NEW BRUNSWICK: As proud alumni of Rutgers University-New Brunswick, we love being able to bring Brie along to one of the city's coolest long-standing hangs, the Ale 'N 'Wich Pub pub. Their outdoor patio is perfect for leashed and friendly dogs, with tables & chairs, a fantastic The Simpsons TV show mural, and a couple of cozy covered nooks. We were lucky to be served by the awesome bartender Chris, who happily chatted with us about our favorite bourbons. It is a full bar with some genuinely interesting options, including Eric LeGrand bourbon whiskey. His story is as powerful as the pour: after a career-ending injury at Rutgers, he has gone on to become a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and a member of the New Jersey Hall of Fame. It is best to visit on the early side before the place hits its lively stride. read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich Pub - Pubs Near Me - New Brunswick, New Jersey

Owner was extremely rude and disrespectful. Ruined the atmosphere of the pub entirely. I would not recommend coming here as there are plenty of other bars in the area where you will actually have fun and be treated with respect. read more

Bartenders here have favorites and will tend to who they know before you. Keep an eye on your receipt.

This bar has a nice vibe. There was enough seating and it didn't feel too crowded. The bar tenders were quick and were able to service us quickly. We liked this bar the most among the Rutgers bars that were around because they offered a good variety of beers on tap. read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich Pub is a hidden gem! I used to travel a lot for work and enjoyed attending the trivia nights the bar hosted when I was in the area. Everything was fairly priced and service was great. The staff was always very welcoming and if I'm ever back on the East Coast, I can't wait to visit! read more

The bartender named Pierce is very rude to customers and refuses to give out water when asked. I recommend the bar overall, but not this specific tender. read more

This was my first visit to this classic New Brunswick bar. They have a great selection of beers on tap and bottled, as well as spirits. There are a few tvs so you can catch the game or news while unwinding with a bottle of Blue Moon Summer Brew. Parking is a pain for non-Rutgers people, but we lucked out! We went here a few days ago and school ended for the kids earlier this month. Sweet! It's pretty close to the other bars on Easton Ave. I'll definitely add this one to my list of "Bar crawls" in New Brunswick. read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich Pub - Honey Moon at 3PM? Sure, why not? - Pubs Near Me - New Brunswick, New Jersey

Good happy hour specials, friendly bartender. Moved my brother in and dragged his roommates to this bar for a few drinks. Gave a little speech about how college is the only time you can get drunk on the daily and not be an alcoholic. They don't serve food here, but you can get stuff delivered. CASH ONLY but they have an ATM available. They also have a pool table, foosball, and pinball. Our bartender, Natasha, was very friendly. She was quick with service and even gave us a round of shots on the house. Beer selection was pretty average, with a few decent standouts like Hop Devil. If I were a Rutgers student, I'd be here all the time. read more

"Seriously" this place is great! I mean "seriously" the bartenders are quick and the prices are "seriously" reasonable. We got there around 9pm on a Saturday night just before the crowd showed up. Not a college student scene we saw most people in 30's and up. There was a "seriously" wasted woman who couldn't stop saying things were "seriously..." I thought we could get food there however just chips. A nice dark spot with plenty of cool decor, an outside area, pool and foosball table. We will return. read more

The diviest dive of all-time, and that's a major compliment. Cheap beer, dim lighting, foosball and a Simpsons mural... need I say more? I always make a trip when I'm visiting my folks and don't desire to go to any other bars, or to New York City. You're far enough away from the college riff raff and it's a good place to unwind. Also, Tony Claus might be the best and most underrated New Jersey tradition each December. read more

Off the crazy path of the college kids, but definite neighborhood bar. Fun games and a pool table! Good reasonable drinks and bartenders are very nice. Really had fun here with friends. Bring your cash as they don't accept credit cards and I don't think they serve food. Just an old neighborhood drinking hole minus college chaos. Will definitely go back if in the area again. read more

