Delilah's Den, located near the merger of routes 9 and 35 in South Amboy, is surrounded by gentlemen's clubs, all located within a six mile radius. However, Delilah's is a strip club, and strip clubs are often less popular than gentlemen's clubs. For those that do not know the difference between the two, strips clubs lack a liquor license and standard admission age is 18. Gentlemen's clubs on the other hand, have liquor licences and NJ statute requires all patrons to be of legal drinking age. Club xxxv and Black Betsy's to name a few, are literally down the street from Delilah's. Yet Delilah's Den is consistently busier than its counterparts. Contrary to my initial hypothesis, the vast majority of the overwhelming amount of patrons are not between the ages 18 and 21 (the age bracket that is allowed to patronize strip clubs, but not gentlemen's clubs).
But why is Delilah's Den so busy? Does this club offer some "special service" that the others do not? This answer is no. Are the dancers and bar tenders more attractive at Delilah's? This answer (though subjective) is also no. What sets the strip club apart from its competitors is its name. Delilah's Den is well renowned; and the business is lucrative. Many of the other clubs undergo name and managerial changes on a regular basis -- forcing patrons away -- but Delilah's consistently provides the best overall experience.
Firstly, the club provides a safe atmosphere, due to the slew of bouncers and 24-hour surveillance cameras.The saloon's fifteen dollar cover charge (at night) is low in comparison to other strip clubs; and is even lower than the admission costs of some of the nearby gentlemen's clubs. Upon entering, it is apparent that the women are beautiful. Moreover, there is no "bad seat" -- Delilah's unusual figure-eight shaped stage provides patrons the optimum view -- no matter where they sit. Furthermore, there are no " view hindering objects" such as pool tables and mini bars.
For the most part, the club's service is extraordinary; however, there is one issue: only a handful of women dance per set. This means that two or three women dancing poorly translates to half of the women on stage dancing poorly. Other local strip clubs place roughly a dozen women on stage per set; but Delilah's attempts to remedy this by hiring only "gifted dancers". In addition to excellent service and great seating, Delilah's "tangible item prices" are relatively low: soft drinks range from two to five dollars, lap dances are twenty dollars (standard price for clubs in the area), and VIP room packages begin under $250. Moreover, Delilah's often runs buy one, get one specials and couples discounts.
A very unique aspect is that Delilah's Den allows walk-ons to take the stage -- pending they are briefed by the manager and opt to sign a health waiver. This open-door policy allows individuals to bring their own exotic dancers; bring your own bottle -- a common promotion -- bring your own exotic dancers -- only Delilah's. Furthermore, walk-ons are allowed to retain the money they earn while on stage; encouraging many women to thrill themselves by being part of the festivities.
Delilah's Den is not as high-end as some of the local saloons, and lacks a liquor license. Yet the experience is always pleasurable. Due to its safe atmosphere, hospitable service, fair prices, and convenient location Delilah's Den is always an enjoyable evening.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Saturday, October 15, 2011
New Brunswick's Prize: The Golden Rail
Amidst the heart of the Rutger's New Brunswick campus is the Golden Rail. The establishment is located in an area filled with bars and nightclubs that attract Rutgers students. Unlike its adversaries, such as Stuff Your Face, Clydes, and the Scarlet Pub, the Golden Rail tends to attract patrons who do not attend the university. Furthermore, the Golden Rail is the only bar in the "downtown Rutgers area" that is not a broken-down, filthy, college bar. The question that follows is: "is the Golden Rail an attractive venue, or the most luxurious campus pub?"
The answer is clear; the Golden Rail is the best of the college bars -- but a disappointing venue for anyone who is not a current Rutgers student. Firstly, the bar's location is a turn-off for any non-Rutgers student. It is located in a bustling area, and as a result, parking near the bar is virtually impossible. Secondly, the area is filled with immature Rutgers students, many of whom are under the legal drinking age -- minors aimlessly wondering the streets -- explaining the unproportionally high crime rate. The bar's bouncers are very confrontational and inhospitable. However, this is most likely due to the amount of underage persons attempting to enter the bar.
The bar's interior was renovated less than ten months ago; however, it is already run-down. The bar stools are ripped, the floor tiles are cracked, and the restrooms appear as if they were the location of World War III. On the upside, the bar is filled with plasma televisions that are always displaying premiere sporting events.
