Duffy's Tavern

- 856 River St, Paterson, NJ 07524

Introduction / Overview

When New Jersey residents think of a classic neighborhood spot that perfectly blends the warmth of an Irish pub with the satisfying offerings of an American bar and grill, Duffy's Tavern in Paterson is often the first place that comes to mind. This establishment is more than just a place to grab a bite or a drink; it’s a vibrant hub of community and camaraderie that has become a cherished local fixture. Duffy’s Tavern successfully merges a cozy, old-school, nostalgic atmosphere with all the modern comforts and entertainment that patrons look for today. It’s a place where you can relax, socialize, and truly feel like part of the family, thanks to the friendly and attentive staff who consistently foster a welcoming environment.

Duffy's Tavern is widely celebrated for its lively atmosphere, its extensive menu of hearty, home-cooked food, and its commitment to providing an excellent entertainment lineup, including live music and the airing of major sports events. It draws a loyal customer base with its charm, which is enhanced by decor featuring memorabilia of local sports teams, iconic celebrities, and vintage street signs. This unique character makes every visit memorable, whether you're stopping by for a casual weekday lunch or a lively weekend night out.

The menu is a major highlight, packed with fan-favorite dishes that have earned a reputation across the region. While it offers traditional Irish pub fare, it truly shines with its all-American grill items. Customers consistently rave about the signature burgers—including the legendary Three Alarm Burger—and other satisfying options like the ribeye steak, corned beef and cabbage (especially popular on St. Patrick's Day), and crispy wings. The commitment to providing delicious food alongside a broad selection of drinks—from a great beer menu to creative cocktails—solidifies Duffy's reputation as a cornerstone of Paterson's dining and nightlife scene.

Location and Accessibility

Duffy's Tavern is conveniently located in Paterson, NJ, making it easily accessible for locals across the region looking for a top-tier bar and grill experience. Its presence in the heart of Paterson allows it to serve as a central gathering spot for friends, families, and sports enthusiasts.

The physical address is: 856 River St, Paterson, NJ 07524, USA.

For patrons traveling by car, the tavern is situated at what has been described as an odd intersection, yet it remains hard to miss. The location is made accessible by a mini-parking lot on-site for patrons, and there is also plenty of free street parking available all around the building. This makes planning a visit straightforward and hassle-free, which is a major convenience for anyone coming from other parts of Passaic County or North Jersey.

Beyond just vehicle accessibility, Duffy's Tavern is committed to being an inclusive establishment for everyone in the community. The premises are fully equipped with several key accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests:

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

This commitment to accessibility, combined with the welcoming atmosphere, ensures that Duffy’s Tavern is a spot where all New Jersey residents can gather and enjoy themselves.

Services Offered

Duffy's Tavern provides a comprehensive range of dining and entertainment services, making it a versatile destination for any occasion.

• Dining Options: The tavern serves both lunch and dinner, offering a flexible schedule for meals throughout the day. Table service is available in the various seating areas.
• Catering and Events: Catering services are offered, allowing you to bring the great taste of Duffy's to your next event or party. The venue is also suitable for hosting groups and special occasions, and it accepts reservations.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who want to enjoy the great food at home, the tavern offers both takeout and delivery services.
• Onsite Bar: A full bar is available onsite, featuring a great selection of beers, hard liquor, wine, and expertly crafted cocktails. Happy hour is a popular feature, often including specials on both drinks and food.
• Entertainment: A key service is the commitment to entertainment, with live music and live performances frequently scheduled, especially on weekends (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights are common times for late-night music).
• Sports Viewing: With multiple TVs throughout the venue, Duffy's is a prime spot for sports fans to catch all the major games in a lively environment.
• Atmosphere and Crowd: The atmosphere is noted as casual and cozy, and the tavern is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, catering to diverse groups of patrons.
• Accessibility and Comfort: Services include wheelchair accessibility throughout the main areas, as well as amenities like a clean restroom and high chairs for children.
• Outdoor Dining: An inviting outdoor seating section and secondary outdoor bar area are available, perfect for enjoying drinks and meals during warm New Jersey weather.
• Payments: For convenience, the tavern accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Duffy's Tavern apart for New Jersey patrons are its distinguishing features, combining a classic pub feel with modern excitement.

