Living in New Jersey definitely has its perks: the close proximity of the shore and the city, the clean air, and Arthur’s Tavern, one the finest steakhouses in the Metropolitan area.

Arthur’s, as customers more commonly call it, has locations in Morris Plains and Hoboken, and prides itself on being an “old-fashioned neighborhood tavern.” Both locations are delicious, and the menus in each restaurant are the same. I live closer to the Morris Plains location, at 700 Speedwell Avenue and the corner of Franklin Place.

Arthur’s definitely has the feel of a true American eatery, and the exterior of the restaurant gushes with American appeal. Strategically located across from the Morris Plains Train Station so that tired commuters can stop for a hamburger or a beer after work, the black and white awning clearly stands out.

Inside the restaurant, hanging from the ceiling are “beer bottle lamps,” which can best be described as inflated models of various beer bottles with lights inside. Rather than brightly blasting with light, though, the feeling of Arthur’s is laid-back and relaxed because of the dim lighting. Going along with the “old-fashioned” pub theme, throughout the restaurant are plaques and signs from other beer companies and pictures of various customers that have dined there.

Though my party and I arrived at Arthur’s at about 6 PM on a Friday, we were lucky to be seated quickly and efficiently. Speaking from experience, Friday and Saturday nights are usually the most difficult times to be seated quickly because the restaurant is well known in the area. Nevertheless, we were seated in an intimate location in the upstairs portion of the restaurant, and a friendly waitress greeted us immediately.

The atmosphere in Arthur’s is lively and upbeat. Around my table were much larger parties, each involved in spirited discussion and laughter, and the feeling inside the restaurant was warm and amicable.

While our drink orders were taken quickly (I ordered a cranberry juice, no ice), I quickly noticed the bowl of peppers and garlic pickles on each table. I bit into a pickle and was delighted by the flavor. Though it was bitter and strong, the juices were surprisingly vibrant and delicious.

(Pictured at left: complimentary bowl of peppers and garlic pickles)

My Caesar salad ($3.95) and juice were quickly served soon after I was done with the pickle. I love when restaurants chill the salad before serving it; this allows for the Romaine lettuce to remain crunchy, even after adding the condiments.

The taste of the chilled lettuce in Arthur’s Caesar salad, combined with the generous portion of Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing were delightful. Though the cheese was almost chalky because of its abundance, the dressing and croutons helped divide the flavors of the salad into a perfect combination of cool, crunchy lettuce and necessary added zest.

While eating, my party and I noticed that the restaurant’s business began to pick up. Empty tables around us soon became filled, and I almost felt rushed to accommodate the other restaurant patrons.

(Pictured at right: Arthur’s “Famous Potatoes”)

Before long, our main courses were served. Being in an authentic steakhouse, I ordered the 24 oz. steak ($21.95). It was huge. I could only imagine what the 48 oz. steak looked like. The first cut into the steak was smooth and soft. The leanness of the steak was unquestioned, as very little fat could be cut out from the actual meat. I could tell that my first taste into the steak would be memorable; the aroma that resonated from the meat was beautiful to say the least. The steak itself tasted delicious. The juices that gushed from it after every bite filled my mouth with an incredible taste, and I was excited after each bite.

While my party and I were occupied with good conversation and even better food, we quickly finished our meal. Though the food was excellent, the bill was not so friendly. Other popular meals on the menu, including the hamburger/cheeseburger, BBQ ribs, and Hot Corned Beef, vary in price, but naturally the steaks and ribs cost more. Overall the meal was fantastic; the atmosphere really makes the restaurant.

(Pictured at left: the author with his cranberry juice)

There really is nothing more American than sitting down in an authentic steakhouse, drinking a good cranberry juice, munching on a delicious steak, and listening to the Boss belt out “Born in the U.S.A.”. In Arthur’s, this sort of environment is just another Friday or Saturday night.

Arthur’s Tavern (Morris Plains, NJ)
700 Speedwell Avenue
(973) 455-9705

Arthur’s Tavern (Hoboken, NJ)
237 Washington Street
(201) 656-5009