Our family originally went to a restaurant two doors down from The Standard, but we were so disappointed that we decided to leave. Since we had parked right next to The Standard, we chose to give it a try for lunch--and it was the best decision we've made in a long time. The hotel was beautifully decorated for Christmas, creating such a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant itself was just as lovely. We were a party of five, including a 14-month-old baby, and our waitress could not have been more accommodating. Another great convenience is that the hotel also has parking available in the back. I only wish I had taken photos! We started with appetizers--crispy calamari, mussels, and chicken wing lollipops. For our entrées, we ordered the French Dip sandwich, the Carnegie Reuben, and two Standard burgers. We also asked for a kids' pasta. Expecting the usual penne, we were surprised when angel-hair pasta arrived. Our little girl had never tried it before, so we requested a substitution. Although our waitress explained that angel hair was the only pasta they typically have, she returned moments later to let us know the chef was going to get penne just for us. That level of service truly stood out. The food was amazing, and the service was exceptional. We enjoyed our visit so much that we are even considering hosting a family wedding and a baptism here. Highly recommend The Standard American Hotel! read more

We really wanted somewhere to sit outside and this was the only option. We were the only ones outside and our service seemed kind of annoyed that he had to keep coming out to us. Unfortunately, he had a mess up where he told us something was gluten-free and when we double checked with someone else, we found out that it was not. Thankfully, the other man who was working at the bar advised us and told us that the kitchen would make the meal Gluten-free for us, which was awesome. We really liked it. Also got a wedge salad with steak which was really good. I'm so glad we clarified things because it could've been a real health issue if we didn't. I think the server needs to be l educated on the severity of allergies and to ask instead of assuming if he isn't sure. We also ordered an apple pie and asked for iced cream on the side and it came out on top. There was also so much liquid floating around in the dessert. We didn't even ask to send it back because it was already a tense interaction with him as he just seemed annoyed our entire time there. Barely ate the dessert and when I had mentioned to him that we asked for the ice cream on the side I don't think he understood and asked if I wanted a box to take it home but I just said no. I just barely ate it and took it as a $14 loss. We were going to get one more drink because we were enjoying being outside even though the service wasn't that great, but the server ended up l bringing us the check, which we hadn't asked for yet so we took it as a sign to just go. I think we just got stuck with someone who did not like his job and was unhappy he was there and unfortunately it did taint our experience. Would potentially go back if we notice someone else working outside. read more

Walking into The Standard at the American Hotel in Freehold, you immediately get a sense of nostalgia wrapped in a modern, welcoming atmosphere. The space is adorned with an eye-catching mural and American-themed décor, setting the stage for a meal filled with comforting classics and elevated flavors. Naturally, we kicked things off with a round of drinks--their martini menu is worth exploring, but we settled on a pomegranate martini and a crisp glass of rosé to set the tone for the evening. For appetizers, we didn't hold back. The chicken drumstick lollipops were a standout--perfectly crisp, juicy, and packed with flavor. As a drumstick fan, these were right up my alley. The artichoke Francese delicious and lemony, and then came the French onion soup--a true test of any classic American restaurant. This one didn't disappoint. It was rich, deeply flavorful, and had just the right balance of melted cheese and savory broth, topped with an onion ring. It was exactly how French onion soup should be. For our entrées, we stuck to tried-and-true comfort food: a Reuben stacked high with tender corned beef, a juicy and flavorful hanger steak, and a French dip with perfectly seasoned au jus. To top it all off, a tower of golden, crispy onion rings accompanied the meal, adding that extra crunch factor. Each dish delivered on flavor and nostalgia, proving that The Standard lives up to its name when it comes to classic American fare. Despite being comfortably full, we couldn't resist dessert. The moment I saw the banana split on the menu, I knew we had to go for it. There's something so satisfying about this old-school treat, and it didn't disappoint--generous scoops of ice cream, fresh bananas, whipped cream, and the perfect drizzle of chocolate sauce. Beyond the food, The Standard offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a casual bite, a hearty meal, or a drink to unwind, this spot delivers. And if you're a burger lover, don't miss their Buy One, Get One for $5 burger deal on Monday nights. With great food, a lively bar atmosphere, and a menu packed with American favorites, it's a place that makes you want to come back again and again. read more

