The rising popularity of classic dive bars over the last several years demonstrates a desire to blast to the past. Grabbing a beer and some darts to enjoy a night out with friends is the no-frills fun that so many people need after a long week. In an era when people are seeking out that hometown dive bar instead of establishments with expensive cocktails, there’s one Jersey City bar that always hits the mark. Lucky 7 Tavern, located at 322 2nd Street, is an iconic JC location for its classic dive bar vibes. Read on for more about Lucky 7 Tavern and why it’s a local favorite.
About Lucky 7 Tavern
This cozy little haunt, tucked comfortably on the corner of 2nd Street and Coles Street, has not changed much in appearance since its opening. Lucky 7 Tavern describes itself as “a neighborhood bar still standing in a neighborhood of constant change,” and we could not agree more. The bar has catered to Jersey City residents around 2nd Street for over a decade, serving up drinks for pre-games, post-work rewards, and nightcaps. It prides itself on prioritizing accessibility by keeping prices low.
Jersey City is replete with upscale spots, but sometimes a cold pitcher of beer and top-notch chicken wings are just what’s needed. Lucky 7 Tavern has the neon signs, darts, and restroom graffiti of any good dive bar, and they are always willing to put their money where their mouth is in terms of keeping it real with their community.
When chatting with one of the long-time bartenders, Nick, he spoke about how much of a priority maintaining low prices is to the owner and his employees. “The last time we had a price increase of about fifty cents, it sparked a lot of back and forth between management.” Knowing that an establishment sees a price increase, even a small one, as a large shift for their clientele is an establishment that has its customers’ best interests at heart. He made it clear that Lucky 7 Tavern’s attempt to keep the prices low has nothing to do with beating the competition in the area, but simply because they don’t want to charge their patrons an arm and a leg for a good time. Nick could not emphasize it enough, “I truly don’t know how we do it, but it works.”
A Neighborhood Jewel + Thoughts from Locals
This lack of interest in upcharging their clients is felt and greatly appreciated by Jersey City residents. Sydney Folley, who lives within walking distance of this neighborhood jewel, frequently enjoys the nightlife of the surrounding Jersey City area; she did comment, however, on the ways in which high prices affect the frequency with which she spends a night out. “A lot of places in the area kind of have New York City pricing, but there are those hidden gems with good deals, and those are usually my first pick.” This demonstrates the importance of a neighborhood bar meeting them halfway with weekly deals…