• The Three Alarm Burger: Widely considered a menu masterpiece, this famously spicy burger is a must-try for local food adventurers. Customer reviews consistently highlight it as one of the best and most memorable items on the menu.
• Nostalgic, Old-School Ambiance: The interior is intentionally decorated with an array of memorabilia, including photos of local sports teams, celebrity portraits, and vintage signs, creating a rich, old-school vibe that transports patrons back in time while keeping the atmosphere lively.
• Spacious Layout with Multiple Areas: The tavern is surprisingly large, featuring a main bar, a large second bar area, ample tables for dining, and an enjoyable outdoor seating section. This spaciousness means less crowding and more room to relax, even during peak hours.
• Commitment to Live Entertainment: Duffy's is a recognized venue for live music and performances, enhancing the nightlife experience on multiple days of the week and fostering a fun, energetic atmosphere.
• Exceptional Pub Grub Menu: Beyond the famed burgers, the food offerings are celebrated for their quality, homemade feel, and variety, ranging from comfort food favorites like Rib Eye Steak Platter and Fish & Chips to unique twists like BBQ Pulled Pork Tots and the Duffy's Famous Rib Eye Cheesesteak.
• Bar Games and Sports: Patrons can enjoy interactive entertainment with bar games and multiple screens dedicated to showing all major sports events, solidifying its status as a premier sports bar destination in Paterson.
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: Numerous customer testimonials praise the bartenders and serving staff, noting their friendliness, speed of service, and ability to make guests feel welcome.

Contact Information

If you're a local resident ready to visit, here is the essential contact information for Duffy's Tavern in Paterson, NJ:

Address: 856 River St, Paterson, NJ 07524, USA

Phone: (973) 684-0788 or +1 973-684-0788

What is worth choosing

Duffy's Tavern offers a compelling choice for anyone in the New Jersey area seeking a high-quality bar and grill experience. It stands out in the crowded local scene for several key reasons, primarily its authentic fusion of an inviting Irish pub aesthetic with a hearty American grill menu.

First, the food quality, often described as having a comforting, homemade feel, is consistently a major draw. The selection of specialty burgers, particularly the Three Alarm Burger, and its well-loved Duffy's Famous Rib Eye Cheesesteak are more than just meals—they are local culinary landmarks. The menu is diverse enough to satisfy any craving, from a quick bite like the Jumbo Baked Stuffed Clams to a full, satisfying dinner like the 14oz Rib Eye Steak Platter. Vegetarians and those looking for lighter options will also find excellent choices, including various salads and inventive appetizers like Buffalo Baked Potato and Pub Potato. The commitment to serving late-night food also makes it the perfect stop after an evening event.

Second, the vibrant atmosphere and entertainment options are unparalleled. With live music featured throughout the week, Duffy’s Tavern is a go-to spot for a dynamic and fun night out. It’s a reliable sports bar, ensuring that you’ll never miss a big game, and the availability of bar games provides additional interactive fun for groups. The atmosphere is casual, making it an ideal setting for both a romantic dinner and a large group gathering.

Finally, the sheer convenience and high level of service seal the deal. The staff is consistently praised for being friendly, personable, and providing fast service. The option for reservations, combined with easy accessibility for all—including ample parking and full wheelchair accommodations—removes any potential barrier to enjoying a great time. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable solo dining experience, a great place to meet up with groups, or a lively spot for happy hour, Duffy’s Tavern is the definitive Paterson destination that truly captures the spirit of a welcoming New Jersey local favorite. It’s an easy choice for anyone seeking quality comfort food, strong drinks, and memorable entertainment in a fantastic setting.

Duffy's Tavern

856 River St, Paterson, NJ 07524, USA