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The food was subpar; and that's being kind. And at high prices with middling service to boot. Roast beef au jus-terrible. Turkey club-dry. $25 lobster roll-just palatable. It's also poorly lit and the waitress was not attentive nor particularly friendly. There are way better choices in downtown Freehold. read more

Had our Christmas party there Friday night. Was great and reasonably priced. Service was great too. read more

My experience at the American Hotel is based on being one of the guest at my friend's bridal shower. My friend had her bridal shower in the restaurant called the Standard located in the American Hotel. They do have banquet halls at the hotel but they were all booked up for the day. For my friend's bridal shower they sectioned off part of the restaurant for her bridal shower and it was still intimate and private. Her Bridal shower was held at 11:00am so we were there for brunch. We all got offered a Complimentary Mimosa to start. They went around asking if anyone wanted coffee and a few people got cappuccinos. The brunch was buffet style so self serve so we got to go up and select the food we wanted. The brunch buffet consisted of waffles, French toast, fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, some type of omelette square, breakfast potatoes, crispy bacon, sausage, double chocolate muffins / berry muffins, and mini bagels. Let's just say I definitely threw down. I left feeling super satisfied and I enjoyed my meal. Everything I ate was super yummy in my opinion. As for the service, it was pretty good. The waitress that was there was friendly and made sure to be attentive. read more

They upped their game here. The artichoke fritters were delicious and the sauce was perfectly lemony but also smooth and buttery. The calamari was ok but had a good crunch to it. For dinner I had the reuben and enjoyed it. It is served open faced with fresh cut fries. I usually like thinner fries but these were good. The salmon was also really good. It was cooked just right and the corn vegetable medley that is served on was good. The fudge cake was also a great end to the meal. They stepped up the quality here. Will be back. read more

American Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

The food was good the service was good. But they had live music during dinner. It was very loud and obnoxious. Could not hear or have a conversation. We asked 3 times to make the sound lower. Nope. We even moved our table. This was not a concert venue. It's dinner! Needs background music not a blaring loud screaming singer. read more

I frequently visit in Freehold area for work, and this time I stayed at the American hotel. There is parking behind the hotel, but they will give you a parking sign and you just have to park at the end of the parking lot. The check in process if it was very smooth and the person at the desk was very friendly. They even give you a drink voucher for the bar. After a long drive, I just wanted to get to my room. To my surprise when I got into my room, I was surprised at how nice it was. It was very clean. I would definitely stay here again. read more

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Eric the bartender is the best in the business We know him for decades always a great night out when he's on duty. The restaurant has a new name It's called The Standard. Excellent service and I loved my chicken and waffles. I'm forgetting what the rest of my party had but I do remember the fried calamari and it was so good we ordered 2x.All in all a fun night out read more

American Hotel - Chicken and waffles - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

FREEHOLD: Downtown Freehold is so beautiful with a tree-lined street, historic buildings, events, and a charming atmosphere. It is hard to find a restaurant in town that allows dogs outside, but The American Hotel was gracious to let us dine with Brie! The dog friendly tables are along the street and when it is not too busy, you can sit closer to the building. It may be a bit noisy from the street traffic, but Brie was fine. The view of Main Street and the setting sun provided a perfect backdrop for a great meal of American-style food. The lobster roll was huge and the artichoke francaise was delicious! A full bar with a nice cocktail list round out the menu: happy hour is every day from 3-6pm! The hotel has been around since 1824 and was renovated in 2007 to its current state. Abraham Lincoln visited in 1861! read more

American Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

The food here is always delicious, very consistent. The bartender Eric makes a great drink but our waitress Soul stole the show. She is just amazing! read more

