Kowal’s Tavern

one of the few dives left. Beer is sometimes flat, don’t know if its the way they clean their glasses or the lines. Last time in beer was served in a plastic cup. ordered a shot of jack and that too was in a plastic thimble like thing. bathrooms are pretty rough, save it and pee in the parking lot on the way out. Butch would not be happy.

Great place to just hang out and relax… great local bands, usually cover bands and my favorite bartenders in Rahway (really, the only reason I always come back)

We came by on a Saturday night, looking for a fun place to hang and have a few drinks. Walking in felt like we were headed to some kinda speakeasy or friends basement, as we came through the liquor store. If you park in the back lot, you enter the liquor store and then just behind the soda fridge is the door man and entrance. The cover band was loud but good, and the place was crowded with what seemed to be an easy going mainly local crowd. We found a few seats and admired the giant hammerhead on the ceiling. Cover band called two 5ths crazy was pretty good as were the drinks. $ 3 Yuengeling bottles and $ 5 Vodka drinks. We’ll definitely be back!

Kowal’s.or Butch Kowal’s is a dive in the heart of Rahway. There’s live music here from time to time, one band in particular is called Can’t Slow Down and one of my buddies is in it! Check them out.
Other than that, Butch’s is a solid spot to grab a beer and watch some sports and hang with friends. Prices are fair and there’s a few days where they hook you up with dollar drafts. There’s a liquor store attached so you can buy beer, wine or spirits up til 10pm, beer and wine only after.
The bathrooms are slightly scary, and if you’re a tall gal, you will hover over the door for the toilet, so you’ll still feel like you’re peeing in public. This is a dive, remember, no cushy amenities. The bartenders are all super hot and friendly. My favorite days to go are Wednesdays and Saturdays. Sundays there’s free hot dogs and or other food during any game that may be going on.