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Characters ico

Characters
- 94 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974

Irish restaurant, Bar ★4.0 (171)·$20–30

94 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974, USA

4.0
Sigh..... *disappointment alert ⚠️* I would avoid this place and don't believe the hype/ crowds.Since moving to the area my fiancé and I always had this restaurant on our list to visit since it always seemed crowded and the reviews were decent.Fast forward 3 years later, we finally decided to stop in since it was Friday and there were a few visible parking spots.Upon entering there were no tables available but we were seated immediately outside (no one else outside at the time). We stated that was fine, as long as they "didn't forget about us". The staff was really friendly and took our order pretty quickly which was great, but then things went downhill.We ordered pizza, burgers, salad and an entree. The pizza came out after about 25 mins which was okay and was nice and really thin/ crunchy which is hard to find. They forgot to give us appetizer plates and forgot about us so we had to eat without any napkins etc. After about what seemed like 40 mins they brought out the salad which was absolutely disgusting since the "balsamic dressing " looked like a thick light brown gravy. At that point I was finally able to request plates, napkins etc. They brought out the plates and they all looked improperly cleaned with clearly visible food residue! GROSS! Besides the constant (3x) we heard dishes breaking inside and the random weird scent of sewer, we reached our breaking point and just couldn't stomach even staying there any longer. We sat there for over an hour and our burgers were still not ready, so we promptly requested the check and high tailed it out of there. Between the sanitary concerns and ridiculous wait times for simple meals..... yeah this place has a lot of "character" alright. Maybe we caught them on an "off day", but we have no intentions of ever returning to find out. - Tamara Mitchell
Characters Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$20–30 per person Reported by 171 people$10–20$20–30$30–50$50–100

Characters Introduce

For residents of New York, particularly those in the scenic areas of Rockland County, finding a local establishment that perfectly balances the charm of a cozy bar with the quality of a full-service restaurant can be a delightful discovery. Characters, located in Sloatsburg, NY, is precisely one such place. Operating as a distinctive blend of an Irish restaurant, a welcoming bar, and a classic American restaurant, Characters offers a multifaceted experience for every occasion, whether you're looking for a quick, satisfying lunch, a hearty dinner, or a spirited night out.

This establishment has cultivated a reputation for its warm and engaging atmosphere—one that many visitors describe as being both casual and wonderfully cozy. It’s the kind of place where locals feel at home and newcomers are welcomed with genuine hospitality. The menu is a testament to this versatility, spanning traditional Irish favorites from the "Characters Irish Corner" to classic pub fare like the famous Characters Buffalo Wings and an entire "Characters Pizza Parlor" dedicated to fresh pies.

Beyond the impressive and extensive food menu, which covers everything from starters like Coconut Shrimp and Smoked Salmon to full-scale Entrees such as Certified Angus Strip Steak and Chicken Marsala, the venue is a true bar at its heart. It boasts a reputation for having a great beer selection and great cocktails, catering to enthusiasts of both domestic and imported drafts, fine wines, and expertly mixed drinks. This dual identity ensures that whether you're dropping by for a quiet solo dinner or hosting a large group celebration, Characters is equipped to provide the perfect setting and service.

Patrons enjoy the sense of history that permeates the venue, often noting the historic yet well-maintained interior. It’s a community hub that serves locals while also attracting tourists passing through the area, all seeking a taste of authentic New York suburban hospitality. While some reviews suggest there may be occasional inconsistencies in service or food during peak times—a common challenge for any busy, highly-trafficked spot—the consistently positive experiences for large gatherings and the general appeal of the atmosphere speak volumes about its core strengths.


Location and Accessibility

Characters is strategically situated in the charming town of Sloatsburg, a village nestled in the Ramapo River valley within Rockland County, NY. This location makes it easily reachable for a large segment of the New York State population, serving as a reliable dining and social venue for the broader community.

The full address is 94 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974. This address places it near key roadways, ensuring easy driving access for both local commuters and those traveling from farther parts of the county or even New York City.

