Cowan’s Public

Excellent, rotating selection of seasonal beer on tap.

Recently went here with a bunch of friends sans kids. It was riveting. But not so much the experience, but moreso the fact that we are all able to get babysitters and get to hang out together like the good ol’ pre-​kids days.
The establishment itself fronts as a «speakeasy» type bar with no windows in its fascade. At first glance, you would think your walking into an apartment building. However, when entering you are swept back into a mix of 1920’s meets the wonderful new wave of 2000 something hipsters. The décor is reminiscent of some of the bars we may have seen in prohibition era movies like The Untouchables or Millers Crossing. But very quickly you realize the era you are in with the sooo many bearded men wearing flannels. Oh the juxtaposition.
However, it does not matter the clothes you rock, the hair you wear on your face, or the faux black framed glassed men that may bestow upon you your food and/​or drink order. The one thing that this place does right. and very well. is craft beer.
I have officially found my new beer bar. Granted there are plenty in the area, but Cowans is just cool. The look, the people, the beer. Its just cool. And so there I sat with my sooo non-​hipster friends and indulged in some great pretty-​hard-​to-​find-​on-​tap beers at a really cool beer bar.
And I was indulging on some great beer, then came the food. And this was the only hard part I had that did not give the establishment a true 5 star it deserves: the food is just sub-​par. There I said it. My friends would disagree but I did not think it was anything special.
To start we split a bunch of apps. We got fried pickles, some beer nuts, fries, cheese plate and all 3 buffalo wing styles. They were good. Not great but good. Most of my manly meat eating buddies got the burgers. They said it was fantastic. But its 2016; finding a very good burger these days is not too difficult. I scored poorly by getting the fish and chips. I was told prior «never get fish and chips unless your in London» by someone who’s never been to London. Anyways, I always get fish and chips. Its just something I do. But unfortunately it tasted like they forgot to put fish in the batter. Way too greasy. Not a lot of taste.
Ok so the food is just ok. But again, the beer is phenom. Just looked at the beer menu and it looks like it changed again. Nice!
I highly recommend this place if your into a cool bar with great rotating beer taps, decent prices and ok food, as long as you don’t mind the many black-​framed flannelled bearded men.

This place has so much potential. Its location makes it a neighborhood joint, but when you walk inside, you feel like you’re in a hipster bar. There’s a warm fire, it’s very spacious, and I and SOOO happy they expanded their menu to make it more vegetarian friendly. I have to admit – the only reason I hadn’t checked it out before was because I was deterred by the menu. The beers are all craft, and the cocktails all sound interesting. It’s dimly lit, industrial style, but very comfortable. I take one star off for the lack of waiters in the place and the lack of enough seating for dinner. I would come again.

Been here many more times now, tried more food, drank more drinks, and I keep falling more in love with this place. All of their food has been great, but the drinks are really the stand out to me. Fantastic cocktails and beer taps that rotate so often with good beers that you’ll be wanting to come back the next day. That’s not to mention the great events they have — bottle releases, tap takeovers and more. The staff are friendly and passionate about their craft.
Do yourself a favor, go out of your way to come here.

I have to give this place all 5 !! Great service, Katie the waitress bubbly and sweet. The food is surprisingly very good! It’s great to have a place like this near by! Met the owner as I was leaving very nice man. This place indeed is a hidden gem

Great crowd of young professionals and hipsters. Awesome beer and drink selection. I recommend the Ella Fizz and Funk Citrus IPA!

Update — food is really good and they do have a back dining room where it’s not as loud and you can sit and talk while you enjoy your food and beer. Small menu, but interesting choices. So far have had the smoked trout sandwich and the pulled pork — both really good served on nice fresh rolls. Portions are not huge and if it’s a busy night, the kitchen can be slow, but you can order another beer and some of the roasted beer nuts to tide you over. Only thing missing — you can’t get dessert.
Wait staff and bartenders are knowledgeable and very friendly. The beer selection is great. New choices every time from some of the best microbreweries. Good selection of whiskeys too. Not many places carry FEW, one of my favs.
Recently spent a very nice Sunday morning here waiting out a baby shower my wife was attending nearby. Tommy behind the bar said he had to catch up on six new beers they had just tapped even though he worked last night. His dedication paid off — all his recommendations were spot on.
So 4 stars overall, but 5 for beer.