If you want to avoid the students on Easton Ave, then come on down to Ale 'N 'Wich. I can not believe that I didn't write a review for this bar sooner. During my time at Rutgers University, I have always enjoyed the bar crawls on the Easton Ave with my friends. However, sometimes one needs to just sit down and enjoy a drink without the loud dancing music or EDM blasting in your ears. The setting is extremely DIVEY with an old wooden interior finished. The drinks are usually a reasonable price, but please bring cash. The establishment doesn't accept cards, so no cash, no drinks. There is different special for the different days of the week, but usually, my friends and I grab the $8 pitcher on Wednesday nights. The specials usually start at 8 pm. Besides the alcohol, there is free wifi and free pool table and foosball til 8 pm, but on Sunday, the pool table is it free all day. If the bar is getting to packed there is a backyard to enjoy New Brunswick's lovely night sky. I love this watering hole and will be coming back again. read more

One of my favorite places to drink in New Brunswick. It's off the beaten path of Easton Avenue bars, on the corner of Louis and Hamilton but I used to live 5 houses away in my undergrad years, so it easily became our watering hole. It's a chill vibe and attracts a slightly artier, older patronage. Definitely not a place to dry hump some coed and take shots out of a test tube (not that there isn't anything wrong with that). There is always good music playing and they an awesome beer selection, so I'm never bored or upset if they are out of what I've decided upon drinking that night. There is a pool table and a foosball table. This is also one of the best bars for smokers in the Bruns since they have this great smoking area outside- even nice during the winter months, since they have a heat fan. It's also known for the sick Simpsons mural that's been there since forever. Cash only, so don't think about slapping down your plastic to open a tab (there is an ATM if I remember.). Will also have some sports on in the background, and they do have some fun promotional nights with free stuff. read more

The Wich is where you go to lose stuff: your mind, your train of thought, you virginia fake ID, etc.

There's something about this place that draws me in. Maybe it's the fact that it's off the beaten path from all the craziness of George and Easton Ave. Or maybe it's the fact that they have a pool and foosball table. It also doesn't hurt that they have a decent beer selection and that their drinks are modestly priced. I've been here a handful of times now and have always ended up having a great time. It's extremely cozy, not too loud, and the people are pretty chill (unlike some other Rutgers bars). Kinda reminds me of a bar that you would stumble upon in Philly. I don't quite know that the secret is here, but whatever the Ale 'N 'Wich is doing, they are doing right. read more

My favorite bar to go to when in new Brunswick!! Such a fun bar to bring friends to and it is never wall-to-wall crowded. The staff is always fun and the ambiance is very funky. The drinks are dirt cheap and pool is free sometimes. When you don't want to go to an upscale bar on George Street or a crappy bar on easton, then this is the place to go. During Halloween they have raffles too so be sure to head in near holidays! My only gripe is that is is far away from Eaton and thus is sketchy and not near anything worth while. read more

Good place for happy hour, bartender is really nice, and the place is big enough for you and your friends to sit or have seating at the bar. There's a pool table, pinball machine and a couple other games you can play if you are waiting for your friends or just use to pass up time. The outside back area is REALLY cool. There is a Simpsons mural painted and, for the smokers, they have heating lamps out there for you. There are security cameras all throughout the bar, with signs that tell you so you will feel a little safer if you go outside by yourself. Bar is located far enough from the college crowd so you won't get the typical drunk college kids screaming or a ton of "woo girls", which is a plus in my eyes. My new local pub...WOO! read more

Love this place. It isn't that close to me, so I don't go there often, but when I do, I always have a good time. (Sorry for sounding like a Dos Equis commercial). They have pool, foosball and a pinball machine. They only cost 75 cents per game, which I think is pretty good. It is one of the better bars because you don't have loud music blasting and people grinding up on you like freshmen do at frat parties. Beer is pretty cheap too! I think a pitcher of Yuengling is only $11. They only take cash though and they do have an ATM inside for your convenience. read more

