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Welcome To Great Notch Inn
Great Notch Inn, nestled at 400 US-46 in Woodland Park, NJ, is more than just a bar—it's a vibrant community hub. Known for its lively atmosphere, the Inn attracts locals and visitors alike with its engaging live music, particularly popular among motorcycle enthusiasts. Patrons often gather on the iconic front porch, sharing stories over cold beers and hearty meals featuring classic burgers and pizza. The legacy of the establishment, rooted in the 1950s, resonates with every visit, as guests connect with the welcoming owner, Richy, and each other. Here, history meets heart, making Great Notch Inn a beloved landmark.
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About
Great Notch Inn
Welcome to the Great Notch Inn, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of Woodland Park, NJ. This vibrant establishment at 400 US-46 has been a welcoming haven since the 1950s, when the surrounding road was nothing more than a dirt path. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and a rich history steeped in community spirit, the Great Notch Inn has become a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.
The warmth of this roadhouse is palpable, with friendly patrons and staff alike creating an ambiance that feels like home. As you step inside, you'll immediately sense the stories that fill the air, shared by the owner, Richy, and his family, who greet every guest with a smile and a cold beverage. This is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a place to forge connections over shared interests—especially among motorcycle enthusiasts who gather here on warm summer nights. Imagine hundreds of motorcycles lined up outside while live music wafts through the warm evening air—this is the experience that keeps guests coming back.
The Great Notch Inn is not just about the drinks; it’s about the vibrant activity that revolves around its front porch. Denise Kyles highlights the live local bands that give character to the Inn, making it the best spot to enjoy music and camaraderie. And if you're drawn to a lively atmosphere, on any given night, you may overhear exciting conversations about the next motorcycle run or a chili cook-off, all while enjoying the cool breeze and live tunes from seasoned musicians.
During your visit, don’t miss out on the menu options that complement the lively environment. The Great Notch Inn boasts classic bar fare with burgers, pizza, and refreshing drinks that satisfy hungry patrons after an evening filled with music and laughter. The atmosphere is a blend of nostalgia and grit, appealing to a diverse crowd from young bikers to seasoned locals looking for good times.
As one of New Jersey's iconic spots, known for its vibrant energy and rich tapestry of interactions, the Great Notch Inn melds the past with the present seamlessly. Whether you’re sitting on the porch reminiscing with old friends or making new memories, each visit promises a unique experience that resonates beyond just dining.
Next time you find yourself in Woodland Park, make it a point to stop by Great Notch Inn. You won’t just find a place to eat and drink; you’ll find a community that feels like family, complete with an ever-flowing tap of stories and laughter. As one satisfied patron put it, “When you stop by, make sure you tell Rich the (Clown) sent you!”
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ The best place around to hear great local bands. Friendly patrons and staff. Nice to hang on the inside or out on the front porch. ”
“ On a warms summers night, you see hundreds of motorcycles lined up outside & live music can be heard from the parking lot. The Beers are flowing, & conversations between liked minded about bikes, and the next motorcycle run or chili cook off take place on the front porch. People gather to meet old friends & make new ones. Some have gotten married here because they met at “The Notch” Famous musicians from Jersey have been here to film their music videos, and even a pirogi commercial was filmed here! The Great notch inn has history, heart & Grit. Young & old stop by this road house to enjoy a beer on the porch, and make more memories. The owner Richy & his family will always greet you with a smile , a cold beverage, and share stories with you about their families Bar and how it got started in the 50’s. When 46 was nothing more then a dirt road! When you stop by, make sure you tell Rich the (Clown) sent you I’ll see you on the Porch ”
“ Fantastic old school bar! Cool atmosphere and people! Great time. ”
“ Favorite biker bar forever. Good friend on the harmonica celebrating his birthday bash. This place is a landmark known for good drinks, beer, burgers, pizza live entertainment. ”
“ Good country music last Sunday night would love to stop by again if I have a job close by... ”
“ Historic place in NJ! The last standing type “Roadhouse” around! WFMU had a remote broadcast. Two awesome bands rocked the house. Lots of people showed up and had a blast. Glad it’s still standing and hope it will for many more construction projects around it! It’s nice they added a back way to get in and out without going on Rt. 46. ”
“ Legendary old-school Jersey stop in what used to be a 10-year road construction project. Great Notch emerged with a new big parking lot and the same vibe! Live music, cash only, no real food other than the occasional snack. Friendly owners/bartenders are always working hard to make sure everyone has a good time. Standard dive bar drink selection with a local craft selection on draft (Ghost Hawk stout the last winter night we went - solid!). Don't miss the turn off or you will have to wind back around. It is possible to access from the road in the back and that's the way I usually go to avoid that tricky stretch of the route 46 raceway. Awesome live music starts around 9pm most nights - usually blues and Jersey rock. Bikers will feel at home. Crowd can be a bit older but also a rite of passage for MSU students. Great Notch forever! ”
“ Love this place. Every night they have a great band, music never disappoints. I can easily say the best spot around NNJ for music lovers -rock, blues, the good stuff- and friendly vibe! Don't let the bikes out front intimidate you! Go in! ”