Amster’s Prospect Tavern

- 18 W Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463

Waldwick, New Jersey residents know a truly great local spot when they see one, and for generations, that spot has been Amster’s Prospect Tavern. More than just a bar and grill, this establishment is a piece of Bergen County history, offering a rare blend of old-school tavern charm, a genuine family atmosphere, and a menu that caters to every craving, from comforting classics to upscale specials. If you're looking for a dining destination that feels like an extension of your own kitchen, where the staff treats you like family and the food is consistently fresh and delicious, then Amster's Prospect Tavern is a must-visit in North Jersey.

Since its beginnings in 1926, the building that houses Amster’s has been an integral part of the Waldwick community. It first operated as a grocery store, a function it maintained until the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, when it transitioned into the tavern we know and love today. This makes it one of the oldest establishments of its kind in the entire Bergen County area. Its rich history and longevity have cemented its status as a local landmark. Over the decades, it has been affectionately referred to by many names, including "Sadie's" and "Norm's" after former family owners, but the warm, inviting experience remains the same—a true "hometown vibe" that patrons consistently praise.

The appeal of Amster's is broad, drawing in everyone from lifelong Waldwick residents to North Jersey newcomers. It successfully balances the cozy, comfortable feel of a classic neighborhood pub with an excellent dining experience. One moment you could be enjoying a laid-back meal and a beer with friends in the upbeat bar area, and the next, you could be savoring an inventive special in the dining room or on the highly sought-after outdoor patio. This versatility is part of what makes it a local favorite and a place where you always feel at home.

Amster’s Prospect Tavern is centrally located, making it easy to reach for anyone in Waldwick and the surrounding Bergen County towns. Finding this cherished spot is simple, and the restaurant has taken care to ensure it is accessible to all guests.

The tavern is located at:

18 W Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463, USA

For visitors requiring special accommodations, Amster's is dedicated to ensuring a comfortable experience, offering:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

This commitment to accessibility ensures that every member of the family and community can enjoy the full experience of dining at this historic location.

Amster’s Prospect Tavern provides a comprehensive range of services and dining options, adapting to modern convenience while maintaining its classic hospitality. Whether you're planning a full dinner out or just looking for a quick bite and drink, they have you covered.

• Dining Options: Lunch, Dinner, Dessert, and flexible Seating options, including reservations and walk-ins.
• Service Models: Dine-in for a traditional experience, Takeout for on-the-go meals, and Delivery for convenience at home.
• Off-Premise & Safety: Curbside pickup and No-contact delivery options are available for added ease and safety.
• Group & Event Services: Catering is offered for your special events, and the establishment is family-friendly and good for kids, with amenities like High chairs and a Kids' menu.
• Payment Methods: The tavern accepts Debit cards and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy.
• Reservations: Amster's Prospect Tavern accepts reservations, a useful feature, especially for busier weekend dining times or larger parties.

The menu and atmosphere at Amster’s Prospect Tavern are what truly set it apart in the North Jersey dining scene. They expertly combine the best of pub fare with high-quality, inspired dining, creating a uniquely satisfying experience.

• Historic Setting: Operating since 1933 (with the building dating to 1926), Amster’s Prospect Tavern is a Bergen County institution, giving every visit a feeling of heritage and tradition.
• Popular Outdoor Dining: The Patio, which was built in 2001, is noted as one of the most popular outdoor dining facilities in the area, offering a wonderful spot to enjoy a meal in the open air.
• Diverse Cuisine Offerings: The menu successfully marries traditional comfort food and excellent pub grub, such as their famous, handmade house specialties like mozzarella bites and cheesesteak egg rolls, with more upscale, fresh-inspired dishes.
• Upscale Weekly Specials: Diners can look forward to gourmet weekly specials, often featuring elevated fare like Veal Osso Buco, Slow Cooked Short Ribs, Filet Mignon, and Lobster Tail, offered Thursday through Saturday.
• Extensive Beverage Menu: The bar offers a wide variety of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine, catering to all tastes. They are also known for their Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food specials.
• Entertainment: The tavern is a great place for fun, featuring Highlights like watching Sports and participating in Trivia night, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings.
• Late-Night Options: For those looking for a bite after hours, the menu includes Late-night food and Small plates.
• Vegetarian Options: Catering to a variety of dietary preferences, the menu also includes dedicated Vegetarian options.

For reservations, inquiries about catering, or to check on daily specials, the friendly staff at Amster’s Prospect Tavern is easy to reach.

Address: 18 W Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463, USA

Phone: (201) 652-9819

Choosing Amster’s Prospect Tavern means choosing a quality experience that goes beyond just a meal. For residents of Bergen County and North Jersey, this is more than just a destination; it’s a community cornerstone. The combination of a nearly century-long history, the dedicated family-like service, and the dual nature of their menu—where a perfect burger coexists with Filet Mignon—is what truly makes it stand out.

One of the most compelling reasons to choose Amster's is the atmosphere described by real customers: "The friendliest staff! Great ambiance," and a "real family and hometown vibe." Customers often walk in expecting a simple "little dive bar" and are pleasantly surprised by the "cozy bar with a handful of tables with great drinks, great food and GREAT service." The fact that they successfully balance excellent pub favorites—including their famous "Bar Pies" and handmade appetizers—with sophisticated weekly specials ensures that there is always something new and exciting to try, appealing to a wide array of palates.

Furthermore, the popularity of their Patio, especially during the warmer months, makes it a top choice for those who appreciate excellent outdoor dining in North Jersey. For both a casual weeknight dinner of comforting, classic fare or a more celebratory weekend meal with high-quality specials, Amster’s Prospect Tavern delivers on its promise of flavor, passion, and genuine hospitality. It’s a place where every patron feels like a regular and where fresh, inspired cooking meets decades of local history. It is a genuine, local New Jersey landmark well worth a visit.

Amster’s Prospect Tavern

18 W Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463, USA