My only regret with respect to the Ale 'N 'Wich is the fact that I didn't truly "find" it until my time in NJ was rapidly coming to an end! Sure, I had passed this little hole-in-the-wall pub on the corner of Hamilton St. hundreds of times during my undergraduate days, but never gave it a shot. Instead I did what every Rutgers undergrad did and frequented the much less classy/much more sweaty Easton Ave bars. Well, I guess I'll just say that I wasn't yet ready for the more down to earth and laid-back vibe of this gem during those early days. You won't find the typical college crowd at this pub, and that is certainly a good thing. Unless you live near the bar, it probably is a bit too much of a hike for the majority of undergrads when there are a good deal of bar/pub/club options closer to campus. Instead, there is an older, more sophisticated crowd at the Ale 'N 'Wich, and there are clearly a good deal of regulars that frequent the bar. At times, the crowd could also take on somewhat of a hipster feel. The bartenders are always friendly and fast with respect to their service. If memory serves me, there was not a huge selection of draft beers but there was a decent selection of microbrews. They don't serve much food, and I like that. The decor of the place is fantastic, and there is a pool table, foosball table, and jukebox, all of which give the place a very cool vibe. It is a small bar, which lends itself to the community feel within its walls. There is an outside patio area as well if you want to see what's happening on Hamilton Street (sometimes a dicey proposal). All in all, this is a very chill and laid-back spot that is just perfect for grabbing a couple of beers with your buddies. Give this place a shot if you have not already. You will not be disappointed! read more

Ale N Wich has a really nice vibe. From the eclectic decor to the foosball table to the pool table to the enclosed backyard, I usually get the urge to stay here a while-- like for another hour. And then another. Wait did you say the bar is closing? But it's only 2 am! (Hypothetically speaking. I've never been "that guy". Er, girl.) Cheap drinks, good specials--cool. Big crowds at night, a grimy bathroom, cramped seating areas--not so cool. But Ale N Wich is still my fave dive bar by far. read more

The most laid back bar in New Brunswick, Ale 'N 'Wich does not attract your typical college crowd; rather, it's a hang out for artists, music fans, beer lovers, and generally those looking for a relaxing atmosphere without the "bump and grind" of most New Brunswick bars that cater to the early 20s crowd. The pub underwent renovations in the last few years, and it definitely has a more polished & authentic look and feel now, with new floors and a real classic tin ceiling, among other alternations. There's also a foosball and pool table, wifi, as well as an outdoor patio, with its walls decorated with a hilarious Simpsons mural. With the somewhat dim lighting, chill crowd, and the every present christmas lights, it certainly provides for a cozy atmosphere. If you're a beer lover, you'll be happy that this pub has a wide variety of bottles and drafts at your disposal, ranging from Sierra Nevada Pale Ale to Hitachino Nest White Ale, all of which are priced reasonably. You'll be paying the same for a bottle of Miller Lite and most New Brunswick bars, so why not enjoy a tastier beer here? read more

So I've been coming here for a while, and I can't say I'm a regular, but non the less a frequent customer. I'll put this out here real quick before the review really starts. Hipster central, lots of beards and plaid clothing. I'm not saying this in a bad way or in a way I'm bashing this place because of that fact. It's just a mere observation from the many times I've come here, lots of hipsters that's all, and you know what that's not a bad thing. Also since it's January and its cold outside, I have been noticing a large influx of people at this specific bar wearing leather jackets, haha. I came in with my leather jacket and fit right in, which is pretty funny. Not that I care, but the crowd definitely knows how to dress. Now unto to the goods, the BEEEEER! I love the Wich Ale, it almost taste like Yuengling but even more on the flavor. And I absolutely love Yuengling so this place was immediate love at first sight. I normally get a pitcher which is about 9 dollars, so it's cheap and affordable. Another reason I like this place is the atmosphere. The atmosphere here is a lot more mature and carries a nice crowd to it, nothing you would see if ahem* ahem* on Easton Ave. Which is a big plus, because I'm not looking to get my shoes stepped on nor am I trying to fight the crowd of people at the bar for a simple beer. They have a foosball and a billiard table which is pretty awesome to me. What else is better than, a beer and some billiards! Something you'll also notice here is the music selection, you'll see that there is a juke box in he back which always roaring at night. I love the music here, lots or rock and good jams to keep people in that talking mood. I love it for the bubbly atmosphere and good vibes, as well as the house beer. So if your looking for a nice evening with old friends, and wanna grab a beer but trying to stay away from the craziness and rudeness of some bars on Easton Ave, this place is the go to place. Cheers! read more