So I’ve found the hipster hub of Nutley, guys. Cowan’s Public is all about craft beer, good food, and men with beards. If you like one or all of those things, I think you’ll be pleased.
They have a bunch of seasonal craft beer on tap with many beer-​themed special events, such as fanfare around tapping a new keg or setting up «dark beer» tastings. You can order a flight for $ 10, though only until 8pm for some unknown, uncool reason. When I checked it out last night, I tried the Great Lakes Eliot Ness amber, which was awesome.
When I went a few months ago, they had a great spinach dip appetizer that was the envy of everyone sitting around us. But that doesn’t seem to be on the menu anymore. Last night, my friend and I went for the black bean dip, which was good, but I didn’t appreciate the crispy, bland pita. Overall, they have some interesting appetizers, and while the entrée options are limited, they’re good stuff (burger, grilled cheese, tacos, etc.).
For my entrée, I went with what I always get — their BBQ pulled pork sandwich on a toasted brioche bun. So good! The pulled pork is tender, and the BBQ sauce is nothing short of life-​changing (!!). I’m usually a fast eater, but at Cowan’s Public I take my time, because I’m sad to see the sandwich go!

Loved the ambiance & vibe! Speakeasy style bar with a great COCKTAILS Loved the hot mulled ciders! Food is fairly good & trendy, highly recommend the fish tacos! Only downside is staff does have a tendency to make you feel invisible but other than that great new joint in the Nut!

This was our first time at Cowan’s and I am so happy we stumbled upon it. The ambiance makes you feel like you’re taking a step back in time. The craft beer was just what we were looking for and there were others around us raving about the cocktails. My husband and I split the cauliflower appetizer and it was delicious. I got the fish and chips and my hubby got the hot chicken sandwich. The fish and chips were perfect. The batter was so light and crispy. The chicken sandwich was the right amount of heat for spice lovers. The staff was attentive and really friendly.
We will absolutely be back!

This is a hipster type of bar, like something you would see in Brooklyn, not so much in Nutley. I really enjoyed the environment, décor, and how they used the space. Everything else was just so so.
The drinks: They are known for their craft beers so if you like craft, this is your place. I wanted to find one that matched my standard beer interests but nothing was near the same category or type of beers I enjoy. Yes, I was open to new beers and craft, but nothing was even close. They have limited regular beer options (3) and none are light. Mixed drinks were unique and a few stood out to me. They change the drink menus often so if you see one on Unilocal,they might not be able to make it unless it’s listed on the menu. We tried.
The food: The kale Caesar is very good, just not filling so have it with something else if you are hungry. The burger was good, just wasn’t cooked anywhere near to my request so I had to send it back. The fries weren’t impressive in my opinion. Standard out of the bag frozen fries that you can make at home.
The service: It was ok, something was lacking for sure. I just can’t put my finger on it. — The owner contacted me, refunded my burger and fries without me askong, and asked for additional feedback to help them improve which I appreciated.
Overall, I might go back and give this place another shot. I think if you enjoy a hipster bar with craft beer, this is for you. I might sit at the bar for a drink during happy hour and possibly the kale caesar. The feel of the pub was nice and we were excited until we sat down. I was really hoping for a more positive experience. It’s worth trying again.

I’ve been here twice so far this past week. Both times the servers and bartenders were nice, well informed on their drinks and menu, and very willing to let you try a taste of any beer. Monday night was quiet and we got a table ourselves; our server was attentive. Saturday night at 7:30 there was an hour long wait for a table but we snagged a couple seats at the bar, which was great. By the time we left at 10 the bar floor was packed, people bumping into me as I was seated.
Food: the grilled cheese with smoked portabella is incredible. Do yourself a favor and order it! You don’t need the bacon. My friend got the fish tacos, which were more interesting and tastier than I expected. The white bean and garlic dip was good but the bread they bring out with it was even better. Looking forward to trying more off the food menu, and maybe a cocktail next time.

