My friend suggested this spot, I saw the reviews and pics and was looking forward to the onion ring tower. The place has a chill bar vibe. Started with the Gourmet Breaded Onion Ring Tower which was nice and crispy, a lil burnt but still tasted good with their zesty sauce. I also got the Obal's Classic burger with bacon with side of bbq and honey mustard sauce. The burger was great and the bacon was crispy and def enhanced the burger. Honey mustard sauce was good with fries. Overall had a good experience and they seem to have interesting weekly specials. * Street parking * Get bacon with the burger or on anything read more

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Went for the barbecue cooked on the grill outside and live music. Smoke bbq wings were well seasoned and the portion was shareable. Attentive staff Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay only white wine Outdoor dining Dive Bar read more

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Been coming for years for their awesome ribs. Went tonight and were mortified to learn they changed their recipe. Two words - Go back. The ribs were dry and tasted like they were dipped in a 100lb drum of salt. Staff is great but wtf? We hardly ate two orders and instead of at least taking one off, they gave us a drink chip. Cmon. read more

Obal's Inn - awful, dry, salty new ribs. - Barbeque Near Me - Bloomfield, New Jersey

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Great place, open late, molly is good. They occasionally have live bands. Looks like the place has been around forever.

Been going to Obals for 30 years. We love going for ribs. Once a week they made the best ribs. Went last night, the ribs were awful!! The sauce was awful, the meat was tough and didn't fall off the bone. Just terrible!!! read more

Good food cold beer friendly service early happy hour weekday starts at 2:00 till 5:00

Great for live music on Wednesdays! Mostly low-key local performers and so much talent. Many great local musicians hang out on Wednesdays and jam with the listed act. read more

Went here on Thursday for trivia night and was very impressed. The place has great food and service. We were greeted upon entrance and sat less then 5 minutes later. Good advice if you plan to come on a Thursday is to go by 7PM to be able to get a table. We had the onion tower which was very good and tasty. The mac and cheese bites were served with ranch and too perfection! Not to cheesy and just the right crunch. The nachos were very filling and tasty however a bit over salted. I asked for a mai tai but they offered me a road runner which was just as tasty and sweet. I'm a sweet cocktail type of girl so it worked. I def would come again. read more

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Family wanted an authentic St Pat day meal, and I didn't want to get ripped off or fend off the too happy celebrants so we headed to Obal's early for lunch. Their StPat menu is simple. Corned beef cabbage sandwich or AYCE platters. At $16 for the platter option and $17 pitcher of beers, we were all happy. Also $6 guinesses and $17 beer pitchers (limited but Labatts was available, my choice). Good service, multiple folks checked in often to see if we needed anything and more platters. Me being the glutton, obviously got my money's worth ;) Got to witness the bagpipe band (2 pipers and drumer), celebrated with the locals (we got hats and necklaces), seated right away in the booths (also back room and outside tables were available). Family friendly, full of locals, good kitchen and decent taps at good prices. While we didn't look Irish, we were welcomed as one at Obal's. We had a good StPat's celebration here. We will be back. read more

Obals is the true definition of a town bar. They have a jukebox you can play music on which is always a good time. The ribs were great. I prefer more of a dry rub but they were solid. The fries are amazing. Fresh cut. I also have had the hot dog which is good as well. The onion rings are also very good. They always have a cider on tap which is always important for me. The bartenders are always really nice and attentive. read more

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Obal's falls into a rare category that other bars either try, only to miss the mark. The mark, is that of a quintessential institution onto itself without compare; as only time can create everything that you'll see, hear, and taste. As their signature offering is as damn good now as when I first remember it being recommended to me over 20 years ago, ordered with 'sun fries' and a side of horseradish sauce, that has without fail, has kicked my ass, blowing out my nasal cavities to blurt out loud, 'WAOH!!!' As you take another slug from that beautiful frosty mug. And if you're here and not see it. It's only because you can't. You won't. And you never will. I'm Fortunate. I do. read more

Jessica was extremely rude on a Sunday afternoon. She only seems to serve friends and family. Not a good experience.

I had heard that a night at Obal's was always a blast, and I had been meaning to check it out for quite some time. I finally made it there to see a friend play some incredible music in the bar's spacious outdoor area. The place was packed with supporters there to hear some tunes, so the service was a tad slow, and the fact that the server needed to continually run inside did not help. Regardless, everything else about the place was charming. It was casual, welcoming, and full of friendly folks just there to have a great time. In addition, their food was surprisingly delicious. My grilled chicken sandwich was served on a long bakery-quality roll, and the chicken was lean and well-marinated. The sandwich was served with a side of fries, which could have been a bit crispier, but were still really delicious. I washed my meal down with some tequila and sodas, which were served in large plastic cups, making for generous portions. I am happy to declare that my evening at Obal's Inn certainly exceeded my expectations! read more

Best hole in the wall pub! Heavy pours and good food at great prices. My go-to place for a good time in a no frills, chill atmosphere.

