where guests learn how to make their own sushi. The Saku team will work with the host to create an event that fits the size and budget of the party. To get in touch to plan your party, fill out the event interest form here.
Sappho Boat Tour | Shipyard Marina, 1301 Sinatra Drive
This beautifully restored sailing yacht, The Sappho, will be the backdrop of a one-of-a-kind event. The ship is available for charter tours, which go up and down the Hudson River. Hosts can bring whatever they want on board, or work with the crew to organize. There is a kitchen and bathroom onboard for your guests’ comfort.
Sorellina | 1036 Washington Street
The Italian eatery with retro accents featuring old-country wines, sidewalk tables, and a name that means “little sister” in Italian, was created as a tribute to owner Gabi Lombardi’s Italian heritage and intimate family upbringing. Take a semi-private space, or do a full buyout of up to 65 guests for a sit-down dinner, or up to 75 guests for a cocktail reception. Reach out to the team at 201-963-3333 or hello@sorellinahoboken.com for pricing and availability.
Il Tavolo di Palmisano | 700 Clinton Street
This cozy spot specializes in homemade pasta and other classic Italian dishes. Add in some pitchers of sangria and you’ve got yourself a party! Il Tavolo is a neighborhood favorite for a reason, with impeccably prepared food, a festive cocktail list, and a spirit of welcome. To contact the team to get more information about your event, please fill out the event request form here.
Urban Souls Hoboken | 100 Hudson Street
Practice yoga or meditation at this off-the-beaten-path downtown yoga studio near the PATH and transit with the beautiful sunlight rooms, and its big, bright windows with views of the Hudson River. The space is well equipped to host a party, with two open rooms, a kitchenette, and a wine fridge. Call 201-683-4002 or email info@urbansoulsyoga.com for availability and to see the space.
Wicked Wolf | 120 Sinatra Drive
If you’re looking to accommodate a crowd of 300+, Wicked Wolf has got you covered. Wicked Wolf hosts lunch and dinner events in a semi-private setting. Whether you wish to have a buffet, hors d’oeuvres, cocktail receptions, or formal sit-down dinners, Wicked Wolf can provide service for all requests. Vegetarian and vegan diets are always accommodated, which guarantees dining at Wicked would will be an enjoyable experience for all.
Willie McBrides | 616 Grand Street
Often regarded as “The Hoboken Irish Pub,” Willie McBrides has a large function room available for private parties of 10-350 people. The room has its own stage, in-house sound system, and private bar. However, the most unique add-on is certainly the free limo you will be picked up in as a courtesy of booking the venue. Events are typically scheduled for three hours and start at $20 per person for drinks and $17 per person for a buffet meal. A full listing of beverages, menu items, and prices can be found here.
W Hoboken | 225 River Street
The W Hotel Hoboken is a favorite event space amongst the HG team. Located along Hoboken’s waterfront, the NYC skyline provides a stunning backdrop for a holiday event. The W’s grand ballroom can accommodate up to 230 guests for a seated dinner and menu options and pricing are available upon request. Should you have any out-of-town coworkers, reduced rates for rooms are also available.
Jersey City
Barcade | 163 Newark Street
Pinball, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong are just a few of the many games available at Barcade Jersey City. Barcade is part bar and part arcade with a focus on classic video games and American craft beer. Tables can be rented Sunday-Thursday and renting the entire bar is available for private parties. Barcade typically doesn’t schedule events on Fridays + Saturdays, but if money is no problem Barcade welcomes serious inquiries. Guests will have the opportunity to play as many arcade games as they desire given that most cost a mere $0.25 per round. Food + beverage specials and packages are available so contact Barcade to begin planning your event.
The Barrow Mansion | 83 Wayne Street
The Barrow Mansion is and 1837 Greek Revival style building tucked on a leafy street near Van Vorst Park in downtown Jersey City. It is listed in the National and New Jersey Register of Historic Places and is available for rent. The Mansion can accommodate anything from an intimate party to a large blowout. There are three rooms that can be used in any combination for the party’s needs, as well as a large kitchen with a 10-burner Garland stove that can be used for staging food. Fun fact: the Mansion is home to the country’s oldest bowling alley! Click here to fill out the rental form or contact Jim Kellermann at mercerarms@gmail.com or 201-432-5858 for further information.
