Doc Watsons NJ: Authentic Irish Pub & Restaurant in Oakland, New Jersey

Doc Watsons NJ Introduce

Doc Watsons NJ brings the authentic, convivial atmosphere of a classic Irish pub to the heart of Oakland, New Jersey. This establishment successfully combines the cozy charm of a traditional pub with the full dining experience of a modern American restaurant. Locals in Bergen County view Doc Watsons as more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a community hub where friendly service, a welcoming atmosphere, and a surprisingly extensive menu converge to create a perfect gathering spot.

The menu is a testament to the pub's dual identity, offering a blend of traditional Irish fare and elevated American pub classics. Patrons can indulge in authentic dishes like the savory Shepherd's Pie and the crispy Dubliner Fish N' Chips, or explore a robust selection of contemporary favorites. Appetizers range from shareable treats like Maryland Crabcakes and PEI Mussels to inventive bites such as Ahi Tuna Tacos and Reuben Quesadillas. This variety ensures there is a plate for every palate, making it a reliable spot for both casual lunches and full dinner services.

Beyond the food, Doc Watsons is celebrated for its commitment to the pub culture, featuring a "Great beer selection" that complements their comprehensive beverage offerings, including cocktails, hard liquor, and wine. The atmosphere is consistently described as "Casual" and "Cozy," making it suitable for all "Crowds," from "Family-friendly" gatherings to groups of "Locals." The commitment to providing a top-notch experience is echoed in customer feedback, which frequently highlights the "Fast service" and "Very friendly servers," cementing its reputation as a preferred neighborhood restaurant in Oakland, NJ.

Whether you are stopping by after work for a quick bite or planning a weekend dinner with the family, Doc Watsons NJ offers a genuine Irish-American dining experience that is both authentic and approachable. The restaurant's success in blending its Irish pub heritage with a high-quality food menu is what makes it a standout destination in the North Jersey dining scene.

Location and Accessibility

Doc Watsons NJ is conveniently situated in Oakland, a central location for residents across Bergen County. The restaurant is easily accessible, and its location is part of what makes it such a popular local venue.

Address: 20 Elm St, Oakland, NJ 07436

Accessibility for all guests is a clear priority for the establishment. The public data confirms several key accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable visit for every member of the New Jersey community:

Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible seating

The parking situation is also highly accommodating, featuring both a "Free parking lot" and the availability of "Free street parking," removing one of the most common headaches associated with dining out in busy areas. This ease of access, combined with its centralized location on Elm Street, makes it a hassle-free destination for locals and those traveling from surrounding towns like Franklin Lakes or Wyckoff.

Services Offered

Doc Watsons provides a full range of dining and service options to suit various customer needs, establishing itself as a flexible and convenient local restaurant.

Dining Options: Patrons are welcome for Dinner and can enjoy Dessert. The venue features comfortable Seating and offers full Table service.
Service Options: The establishment provides both Dine-in and Takeout services, allowing customers to enjoy the pub's menu in-house or at home.
Beverage Offerings: A full array of drinks is available, including Alcohol, Beer (with a notably "Great beer selection"), Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine, alongside non-alcoholic options like Coffee.
Food & Menu Items: The menu is characterized by Comfort food, quick bites, and a full range of dishes that qualify as Food at bar, catering to both full meals and snack-focused visits.
Amenities: The pub includes a fully stocked Bar onsite and readily available Restroom facilities.
Reservations and Payment: Doc Watsons Accepts reservations, which is highly recommended for groups, and accepts multiple payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
Child-Friendly: The pub is labeled as Good for kids and offers High chairs for younger guests.

Features / Highlights

The distinct features of Doc Watsons NJ extend beyond its expansive menu, creating a memorable experience that keeps New Jersey residents coming back.

Authentic Irish Pub Experience: The establishment is officially recognized as an Irish pub, offering the traditional food, drink, and warm hospitality associated with Irish culture.
Exceptional Menu Variety: Key menu highlights include both Irish staples—like Shepherd's Pie and Dubliner Fish N' Chips—and American classics, such as specialty burgers (like the D.W. Burger and Doc Burger), gourmet sliders (e.g., Philly Cheese Steak Sliders), and unique entrees like the Blackened Salmon over Jersey corn succotash.
Sports Viewing Destination: A major draw for the community is the designation as a spot for Sports viewing, likely showing major NFL, NHL, NBA, and other essential league games, making it the perfect game-day spot.
High-Quality Service: Public highlights praise the Fast service and the attentiveness of the staff, which significantly contributes to the overall positive dining experience.
Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The "Cozy" and "Casual" setting is perfectly suited for a laid-back time, whether with a group of friends or for a solo dinner at the bar.

