Popular New Jersey Patriotic Restaurant and Bar Closes Suddenly

Running a restaurant in New Jersey is not for the faint of heart. It might look glamorous when you’re sipping a cocktail or grabbing pasta, but behind that kitchen door, it is a constant hustle.

Rising Costs Hitting New Jersey Restaurants Hard

Let’s start with the obvious. Everything costs more. Food prices, utilities, insurance, rent, and property taxes. New Jersey property taxes alone are enough to make any small business owner sweat. When the price of chicken, beef, or even cooking oil jumps, restaurants have two choices. Raise menu prices and risk losing customers, or absorb the hit and shrink profits.

And customers notice. People are watching their own budgets too. If a burger that used to be 14 dollars is suddenly 19, diners start questioning whether they’ll eat out at all.

Staffing Challenges in the NJ Restaurant Industry

Finding reliable staff is another major struggle. Owners are competing with other restaurants, retail jobs, and even gig work. Wages have gone up, which is great for workers, but it adds another layer of pressure for business owners trying to stay profitable.

The first time I stepped into this Monmouth County bar and restaurant, I was fascinated. There was clearly a lot of history here. The building was erected in 1868 as First Presbyterian Church on Broad Street in Keyport.

After its life as a church, the space was used by other congregations like the Christian Science Society, and later became a restaurant called Trinity.

In 2016, Old Glory Kitchen + Spirits launched with a patriotic vision. The interior would be all about the red, white, and blue, and the cuisine would feature spotlight American classics.

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In the summer, the outdoor patio was a prime spot to grab a bite and enjoy a cocktail. The last time I visited, there was a big celebration for a local man returning from service overseas. About 50 people attended, and the backdrop couldn't have been more perfect for the occasion. It's clear that Old Glory is a special place.

The message was posted on the eatery's official Facebook page.

A big thank you to the owners and staff at Old Glory for all the memories and meals. We will look forward to seeing you at McDonaugh's.