The Low-Key New Jersey Restaurant Turning Steaks Into A Statewide Obsession

Tucked away in the charming town of Mount Arlington, New Jersey, sits a restaurant that has quietly become the talk of the state. Pub 199, located at 199 Howard Blvd, Mt Arlington, NJ 07856, is not your typical upscale steakhouse with white tablecloths and fancy menus.

Instead, this roomy, unpretentious spot has captured the hearts and appetites of locals and travelers alike with its incredible steaks, fresh seafood, and welcoming vibe. What makes Pub 199 so special is its ability to deliver high-quality food at prices that won’t empty your wallet, all while keeping the atmosphere fun and relaxed.

While other spots brag with neon signs, this low?key Jersey joint lets the steaks do the talking – massive cuts, sizzling flavor, and portions so bold they’ve sparked a statewide obsession. One bite and you’ll understand why locals whisper about it like it’s a secret too good to share.

Unbeatable Steak and Lobster Combos That Redefine Value

Picture this: a juicy porterhouse steak cooked exactly how you like it, paired with a succulent lobster tail, all landing on your table for around forty dollars. Pub 199 has mastered the art of delivering restaurant-quality surf and turf without the fine-dining price tag.

Guests rave about the generous portions, with steaks weighing in at over twelve ounces and lobster tails that are meaty and satisfying. While some diners note the steak could use more seasoning, the quality of the meat shines through, and A1 steak sauce is always available to add extra flavor.

The beauty of these combo meals lies in their simplicity and honesty. You won’t find fancy garnishes or complicated sauces here, just straightforward, delicious food that hits the spot every time.

Many regulars order their steak medium and pair it with sides like baked potatoes and steamed vegetables. The kitchen takes care to cook each steak to order, though a few reviews mention occasional inconsistencies with temperature.

What really sets Pub 199 apart is the value proposition. Finding a place where you can enjoy both premium steak and fresh lobster without breaking the bank is rare in New Jersey.

The restaurant has built a loyal following of customers who return time and again for these unbeatable deals. Families love bringing kids here because everyone can order something substantial without worrying about the bill.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, the steak and lobster combos at Pub 199 deliver satisfaction in every bite. The straightforward preparation lets the natural flavors of the meat and seafood shine, proving that you don’t need fancy techniques to create a memorable dining experience.

This approach has turned casual diners into devoted fans who spread the word across the state.

The Legendary Taxidermy Collection That Sparks Conversation

Walking into Pub 199 feels like entering a natural history museum crossed with a hunting lodge. The walls are adorned with an impressive collection of mounted animal heads and full-body taxidermy displays that include exotic creatures from around the world.

Giraffes, zebras, lions, buffalo, and countless fish specimens create a unique atmosphere that guests either absolutely love or find surprisingly quirky. Kids especially find themselves mesmerized by the displays, pointing out different animals and asking questions throughout their meal.

This distinctive decor choice has become one of Pub 199’s most recognizable features, setting it apart from every other restaurant in the area. The taxidermy isn’t just randomly placed; the collection has been thoughtfully arranged throughout the dining spaces, with fish dominating one section and land animals featured prominently in others.

Some reviewers joke that it’s definitely not the place to bring your vegan or animal-rights activist friends, but most guests appreciate the bold decorating decision.

The trophy-filled space creates a casual, conversation-starting environment that keeps the atmosphere lively and interesting. First-time visitors often spend their first few minutes simply looking around, taking in all the different specimens on display.

The collection ranges from common North American game to exotic African wildlife, showcasing incredible diversity. This visual feast adds an element of entertainment beyond just the food.

For many regulars, the taxidermy has become part of Pub 199’s charm and identity. The restaurant embraces this unique aesthetic fully, making no apologies for the bold decor choice.

It’s a refreshing departure from cookie-cutter restaurant designs and gives the space genuine character and personality that people remember long after their visit ends.

Fresh Seafood Selection That Rivals Coastal Restaurants

Even though Mount Arlington sits inland, Pub 199 has earned a stellar reputation for serving incredibly fresh seafood that tastes like it came straight from the ocean. The menu features an impressive variety including king crab legs, snow crab, steamers, mussels, and lobster prepared multiple ways.

Regulars particularly rave about the clam dishes, with many reviews recommending starting your meal with two dozen steamed clams as the perfect appetizer. The seafood arrives at your table hot, properly cooked, and bursting with natural flavor.

King crab legs have become one of the restaurant’s signature items, mentioned repeatedly in customer reviews as a must-order dish. The crab meat is sweet, tender, and comes out of the shell easily, indicating top-notch freshness.

Snow crab legs also make frequent appearances on tables throughout the dining room, piled high and served with melted butter. The kitchen knows exactly how to prepare each type of seafood to bring out its best qualities.

Mussels at Pub 199 come swimming in flavorful marinara sauce, though some diners note they appear to be frozen rather than fresh. The steamed clams, on the other hand, receive universal praise for their quality and taste.

Shrimp cocktail portions are generous, arriving with cocktail sauce that some guests enhance with extra horseradish for added kick. The calamari deserves special mention as many reviewers call it the best dish on the menu, arriving crispy on the outside and tender inside.

What makes the seafood program at Pub 199 so impressive is the commitment to quality at reasonable prices. You can enjoy a seafood feast without the coastal resort prices, making it accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions.