American Hotel - Chicken Wing "Lollipops" 10/10 - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

Our server, Sofia, was extremely friendly and competent. She refilled our drinks before we asked, and continuously came over to our table to check on us. She definitely enhanced our experience at the Marketyard Grille. The manager was pleasant and hospitable. The food was very good too! We especially liked the turkey club with cranberry mayo. We will return! Sharon M. read more

A few weeks ago I threw my wife's surprise birthday party at the American Hotel. Jim, the Banquet Manager, was awesome to deal with. He was always helpful and had a great attitude as I planned the event. It was a wonderful and unforgettable evening, surpassing my expectations. My wife and all of our guests had a great time. The food was excellent, and the Head Waiter and his staff were very courteous, attentive and professional. I would recommend the American Hotel to anyone who wants to plan an event. You won't go wrong! read more

It was a Christmas party for around 50 people. The food was good. The service was poor. Not the personnel, they were understaffed. There were no other parties going on at the time. The food came out sporadically. The meals were brought out individually, meaning, first all the macaroni and cheese dishes came out to everyone that ordered them. Then the next entree. The tables were not served completely. The meals were brought out as one and the waiters had to walk around to each table. I thought this was ridiculous. The last meal to be served was a turkey club sandwich. These people had to wait almost 20 minutes to be served. What a disappointment. The kitchen staff was either understaffed or incompetent. The waiters did all they possibly could. As stated above, for a party of 50 people with no other parties going on, this was a poor performance. At this point, I would not recommend the American Hotel. read more

The American Hotel is a beautiful setting in a great central location on the small downtown area's lively main street. The architecture and decor in the public areas ooze history, and the comfortable furniture pulls you in for relaxation. There's an undertone of 'casual elegance' that surprised me. The rooms are a good size, with plenty of room to move around. Ours had the standard hotel furnishings of the bed, reading chair, bedside tables, desk and desk chair, along with the closet and bathroom. The room's toilet receives special mention in that it had hilariously serious power! (For those who remember the TV show, _Married With Children_, think "bah-WHOOSH!!" :) ) I did think the doors and ceiling seemed thin, so it was pretty loud in our second-floor room, with the sound of people moving around in the halls and in the rooms above, beside, and across from us. Not all the staff members who we engaged with were "warm," but they were all definitely efficient and helpful...and at least pleasant-ish! Parking is convenient in a large public lot with a permit that you pick up upon checking in. We'd stay here again! read more

I went to this place for brunch and even though it was a garden variety omelette and bacon and toast, the food was good and the service was excellent. No waiting for a table and we weren't rushed through out meal. All in all it was very pleasant and although I didn't stay there I wouldn't hesitate to give this hotel a try and you should too. read more

Wow - no refund for a cancellation almost a month in advance. Most hotels at least have a two week policy or even less. Shameful!

I've been going to the American hotel for over 20 years. Never disappoints. The best is the holiday buffets. Better than a wedding cocktail hour & reasonable. The food is amazing & a great lunch spot. read more

Went for lunch with my friend and had a wonderful experience. We had a great waiter that was super helpful on figuring out between choices of appetizers and entrees. For appetizer we got the crispy goat cheese with a blackberry sauce and it was phenomenal. We also got the spicy shrimp crostinis and it was delicious. As an appetizer I would've wanted maybe 1 more shrimp because 3 shrimp as an appetizer just doesn't make sense but that's just knit-picking. For my entree I got the lunch special salmon with a creamy lemon sauce and mashed potato's and it was just everything. The salmon was buttery and smooth and the lemon sauce was delicious. My friend got the chicken Milanese and she loved it the cutlet was crispy and flavorful. Overall great experience and fair prices, so recommend ! read more

American Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

Everything was beyond wonderful at this restaurant. We got same day reservation (it was early for a Saturday 6pm) but we were so happy we were able to get in last minute . The service was impressive and the food was even better. So many options as well as for alcoholic beverages. Truly did not disappoint. FYI Bring a sweater if you run cold- it's slightly on the breezier side inside there in the summer (: read more

