It would be okay if a passerby on North Avenue confused Bar Americana in Downtown Cranford with a trendy new spot in Jersey City or Hoboken. Its walls are lined with flat screen TVs, its bar glows an ultra-cool blue and its backyard offers outdoor billiards. And, like its breathern in JC and Hoboken, it comes with a menu chock full of goodies that any foodie would swoon over. On its equally hip website, the owner of Bar Americana, Hector Alvarez, calls his establishment a contemporary authentic gastropub.
Glancing at its menu a number of items stand out…Guinness Beef Chili, Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos, Shrimp Po’ Boys and Lamb Burgers. Also notable, like nearly all Westfield Area joints, it’s family-friendly and comes with a children’s menu.
Across town on South Avenue, the new Thirsty Turtle is flexing its muscle by bragging about its brews. 20 plus beers will be on tap, including favorites from the Kane Brewing Company. Pretzel Burgers and “Ritz” Chicken Fingers look delicious. In addition, @DowntownCranford says the owner’s last name is Beers. That’s gotta be a good sign.
Bar Americana opens up in the former Cervantes of Spain location and the Thirsty Turtle takes the place of The Office.