Saint Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and if you’re 21 or older, you know what that means!
There’s some amazing nightlife surrounding Monmouth’s campus — many concentrated in Asbury Park — with a range of atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or something more fancy, there’s a place for you!
We’ve curated a list of some of the best spots near campus, allowing you to organize the perfect outing for you and your friends this Saint Patrick’s Day weekend.
- Johnny Mac’s House of Spirits
Located on Main Street in Asbury Park, Johnny Mac’s is a must-visit this Saint Patrick’s Day! The vibes are casual, making it a perfect bar to hang out with friends and meet new people.
They play music ranging anywhere from My Chemical Romance to Hannah Montana, which means there’s a song that will suit everyone.
Sydney Cherwien, a junior communication student, confirmed, “I love Johnny Mac’s because there’s rarely a song I don’t know. I love being able to sing along to everything that plays.”
Every holiday usually has the bar adhere to a theme, so there’s no doubt that Saint Patrick’s Day will get the same treatment. The best part? Free pizza all day every day. - Porta
Family pizza restaurant by day, nightclub by night on the weekends. Whether you’re in the mood for some classy Italian food or hoping to dance the night away, Porta’s duality makes it the perfect balance.
A fan favorite on the Jersey Shore, this pizzeria/dance club combo’s night scene is a go-to spot for Monmouth students. With plenty of good music and a lively crowd, you’re sure to have a fun time!
Porta is located on Kingsley Street in Asbury Park, which is about a 10-minute drive from campus.
A stylish venue with a party-esque atmosphere, Porta gives you the opportunity to pull out those fits sitting in the back of your closet and get dressed up for a night of fun. Make Saint Patrick’s Day the excuse to get dolled up and head to Porta! - Bond Street Bar and Grill
Right around the block from Johnny Mac’s on (you guessed it) Bond Street, Bond Street Bar and Grill’s dark and mystical ambiance proves to be yet another “dive bar” that you can go to for some casual fun.
Upstairs has restaurant seating with a menu full of simple (but delicious) burgers and grilled cheeses, which is the perfect way to have your fill before heading downstairs into a more dance-like party setting. The food and drink menus are both relatively cheap, making it a great stop for those on a budget.
Emer Brophy, junior communication student, added, “Bond Street sort of reminds me of a frat house basement party, but in a good way. Definitely a lot of fun.”
If burgers and dancing sound like your preferred way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day this year, head over to Bond Street to get your fill! - Laylow
Dubbed as a basement speakeasy, Laylow is a hidden gem within the Mediterranean restaurant Reyla’s main dining room.
Located on Mattison Avenue in Asbury Park, Laylow brands itself as a cocktail lounge, with its main area consisting of only a 10-seat bar, communal couch areas, and tables for two.
Drinks are certainly more expensive here than at your average bar, but the price is worth it if you’re a cocktail connoisseur who likes to experiment with your drinks.
They also serve small appetizer plates if you wanting to indulge in some Mediterranean finger foods.
Perhaps a bit more on the pretentious side of drinking, Laylow can serve as a refined, more low-key way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day for those looking to avoid a crazy night out this year.
So, depending on the vibe you’re wanting this Saint Patrick’s Day, there’s a whole range of options to choose from only fifteen minutes away from campus.
Grab some friends, don some green for good luck, and have fun this Saint Patrick’s Day!