Don't let the outside facade fool you - this place has amazing food!!! Your good ole Irish dive bar that has been in the same family for years. They have a pretty regular crowd of older gentleman but do not be intimidated to try this place out. They have a pool table and darts in the back room which is a plus, a good selection of craft beers plus your traditional domestics and imported and In the summer they have an outdoor patio. Rib Thursday's is a good deal, my husband enjoyed it but the grilled cheese with bacon jam blew my mind!! Deff check this place out if you enjoy a good dive. read more

Great food, great service, great vibe. Classic. Thick burgers and fried fries. Beer. Lots of seating

Great trivia. Fun, diverse crowd. Food is really good for bar food. A lot of fun rotating specials. The drinks are good but they sometimes charge you for more or the wrong price accidentally bc they just keep manual tally of checks just strewn around behind the bar rather than a POS system. read more

I've gone to obals for about a decade with friends and family. It was a diverse neighborhood bar where all were once welcome. Sadly the ownership change a few years back led to an environment that when the owners enter the bar many people start booking their Ubers. The post Covid era with new owners has many selecting new places to frequent. Most bar owners are welcoming, get to know their clientele, and appreciate those that frequent their business. Unfortunately these owners find a reason to dislike and be rude to almost anyone that doesn't look like them or is under the age of 45, thankfully for me l am in this category (sarcasm). A few weeks back I sat in a booth where I heard the owners wife speak with immense judgement and disgustingly about true supporters of their business and long time regulars. It was downright hateful. I personally decided I could not return after hearing this. Perhaps the owners should consider selling if they hate 90% of the people that walk through their doors. Or of not maybe smile once in a while and actually greet customers. Cheers for the great meals, good music and great times I had there. Sad it's the end of an era on broad street in Bloomfield. I walked in to OCI the next weekend and happened upon many familiar faces just down the street who felt just like I do. read more

I would highly recommend this establishment, everything is great service, atmosphere (local hole/dive bar) Food is amazing. Go have fun!! read more

Great local bar. The staff is great. The food is always todos. The crowd is mixed - lots of regulars. Also a fun time. read more

Burgers were excellent. But tbh, we went for the ribs. The ribs we read about in the paper as maybe the best ribs in NJ. But we didn't know it's ribs on Thursdays - with trivia night. We hung out with about 7 guys and got to play hand shuffleboard and watch the World Series. Our servers were incredibly patient and fun and gave great advice. We dominated some wings (excellent) and nachos and had at least 2 of the large pretzels. All of us had burgers and they had nice char to them. Fries solid. Nice beer selection. Outdoor patio if you need it. Excellent place to watch the game and hang with the boys. read more

Absolutely nothing fancy when you walk in, but hey, I'm not one to snub a dive bar( especially one with great food) The interior is time worn, looking much like it was the original decor from 1961. The place is comfy and kitschy, with a bunch of regulars hanging at the bar. We started out with the Garlic Shrimp special, which Megan our server/ bartender proudly told us was served with Gencarellis bread, imported freshly from across the street. We also had Fried Clams and Buffalo Wings. All were really good! The pulled pork sandwich was good enough but not a standout. The real winner was the Hanger Steak special ($20). A nice sized portion of tender chunks of beef bathed in a aromatic Chimmichurri Sauce. Not sure why I waited so long to check this place out but I can't wait to go back! read more

Good bar. Casual atmosphere. Definitely full of their regulars but don't let that stop you from going in and making this your regular spot too. Plenty of TVs throughout to catch a game but my favorite is the gameroom in the back. For $1 I'm quarters you can play a round of pool or checkout both the darts and shuffleboard for free. Outside seating is available too during the warmer months. Definitely pop in and grab a drink especially if you live in the neighborhood. read more

Obal's Inn - Barbeque Near Me - Bloomfield, New Jersey

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What a magnificent, old school dive bar. Fantastic food, great beer, wonderful staff, perfect atmosphere. Highly recommended!

Great wings! We love the service here, you can sit at the bar or grab a booth. You can host events here or just meet up with your friends. It has that great local community bar feel. Local brews and cocktails-I heard their brunch is amazing but we have yet to stop in during the day! Next time you are in town you should check it out! read more

Great Family... to start with! I'm soo happy to see all the amazing reviews, from the next generation! Its the place where you can go and always feel comfortable. Nothing but good memories read more

I wasn't expecting much from what I assumed was an old mans bar, but I should remember what they say about people who assume. The spinach salad was so good that I was sorry I shared it with my husband. I had a cheeseburger that was one of the best I've had in recent memory, cooked to a perfect, juicy medium-rare and sided by crisps, delicious fries. My husband had the chicken cutlet sandwich, and I'm assuming it was good because he cleaned his plate. They have a nice selection of craft beers, which aren't overpriced, and a specialty drinks menu where none of the cocktails are over $10. The waitstaff is young, friendly, helpful, and lively. As for the old mans bar vibe, come 9pm, the crowd started to shift over to the young and hip. I'm definitely coming back read more