In terms of physical access, Characters is committed to being an inclusive establishment, offering multiple accessibility features:

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance is provided, ensuring smooth entry for all guests.
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot accommodations are available, making it stress-free for patrons with mobility needs to park close to the entrance.
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities are maintained for guest comfort and compliance.
  • Wheelchair accessible seating options are available throughout the venue.

Furthermore, parking is straightforward and convenient, featuring a free parking lot for customers, as well as free street parking options nearby, minimizing any potential hassle for guests arriving by car.


Services Offered

The range of services at Characters reflects its identity as a full-service bar and restaurant, capable of hosting casual meals, formal dining, and large celebratory events. The combination of dining options and convenience services is extensive:

  • Dining-in: Full table service is offered for lunch, dinner, and brunch, ensuring a traditional, comfortable dining experience.
  • Bar Service: A fully stocked bar onsite offers alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine, complete with a curated selection of both domestic and imported beverages.
  • Takeout and Curbside Pickup: For maximum convenience, guests can utilize takeout or curbside pickup options, perfect for those on the go.
  • Private Events & Catering: The venue is excellently equipped for hosting parties, retirements, and other celebrations, with dedicated private dining room space and comprehensive catering services, including special tiered packages like the Buffet Style Party and Fingerfood Style Party.
  • Happy Hour: Both happy hour drinks and happy hour food specials are offered, making it a popular after-work destination.
  • Seating Options: Features a variety of seating arrangements, including comfortable indoor seating and seasonal outdoor seating.
  • Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is highly recommended for groups or during busy weekend hours to ensure immediate seating.
  • Child-Friendly Amenities: The restaurant is good for kids and provides high chairs, along with a specialized Kids' menu (Little Characters Korner), making it a suitable spot for families.

Features / Highlights

Characters stands out among the New York State bar and restaurant landscape due to several unique features that enhance the guest experience and contribute to its strong local following:

  • Cozy Fireplace Atmosphere: The presence of a fireplace adds a significant element of warmth and charm, making it an exceptionally cozy spot, particularly appealing during the colder months in New York.
  • Live Music and Entertainment: A key draw for the nightlife crowd, the venue frequently hosts live music events, adding a vibrant energy to the evening atmosphere.
  • Exceptional Beverage Program: Known for a great beer selection of imported and specialty beers on tap, as well as meticulously crafted great cocktails and an expanded, moderately priced wine list.
  • Diverse Food Offerings: The menu features not only substantial pub fare and Italian-American favorites but also dedicated Irish Corner classics (like Galway Bay Fish & Chips and Shelly's Shepards Pie) and healthy options, ensuring every diner finds something appealing.
  • Fast Service: A highly valued highlight for many patrons is the fast service, making it a reliable spot for a quick and efficient meal during a busy workday lunch or early dinner.
  • Comfort Food Focus: The cuisine heavily features satisfying comfort food and is suitable for those seeking a quick, hearty meal or small plates to share.
  • Late-Night Food: As a bar, it caters to patrons with late cravings by offering late-night food options.

Contact Information

For New York residents looking to visit, reserve a table, or inquire about catering and party planning, the contact information for Characters is provided for direct communication:

Address: 94 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974

Phone: (845) 753-5200

Mobile Phone: +1 845-753-5200

The professional staff are available during operating hours to answer questions about the menu, check the availability of the private dining room, or assist with planning special events.


What is Worth Choosing: The Irish Charm and Culinary Versatility

For anyone in the New York area, especially in Rockland County, choosing Characters for an outing is about seeking a place that offers more than just a meal—it’s about choosing a complete, community-focused experience. The main reason this bar and restaurant is worth selecting is its ability to seamlessly marry the cozy, historic Irish pub atmosphere with an impressively versatile and expansive culinary menu.

What sets Characters apart is its ability to be all things to all people, without diluting its core identity. You can enjoy the intimacy of dining by the fireplace with a meticulously prepared Entree like the Certified Angus Strip Steak, or you can join a lively crowd for live music while enjoying an imported stout and sharing a Characters Special Double Decker pizza. The catering and private party services are another significant draw, as evidenced by positive customer testimonials that laud the staff’s attentiveness and the excellent quality of the food provided for celebrations. Knowing a local venue can reliably handle the high-stakes demands of a retirement or birthday party is a huge advantage for New York residents planning events.