The Golden Rail lacks a kitchen; therefore, no food is offered at the bar. However, this is not the menu's major flaw. There are few "top shelf" brands available. As of three months ago the only "top shelf" liquor was Grey Goose. The bar has taken steps to remedy this issue by purchasing bottles such as Johnnie Walker Black Label and Single Barrell Jack Daniels; however, the selection is still poor. The bar lacks bottles such as: Bombay Saphfire, Maker's Mark, Courvoisier, and Remy Martin XO -- just to name a few.
The bar is often filled far beyond legal capacity -- making it over-crowded, unbearably hot, and dangerous. Over-crowding is not always negative. The more people in the bar, the more individuals on the dance floor, and often the more lively the atmosphere. However, the Golden Rail is filled unproportionately with men. This testosterone-packed atmosphere seems to scare away attractive women -- maybe because they do not want to be bothered by so many immature boys. Whatever, the reason, attractive women seldom patronize the Golden Rail. Moreover, the unnproportionate amount of men often leads to fights. However, the security does an excellent job making sure that small scuffles do not turn into shoot-outs or full-blown brawls.
Despite all of the flaws of the Golden Rail, there is one, major, positive. The liquor is cheap! Almost all drinks are far cheaper than they would be at any other local bar. Furthermore, the Golden Rail often runs drink specials that are hard to comprehend. For example, the last time I went to the bar Long Island Iced Teas and all drinks made with Jack Daniels and Captain Morgan were $2. Any size, any drink containing Captain or JD $2! Would you like alcohol poisoning? For those prices I bet you would.
I would not recommend attending the Golden Rail if: you are above the age of 24, a student of a another local university (particularly Kean or Princeton), or if you are a male looking to mingle with attractive females. However, the Golden Rail is by far the best of bars located near the Rutgers campus, and the prices make it possible for anyone to spend an evening at the bar.
The answer is clear; the Golden Rail is the best of the college bars -- but a disappointing venue for anyone who is not a current Rutgers student. Firstly, the bar's location is a turn-off for any non-Rutgers student. It is located in a bustling area, and as a result, parking near the bar is virtually impossible. Secondly, the area is filled with immature Rutgers students, many of whom are under the legal drinking age -- minors aimlessly wondering the streets -- explaining the unproportionally high crime rate. The bar's bouncers are very confrontational and inhospitable. However, this is most likely due to the amount of underage persons attempting to enter the bar.
The bar's interior was renovated less than ten months ago; however, it is already run-down. The bar stools are ripped, the floor tiles are cracked, and the restrooms appear as if they were the location of World War III. On the upside, the bar is filled with plasma televisions that are always displaying premiere sporting events.
The Golden Rail lacks a kitchen; therefore, no food is offered at the bar. However, this is not the menu's major flaw. There are few "top shelf" brands available. As of three months ago the only "top shelf" liquor was Grey Goose. The bar has taken steps to remedy this issue by purchasing bottles such as Johnnie Walker Black Label and Single Barrell Jack Daniels; however, the selection is still poor. The bar lacks bottles such as: Bombay Saphfire, Maker's Mark, Courvoisier, and Remy Martin XO -- just to name a few.
The bar is often filled far beyond legal capacity -- making it over-crowded, unbearably hot, and dangerous. Over-crowding is not always negative. The more people in the bar, the more individuals on the dance floor, and often the more lively the atmosphere. However, the Golden Rail is filled unproportionately with men. This testosterone-packed atmosphere seems to scare away attractive women -- maybe because they do not want to be bothered by so many immature boys. Whatever, the reason, attractive women seldom patronize the Golden Rail. Moreover, the unnproportionate amount of men often leads to fights. However, the security does an excellent job making sure that small scuffles do not turn into shoot-outs or full-blown brawls.
Despite all of the flaws of the Golden Rail, there is one, major, positive. The liquor is cheap! Almost all drinks are far cheaper than they would be at any other local bar. Furthermore, the Golden Rail often runs drink specials that are hard to comprehend. For example, the last time I went to the bar Long Island Iced Teas and all drinks made with Jack Daniels and Captain Morgan were $2. Any size, any drink containing Captain or JD $2! Would you like alcohol poisoning? For those prices I bet you would.