My significant other and I have been to Obal's half a dozen times. We enjoy it because it's different. We are not drinkers but we enjoy the food which is hamburgers, sandwiches and salads. The service is friendly and the prices are reasonable. We love eating outside in the warm weather. It's a fun atmosphere! read more

What can I say all school charm grade food?. bacon burger was a beast! Hand Cut fries get them well done delicious and ribeye sandwich. Terrific. Don't forget that great slaw.. our bartender, Heather was knowledgeable and friendly read more

Obal's Inn - Bacon burger hand cut fries - Barbeque Near Me - Bloomfield, New Jersey

This is a good local spot to drink and eat. They have great beers on tap and a big selection of Irish whiskey and everything else. We had the wing dings and ribs. Both were really good. We went on a Thursday at 530 pm and it was not packed , YET. After 6 people started pouring in and it was busy, but still got great service. Especially from the bartender. She was busy... but she took car of us at our table . Will be returning at least once a month coz I live in the area and the people that frequent this place are awesome . read more

Hey on the Beef their Chef is all about seriously good food. Was at Obal's this weekend who can make Flank Steak like that.... Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, and/or Special Recipe beyond my mother's table. Not a flaw in the meat.....PPS best T Bone which at one time serviced on the menu. You got to live in Canada to get it that healthy.. Good news I hope I hope...... read more

Obal's Inn - Barbeque Near Me - Bloomfield, New Jersey

This is hands down my favorite neighborhood pub. The bae and I stumbled upon this place on a rainy night just to get out and try something different... this is it. They have ribs and trivia Thursdays which is super fun, bartenders are heavy handed pourers, and the food at this place is actually quite good (I was shocketh). I love this place for a fun night out with the girls, or a chill date night with the beaux. read more

Since moving to Bloomfield 5 years ago, Obal's has been the only place I go to have a drink. Everyone is the nicest and it's top notch bar food. The newly decorated outdoor space was the missing touch to my favorite bar. read more

If you're looking for a dive bar with a laid back atmosphere, cheap drinks and good bar food then come here. It's perfect for what it's meant to be! The food always hits the spot and if you're into ribs then you should be coming on Weds or Thurs for their rib special! But you really can't go wrong with anything...good bar pie, fried Mac and cheese bites, fried pickles, chicken sandwiches, wings are all great. They also have shuffleboard in the back room which is a bonus to me! I've never been here too late so I can't say if they get crowded on weekend nights but whenever I've gone there's never an issue with getting a spot at the bar. read more

Great local spot. No airs and graces - it's basic and that's just fine and dandy. Good food, good booze and good people. As long as you understand this and you are respectful, then you will have a good time. It's a great place for everyone - I go here frequently with my family. read more

Arrived on a Friday afternoon to a long darkish bar filled with old men watching soap operas and then old westerns. To be specific it was General Hospital. History buffs will enjoy the all wooden phone booths just past the sign for "telephones, ladies, and mens restrooms." The bartender was friendly and served us some cold brews with a smile. We stayed for 2 each then headed on our way. Yes, there is a digital jukebox but we dare not interrupt GH or the westerns. Not a place we'd feel compelled to come back to but glad we stopped in and visited once. read more

I've been here well over a dozen times and for one reason only: the $10 baby back ribs on Wednesday night. They run the special on Wednesday and Thursday, but go on Wednesday. The ribs tend to be a little more dry on Thursday. The service has always been friendly, although they seem to only have one server on Wed. and Thurs. nights so if the place is packed for ribs (which I've only seen once or twice) be prepared to wait a little. As for what to get with the ribs: sweet potato fries. read more

Amazing food ! Amazing and kind services and strong drinks ! We come every week on thursday for trivia night ! Its a blast and the place gets packed ! Come out and have the best time and be sure to try out the sunday brunch , they post on instagram for weekly menu specials this place is the best local spot read more

We will be back! I was told about this place by a waitress in a diner in Union. Ribs were delicious! We brought friends visiting us from Wales and they were impressed with the food and the casual atmosphere. You can eat the ribs with a fork. read more

Obal's Inn - We will be back! - Barbeque Near Me - Bloomfield, New Jersey

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Excellent prices and food. Cup/bowl of "soup of the day" Italian Wedding $3/$4. Teriyaki Honey Garlic chicken wings with blue cheese $8. Fried zucchini sticks, $6.25?, were surprisingly my favorite of the 3. A pint of Yeungling Octoberfest was great, especially for $3. Rib special available on Weds/Thurs nights. Probably more than 10 other premium beers on tap, as well as Budweiser. Bottled/canned beer available and full liquor. Several flat screen TVs, a jukebox, pool table and shuffleboard table. Limited street parking, inattentive service and "local crowd" keep me from rating Obal's 5 stars. read more