Furthermore, the menu’s dedication to classic Irish Corner dishes like Chicken Pot Pie and Shelly's Shepards Pie provides a welcome taste of authentic comfort food that anchors the establishment's theme. Whether you’re stopping for a quick sandwich and fries during lunch or enjoying a full feast for dinner, the commitment to satisfying, flavorful meals is clear. By offering a true bar environment with great beer and cocktails alongside a full, family-friendly dining room, Characters serves as a true community hub—a place where both groups and solo dining are equally welcome. Its accessibility, varied features like a separate pizza parlor, and commitment to fast service make it a reliable and highly recommended destination for quality food and genuine hospitality in Sloatsburg, NY.

Characters Menu

  • Starters

  • Coconut Shrimp $10.95

    With a fruity Characters dipping sauce

  • Smoked Salmon $9.95

    Served with capers, chopped red onion and mustard

  • Fresh Mozzarella $9.95

    Fresh mozzarella garnished with tomato, basil, roasted peppers and balsamic glaze

  • Bruschetta $8.95

    Diced fresh ripe tomato, onion, and basil on our garlic bread garnished with black olives

  • Breaded Mushrooms $8.95

    Served with a garlic aioli

  • Characters Mexican Nachos $12.95

    Chili, cheddar, jalapenos, shredded lettuce, tomato, topped with salsa and sour cream this large portion can feed up to 3 people!

  • Garlic Bread $3.00
  • Portobello Mushroom $9.95

    Fresh portabella mushroom with chopped tomato and melted bleu cheese with a brandy cream sauce

  • Characters Combo $9.95

    Onion rings, chicken tenders, Mozzarella sticks, zucchini sticks, breaded mushrooms

  • Potato Skins $8.95

    A Characters favorite, served with bacon, cheddar and spring onions

  • Broccoli Poppers $8.95

    Broccoli and cheddar bites with bacon

  • Mozzarella Sticks $9.95

    With our own marinara dipping sauce

  • Chicken Quesadillas $9.95

    Flour tortillas with chicken and cheer. Served with lettuce, tomato, jalapeno-salsa and sour cream

  • Characters Buffalo Wings $10.50

    Hot, medium or mild, served with bleu cheese dressing

  • Jalapeno Poppers $7.95

    Breaded jalapenos with cheddar cheese and a side of ranch dressing

  • Fried Calamari $10.95

    Marinara sauce

  • Fried Ravioli $8.95

    With marinara sauce

  • Soups

  • Homemade Soup du Jour $4.00
  • French Onion Soup $4.95
  • Chili Crock $6.95
  • Salads

  • Characters House Salad
  • Caesar Salad $7.95

    Romaine lettuce, shaved parmesan cheese in our classic Caesar dressing, topped with homemade croutons

  • Chef's Salad $13.95

    Bacon, ham, turkey, Swiss and cheddar cheese, hardboiled egg, tomato, homemade croutons served on a bed of greens

  • Jackie's Irish Summer Salad $9.75

    Fresh potato salad, homemade cole slaw, egg salad, ham and tomato, served on a bed of greens

  • Salad Lovers Special $13.95

    Fresh apple, feta cheese, avocado and walnuts, served on a bed of greens

  • Characters Pizza Parlor

  • 12in Cheese Pie $10.50
  • Cauliflower Pizza $13.00
  • Characters Special Double Decker $11.00
  • Salad Pie $11.50

    Our House Salad chopped and put on our Cheese Pie

  • Dennisdia $13.00

    A Quesadilla Style Pizza with Four Cheeses, Bacon, Ham and Jalapenos

  • Margherita $10.50

    Fresh Basil and Tomato

  • Hawaiian $11.00

    Ham and Pineapple

  • Chili Chicken $11.50

    Chicken, Spinach and a Sweet Chili Sauce

  • Kelley's Pie $11.50

    Bacon, Ham and Diced Jalapeno

  • Four Cheese $11.00

    Mozzarella, Cheddar, Swiss and Provolone

  • White Pie $10.50

    Ricotta and Mozzarella (No Sauce)

