Our favorite cocktail bar in Jersey City is back. On Friday, October 9 — The Junto Attic Bar will reopen to the public. Reservations at the speakeasy will be extremely limited (only 8 guests will be allowed at any given time) and there will be lots of social distancing involved.
“Much like how our country is reopening in phases, we would like to invite you to a series of unique stages revolving around what we love best: an enticing drink and delightful company,” reads the Junto’s website. “Now that we are allowed to welcome you safely back inside, we are pleased to present our second chapter: An Homage to the Cocktail Hour.”
Initially, The Junto will be open on Fridays only. Reservations must be made by emailing info@thejuntojc.com. Reservations are available for 6pm, 8pm, and 10pm. (They can be made for 2 to 8 people. Each visit lasts 90 minutes). Tickets are $50 per guest plus tax and gratuity. Each ticket includes a welcome libation, your choice of two cocktails from the Junto’s autumn menu, and a selection of complimentary snacks.
We attended the Junto’s friends & family night and were impressed not only by the cocktails and food, but by the overall experience. Although coronavirus Jersey City cases are low, we’re still living amidst a pandemic. As a result, The Junto staff have come up with some precautionary guidelines to keep everyone safe.
First, temperatures will be checked before entering the room. In addition, everyone is required to wear a mask. (As a side note: the staff were properly wearing their masks the entire time we were there). The Junto has various windows, which will be kept open. (You can even ask to be seated near a window). After each reservation, the staff will clean and disinfect the area before allowing the next round of guests to enter. Also, because music is kept low, there’s no screaming or shouting. It’s truly designed to be a relaxing, enjoyable experience.
As for the new menu, we loved the Whiskey Businesses, made with habanero-infused Bulleit rye whiskey, Ancho Reyes, cinnamon, lemon, and Angostura. It’s nicely balanced and offers a spicy aftertaste courtesy of the habanero-infused whiskey and Ancho Reyes chile liqueur.
The Screaming Viking is another whiskey-based drink we liked, made with Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey, Linie Aquavit, Palo Cortado Sherry, Cherry Heering, and ginger. The complimentary snacks were equally satisfying. We especially loved the soy glazed almonds and the venison jerky. The portions are meant to compliment to each cocktail.
The Junto is located at 68 Mercer Street directly above Franklin Social.