Chill place, actually one of the less visited bars about 3/4 blocks off the main Easton Ave. strip. Smaller venue - so don't expect a golden rail type setting or anything. Thumbs up for the outdoor seating with the Simpsons mural on the back wall. Even more props for the bloody amazing music stream. Great selection of beer on tap. There is a pool table if you're lucky enough to be able to squeeze on! Other reviewer is right about the outdoor area being a little smokey (on account of smokers) read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich holds a place near and dear to my heart. It is where my wife and I courted. We would go there every night and hang out. It is the first place I bought her a drink. It is the first place we held hands. It is the first place I played a song for her on the jukebox. Outside of the sentimental value, it's still a cool place. It's off the beaten path as far as Rutgers bars are concerned, and as a result it's clientele is a bit older, less reserved and way more cool. The bartenders were always swell, and no one had a more awesome mural than they did. read more

-Summary- Note: 4.5 overall Pros: Foos table, laidback atmosphere, good drinks, outdoor area Cons: Don't accpet credit card (may have changed since I last went) My favorite college bar! Note that this might not be everyones favorite, as its not the traditional 'trance music let me make out with that random chick why does it smell so much like sweat who just bumped into me and grabbed my ass its been 20 minutes why cant I get a drink' experience that some people like. If you do, fair play to you, but this isnt that. This IS, however, a great place to come with some friends to hang out, have a few drinks, and have a great night. They have a pool table and a great foosball table, a great outdoors area, nice staff, good music, and decent beers on tap. If you're looking for a good 'local bar' experience, you may have just found it. read more

I can't believe this place is still open. I use to go here in the 80's when I lived off campus on Louis st.. read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich Pub - Pubs Near Me - New Brunswick, New Jersey

For those looking for a guido and frat/sorority free bar, this is the place. It's very hipster, mostly grad students and upper class men. If you are looking to get it in, this is definitely the wrong bar for you. I love coming here because its very lax. Good selection, friendly atmosphere and the outdoor area in the back is pretty sweet, I love the Simpsons mural. Also the caramel apple cider was one of the most delicious drinks I've ever had. I really wish they sold them in pitchers... read more

This is one of the coolest bars in New Brunswick! Old school, great people and a beautiful place to be. Old tin ceilings and gorgeous brick walls and tremendous woodwork and original paintings. Drinks are excellent and easily priced for all. Dig it man!! read more

A really great little place off the path. Has a pool table, pinball machine, foosball table (be prepared with quarters!!). A bit divey, but that is the charm. CASH ONLY read more

This bar is great for people in their 20s and 30s looking to get a drink at one of the New Brunswick "college" bars... but without the d-bags. It developed the reputation of the "hipster bar," but by far my favorite bar I went to during my Rutgers years. They have a beer called River Horse: Triple Horse, which is brewed in New Jersey and has 10% alcohol per bottle. Pretty solid tasting and friendly on the alcohol content. The back has a smoking patio and a cool mural of the Simpsons characters. Inside has funky decorations, a pool table, juke box, foozeball and some arcade games. The owner is a guy name Rob who is super friendly and interacts with his guests. They have an ATM there... but keep in mind it is a CASH ONLY bar. read more

Small location in brunswick. Depsite the name being "Ale (Beer) 'N 'Wich(Sandwich?) they sadly do not serve food. The good thing about the location is they were showing the Mayweather & Pacquio fight for free. May or may not go back for the rematch. read more

