A new place in place of an old place
There was once this corner bar in Hoboken called Lady Jane’s that everyone I knew loved. When my band would have writing sessions at my old drummer’s apartment–he lived for a spell just two doors down–we’d pop in for beer and sandwiches. Then one day in early 2003 it was gone and everyone was sad.
Fast forward to this cold night and you’ll find my friend Tara and I wanting some dinner. Our first choice was German food at Helmer’s Cafe. I had not been there since it recently reopened (it had closed due to a fire in May of 2006). Well this being a Sunday night, their kitchen was already closed. And here we thought 8:00 was a reasonable dinner hour.
Our next thought was Carpe Diem, but it was too freezing out for such a long walk. It would later turn out to be a good choice not to go there. I’ll get to that in a minute. Just then I remembered eating the other night at this new joint in the spot where Lady Jane’s used to be. More importantly, I remembered liking it.
So off we went to the new Hudson Tavern (51-52 Hudson Street, Hoboken). It’s a more spacious design than the old place and the large windows on either side of this corner space adds to the open feel. Dark wood mixed with the red light of the two neon window signs and large clock adds to the warmth.
The menu is short but certainly not wanting. The last time I was here, I had the pulled bbq chicken sandwich served on cornbread. Tonight I ordered the lamb stew. Thick, warm and heavy … in other words perfect. The way stew should be. I actually dreamed about it later that night. I swear.
Tara ordered this chicken dish that was equally delicious. I don’t remember exactly what was in it, but there was a hint of cinnamon among all the rest. It was served on a buttery bed of thin-sliced potatoes. If you can’t tell by now, Hudson Tavern is a place to go for good comfort food. The more extensive part of the menu covers beer and wine. There’s plenty to satisfy most tastes.
As we sat there enjoying our food and conversation, I noticed a few familiar faces. Several of these faces were the owners and crew of Carpe Diem. As it turned out, tonight was their staff holiday party. For a change of scenery and to show support for the new place, they closed up and came here. Now I was really happy we didn’t take that long walk.
Hudson Tavern has only been open to the public since December 6th. But good food, good beer and good freinds are the ingredients to any successful spot. I know they’ve won me over. As much as I love my regular haunts in town, it’s always nice to spice up life with a little variety.
Great restaurants, bars and such are part of what Hoboken has historically been known for. So I say bring on the new places, just as long as they’re good places. And this is a good place.
See Also:
Hudson Tavern