Contact Information

For making reservations, inquiring about the specials (such as the Chimichurri steak tacos or Brussels sprouts over whipped feta mentioned in reviews), or confirming opening hours, New Jersey patrons can use the following information:

Address: 20 Elm St, Oakland, NJ 07436
Phone: (201) 300-4567
Mobile Phone: +1 201-300-4567

What is Worth Choosing

For residents across Bergen County and beyond, Doc Watsons NJ is a must-visit destination. What makes it truly worth choosing is its ability to expertly juggle three distinct identities: a quality Irish pub, a full-service restaurant with an incredibly diverse menu, and a premier sports viewing venue. You are not just getting a pub meal; you are getting a menu that includes tender, flavorful dishes like the Rosemary Rubbed Flat Iron Steak Sandwich and a Blackened Salmon entree that utilizes sweet Jersey corn.

The pub caters flawlessly to every scenario: a family dinner (with its family-friendly crowd and high chairs), a business lunch, or a lively night out with friends to watch the game. The highlight reel of offerings—from the "Great beer selection" and well-crafted cocktails (like the popular Bourbon Mule) to the generous portions of dishes like the "huge portion" of nachos and tasty tater tots—guarantees value for money and a satisfying experience. Furthermore, the strong emphasis on accessibility and free parking eliminates common stressors, making the decision to visit easy and convenient. Choosing Doc Watsons means choosing a local New Jersey establishment that delivers on atmosphere, hospitality, and, most importantly, delicious food and drink.

Doc Watsons NJ Services

MAIN MENU - Appetizers
Ahi Tuna Tacos $17.00
Soft shell tacos, green cabbage, radishes, cilantro and spicy sriracha mayonnaise
Bavarian Pretzel $13.00
Warmed and light salted, served with beer cheese
BBQ Pork Sliders $14.00
A trio of Pulled Pork sliders in our BBQ sauce
Buffalo Chicken Sliders $15.00
Buffalo sauce, bleu cheese dipping sauce
Chicken Breast Strips $14.00
Honey mustard or jalapeño mango dipping sauce
Mozzarella Sticks $12.00
San Marzano marinara dipping sauce
Nachos $16.00
chili, melted cheddar & jack cheeses, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, pico de Gallo
Philly Cheese Steak Sliders $15.00
Caramelized onions, melted American cheese
Steak Tacos $16.00
A trio of soft shell tacos, steak, cilantro, onion, green salsa
Tater Tots $12.00
Oversized tater tots stuffed with bacon, chive and cheddar, chipotle mayo dipping sauce
Wings $16.00
Choice of regular or boneless. Sauce Choices: Buffalo, BBQ, jalepeno mango, stinging' honey garlic or sweet Thai chili sauce, bleu cheese, carrots & celery
Steakhouse Slab Bacon $18.00
Double smoked steakhouse slab NY bacon, topped with homemade pickled onions and served with a BBQ horseradish dipping sauce
PEI Mussels $17.00
Steamed, Fra Diavolo sauce, grilled crostini
Maryland Crabcakes $17.00
Grilled corn salsa, drizzled pesto, lemon chive aioli
Reuben Quesadilla $17.00
Slow cooked corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing

MAIN MENU - Soups & Salads
Ahi Tuna Salad $19.00
Seared Ahi Tuna, julienne carrot and cucumbers with sesame seeds, avocado, ginger soy dressing
Caesar Salad $12.00
Crisp romain lettuce, garlic parmesan croutons, lemon anchovy dressing, shaved parmesan cheese
Chicken Cobb Salad (Dinner) $18.00
Crisp bacon, avocado, bleu cheese, tomatoes, boiled egg, romaine lettuce and lemon herb vinaigrette
House Salad $12.00
Baby field greens, shaved carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and balsamic
Soup Of The Day $8.00
Wedge Salad $16.00
Iceberg wedge, shaved red onion, cherry tomato, warm bacon lardons, crumbled bleu cheese & bleu cheese dressing
French Onion Soup $9.50

