Ready for some bar hopping, I caught up with a friend in Jersey City one night. Our first stop was The Archer for a few cocktails. The place is fairly intimate with a few tables and booths lined along the narrow space. It was dim and rustic, and I liked that.
We looked over the cocktail menu where you’ll find a small selection of their signature drinks. We went with the Penang Cooler and New Orleans Buck. Both cocktails were nice and refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness.
I had to check out the food menu. I was told about the game meats that are featured in most of their dishes. The Venison Cheesesteak caught my eye. It had 17 spice onions, tangy relish, and Deer Creek cheddar on a pretzel baguette. I was worried that it would be too gamey, but that was not the case. It had a nice kick too.
My vegetarian friend went with the Archer Spring Grilled Cheese and enjoyed it. It had cave aged Gruyere, Raclette, asparagus, and braised mustard leeks on a pumpernickel rye swirl.
We decided to order one last round of drinks before moving on to the next bar. The 40 Winks sounded good to me – made with Blanco tequila, mezcal, campari, grapefruit, lime, simple syrup, strawberry-jalapeno jam, and soda.
Well at least it sounded good. It was not my cup of tea. The spice and tequila did not go well together. It tasted like old leather. I still drank it. I witnessed the woman next to me return it. Yea, not so good. I’ll try a different cocktail next time!
I enjoyed the cocktails and food at The Archer. Service was fine. I would definitely return to try the other signature drinks and bar fare. I really liked the ambiance as well.
The Archer
176 Newark Ave
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 309-1090
Website