The Couch Sessions

As an outdoor drinking and eating enthusiast, I find it highly important not to sacrifice ambiance just because I am forced off the rooftop and into a darkened dining room. Onieals, seated on the corner of 4th and Park in Hoboken, makes the best of the colder months spent indoors by providing meals that stick to your ribs in an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

Enter through the front door and you will find yourself standing in the bar area. Oddly enough I've only been to Onieals on Sundays, but I have found the crowd to be light enough to hang out comfortably with a group, but not to be mistaken for a quiet spot. Friends and family can be found seated at high top tables while others make use of the standing room to watch the games and snack on bar munchies with friends.

Photo Courtesy of Onieals' Website

Bread Basket with Shredded Parmigiana and Olive Oil

Venture to the back of the establishment to find the dining room. I've encountered a wait here but it makes for a great opportunity to grab a pre-dinner cocktail by the bar. Once you get seated and settled, you can munch on some soft bread while exploring their lengthy menu filled with appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta dishes and a diverse selection of additional entrées.

Chicken Parmigiana

The Chicken Parmigiana is one of the largest chicken breasts I have ever been served. It takes up most of the space of a very large plate and is pounded to the perfect thickness, allowing for a crunchy edge and juicy middle. It's sweet, savory, never soggy, and served over spaghetti.

Onieals' Fettuccini with Fresh Mozzarella

If you're seeking out a hearty pasta dish, Onieals' Fettuccini will fill you up with mushrooms, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil in a Marsala wine broth. On this particular occasion, my dining companion chose to top the dish off with fresh mozzarella, which is considered an add-on but said to be well worth it.

While polishing off your glass of wine or enjoying a warm after-dinner drink, this is the time to indulge in an ever-changing dessert menu that sometimes includes delectable treats like tiramisu, chocolate peanut butter pie, and New York style cheesecake.

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake

Aside from happy hour Monday through Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., you could potentially walk in on another one of their featured specials, like "Tini Tuesday" or "Wine Down Wednesday." Thursday through Sunday also offers the opportunity to take advantage of their late night menu as well as hours until 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Onieals is where you can briefly escape the craziness of Washington Street spots and enjoy a sporting event or hearty meal in a setting that still allows for conversation that doesn't include shouting directly into your company's ear.

Onieals Hoboken
343 Park Avenue
Hoboken, NJ 07o3o