MAIN MENU - Pizza
Docs Neopolitan $17.00
Pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil & EVOO
Cheese Pie $13.00
Mozzarella cheese, classic pizza sauce
Farmhouse $17.00
Mushrooms, bacon, caramelized onion, bleu cheese crumble
Buffalo Chicken $17.00
Buffalo style chicken, mozzarella cheese, ranch drizzle

MAIN MENU - Burgers & Sandwiches
The BBQ Watson $17.00
Dry rubbed hand pulled pork, coleslaw, sliced pickles & bourbon BBQ sauce, served with maple flavored waffle fries
Beyond Burger $17.00
Gluten free bun, lettuce, tomato, onion garnish, herb aioli, crisp fries and coleslaw
Big Boy Grill Cheese $18.00
Vermont cheddar, pepper jack and American cheeses, bacon onion jam, sliced tomatoes on Texas toast, side of coleslaw & homemade tomato soup
Burger $16.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
D.W. Burger $19.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, mixed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, Bourbon BBQ sauce, sesame seed bun, beer battered onion ring topper, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
Doc Burger $19.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, frizzled onions, egg, bacon and bleu cheese crumble, sesame seed bun, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
Rosemary Rubbed Flat Iron Steak Sandwich $21.00
Caramelized onions, brie cheese, fine herb horseradish aioli on toasted ciabatta bread, served with crisp French fries & coleslaw
The Reuben $17.00
Corned Beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, spicy mustard on toasted marble rye bread, crisp fries & coleslaw
Spicy Chicken Sandwich $18.00
Spicy chicken breast, pepper jack cheese, nested frizzled onions, chipotle mayo, LTP & Maple flavored waffle fries & coleslaw
Turkey Burger $17.00
Lettuce, tomato, onion garnish, sesame seed bun, honey mustard sauce, crisp fries and coleslaw

MAIN MENU - Entrees
Over a succotash of sweet Jersey corn with black beans over basmati rice
Chicken Curry $21.00
Sauteed Chicken, Mixed Peppers, Onions, Curry Sauce, Rice and French Fries
Dubliner Fish N' Chips $22.00
Crispy Ale Battered Cod Fish, Homemade Tartar Sauce, Coleslaw and French Fries.
Irish Spice Bowl $19.00
Deep fried spicy breaded chicken bites, red & green peppers, onion, French fries all tossed in mixed spices, side curry sauce
Sheperd's Pie $21.00
Ground lamb, carrots and peas with Yukon gold whipped potato top
Blackened Salmon $25.00
Over a succotash of sweet Jersey corn and black beans with basmati rice
BBQ Platter $32.00
1/2 rack of baby back ribs, dry rubbed and hand pulled pork, crisp French fries, coleslaw, shaved onion and pickles, slider buns
Charcoal Steak Frites $33.00
Crisp Fries, Petit Salad and Burgundy Shallot Compound Butter

Appetizers
Ahi Tuna Tacos $17.00
Soft shell tacos, green cabbage, radishes, cilantro and spicy sriracha mayonnaise
Bavarian Pretzel $13.00
Warmed and light salted, served with beer cheese
BBQ Pork Sliders $14.00
A trio of Pulled Pork sliders in our BBQ sauce
Buffalo Chicken Sliders $15.00
Buffalo sauce, bleu cheese dipping sauce
Chicken Breast Strips $14.00
Honey mustard or jalapeño mango dipping sauce
Mozzarella Sticks $12.00
San Marzano marinara dipping sauce
Nachos $16.00
chili, melted cheddar & jack cheeses, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, pico de Gallo
Philly Cheese Steak Sliders $15.00
Caramelized onions, melted American cheese
Steak Tacos $16.00
A trio of soft shell tacos, steak, cilantro, onion, green salsa
Tater Tots $12.00
Oversized tater tots stuffed with bacon, chive and cheddar, chipotle mayo dipping sauce
Wings $16.00
Choice of regular or boneless. Sauce Choices: Buffalo, BBQ, jalepeno mango, stinging' honey garlic or sweet Thai chili sauce, bleu cheese, carrots & celery
Steakhouse Slab Bacon $18.00
Double smoked steakhouse slab NY bacon, topped with homemade pickled onions and served with a BBQ horseradish dipping sauce
PEI Mussels $17.00
Steamed, Fra Diavolo sauce, grilled crostini
Maryland Crabcakes $17.00
Grilled corn salsa, drizzled pesto, lemon chive aioli
Reuben Quesadilla $17.00
Slow cooked corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing

