Have you ever heard of a biergarten? It’s a German term that translates to nearly what it sounds like–a beer garden–which is an area where food and beer are served. They originated from German breweries creating gardens above their cellars to keep beers cool as they fermented underground. Since its creation, the term “beer garden” has been used to describe any open-air place that sells beer. And, of course, New Jersey has its own fair share of beer gardens to try. 

Zeppelin Hall Biergarten – Jersey City, NJ

This European-style beer garden has plenty for you to choose from, with all the food you could want and over 100 craft beers and European imports to pair it with. Zeppelin Hall has a variety of tables and eating areas, with an indoor and outdoor space. They even have 30-foot-long community tables where you can gather with your friends or make new ones. 

The foods are both American and German-inspired, including giant pretzels, a variety of specialty sausages, strudels, and more. 

At 9 p.m., Zeppelin Hall changes its feel, playing music and lowering the lights. There are also bands on Fridays and DJs on Saturday nights. The location is open to guests of all ages, but is 21 and over after 9 p.m.

Asbury Festhalle Biergarten – Asbury Park, NJ

The Asbury Festhalle Biergarten also features the iconic European tradition of communal tables, where friends both new and old can gather to eat, drink, and have fun. There are German dishes to try such as kielbasa and bratwurst, as well as American classics including burgers and ribs.

This beer garden features two different areas to enjoy–a 9,000-square-foot outdoor rooftop beer garden and a 6,000-square-foot indoor hall. There is also scheduled live music and events, including the Oktoberfest celebration from Oct. 8 through 10.

Pilsner Haus Biergarten – Hoboken, NJ

German-style food and drinks, musical guests to keep the place lively, and even weekly deals. Pilsner Haus Biergarten is a great place to not only enjoy German cuisine, but to go out for the night. This beer garden offers over 20 draft beers and 50 European and American craft “Biers.” There is plenty of food to choose from varying cultures, such as Bavarian pretzels, Kielbasa in a blanket, bratwurst, and more. 

You can even host events and private parties here. Reservations of 20 or more are accepted, and you can hold large events like weddings in their 4,000-square-foot loft lounge.

The Biergarten – Atlantic City, NJ

With over 30 draft, bottled, and canned beers, and a plethora of German food, there is much to enjoy at The Biergarten. Located on the Atlantic City boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to go after a day on the beach, or just while you’re in the area. 

There are various sausages, sandwiches, pretzels, platters, and more to try on their menu. As for the beer, there are imports and domestics for any taste.

Hudson Hall – Jersey City, NJ

This Eastern European-inspired beer hall has plenty of food, wine, beer, and cocktails for you to experience. With Hudson Hall’s casual vibe, it’s a great place for a relaxing night with friends and family. The menu is more on the American side, with ribs, cheese burgers, salads, and more, but you can also enjoy European fares such as pretzels and bratwurst. 

This beer garden doesn’t fall short on beers. There is a rotating craft menu featuring imports and domestics, as well as bottled selections. If beer isn’t your thing, there’s also frozen and regular cocktails and various wines.

Smorgasbar – Jersey City, NJ

One of the newer New Jersey beer gardens on this list, Smorgasbar offers stunning, waterfront views of the New York City skyline and all of your favorite local eats and drinks. During the week, Smorgasbar features one vendor, while from Friday to Sunday, there are plenty more to try. You can look out for San Giuseppe’s Restaurant and Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria, who are two of their recurring vendors. 

Just like any other beer garden, Smorgasbar has a plethora of beers to try. From local breweries to imports, there is something for everyone. They also offer cocktails and other spirits, if you’re looking for a different taste.

Have you ever been to one of these New Jersey beer gardens? Let us know in the comments!

Main photo by Pilsener Haus