Mountain Rest

A totally out of the way place. You have to either know it’s here or encounter it while you are lost. I first heard of The Mountain Rest when the Star Ledger ran a series on the best bars in New Jersey. After thousands of votes, this was one of the ten finalists. As it happened, I rather suddenly found myself living within a few miles, shortly after that series appeared. My first attempt to visit here, I was surprised to find it closed on a Tuesday evening. Apparently they are only open on weekends.
The atmosphere is genuine dive bar, but I mean that as a compliment. On nice weekend afternoons you get more of the feel of a house party, than a bar. Most of the patrons tend to be hanging on the porch, or in the outside area picnic table area. A total party atmosphere. A live band is usually on the menu. As far as the food, I can’t comment, but I’ve heard mixed opinions.
The bartenders are curt and efficient. They aren’t there to chat with you, but if you’ve been there more than once, they remember your name and your preferred drink and greet you with a quick smile. And if you get sloppy drunk they will cut you off in an instant. They are no nonsense.
Bikers are welcome, and nice Sunday afternoons draw them from all over. It seems to be a road trip destination. There is usually entertainment, everything from a guy or gal with a guitar, to full bands, mostly country, blues and 70’s rock.
The place seems to be an institution in West Milford. Since I started regularly visiting, I’ve met numerous 40 and 50 somethings who remember coming here with their dad when they were kids.
It has a nice patio, where the band usually sets up in good weather, horseshoe pits and even a walk up window where you can order drinks from the bar.
The Mountain Rest has a totally unique vibe and that vibe makes it a must go place if you are into seeking out real New Jersey.

This is a very good dive bar. I mean that as a compliment. The beverage and food choices are very basic. The location is a little out of the way and hard to find. I like when they get live bands.

Heard through the grapevine the Mountain Rest has reopened. I will check it out this weekend and let you all know.

Best place around! Great music, food & bar… it always feels like home when you go there!