Soups & Salads
Ahi Tuna Salad $19.00
Seared Ahi Tuna, julienne carrot and cucumbers with sesame seeds, avocado, ginger soy dressing
Caesar Salad $12.00
Crisp romain lettuce, garlic parmesan croutons, lemon anchovy dressing, shaved parmesan cheese
Chicken Cobb Salad (Dinner) $18.00
Crisp bacon, avocado, bleu cheese, tomatoes, boiled egg, romaine lettuce and lemon herb vinaigrette
House Salad $12.00
Baby field greens, shaved carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and balsamic
Soup Of The Day $8.00
Wedge Salad $16.00
Iceberg wedge, shaved red onion, cherry tomato, warm bacon lardons, crumbled bleu cheese & bleu cheese dressing
French Onion Soup $9.50

Pizza
Docs Neopolitan $17.00
Pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil & EVOO
Cheese Pie $13.00
Mozzarella cheese, classic pizza sauce
Farmhouse $17.00
Mushrooms, bacon, caramelized onion, bleu cheese crumble
Buffalo Chicken $17.00
Buffalo style chicken, mozzarella cheese, ranch drizzle

Burgers & Sandwiches
The BBQ Watson $17.00
Dry rubbed hand pulled pork, coleslaw, sliced pickles & bourbon BBQ sauce, served with maple flavored waffle fries
Beyond Burger $17.00
Gluten free bun, lettuce, tomato, onion garnish, herb aioli, crisp fries and coleslaw
Big Boy Grill Cheese $18.00
Vermont cheddar, pepper jack and American cheeses, bacon onion jam, sliced tomatoes on Texas toast, side of coleslaw & homemade tomato soup
Burger $16.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
D.W. Burger $19.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, mixed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, Bourbon BBQ sauce, sesame seed bun, beer battered onion ring topper, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
Doc Burger $19.00
Angus Beef Blend Sirloin, frizzled onions, egg, bacon and bleu cheese crumble, sesame seed bun, LTP, crisp French fries and coleslaw
Rosemary Rubbed Flat Iron Steak Sandwich $21.00
Caramelized onions, brie cheese, fine herb horseradish aioli on toasted ciabatta bread, served with crisp French fries & coleslaw
The Reuben $17.00
Corned Beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, spicy mustard on toasted marble rye bread, crisp fries & coleslaw
Spicy Chicken Sandwich $18.00
Spicy chicken breast, pepper jack cheese, nested frizzled onions, chipotle mayo, LTP & Maple flavored waffle fries & coleslaw
Turkey Burger $17.00
Lettuce, tomato, onion garnish, sesame seed bun, honey mustard sauce, crisp fries and coleslaw

Entrees
Over a succotash of sweet Jersey corn with black beans over basmati rice
Chicken Curry $21.00
Sauteed Chicken, Mixed Peppers, Onions, Curry Sauce, Rice and French Fries
Dubliner Fish N' Chips $22.00
Crispy Ale Battered Cod Fish, Homemade Tartar Sauce, Coleslaw and French Fries.
Irish Spice Bowl $19.00
Deep fried spicy breaded chicken bites, red & green peppers, onion, French fries all tossed in mixed spices, side curry sauce
Sheperd's Pie $21.00
Ground lamb, carrots and peas with Yukon gold whipped potato top
Blackened Salmon $25.00
Over a succotash of sweet Jersey corn and black beans with basmati rice
BBQ Platter $32.00
1/2 rack of baby back ribs, dry rubbed and hand pulled pork, crisp French fries, coleslaw, shaved onion and pickles, slider buns
Charcoal Steak Frites $33.00
Crisp Fries, Petit Salad and Burgundy Shallot Compound Butter

SIDES - SIDES
Broccoli $8.00
Coleslaw $4.00
Curry Sauce $3.00
French Fries $8.00
Maple Waffle Fries $9.00
Mashed Potato $7.00
Onion Rings (Side) $8.00
Rice $7.00
Sweet Potato Waffle Fries $9.00

SIDES
Broccoli $8.00
Coleslaw $4.00
Curry Sauce $3.00
French Fries $8.00
Maple Waffle Fries $9.00
Mashed Potato $7.00
Onion Rings (Side) $8.00
Rice $7.00
Sweet Potato Waffle Fries $9.00

