Where to Drink Right Now: Scotland Yard

Photo Credit: Ryan Vaarsi - Via Flickr CC

When you actually live in Hoboken, there can be a natural tendency to pretend the area right outside the PATH station doesn’t actually exist. After all, it gets incredibly crowded with (mostly) out-of-towners, the streets are tough to navigate during prime time because of the influx of commuters and the people waiting in line for bars or hanging out on the sidewalk for a smoke, and the bars themselves are usually packed. Why not stay above 2nd Street and skip the crowd?

For one thing, if you don’t venture into this area you can miss one of the most character-laden bars in Hoboken: The fabulous Scotland Yard, a bar with a loyal following, a dog-friendly policy, and plenty of grimy charm.

Follow the Regulars

One tried and true way to figure out where to have a drink is to look for the local places that have a loyal following, and Scotland Yard definitely qualifies. Walking in you might have that “record scratch” moment as a group that clearly knows each other turns to stare at you, but you’ll be quickly welcomed, and nothing recommends a bar more than people who return to it over and over again. Plus, many of the regulars are total characters, which is often a good reason to go to a bar in the first place.

Must Love Dogs

Unless, of course, we’re talking about a dog-friendly environment. You’d think in a town as dog-crazy as Hoboken would inspire more bars to allow dogs in on a regular basis, but Scotland Yard is one of the few with an explicitly pro-dog policy. When it gets crowded it’s not a good idea, of course, but in general if you’re out walking Fido and want a quick nip, Scotland Yard is one of your few easy choices.

Beer Pong and Atmosphere

One thing I love about Scotland Yard is the atmosphere. Part of that is the friendly staff and general look and feel, but part of it is the step-down, cave-like feel to the place. It’s kind of oddly-angled, of course, but that just adds to the sense that you’re stepping into some European pub in a distant land instead of a place a few blocks from your home.

And if you believe Beer Pong should be a new Olympic sport, Scotland Yard will soon be your favorite place. It also offers darts and flip cup in order to complete the illusion that you’re back in college. Bottom line: Charm, visual interest, good service, and dogs. Get thee to Scotland Yard!

• Scotland Yard 0 reviews
• 72 Hudson St , Hoboken - 07030
• (201) 222-9273
• Bars

Jeffrey Somers/Staff Writer - (jeffreysomers.com) is the author of 9 novels including We Are Not Good People (wearenotgoodpeople.com) and the publisher of The Inner Swine (innerswine.com). Jeff may be reach at jeffrey@LifeinHoboken.com . Follow him on Twitter at @jeffreysomers .