The Big Easy In Jersey

Well-nestled within the Pascack Valley, is The Cornerstone. This Hillsdale bar / pub has been home to a few watering holes in the past, but most notably began its huge success as the now-defunct Bourbon Street. With a change in management, came a change in name and name only.

The Cornerstone’s management continues Bourbon Street’s success as a New Orleans-themed tavern by keeping the Big Easy feel. From the balcony that overlooks the lower bar to the jazzy atmosphere, there is not much that doesn’t exude that French Quarter style. Especially in February when they host the annual Mardi Gras party.

The usual week-night crowd is full of locals and bridge and tunnel commuters fresh from the station across the street. The air in the room is of a bunch of people blowing off some steam before heading home and getting ready to do it all over again tomorrow. You can easily catch up with a friend, grab a bite to eat or simply enjoy the next Mets victory.

The staff really tends to your every need without becoming a nuisance by constantly asking if they can get you anything. If you come to eat, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Whether it’s their classic burger, baby back ribs or pecan crusted catfish, you won’t be disappointed by the combination of flavors, textures or portion size. Personally, I recommend the coconut shrimp appetizer followed by the open-faced steak sandwich

The Cornerstone is a relaxing place to catch up with friends, bring a family or simply try a new bar.

That is, until you go on a Friday or Saturday night. On any given weekend night there’s a DJ that sets up and spins usual club-crowd favorites across a number of genres (hip hop, R&B, pop, etc.) But, the music isn’t the only thing that takes you away from the lush Mississippi delta. On these nights, as soon as the DJ is set up and the crowd starts shuffling in, you are transported from jazz night in New Orleans to spring break in Cancun.

Scantily-clad ladies (even in the dead of winter) and gel-haired guys all doused in the fragrance of the month grinding away to an ear-shattering bass that still hasn’t cleared DJ Kool’s throat. All the makings of a frat party without the required keg of cheap beer (Natural Light, PBR, whatever watered down ale you like).

Don’t get me wrong. The Cornerstone is a great place for a night out in a laid-back atmosphere to grab some dinner, have a few drinks, watch a game, and maybe even meet someone new. But once you see the DJ starting to set up, grab your check, tip your waitress and head for your car.

The Cornerstone Restaurant
84 Broadway
Hillsdale
(201) 666-8688
http://www.thecornerstonenj.com/

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