I am definitely a regular but I am not a #1 fan. In terms of New Brunswick bars this one is BY FAR my favorite. PROS: Not Bro central which I guess to most of these reviewers equals hipster central. Sorry not everyone inside is wearing ugg boots and northface jackets/Rutgers hoodies. Good layout, back area Good selection of drinks SUGGESTIONS: I wish there were more drink specials. If some of the happy hour specials were extended during the work/school week there would be a LOT more customers. I never like to complain about wait staff, I have even been a bartender so I KNOW how hard it is but.... sometimes the staff can be very short and off putting. I have a few friends who have stopped coming because of this. Maybe I am crazy but often times the drinks don't seem strong enough HOWEVER not to say this place isn't totally great. It's just the wanting perfection thing ;) When you spend so much of your time and money somewhere you want it to appreciate you. read more

Mich L.'s review below basically sums this place up better than any review I could ever write. I think every girl in this place has ink. I will admit, during the year, it draws in a much more neutral crowd, and you will see a lot of easton ave regulars in this place on weeknights. Beer & shot place, cash only, lots of Arcade Fire, Johnny Cash and Bombay Show Pig type music playing. read more

The 'Wich is my neighborhood bar by any measure. I've been going there for years, the atmosphere is really great. Strikes that delicate balance between rowdy-college-bar and old-man-sipping-whiskey-in-silence-bar. The bar tenders are friendly and fast. Beer selection is better than average, liquor is selection is about what you'd expect. The outdoor patio is a great touch. Cash only. read more

If you're looking for a meat market this is the wrong place for you. If you want some place to relax with some friends and be able to have an actual conversation, the Ale N' Wich is definitely the go to. The crowd is just a touch older than the Easton ave bars, and as such it's a much better dynamic. Lots of regulars and everybody is nice, rather than trying to get into your pants. They have pool tournaments on Monday nights, and pretty good specials most nights, so it's definitely somewhere to check out if you want to have a beer and relax. The big draw, especially for the winter is the heated smoking patio. In the summer it's also terrific for listening to the sounds of New Brunswick. read more

Great dive bar with good deals on drinks and nice foosball and pools tables. I really enjoyed the outdoor area, especially on a nice summer night! read more

The Ale 'N 'Wich Pub has a local/townie atmosphere with a tremendous beer selection. The pitchers are very inexpensive and the pool table is one of the biggest hits (though it should be noted that it's not regulation size). It does cost money for the pool table, so bring quarters unless you're coming before 8pm or on a Sunday. This bar is a really great hangout spot if you're looking for less college students in the New Brunswick Area. There is even an outdoor smoking area. Keep in mind, this is a cash-only pub, so keep a little in your wallet or bring your ATM card for their in-house ATM. read more

If you're in New Brunswick, over 21, not in a fraternity, and not driving a modified Honda Civic, Ale n Wich is kind of the only bar in town. So it's the champ by default. That's all there is to it. read more

Not only do they not accept cards but gave me a hard time about being in the single bathroom for too long bc I was taking a shit. I had to lie and say I was throwing up in order to avoid embarrassment. at that point someone tried to escort me out of the bar and wouldn't let me finish my drink. the only good thing about this mostly empty bar is that there's a sweet smoking room-- they also sell chips. read more

uh... what? Maybe I just need to come back when I'm already drunk to really appreciate this place. The bartender looked like he was in pain and didn't respond to our hello, how are you, or thank you.... Got a bourbon on the rocks with a huge fingerprint around the mouth of the glass. Thought that was bad then watched a roach skitter across the 'drink menu'. Never will I leave bourbon to waste, so I sucked it down and left. Also- I'm not really a fan of star trek and the bartender and two guys were watching episodes with their own commentary. Perhaps I'm just too adult for this place. I think I'd appreciate it more when I was a broke college kid. read more