Moving further southwest reveals a treasure
What’s the definition of a hidden treasure? Well, it’s gotta be unassuming from the outside. Maybe even lack a certain curbside appeal. It should intimidate and be the source for rumors. It should have windows obscured by heavy screens so that you can’t see thru to make a judgment.
It should be a place that, despite living in town, you’ve never heard of. And when you finally do, all you hear are raves.
Of course the final judgment comes when you yourself walk thru the doors and sit down for dinner and drinks. That’s when you decide if all you’ve heard is true. In the case of Three A’s Bar & Grill (500 Grand St, Hoboken), it is.
The atmosphere is friendly and the Guinness is poured well, although it loses it’s head quickly (the Guinness, not the atmosphere). The menu is filled with old-world favorites, American grill standards and a few original twists. My first time here I was feeling lazy and got the cheeseburger–which was very good.
On my second visit a week later, I got the Three A’s Chicken (boneless chicken breast stuffed with fontina cheese, prosciutto, asparagus, and roasted peppers sautéed in a light tomato broth demi-glaze. Served with mashed potatoes and broccoli). It was a cushy pillow of comfort, warmth and cheese. Afterward, all I wanted to do was sleep. Perfect.
The prices are reasonable and the service is excellent. Now that I’m living on this side of town, Three A’s could become my new go-to place. Late nights will still be at DC’s of course.
I do have two slight peeves. The first is in the lack of tables in the front part of the restaurant. It’s clear that they cater to a large drinking/sports crowd, based on the floor space and large screen TVs. While the heavy-wood, wrap-around bar is quite large, they could afford to have a few more pub tables at least.
The second is in their odd happy-hour policy. On certain nights or during certain sporting events, you can get $2 beer, but only if you’re sitting or standing at the bar. If you’re sitting at one of the few tables right next to the bar, you cannot partake in the specials. Your drinks will be full price. Even though you may be there just to drink or watch a game or whatever.
Overall however, I definitely recommend this place.
See Also:
Three A’s Olde Bar & Grill
DC’s Tavern
