BAR #1 – BARNSBORO INN, NJ

They say, “you never forget your first.” Perhaps “they” were not referring to the oldest bars in each state when they said it…but who cares, it definitely applies in this case. The Barnsboro Inn in Sewell, NJ, was the beginning of my oldest bar quest in April of 2018. There was no particular reason why I started here. I just happened to be visiting my wife’s family on the east coast and decided that a bar quest was in order.

At the time of this writing, I have visited the oldest bars in 23 states plus DC. Of the 23 bars, I would have to say the Barnsboro Inn is right up there among my favorites. Established in 1776, there have been many changes and additions since that time. But, many parts still bear the look of 1776. The barkeep was not busy and even graciously gave me a tour of the place. It was a good blue-collar neighborhood. As you will discover, I don’t like fancy. Above all, I am looking for comfortable. Can a lone traveler wander into the tavern, sit down at the bar, and feel comfortable having a beer. If the answer is yes, then that bar is going to win me over. In the case of the Barnsboro Inn, no problem there. The Barnsboro Inn had it all. Good atmosphere, good bar food, friendly people, and the icing on the cake…PBR on tap. PBR in bottles/cans is solid, but the ultimate find in this quest is to discover PBR on tap. PBR on tap is the clearest sign that you are in a righteous bar worthy of my patronage. Needless to say, if you are anywhere close to Sewell, NJ, I highly recommend a stop at the Barnsboro Inn. PT