Clydz Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in New Brunswick, NJ
Clydz
55 Paterson Street
New Brunswick, NJ
⭐ Clydz Restaurant Review – New Brunswick, NJ
Clydz has been a fixture in downtown New Brunswick for more than two decades, known primarily for its craft cocktail program and eclectic American menu. The restaurant was founded by local hospitality veterans who envisioned a space that blended a speakeasy-style bar with a creative kitchen.
🍽️ Food: Cuisine, Quality & Signature Dishes
Clydz serves New American cuisine with global influences. The culinary style leans toward creative, technique-driven comfort food rather than minimalist or haute cuisine.
Style & Preparation
- Emphasis on house-made sauces, reductions, and garnishes
- Seasonal specials that rotate based on availability
- A mix of classic proteins (steak, chicken, seafood) and more adventurous options
- Not specifically organic or farm-to-table, but ingredients are generally fresh and well-prepared
Signature Dishes Often Associated With Clydz
- Wild game appetizers (a long-standing hallmark)
- Creative martini pairings with small plates
- Seafood entrées with bold sauces
- House-made desserts that complement the cocktail menu
The food quality is consistently solid, with dishes that favor richness, layered flavors, and generous portions.
🌆 Ambiance & Atmosphere
Clydz is known for its underground, speakeasy-inspired vibe. The décor blends dim lighting, vintage accents, and a slightly eclectic, lounge-like aesthetic.
Ambiance Highlights
- Décor: Moody lighting, retro touches, bar-centric layout
- Vibe: Cozy, intimate, slightly quirky
- Noise Level: Moderate to lively, especially near the bar
- Table Spacing: Comfortable but not spacious—best suited for couples or small groups
- Scenic Views: None; the restaurant is located below street level
- Music: Background lounge or contemporary music at a low-to-moderate volume
- Overall Feel: A mix of casual, slightly upscale, and cocktail-lounge chic
If you enjoy atmospheric, dimly lit dining rooms, Clydz delivers.
🤝 Service
Service at Clydz is:
- Welcoming and personable
- Knowledgeable about cocktails, especially the martini list
- Consistent, though peak hours can stretch wait times
- Attentive without being intrusive
Staffing levels are usually solid, and the bar team is particularly strong.
🍸 Other Factors
Alcohol & Bar Program
- One of the best-known martini menus in New Brunswick
- Creative cocktails with house infusions and seasonal ingredients
- Full bar with wine and beer options
Child-Friendly?
Not especially. The dim lighting, bar-forward atmosphere, and menu style make it better suited for adults.
Recommended For
- Romantyic date nights
- Cocktail lovers
- Small group dinners
- Pre-show dining before State Theatre or George Street Playhouse
Not Recommended For
- Families with young children
- Large, loud groups
- Diners seeking bright, airy spaces
- Guests who prefer traditional or minimalist cuisine
Parking
Street parking and nearby garages
Dress Code
- Smart casual
- Guests often dress slightly upscale for evening visits
Private Parties
- Private dining options available for small-to-medium groups
- Cocktail-focused events are a strong fit
- Reservations required well in advance
✅ What I Like About Clydz
- One of the most distinctive atmospheres in New Brunswick
- A cocktail program that genuinely stands out
- A menu that balances comfort food with creative twists
- A great option for date nights or pre-theatre evenings
⭐ What Sets Clydz Apart
Clydz stands out because it offers something few New Brunswick restaurants do:
A cocktail driven dining experience with a moody, speakeasy-style ambiance and a menu that embraces creativity without becoming pretentious.
In a city filled with student-friendly eateries and modern chains, Clydz remains a character-rich original.
Updated: December 2025
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