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Great decor, good service and food. We have been here twice now for lunch and have had great experiences both times. All of our food has come out very tasty. We love the cocktails as well. The fireplace and piano are a great touch. Overall, very happy and we will be back for a third visit soon! read more

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Although the location was good and the hotel was clean, I had several experiences that left me feeling like the staff just did not care whether my stay went well or not. The first room I was in had a malfunctioning TV. Staff offered a new room down the hall, which also turned out to have a malfunctioning TV. I chose not to move yet again (and didn't trust that the third try would work out better) but beyond that the staff's response felt like "Ok. Tough luck. See ya." I also asked for a late checkout as I had a midday break in my seminar and wanted to rest, but no flexibility for what I needed was offered and again a response that felt like "OK - see ya." I called to speak to a manager, but none was available for another few days - no offer to take my number and have someone call. Any small gesture along the way - extra turn-down service, another bottle of water, a comped drink at the bar - would have made me feel like 'things happen - they cared and they tried to make it right'. Nothing like that was offered. Cannot recommend this hotel. read more

I always thought the prices were high but have been back a few times and food was really good. Pork chops, steaks, burgers. All delicious. Will always return. Great location in Freehold Boro. One of the better choices in boro read more

The crown jewel of downtown Freehold, NJ. An upmarket boutique hotel that caters to small and medium events like reunions, large family parties, and other gatherings (I was there for my 40th high school reunion - we had about 125). Nice and Clean rooms in a well done nostalgic hotel vibe. Great restaurant attached (Market Grille) and a full bar. Staff offered excellent service (not easy in a post Covid work world). I had the most delightful brunch discussion with owner Steve Goldberg! Ask for him if you end up at his establishment. He'll make you feel welcome. I recommend both the American Hotel and Market Grille without hesitation! . read more

American Hotel - Awaiting the wonderful Sunday brunch experience to begin. - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

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We recently celebrated my daughter's Sweet 16 at The American Hotel/Lennox room and I can't say enough about the venue and the top notch service we received from Joy and Jim and their staff. From the moment I walked into Joy's office to plan the party to the actual event, every detail was handled with the utmost care, like my party was the only event they had. Joy worked with me within my budget and ensured the menu and every last detail, including recommendations for a DJ and Balloons were met. Jim was the magic behind the scenes, making sure the room was set-up exactly like we wanted it. I thought I would have to help set up the props and bits I brought for that day, but I literally dropped everything off a few days prior, took Jim through the details and he handled everything! The hotel itself is beautiful. The lobby is warm and inviting and made for great pictures with my daughter. I had family who came in from out of town and stayed at the hotel and the rooms themselves (there are only 20) are gorgeous...Chocolates on the pillow, beautiful beds, bathrooms and space in general. The hotel also boasts 2 bars and a really good restaurant. They served continental breakfast the next morning in their lovely lobby. If you're looking for something more for breakfast, they do offer a brunch, which we didn't try. You can also find a couple of really great diner spots within walking distance of the hotel. The hotel is nestled in between mostly restaurants and shops, in the quant town of Freehold, NJ... Ok so maybe I'm biased because I live here, but after 30 years, Main Street in Freehold is still one of the best spots and The American Hotel is awesome! read more

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A great place for a great celebration. The service is terrific. The ambience is terrific.

