From the team behind The Dead Rabbit, the world’s most awarded Irish bar, The Life of Reilly is Jersey’s most luxurious speakeasy. Hidden away in the basement of San Patricio, an Irish and Mexican cantina, it’s an ode to elegance, indulgence and maybe even a little excess. Located just steps from Grove St. PATH station, The Life of Reilly is perfectly placed for after-work drinks—or a late-night that rolls into your morning.
Their list of eight seasonal cocktails changes regularly (pro tip: check their IG page for the latest), since they’re always inspired by Jersey’s best ingredients. Fruits like concord grapes and yuzu, goat’s milk and more come from local farms; chamomile, black walnut leaves, magnolia blossoms, rosehips and other plants are foraged by the team themselves.
Seasonal menus made for exploring
Try a martini made with Irish and Mexican gins and dry vermouth built on spruce, juniper, coriander, cherry bark, wormwood and centaury, finished with a briny, floral note from magnolia blossom and apricot eau de vie. Or go for a classic, perfect pour of Guinness. (The team swears they’ll never open a spot where you can’t get one.) If you’re in the mood for something else, just let the bartender know and they’ll mix up something special, just for you.
There’s always free Kerrygold buttered popcorn as a bar snack, but if you get hungrier as the night goes on, expect a menu in keeping with the luxurious vibes. Kaluga caviar with blinis, crème fraîche and chives come with a side of crispy potato chips, and beef carpaccio is paired with smoked paprika, shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, peppery arugula and a lemon vinaigrette. For dessert, churros with Irish whiskey caramel and Mexican chocolate represent San Patricio’s Irish and Italian heritage.