  • BBQ Chicken $11.50

    Chicken, Caramelized Red Onion and BBQ Sauce

  • Meat Lovers $13.00

    Bacon, Ham, Pepperoni, Mix of Hot & Sweet Sausage

  • Veggie Pie $13.00

    Fresh Mushrooms, Garlic, Peppers, Onions and Broccoli

  • Buffalo Chicken Pizza $11.50

    Grilled Chicken and Hot Sauce on a Cheese Pie

  • Shrimp Scampi Pizza $13.50

    A Cheese Pie "no sauce" with diced shrimp in our scampi sauce

  • Create Your Own Pie

    Additional Cost per Topping ($1.50): Anchovies, Bacon, Black Olives, Broccoli, Chicken, Fresh Basil, Fresh Garlic, Fresh Mushrooms, Ham, Jalapenos, Onions, Pepperoni, Peppers, Pineapple, Shrimp, Sliced Tomato, Hot & Sweet Sausage, Meatball

  • Additional Sides

  • Beer Battered Onion Rings $2.95
  • Characters Mashed Potatoes $3.95
  • Cheese Fries $3.50
  • Curry Sauce $4.95
  • Baked Potato $3.95

    with butter & sour cream

  • Guacamole $4.95
  • Sweet Potato or Cajun Fries $2.95
  • Curly Fries $4.95
  • Irish Curry Fries $4.95
  • Homemade Potato Salad $3.25
  • Zucchini Sticks $4.95
  • Coleslaw $2.25
  • Entrees

    Served With Characters Side Salad or Soup Du Jour Pasta, Rice, Mashed, Roasted, Baked or French Fried Potatoes & Steamed Vegetables

  • Certified Angus Strip Steak $26.95

    12oz aged NY Strip Steak served with sautéed onions and mushrooms

  • Steak Supreme $28.95

    12 oz. Strip Steak with 3 jumbo shrimp in a mushroom-brandy cream sauce

  • Shrimp Scampi $19.95

    Jumbo garlic glazed shrimp, in a lemon butter sauce

  • Chicken Marsala $18.95

    Tender chicken breast sautéed in butter, mushrooms and Marsala wine

  • Angel Hair Primavera $15.75

    Roasted garlic, basil and pomodoro sauce topped with seasonal vegetables

  • Chicken Francese $18.95

    Lightly battered chicken breast topped with a zesty lemon and white wine sauce

  • Baby Back Ribs $21.95

    Served in our delicious BBQ sauce

  • Chicken Parmigiana $19.95

    Breaded chicken breast with basil, pomodoro sauce, topped with mozzarella and baked

  • Steak Teriyaki $18.95

    Sliced steak with peppers and onions in a teriyaki sauce

  • Characters Irish Corner

  • Chicken Pot Pie $18.95

    Chicken, potatoes, mushrooms, peas and carrots in a creamy veloute sauce topped with a puff pastry

  • Rack of Lamb $28.95

    Served with mint jelly on the side also accompanied by your choice of side and our mixed vegetables

  • Galway Bay Fish & Chips $18.95

    Lightly battered fresh cod, served with lemon and tartar sauce

  • Chicken Curry and Chips $18.95

    Our Irish curry sauce with diced chicken breast, sautéed mushrooms and onions

  • Shelly's Shepards Pie $18.95

    Prime Angus chopped beef, carrots, peas and onions, topped with Characters creamed potatoes

  • Little Characters Korner

  • Chicken Fingers & Fries $5.95
  • Grilled Cheese & Fries $5.95
  • Spaghetti with Red Sauce or Butter Sauce $5.95
  • Mini Cheeseburger & Fries $5.95
  • Mac & Cheese $5.95
  • Old Time Favorites

  • BLT (A 'Characters' Favorite) $9.95

    Served toasted with crisp iceberg lettuce, sliced tomato, on white

  • Turkey Club $11.95

    Oven roasted, thinly sliced turkey breast served on white toast layered with bacon, lettuce and tomato

  • Characters Ham & Cheese Special $9.95

    Thinly sliced ham with your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato and red onion and a herbal mayo

