Most likely you have driven past this place hundreds of times, but unfortunately many of you have never stepped inside for a beer and some killer live music. Maybe the hoards of motorcycles that generally surround the place deterred you. Maybe it’s a little intimidating. Let me tell you though, if you have never been inside the Great Notch Inn you are doing yourself a disservice and missing out on one of the most legendary establishments in the state. We had a chance to sit down with owner Rich Hempel, whose grandfather opened the Great Notch Inn in 1939.
From the moment we started, Rich’s passion for the Great Notch Inn was palpable. He shared stories of how people often drive by, curious yet hesitant, not knowing what to expect. But once they step inside, they’re greeted by a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Rich took us on a journey through time, recounting how his grandfather started the bar during Prohibition as a speakeasy called the Green Chateau. The tales of rolling the current building on logs to its present location and the meticulous care his grandfather put into every detail were fascinating. The hand-carved beams and the original bar setup are testaments to a bygone era, preserved lovingly by the Hempel family.
One of the highlights was learning about the transformation of the Great Notch Inn over the years. Rich’s grandfather had a strict code, only hiring family and maintaining a non-smoking, no-biker, no-beard policy. This old-school approach shifted when Rich took over in the late ’80s, bringing in live music and creating a welcoming environment for all. His dedication to maintaining the bar’s legacy while infusing it with his own passion for music has made it a beloved spot for both regulars and newcomers.
Rich’s stories about the community of musicians who frequent the bar were particularly heartwarming. He spoke about the open jams and the camaraderie among the musicians, many of whom are seasoned professionals. The Great Notch Inn isn’t just a bar; it’s a haven for music lovers and a place where new talents are nurtured.
One memorable anecdote involved a commercial shoot for Mrs. T’s Pierogies in 1999, featuring Bam Bam Bigelow and Jimmy Stirr. The commercial perfectly captured the eclectic mix of patrons that the Great Notch Inn attracts, from bikers to polka dancers, all coming together to enjoy good food and music.
Rich also shared a humorous story from his grandfather’s time, involving a Metropolitan Opera head who visited the bar to hear his grandfather’s famous train imitations. Despite the potential for a lucrative connection, Rich’s grandfather’s principles led him to kick the man out upon discovering he was with a much younger girlfriend. It’s these stories that highlight the character and integrity that have been the backbone of the Great Notch Inn for decades.
As we wrapped up the episode, it was clear that the Great Notch Inn is more than just a bar. It’s a piece of New Jersey history, a community hub, and a testament to the enduring spirit of family-run businesses. Rich’s commitment to preserving its legacy while adapting to modern times ensures that the Great Notch Inn will continue to be a cherished landmark for years to come.
Recording this episode was a reminder of why I love doing this podcast. It’s about uncovering the hidden gems of the Garden State and sharing the stories of the people who make these places special. If you haven’t visited the Great Notch Inn yet, I highly recommend stopping by. Just remember, it’s cash only, and be prepared to step into a place where history and community come alive.
About the Author/s
Mike Ham is the voice behind the popular podcast, "Greetings From the Garden State". Traveling up and down New Jersey, Mike brings his listeners the stories of the people and places shaping the Garden State. Not only is he a Jersey diehard, he is also a respected member of the podcast community and has spoken at several podcasting conferences. As he continues to amplify the voices of New Jersey, Mike Ham remains a passionate advocate for the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the Garden State.