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard
Battello sits on the Hudson River, at the edge of downtown Jersey City’s Newport Yacht Club pier. It boasts a metropolitan sophistication and coastal vibe, with unmatched waterfront surroundings and New York City skyline views. Battello has a series of open, elegant areas, as well as semi-private and fully private areas, making the possibilities limitless for curating unforgettable experiences for parties of 18 to 150. Guests will enjoy Battello’s exceptional cuisine, innovative cocktails, and industry-leading service. It is conveniently located near multiple hotel and transportation options. The outdoor seating is an extension to the popular, semi-outdoor patio, and can accommodate 100 to 150 guests. Call 201-798-1798 or inquire here.
The Brightside Tavern | 141 Bright Street
The Brightside Tavern features two rooms for private parties including the intimate Fireside Lounge for parties under 40, or the Piano Room for parties over 40. Both rooms are equipped with a large multimedia projection system, perfect for slideshows, karaoke, and more. Additional features include dartboards, a shuffleboard table, and of course a piano.
Cellar 335 | 335 Newark Street
Best known for its global plates and tropical cocktails, Cellar 335 will immediately transport your guests to a tropical paradise conveniently located in Jersey City. Serving up progressive American food with Asian flair, it’s hard to decide whether the meals or the tiki-inspired drinks are our favorite part of Cellar 335. For more information on private events, menus, and pricing please submit an online inquiry via Cellar 336’s website.
Fire and Oak | 479 Washington Boulevard
This American grill located in the Westin Newport has various rooms that can accommodate from 20 to 150 guests. State-of-the-art audio and visual equipment can be installed for the party at the host’s request. Most anything on Fire and Oak’s regular menu can be part of the event menu, such as wood-grilled steaks and rustic flatbreads. Or tempt palates with a savory raw bar and sushi offerings.
Jersey City Ballroom | 189 Brunswick Street
Located in downtown Jersey City within the Brunswick Center, this space has a grand feel and includes high ceilings with chic chandeliers, large windows with plenty of natural light, beautiful hardwood floors, and state of the art sound. Rent the full ballroom, which accommodates up to 60 people, for $350 for a five-hour block of time, or rent half of the ballroom, which can accommodate up to 30 people for $175 for five hours. Tables ($10 each) and chairs ($2 each) are also available to rent separately. Teach guests how to cha-cha-cha! Lessons start at $30 per person with a four-person minimum, and special rates are available for parties of seven people or more. Call 201-969-6260 or email info@jerseycityballroom.com.
Liberty Prime | 111 Montgomery Street
For those looking for an upscale meal for this year’s event, The Gallery at Liberty Prime is a great Jersey City pick. The Gallery features three private rooms, all of which are equipped with a projector, sound system, microphone, and a fully stocked private bar. Rooms can accommodate 30-180 guests for a sit-down dinner. Should you wish to rent the entire space, 200 guests can be seated for a dinner or 400 for a cocktail reception. The Gallery has an attached parking garage so that guests do not need to worry about braving the winter elements or finding a parking space on the street. All major hotels in the area are within walking distance making this a great venue for local or out-of-town guests alike.
Liberty Science Center | 222 Jersey City Boulevard
While this may have been the destination of several elementary school field trips, Liberty Science Center is much more than a museum for children. Your colleagues will surely be impressed by the one-of-a-kind views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. The museum’s glass-enclosed Observation Tower is a fun space for smaller events such as an intimate dinner or cocktail reception. Larger gatherings can be hosted in the two-story gallery spaces and grand lobby which accommodates up to 1,200 guests. Liberty Science Center provides event staff to assist with planning and setting up your event and their preferred catering vendors will help you customize the menu. For more information and availability contact Liberty Science Center at 201.253.1378 or specialevents@LSC.org.
Liberty House Restaurant | 76 Audrey Zapp Drive
Eat, drink, and celebrate with three unique private dining options for a memorable event. The patio high-top table is the perfect way to enjoy lunch on a warm day or dinner and drinks under the stars on a balmy night. The garden cabanas provide a unique dining experience for friends and family. Enjoy a private area of the patio facing the stunning lower Manhattan skyline. The Gallery at Liberty House offers the most amazing views of the city and can hold a private event for 25 to 40 guests. With customizable menus, guests will enjoy delicious farm-to-table food made from the freshest ingredients available, the same food that has made Liberty House one of the top dining destinations in New Jersey. This space is accessible to an outdoor patio complete with a fire pit, perfect for cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres before dinner or dessert and drinks after. Prix-fixe menus are available for 30-40 guests and The Gallery Room requires a 30-person minimum. Call 201-395-0300 to make a reservation.