Y’know who would love this place? Gatsby.
So my friend and I are going out to celebrate our graduation from college together and she mentions this speakeasy-​looking place in Nutley as a place for us to go to. I’ve always wanted to go to a speakeasy and thought «Well damn, this sounds PERFECT». We walk inside, and it was.
You walk inside of Cowan’s and its this dimly lit 1930’s-looking restaurant complete with a roaring fireplace, paint peeling from the walls, a fully stocked bar, lounge seats and more. My friend and I get seated in the dining room next to the main area which was slightly smaller but still cute nonetheless.
We order our food and drink and I was so impressed. I chose to drink a Dogfish Head Black & Blue which is by far the tastiest beer I’ve ever had. We chose to go for the White Bean and Garlic Dip which was served with this artisan looking white bread. I needed more of it because it was zesty, fresh and loaded with flavor.
For the main course, I went with the Grilled Chicken Sandwich which came with house-​made pesto, sun-​dried tomatoes, kale and white cheddar. If I had gotten paid that day I would’ve ordered another because the sandwich was AMAZING.
I’m definitely coming back to Cowan’s. My friend told me that it gets busy on the weekend nights so just remember that as a forewarning :)

Finally! A non sports/​non guido bar option in the Nutley area. The beer selection is pretty expansive and their mixed drink menu is well curated.
The food selection is also pretty tasty (try the Mac&cheese)
Good local option for when you don’t feel like trekking to NYC or jersey city.

To my surprise, this is no longer Nutley Pub. However, this spot is very trendy with a lot of potential. I enjoyed the atmosphere of dim lighting and unique décor. They have a variety of craft beers I haven’t seen in other locations, so I’ll have to come back.
Their food menu is unique as well with starters such as chipotle deviled eggs!
I ordered the Mac n cheese with bacon & disco fries. The Mac was good but the disco fries definitely weren’t worth $ 10, especially since the menu fails to acknowledge they do not include the gravy on their fries.
I asked my server where the gravy was and she said they don’t come with any. So I said to her, «So these are actually cheese fries? You might want to mention that on your menu».
I think their menu is a little overpriced for Nutley, other then that, the place was okay.

Came back here specifically for the cocktails. Tried almost all the menu options — all very good.
Still loving the vibe.
Biggest gripe — service. Staff has a tendency to make you feel invisible. When we came in and sat at a table, it became apparent that no one would approach us and we’d have to go up and order at the bar. That took a while too. They could definitely improve the customer service here.

So this place has been on my Unilocal radar for quite some time now, and I finally got a chance to try it out. The reviews definitely don’t lie; I’m a huge fan of this place, and I may just become a regular. The bar area is very spacious and open. The ambiance is great. I love the clean, inviting atmosphere that exudes from every corner. From the host to the waiters and bartenders, everyone there is extremely friendly and welcoming. There is not much seating space in the front, but they have a side, more secluded room that is quieter. We came for dinner and drinks and the tables in the bar were occupied, so we sat in the other room.
Their craft beer selection is great. They have Happy Hour until 7pm, which we missed, but if you get there before 8pm, you can still participate in getting a flight (4 beers) for $ 10. My boyfriend and I both did this, and it was nice to be able to sample the variety of beers they had. Their selections change regularly, so I’m excited to come back again and try something different.
Our dinners were great and a nice surprise. I was expecting bar food, and while the selections mimic bar food, they have their own interesting twists that make them unique to the establishment. I had a «PLT» which consisted of smoked portabella mushrooms, lettuce, tomatoes, and basil aioli on toasted rustic white bread. We also tried a cheese dip, which was one of their specials for the night, and it was delicious. For my meal, fries were an extra $ 2 or $ 3 (PLT was $ 10), but I was full from the cheese dip and beer, so I opted out.
My only question was why there wasn’t more seating on the bar side. Perhaps it gets busier on some nights, and they don’t want it to be overcrowded, but even if they added high tops, people could stand and converse with their beers on the table.
Had a great time. I came on Wednesday, so I’m interested to see what it’s like on a weekend. Will be back.

