An American Pub for American Pickers

The missus is a big fan of that American Pickers show. Why, I don't know, but I'm sure the answer lies in some back chapter of the book "Understanding Women."

From what little I've seen of the show, two guys ride around the country looking for other people's junk. They try to haggle with the owners, many of them reluctant to part with their junk, in the hopes of making a profit on stuff that has been lying around collecting dust in some old barn. Reminds me of a sign I saw in an antiques store in Frenchtown: We Buy Junk and Sell Antiques. I don't get the attraction, but to each his own, I suppose.

Gregg Hinlicky

Anyway, last week, I met NJ Brew magazine publisher Gregg Hinlicky in the Freehold Court Jester Pub. The three-story, narrow (and very comfortable) pub is actually the former Freehold Public Library. Having been to and reviewed the Court Jester in Matawan, another place where books--along with exceptional beers-- seem to be a theme, I can't say I was surprised. And Henry, the barman, knew his beers, which makes for an even better beer nut experience.

While Gregg and I discussed magazine issues of great moment with great beers in front of us, my eyes were drawn to some of the bric-a-brac on the walls of the Freehold place. I immediately thought that those American Picker guys would freak in this place. Check out some of these pics:

While I am not all that drawn to "picking," there is something about an old pub that simply resonates in my soul, and this pub--and its bric-a-brac-- made that happen. And there was no sign of dust on any of these signs.

It's a great place to quaff and eat, and it has a pretty impressive collection of craft beer--31 choices to be precise. It is, in my humble opinion, a throwback bar that will make you feel very comfortable. There is street parking as well as parking around back. There is alos patio dining available, weather permitting.

Watch your step as you enter the Men's Room so you don't trip into it as I did. And don't be surprised if you see Mike and Frank nosing around in the place. Probably won't be a major pick for them, as I doubt anything on the walls is for sale. But at least they can get good beer and good food.

Cheers! The PubScout