Gail waitress was nice Restaurant was updated, not really to my liking. We ordered a glass of wine which came very full and a jalapeño margarita that came in a pint glass. The margarita was way too tart don't even think there was any alcohol in there and it's the first time I have left a drink unfinished. Usually with margaritas two or three sips you can feel the alcohol this I drank more than half and nothing. Appetizers we ordered lobster wonton which I give a three out of five wonton itself was good rice noodles was terrible. For dinner I ordered scallops with mushroom risotto and vegetables and my boyfriend ordered the Chilean Seabass special with lobster Mac Risotto and vegetables. My scallops were great the mushroom risotto was OK the chilean Seabass was cooked perfectly but was completely bland as well as the lobster risotto. My boyfriend was adding tons of salt to the risotto. I don't feel like I will be returning back to this restaurant read more

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I had my bridal shower at the American Hotel in the Lennox room and it was PHENOMENAL! Special thanks to Jim (the maitre d') and Chris (head waiter) who made sure everything was perfect and went smoothly. They are both so kind, funny, and professional! Jim kept my mom calm who accidentally thought round tables could seat 10 people (round tables = 8 people, oval tables = 10) so Jim adjusted the table plan so my mom didn't have to redo the seating chart. Jim even moved the welcome sign/decor into the Lennox room once the bridal shower started and no more people were walking in. Chris was super helpful and helped with our speaker, making sure everything was set-up, and bins we used to transport things were hidden. He was super helpful packing up all the signs/decor we brought at the end of the bridal shower. I was packing up signs and he told me I deserved to relax because I'm the bride-to-be! During the bridal shower games I mentioned I love cappuccinos and when our espresso bar opened he made it a point to make a cappuccino and bring it to me (I didn't even realize the espresso bar was open because I was just chatting with guests)! Those are all just glimpses into how Jim and Chris went above and beyond! They both capitalized on small details to make the day perfect and special! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend planning events at the American Hotel. Oh, also - the food is phenomenal! I've never had bad food at the American Hotel (I've been to some christmas parties there, too)! read more

Great HH. The calamari appetizer was spot on! The bartender on duty was attentive and courteous. I enjoyed my time at the bar.

I'm so sad . How this bartender is so racist and unprofessional. He threw my identification on the floor just because it took me 2 second to answers the date of my bday. Smh And he was asking me so many racist questions just because I'm Hispanic . He was drunk and with a actitud where other costumers told him to stop and to not act so unprofessional. I went there Saturday 1/12/19 with some friends to celebrate my new contract with an amazing company but the bartender fuckup ny night. On the other side There was other bartender really nice. Thank you but unfortunately I'm not coming back anymore . All this picture and a video going to be on Twitter and FB. So everyone on the town knows how bad is this bartender. So sad :( read more

Christmas Brunch with Santa Family enjoyed brunch 12/11. Experience was very good from the time we walked in. We were greeted immediately, and brought to our table. Santa did not have a wait and was excellent with children. Alan Crudup was an excellent buffet manager. He was top notch, and answered my questions and went out of his way to make the grandkids happy. Which made me (Grandma) happy. Due to this experience, friends and I decided to have dinner at the restaurant this Thursday. read more

Don't ask me why I'm just getting around to writing a review on our favorite happy hour destination in Freehold but, be that as it may, here's a shorty. Great; location, ambience, drinks and staff - what more could ask for. Who knows someday I may even get around to ordering some food there. read more

American Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

DON'T DO IT... IF YOU BELIEVE IN A QUALITY ESTABLISHMENT & CUSTOMER SERVICE; THIS IS NOT THE SPOT!!! I just had the displeasure of spending my Thanksgiving 2023 in this place. Generally, I am at a 4-5 star restaurant at the shore but my place was closed this year. Please note I am a proponent of fine dining and have no problem paying in accordance to the service that I receive which is usually excellent!! So last night, I made a reservation but had to provide a credit card to hold a spot (first red flag). I should have left when I arrived and they could not find my reservation but since they produced a table I stayed, but never again. The buffet was okay with a variety of foods to select from (hence the 2 stars), but, there was no finesse. When the trays got low, the servers would bring out another tray but dump the left overs on top of the new one like disgruntled workers in a school cafeteria, but that is not my issue. My problem is with the 20% gratitude for 2 people and the unprofessional Manager (hereafter Mr. McNasty). I have worked in the hospitality industry and how Mr. McNasty came off from the onset was anything but professional. At the end of dinner, I realized that I could be charged for a no show because they could not find my reservation initially. I shared my concern with a server who understood and kindly got a Manager. The nice Manager explained that there had been issues with the computerized reservation system and assured me that I would be not charged twice. Then I saw the 20% gratuity, which I questioned and the nice Manager said he never tells people what they should tip and I could adjust it. Well, that was not true. There was $28 dollars added to my bill for the server who only brought 2 sodas and 1 drink (plus a $5.15 surcharge which Im not sure what that was for) plus she did not clear the table; they had bus boys for that. I gave the server my card thinking the $28 tip was a suggestion and looking to change the amount when she returned (most places suggest tip amounts on the receipt). It should be noted that I believe in tips and tip extremely well, however, make it make sense. I raised the issue with the server who got Mr McNasty. Mr. McNasty brought nothing but unprofessional agitated energy from the door coupled with a side of extremely poor customer service which I asked him to tamp down. Mr. McNasty claimed that the flyers all over said there was a 20% gratuity. I replied that I did not know about any flyers nor did his staff mention anything when I made a reservation last night, which would have been the professional thing to do. I further explained that I had no problem leaving a tip for the server but not one for $28 since the server did not do much of anything nor was she attentive to only 2 people. Please keep in mind that all the surrounding tables had 6 or more guests which would make sense to add the 20% gratuity to their bill but not for just 2 people. Mr McNasty then said that I was now changing my tune and claiming poor service which was different issue and he would take off the gratuity. Actually, I was not changing anything; only stating the facts. But I said okay, however I only want to adjust the amount. Then Mr McNasty said he wasn't. He said he going to leave it like it was and have a nice Thanksgiving Mam. I then replied this was ridiculous and I would be leaving a yelp review about it. Mr. McNasty then said are you threatening me? I replied, not at all but I have the right to and will do so. Needless to say I will never frequent this place ever again. I dont waste my time or money on people that behave like Mr. McNasty or businesses to condone such behavior. However, it is my sincere hope that Mr. McNasty gets customer service and deescalation training he desperately needs. Regardless, I have asked all my friends and family to share my experience on all their social media platforms. Especially those in the hospitality and wedding industry plus those who write reviews, blog, etc. Mr. McNasty... a little compassion, customer service, understanding and compromise goes a long way and people forget how quickly so many people can be reached with just a click of a button!! read more

Nice little hotel in downtown Freehold. Bar and restaurant on site. Rooms well sound proofed. Couldn't hear any of the noise from the bar which was quite busy. Was disappointed that breakfast wasn't offered. read more

We just had my daughter's baby shower in the Majestic Ballroom. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this venue. Jim was wonderful to work with and very accommodating. The staff was simply incredible! Pedro our Mater Dei was by far the best we have ever worked with. The food was delicious and served at exactly the time we were told it would be. I would highly recommend American Hotel for your special event! read more

We have stayed here multiple times and we loved this hotel. Not so much anymore....The two stars is because we had wonderful stays. We booked a stay for two nights. The first night was bliss. The second night was a totally different experience. There was a Quinceanera celebration going on in one of their ballrooms. Our room was vibrating from the bass speakers. We left around 10pm and the party was going strong, with many guests still arriving. We tried to call the front desk multiple times to get a time frame on how long the noise would last, but nobody was answering the phone. So, we left and drove for three hours to get home. read more

horrible rude staff. The food is disappointing and very overprice. Go to any other place in downtown Freehold as there are many good options. read more

Poor service, poor quality of food & high prices! Never again! Thanksgiving was terrible at this place! read more

I have been wanting to come to this hotel for some time and it is really nice inside. Hubby and I enjoyed drinks in the bar area, they make a wonderful dirty martini!! Also appetizers can be ordered and eaten over by the fire place area. If the restaurant is packed you can also order dinner and eat it in the bar area. I have not stayed here so I am unable to review the rooms, but we did enjoy the drinks and appetizers and the piano music was a nice touch, not too loud and a nice variety. read more