This is our second trip to Cowans Public. We live close by and passed it a hundred times but are not the biggest fan of pub grub. But the positive Unilocal reviews and a very interesting and unpub like menu brought us here. Both last time and this time we started with the skillet mac and cheese and it was great both times. Instead of traditional elbow mac and cheese Cowans take is bow tie pasta in a delicious cheese sauce that has a nice little spicy kick. I asked our server if she knew what made it spicy and she said she had asked in the past but the chef wasn’t talking. Whatever it was set it apart from ant mac n cheese we have had and the home made bread crumbs and scallions were a nice touch too. Last time here I ordered the pulled pork. It was made well and a good presentation but not the best pulled pork I have had. Good but not to die for. But a bite of my husband’s burger convinced me we would be returning so I could order one. The burgers come with white cheddar, pickles and Sriracha ketchup with an option to add either bacon/​onion jam or Stilton blue cheese, or bacon or an egg. I opted for the bacon/​onion jam and passed on the Sriracha ketchup (Never put ketchup on anything) Well my burger was WOW delicious. My perfect burger is charred on the outside, rare on the inside and this sure was perfect.
The burger was delicious and the bacon/​onion jam was a wonderful addition. Yum! To make things really fun we both ordered the mulled spiced cider served warm. (Apple cider mulled with Cowans spice blend, Clydes May Whiskey.) It was delicious and the kind of drink you crave on a cold winter night. (It was around 70 tonight and it was still damn good)
Cowans Public is a great neighborhood pub. We are more foodies than drinkers but would recommend it for either or both. The place is warm and comfy and the service both times was excellent. Our server couldn’t have sweeter or more helpful. Thank you Ashley, for helping make our meal so enjoyable. Can’t wait to come back again.

In love…
First off the atmosphere is very speakeasy vintage cruise ship. The service is super friendly and laid back. The walls are beautifully damaged and the bar is vintage chic.
I came here for an early dinner so I’m curious what it looks like at night…
Two words: Disco Fries! These were amazingggggg! The gravy is Southern style so it’s not the dark brown sauce you’re probably imagining. Smothered in delicious cheese too, wow so tasty!
I had the burger which was topped with pickles, sriracha sauce and cheese. I’ve definitely had better burgers in my day, but it wasn’t bad. The actual burger was great and the bun was just alright. My boyfriend ordered the shrimp po boy and I tasted it, very flavorful and fresh!
Can’t wait to come back!

A little bit of Brooklyn in… Nutley!!!
Cowan’s Public is a trendy and hip watering hole in the middle of Nutley. The bar located, on Centre street, and is insulated in a residential area. If you’re in the mood to bar hop, Cowan’s may not be ideal…
Cowan’s exterior is understated. However, the interior is another story. The bar is decorated beautifully. Hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and an oak bar that is huge. The bar area has plenty of space to mingle, drink and dance, which is nice. Dim lighting and blaring music also adds to the wannabe Brooklyn vibe that Cowan’s is going for. The bar tries to go for a relaxed feel, but seems to takes itself way too seriously with it’s hipster vibe.
The bar menu is extensive and unique. Cowan’s offers top shelf liquors that are infused unique blends of herbs and spices in order to create a delightful libation. Cowan’s also has a somewhat extensive beer menu; however, there are other local bars that carry much more. The drinks can get pricey depending on what you order. Craft beers start around $ 7, while mixed drinks start at $ 10 and quickly go up.
Cowan’s didn’t sit right with me. If felt out of place. Though the bar is beautiful and the wait staff was pleasant, Cowan’s was missing an energy that makes even the most «meh» of bars great!
In the end, I think I would go back to Cowan’s one more time before completely ruling it out.