I would not recommend attending the Golden Rail if: you are above the age of 24, a student of a another local university (particularly Kean or Princeton), or if you are a male looking to mingle with attractive females. However, the Golden Rail is by far the best of bars located near the Rutgers campus, and the prices make it possible for anyone to spend an evening at the bar.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Big Shots: A True Fan's Dream
Woodbridge's Big Shots Sports Bar is often compared to other happening bars in the greater-Edison area. Big Shots, like Fox and Hound and Chris Michaels, offers a lively, nightclub-like atmosphere. However, Big Shots is a sports bar; and the establishment's primary focus is to provide true fans with a pleasant meeting-spot, where they can grab a beer and catch the game. One must then question "is Big Shots a great place to watch a sporting event, or a theme-less imitation of Chris Michaels?"
An individual's first ten minutes at the bar are an ordeal. Though big shots is surrounded by a shopping center, the parking is not adequate. Moreover, the security at the door is overly strict and standoffish. However, the table quickly turns upon entrance to the establishment. The main level contains the primary bar -- the spot where true fans can order a drink and watch the game.
But Big Shots' main attraction is its ultra-lavish patio. The patio hand-laid ,brick, patio accommodates roughly 200 people and has a large, completely-stocked, bar and roughly twenty tables. The ample amount of room allows for large crowds to assemble; and with a good DJ, the patio feels more like a New York City nightclub. Though the patio is spectacular, it has its drawbacks. Firstly, the service is consistently terrible -- the bar would have to employee three times as many bar tenders and servers just to make the service acceptable. Secondly, the drinks are pricey -- even compared to the other expensive establishments located near by. Finally, the bartenders "poor light" -- often skimping the amount of alcohol that should be in each drink.
Big Shots is not just a summer spot. During the winter, Brownstone and Black Thorne are nearly put out of commission because the interior of the bars can not handle the amount of people that the patio would. However, Big Shots has remedied this ill. The bar contains a lower level, which is only open when the patio is closed. The lower level accommodates more people than the patio; and the nightclub ambiance is easily replicated in this location -- making the bar desirable year round.
Overall Big Shots is a great place to spend an evening. The establishment is lively and diverse. The main bar is a great place to enjoy the game with a few friends. The lower level offers a more lively atmosphere where patrons can mingle. The patio is, by all means, phenomenal. Though Big Shots Sports Bar is an expensive, the positives far outweigh its drawbacks. No, this bar is not a theme-less imitation of Chris Michaels, but actually a pleasant blend of sports bar and nightclub.
An individual's first ten minutes at the bar are an ordeal. Though big shots is surrounded by a shopping center, the parking is not adequate. Moreover, the security at the door is overly strict and standoffish. However, the table quickly turns upon entrance to the establishment. The main level contains the primary bar -- the spot where true fans can order a drink and watch the game.
But Big Shots' main attraction is its ultra-lavish patio. The patio hand-laid ,brick, patio accommodates roughly 200 people and has a large, completely-stocked, bar and roughly twenty tables. The ample amount of room allows for large crowds to assemble; and with a good DJ, the patio feels more like a New York City nightclub. Though the patio is spectacular, it has its drawbacks. Firstly, the service is consistently terrible -- the bar would have to employee three times as many bar tenders and servers just to make the service acceptable. Secondly, the drinks are pricey -- even compared to the other expensive establishments located near by. Finally, the bartenders "poor light" -- often skimping the amount of alcohol that should be in each drink.
Big Shots is not just a summer spot. During the winter, Brownstone and Black Thorne are nearly put out of commission because the interior of the bars can not handle the amount of people that the patio would. However, Big Shots has remedied this ill. The bar contains a lower level, which is only open when the patio is closed. The lower level accommodates more people than the patio; and the nightclub ambiance is easily replicated in this location -- making the bar desirable year round.