The Restaurant at Maritime Parc | 84 Audrey Zapp Drive
The interior of The Restaurant at Maritime Parc is spectacular and the food is stellar. Guests can enjoy a seated lunch, which includes a four-hour beverage package, a cocktail hour with cold hors d’ oeuvres, a three-course plated lunch, and a custom celebration cake. For fun, choose the cocktail reception, which includes a four-hour beverage package, a cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeuvres (such as pulled BBQ chicken empanadas and pigs-in-a-blanket) and two stations (such as BBQ, tapas, Mediterranean, fish tacos), followed by four additional stations starting in the second hour, as well as butler, passed sweets for dessert. Major bonus: the on-premise cake-maker is none other than Karen Padilla, a skillful artist and renowned cake designer who loves to travel and incorporate her sensory input experience from other cultures, into an ever-evolving experiment of different dimensions, textures, and colors. Call 201-413-0050 to book.
Porta | 135 Newark Avenue
There is something about a long table covered with simple food and surrounded by love that makes us count the good hours. The options for group dining reflect Porta’s commitment to serving the freshest seasonal ingredients in a warm, inviting setting. Porta’s top floor rooftop is a completely private space, with a 50-guest max for sit-down dining, featuring two full bars with large-screen TVs, its own pizza oven, and private restrooms. For smaller parties, hosts can reserve half of the roof, each with its own bar. Tucked underneath the stairs to the main dining room, is The Monk Room, the perfect little nook for a private get-together complete with its own full bar with large-screen TVs and separate access from Columbus Drive. And since Porta is just a block from the Grove Street PATH station, it’s easily accessible from Hoboken or Manhattan. Take a look at the party packages and request a quote here or contact events.jc@pizzaporta.com.
Rooftop at Exchange Place | 1 Exchange Place
The Rooftop at Exchange Place is the perfect urban venue for entertaining guests in the highest of Jersey City style, with unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and the iconic Manhattan skyline. The Rooftop offers a variety of spaces for small groups that include dramatic outdoor water and fire fountain, interior cabanas, and large communal seating pods. The Terrace features semi-private event spaces perfect for small groups and intimate receptions. For larger-sized events, guests may reserve The Terrace’s entire space or one of its semi-private areas: Terrace East or South.
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Satis Bistro | 212 Washington Street
A gathering at Satis Bistro will be a meal your guests will rave about for weeks after the event. Satis Bistro features two main dining rooms seating up to 90 people, and a mezzanine dining area seating up to 35 guests. While Satis is typically not open for lunch during the week, private parties and events can be arranged any day or time with advance notice. For more information, please email your requirements to info@satisbistro.com.
Venue 845 | 845 Newark Avenue
Venue 845 offers a completely customizable space that is beautiful and spacious. With the freedom to select decorations, entertainment, and other event design elements, create the style and feel that is perfect to mark the special occasion. Venue 845 has the capacity to serve a maximum of 75 guests in its two spacious rooms. With on-site parking for 18 and a location that is near major forms of transportation in the NY metropolitan area, guests will have plenty of transit options. The space is equipped with multiple, large plasma TVs as well as Wii, PlayStation4, and Xbox game systems. The lighting and sound systems can accommodate live entertainment of all kinds. Venue 845 will provide an on-site staff member for assistance with serving and cleaning up. Contact the staff for more information.
White Eagle Hall | 337 Newark Avenue
While you may think of White Eagle as a great spot for a night out, it is also available for private events. White Eagle Hall was opened in 1910 and underwent an award-winning restoration in 2016. The original stained glass skylights are a centerpiece of this gorgeous space. Historical details that have been thoughtfully preserved are on view throughout, and the modern conveniences added to make this is a comfortable and elegant spot. The space’s capacity is approximately 400 seated theater style, 800 standing or 150-190 seated banquet style. A balcony level with beautiful views flanks the inner perimeter of the hall that may be used for extra seating. The venue is also equipped with everything needed for a big bash: the facility comes with its own food and bar service that is complete with three bars and food counters. Guests will have no problem arriving at the venue, as it is located in between the Journal Square and Grove Street PATH Stations in downtown Jersey City. To get in touch with the team about your event, please fill out the interest form found here.
Zeppelin Hall | 88 Liberty View Drive
While you may have visited Zeppelin Hall to cool off during the summer months, this Jersey City Biergarten provides ample indoor space for your next event. It is easy to plan an event on any type of budget at Zeppelin Hall. And of course, no gathering at this location would be complete without a giant pretzel! Zeppelin Hall can accommodate parties of 20 – 200-300+, and all details to get your party planning started can be found here.