Doc Watsons NJ Details

Service options
Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Sports

Popular for
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Food
Food at bar
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Wine

Dining options
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
Locals

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Parking

Doc Watsons NJ Photos

Doc Watsons NJ Location

Doc Watsons NJ

New Jersey Bergen County Oakland Elm Street

20 Elm St, Oakland, NJ 07436, USA

Doc Watsons NJ Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 39 user reviews.

fish and chipstater totsgamecurryappetizerpretzelspicy chicken sandwichwafflequesadillatacos

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Went to Doc Watson’s on Friday. Our plan was to have drinks and apps. After seeing the special menu and regular menu my partner and I had the Fish and Chips and the Chimichurri steak tacos. The fish was fresh and flaky. The steak tacos were so tender and flavorful. Tyler was our bartender and sooo attentive! They also had a nice Irish band with cover music. We’re in our 40s and the atmosphere was perfect with a younger and older crowd. We will definitely be back!
July 20 · julie r
We came for dinner last night with a group of 6. So thankful they sat us at a round table. It’s so much better for conversation! Overall it was a good experience. The bourbon mule was a hit. The salty pup needed a little more grapefruit flavor, the doc’s tea was a bit watery. The cucumber over mint lemonade tasted perfectly of cucumbers but the mint lemonade was missing. Aperol Spritz was great!! The service was fantastic. Very friendly servers. For appetizers we ordered the Brussels sprouts over whipped feta. It was the best dish of the evening in my opinion. The other app we ordered was the tater tots and those were super tasty as well. Everyone was happy with their entrees. A few items of the special menu, a pizza, fish & chips, and a spicy chicken sandwich. One person ordered the nachos as her dinner and wow!! What a huge portion and super tasty. The maple waffle fries were different & fun. We ordered no dessert as we were full and nothing really excited us. Overall, I would go back. The cocktails need work and the dessert menu needs things that sound homemade. The food is delicious & staff made it a pleasant experience.
July 13 · Marcella Vde
We stopped by yesterday for dinner. We ordered the wings and thai chili ribs for appetizers. For our entrees we had the curry chicken, blackened salmon, flat iron steak on a cibatta bread, ahi tacos, and sausage with peppers quesadilla. We couldn't stay to eat there because my wife is allergic to the cleaning supplies they use there. The manager came to apologize and they were accommodating our orders from dine in to take out. The food did not disappoint and I would definitely order food from them as everything we ordered was delicious. The Thai chili ribs for me was the stand out meal. The ribs were super tender and perfectly cooked.
September 22 · Luis Amaya
Love the fresh feelThey did a nice update this Oakland spotShannon was very attentive and responsiveGood bar food!!!
July 24 · Thomas Chopper Russo
Great nitro Guinness pours. Great mixed drinks. Menu is SO different but everything looked so good. I got the spicy chicken sandwich and it was superb. Would highly recommend. This is going to be me and my husbands new local spot. Service was also incredible! Shout out to Mark!
August 22 · Michael and Jillian Greff
Been here multiple times and always sit at the bar for lunch. Shannon is an amazing bartender. She is super friendly, talks about new things going on in both our lives, and always makes the entire bar cheer up. Food is also very good and there are lots of Tvs to play games on. I recommend anyone to come stop by for the food but also for Shannon! Will definitely be back!
October 09 · Cary Zwetchenbauw
As an Oakland resident, I would NOT recommend this place.Dined here with my wife on 10/10 night around 7pm. The place was NOT busy.Food was OK. Wings were bland and pretty dry. Drinks weren't very strong either but I can look past that.The service was almost non-existent. This was the first time in my life, dining at a restaurant where I didn't know the server's name.There was no greeting at all. Server just approached us and asked us what we wanted. We tried making small talk with her but was pretty much ignored.Someone else brought our food and drinks. We sat through our ENTIRE meal without being asked if the food was alright, if we wanted any more drinks, etc... We were only approached when she finally noticed we were finished eating. Didn't ask if we wanted desserts or anything like that. Approached us with that little POS device so we asked for the check. We paid and didn't receive a thank you or a farewell.The wife assumed maybe the server was having a bad day but we witnessed her talk to every table she was serving. It was almost a slap to the face.
October 11 · Bryan McKinnis