culinary adventures at Jockey Hollow

New Jersey Monthly recently released its annual list of the Top 25 Restaurants in New Jersey, and once again, Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen in Morristown, NJ made the cut. I have enjoyed and recommended many of them, but Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen (“JHBK”) stands out from the crowd. Part special occasion restaurant, part casually elegant neighborhood bar, JHBK strives to serve the community in all its food and drink needs — and a few wants.

photo by jenn kosar

JHBK actually consists of four distinct food and beverage experiences, and their permanent offerings are just the beginning. The restored Vail Mansion houses multiple concept spaces, each offering its own vibe while ensuring a consistent level of quality food and service. Regardless of how you choose to experience JHBK, you will feel owner Chris Cannon’s focus on seasonal, local food, paired with unique artisanal cocktails and an inspired, creative wine list. There’s a lot to explore at JHBK, so let’s get started.

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The Vail Bar at Jockey Hollow

First we visit the Vail Bar. Located behind the grand staircase, it has a speakeasy feel, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a post-dinner digestif. It is small, so plan ahead if you fancy a visit, and be sure to spend quality time at the bar watching the cocktail masters in action. Food is served at the Vail Bar, from bar appetizers to full entrees. The charcuterie and cheese boards are not to be missed, as are the seasonal flatbreads. Keep your eye out for any homemade Mediterranean-style dip: the baba ghanoush and hummus are both excellent.

photo by jenn kosar

The Oyster Bar at Jockey Hollow

Next up is the Oyster Bar. This is the most popular element of JHBK, for good reason. The atmosphere is cool and casual, full of easy conversation with friends and the spark of romance. There is quite literally a bit of electricity in the air, or maybe that’s just the glow of the wine, beer and cocktail list so extensive it needs an iPad. Oyster fans will enjoy first-come, first-served seating at the bar with a pretty view of those briny beauties. Raw bar is just the beginning; the menu has evolved to feature sharable tapas-style plates as well as charcuterie and traditional entrees. I’m loving the strong presence of local vegetables throughout the menu all year long. In the warmer weather, it is one of my favorite outdoor dining spots in the area.

photo by jenn kosar

The Dining Room at Jockey Hollow

The “crown jewel” of JHBK is the Dining Room. Located on the upper floors of the mansion, it is the fine dining experience within the multi-concept site. A lovely choice for a special occasion, a date night, or just a quiet dinner with friends and family, it is sophisticated without being stuffy. Guests are made to feel effortlessly comfortable as they relax in an elegant setting, reminiscent of a country estate.

The food changes seasonally, and the menu structure changes depending on the evening or your personal wishes. I always enjoy their in-house, handmade pasta dishes, and anything involving local, seasonal vegetables. You can choose a four- or six-course tasting menu with optional wine pairings any day of the week. Tuesday through Friday, the menu is available a la carte. For a really special treat, book the Chef’s Table for Two (select nights) for a tasting menu served at the heart of JHBK, the kitchen.

The Rathskeller at Jockey Hollow

Last we head downstairs to the Rathskeller. Formerly the location of the local jail, the Rathskeller is open Friday and Saturday nights as a Beer Hall. Food is served, drawing on the Oyster and Vail Bar menus, and the beer list keeps a brew-lover entertained all night. If you are not into beer, you can enjoy live entertainment on Friday nights with your cocktails and wine. It is often used for tasting events hosted at JHBK, or you can plan your own family-style feast for larger groups.

photo by jenn kosar

Delicious food, lovely service, and a “menu” of atmospheres to serve your every whim. All good reasons to visit JHBK, but it doesn’t stop there. JHBK regularly hosts special events focused on exploring unique wine and craft beer producers, seasonal foods, and the fun of food and beverage pairings. They are educational, lively, and full of good food and good people eager to enjoy life. Sign up for their mailing list and try one, I promise you will not be disappointed.

Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen

The Vail Mansion⋅110 South Street⋅Morristown, NJ⋅(973) 644-3180

book The Oyster Bar on OpenTable⋅book The Dining Room on OpenTable⋅book The Rathskeller on OpenTable⋅www.jockeyhollowbarandkitchen.com

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Jockey Hollow makes a lot of my top lists.  It is a rare restaurant in the area with a full bar for those times when you don’t want to BYO.  The multiple culinary options offer a unique date night experience, sometimes even two for one!

That’s my view. What’s your favorite part of the JHBK experience?

Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook for real-time dining out adventures.  My Dining Out board on Pinterest will give you a preview of where I’m heading next.  Hope to see you there!