Overall Big Shots is a great place to spend an evening. The establishment is lively and diverse. The main bar is a great place to enjoy the game with a few friends. The lower level offers a more lively atmosphere where patrons can mingle. The patio is, by all means, phenomenal. Though Big Shots Sports Bar is an expensive, the positives far outweigh its drawbacks. No, this bar is not a theme-less imitation of Chris Michaels, but actually a pleasant blend of sports bar and nightclub.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Shannon Rose: Elegance of an Irish Pub
In the greater Woodbridge-Edison area there is a plethora of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Woodbridge's Shannon Rose combines all three under one, large, roof -- enabling customers to eat, drink, dance, and be merry. The establishment's convenient location and ample parking make Shannon Rose ideal for "that perfect night cap". The bar's ambiance is exquisite. Furthermore, the combination of live performances and DJs set the tone for a fun-filled evening out. However, the drawbacks of Shannon Rose far out weight its positive aspects; and overall it is a disappointment.
Firstly, the dress code too strict and ever-changing; prohibiting items such as hats, boots, hoods, white t-shirts, and sometimes shorts. Secondly, the bouncers are confrontational and often hit on the female patrons -- starting more fights than they break up. The poor service doesn't end here. Only a handful of waitresses serve the bar's massive upper level -- in turn -- causing drink service to be incredibly slow. It is also difficult to obtain customer checks or to close a tab -- forcing patrons whom want to leave, to linger within this pathetic pub.
Prices are also ridiculous. Shannon Rose's prices are far higher than the prices of its counterparts; particularly the prices of distilled spirits and bottled, imported, beer. The like the alcohol, the food is pricey. The menu contains numerous French and Italian dishes that are too complex for Shannon Rose's novice chefs to prepare. Brunch, lunch, dinner, and after-hours meals are available; however, only a handful of well-prepared dishes are offered in total (amongst the four menus).
On the upside, Shannon Rose hosts ladies' night every Thursday. The event is well coordinated and allows patrons to actually enjoy a night at the pub. If ladies' night is omitted, the bar's attendance is sparratic. Some weekends the bar is filled to capacity, and other weekends the bar contains a dozen people or so. However, one thing is constant. Women do not attend Shannon Rose -- creating an awkward environment for the women whom are in attendance and causing the male patrons to compete over the few females -- often creating conflicts that the bouncers can not handle.
Overall, Shannon Rose is a disappointment. The food, service, atmosphere, prices, and dress code are pitiful. With so many great restaurants located in Woodbridge township, it is hard to understand why diners would attend Shannon Rose. Furthermore, this pub is located less than four miles away from Fox and the Hound Pub and Grille (Edison), Big Shots Sports Bar (Woodbridge), and Chris Michael's (Woodbridge). With three better alternatives less than five miles away, it is certain that I will not return to Shannon Rose.
Firstly, the dress code too strict and ever-changing; prohibiting items such as hats, boots, hoods, white t-shirts, and sometimes shorts. Secondly, the bouncers are confrontational and often hit on the female patrons -- starting more fights than they break up. The poor service doesn't end here. Only a handful of waitresses serve the bar's massive upper level -- in turn -- causing drink service to be incredibly slow. It is also difficult to obtain customer checks or to close a tab -- forcing patrons whom want to leave, to linger within this pathetic pub.
Prices are also ridiculous. Shannon Rose's prices are far higher than the prices of its counterparts; particularly the prices of distilled spirits and bottled, imported, beer. The like the alcohol, the food is pricey. The menu contains numerous French and Italian dishes that are too complex for Shannon Rose's novice chefs to prepare. Brunch, lunch, dinner, and after-hours meals are available; however, only a handful of well-prepared dishes are offered in total (amongst the four menus).
On the upside, Shannon Rose hosts ladies' night every Thursday. The event is well coordinated and allows patrons to actually enjoy a night at the pub. If ladies' night is omitted, the bar's attendance is sparratic. Some weekends the bar is filled to capacity, and other weekends the bar contains a dozen people or so. However, one thing is constant. Women do not attend Shannon Rose -- creating an awkward environment for the women whom are in attendance and causing the male patrons to compete over the few females -- often creating conflicts that the bouncers can not handle.
Overall, Shannon Rose is a disappointment. The food, service, atmosphere, prices, and dress code are pitiful. With so many great restaurants located in Woodbridge township, it is hard to understand why diners would attend Shannon Rose. Furthermore, this pub is located less than four miles away from Fox and the Hound Pub and Grille (Edison), Big Shots Sports Bar (Woodbridge), and Chris Michael's (Woodbridge). With three better alternatives less than five miles away, it is certain that I will not return to Shannon Rose.
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