  • Tasty Toasty $9.95

    Grilled cheddar, ham, tomato and red onion

  • Characters Tuna Special $9.95

    Our secret tuna salad mix, served on toasted bread

  • Sandwiches

    Comes with French Fries, Homemade Cole Slaw and a Pickle And choice of Bread, White, Rye, Whole Wheat or Hero

  • Chicken Caesar Wrap $9.95

    Grilled or Cajun chicken breast with romaine lettuce and creamy Caesar dressing in spinach wrap

  • Caprese Wrap $9.95

    Fresh mozzarella, tomato, roasted pepper, basil and balsamic glaze in a wrap

  • Avocado Chicken Wrap $12.95

    Avocado, grilled chicken, lettuce and tomato with choice of cheese

  • Vegetarian Wrap $9.95

    Egg salad, crisp lettuce, tomato, red onion and your choice of cheese in a spinich wrap

  • Tom's Chicken Parm Hero $11.95

    Breaded chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce on French Bread

  • Corned Beef Reuben $9.95

    On rye with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing

  • Sliced Angus Steak Hero $11.95

    Served on a garlic hero with your choice of cheese

  • Characters Signature Burger $10.25

    Choice Angus burger topped with your choice of cheese, bacon, onion and sauteed mushrooms

  • Choice Angus Burger $9.95

    Choice of Toppings $0.75 each: Bacon, Sautéed Onions, Sauteed Mushrooms, American Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Bleu Cheese, Provolone Cheese or Swiss Cheese

  • Salads

  • Large Tray House Salad $45.00
  • Large Tray of Caesar Salad $50.00
  • Potato Salad per Half Tray $18.00
  • Coleslaw per Half Tray $18.00
  • Egg Salad per Half Tray $18.00
  • Appetizers

  • Large Tray of Buffalo Wings
  • Fried Calamari $80.00
  • Chickens Tenders $70.00
  • Mozzarella Sticks $65.00
  • Dome Tray of Assorted Wraps $50.00
  • Coconut Shrimp $65.00
  • Entree Selections

  • Shrimp Scampi $150.00
  • Chicken Francese or Marsala $110.00
  • Chicken Parmigiana $120.00
  • Angel Hair Primavera $70.00
  • Penne Ala Vodka $70.00
  • Teriyaki Steak $105.00
  • Shepard's Pie $90.00
  • Buffet Style Party

    $31 a head. We will also provide a tray of our seasonal steamed mixed vegetables and rice. Soda / tea / coffee all included. Pick one from each group (suggestions only, can ask for more options)

  • Cheese and Cracker and Veggies with Dip
  • House Salads and Caesar Salads Family Style
  • Penne Vodka / Angelhair Primavera
  • Whole Salmon / Stuffed Fillet of Sole / Eggplant Rollatini Chicken Francese / Marsal X / Parm
  • Steak Teriyaki / Shepards Pie / Steak au Jus
  • Mixed Plates of Hot Appetizers $2.00
  • Beer (Domestic & Import) and Wine $6.00
  • Fingerfood Style Party

    $22 a Head. Soda / Tea / Coffee All Included

  • A Selection of Hot Appetizers

    Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, Fried Ravioli, Pigs in a blanket, Chicken Fingers

  • A Selection of Cold Appetizers

    Bruschetta, Fresh Mozzarella

  • A Selection of Wraps
  • A Selection of Pizzas

Characters Details

  • Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Curbside pickup
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Fireplace
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Great dessert
  • Live music
  • Serves local specialty
  • Sports
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

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

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Happy hour food
  • Hard liquor
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Private dining room
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Historic
  • Crowd

  • Groups
  • Tourists
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu
  • Parking

  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking

Characters Photos

Characters Picture 1Characters Picture 2Characters Picture 3Characters Picture 4Characters Picture 5Characters Picture 6Characters Picture 7Characters Picture 8Characters Picture 9Characters Picture 10

Characters Location

Characters

94 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974, USA

Characters Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 808 user reviews.

wingspartybartendershikepubshepard's piedining roomsignatureguinnessfish and chips

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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