This combination of freshness, variety, and value has made Pub 199 a go-to destination for seafood lovers throughout New Jersey.

Cash-Friendly Pricing With Modern Payment Options

For years, Pub 199 operated as a strictly cash-only establishment, which became part of its local legend and sometimes posed challenges for unprepared diners. The restaurant kept an ATM machine on-site for customer convenience, but the cash-only policy remained firm.

However, recent changes under new ownership have modernized the payment system while still rewarding cash customers. The restaurant now accepts credit cards, making it much more accessible for everyone, but offers a five percent discount for guests who choose to pay with cash.

This smart approach gives customers flexibility while incentivizing cash payments that help the business save on credit card processing fees. The five percent discount might not sound like much, but when you’re feeding a family or group, those savings add up quickly.

Many regulars appreciate having the choice and plan accordingly, stopping at an ATM before arrival to take advantage of the discount. The policy strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modern convenience.

The pricing structure at Pub 199 remains one of its biggest draws regardless of payment method. Entrees are priced significantly lower than comparable restaurants in the area, especially considering the generous portion sizes.

A full meal with appetizers, entrees, and sides typically costs less than what you’d pay for just the main course at a traditional steakhouse. This value-oriented approach has helped build a devoted customer base that returns frequently.

The reasonable prices extend across the entire menu, from seafood to steaks to sandwiches. Beer prices are notably affordable, and the portions are so large that many diners end up taking leftovers home.

The restaurant proves that quality food doesn’t require premium prices, and this philosophy has resonated strongly with diners across New Jersey who appreciate getting more for their money without sacrificing taste or freshness.

Spacious Layout Perfect For Groups and Gatherings

Pub 199 boasts an impressively large footprint that can accommodate everyone from couples on date night to massive family gatherings and celebrations. The restaurant features multiple dining areas, each with its own character and atmosphere, plus a huge bar area near the entrance that serves as the social hub.

The spacious layout means you rarely feel cramped or rushed, even during peak dining hours. Tables are spread out comfortably, allowing for private conversations without feeling like you’re dining in your neighbor’s lap.

The bar area deserves special attention, equipped with dozens of televisions showing various sports games and events. This section buzzes with energy, especially during football season or major sporting events, creating a lively atmosphere that sports fans love.

The bar offers a full selection of beers at great prices, making it a popular spot for friends to gather before or after meals. Bartenders keep the drinks flowing and the conversation friendly.

For larger groups, Pub 199 offers the option to call ahead for parties of twenty or more, ensuring your group gets seated together without long waits. The staff handles big groups with impressive efficiency, getting food out hot and coordinating service so everyone eats at the same time.

Family reunions, birthday parties, and team celebrations happen here regularly because the space can handle the volume without compromising service quality.

An outdoor patio provides additional seating during pleasant weather, giving diners the option to enjoy their meals al fresco. The patio area is particularly popular during spring and summer months, offering a relaxed setting away from the indoor bustle.

Whether you prefer the energetic bar scene, the quieter dining rooms, or the fresh air of the patio, Pub 199 has a spot that fits your mood perfectly.

Live Music Weekends That Amp Up The Energy

Weekends at Pub 199 transform into something extra special when live musicians take the stage and fill the space with music. The restaurant features live performances that add another layer of entertainment to your dining experience, creating a festive atmosphere that gets people tapping their feet between bites.

The music setup is positioned near the entrance foyer, where the sound carries throughout much of the restaurant. While some noise-sensitive diners mention the volume can get pretty loud, most guests love the energetic vibe that live music brings to the evening.

The live music program showcases various local artists and bands, offering different styles and genres depending on the night. This variety keeps the entertainment fresh and gives regulars something new to experience with each visit.

The performances typically run during dinner service on Friday and Saturday nights, turning an ordinary meal into a mini-concert experience. Couples often make a date night out of it, enjoying dinner and music in one convenient location.

Families with older kids appreciate the lively atmosphere, though those seeking a quiet, intimate dinner might prefer visiting during weekday evenings when the focus stays purely on the food. The music creates a party-like environment that encourages guests to linger longer, order another round of drinks, and fully embrace the social aspect of dining out.

Friends gathering for reunions or celebrations particularly enjoy having the soundtrack of live music enhancing their time together.

The combination of great food, reasonable prices, and live entertainment makes weekend visits to Pub 199 feel like getting multiple experiences in one outing. You’re not just going out to eat; you’re participating in a complete evening of fun that engages multiple senses and creates lasting memories beyond just the meal itself.

Portions So Big You’ll Need a Takeout Box

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects of Pub 199 in customer reviews is the absolutely massive portion sizes that leave diners amazed and satisfied. When your food arrives at the table, your first reaction might be shock at just how much food you’re about to tackle.

The restaurant doesn’t believe in skimpy servings; instead, they pile plates high with generous amounts of protein, sides, and accompaniments. Many guests report being unable to finish their meals and happily taking leftovers home for lunch the next day.

The porterhouse steaks alone are substantial, weighing in at over twelve ounces of quality beef. When you add a lobster tail or crab legs to your order, you’re looking at a truly impressive amount of food.

Side dishes like baked potatoes come out fully loaded and sized appropriately to match the large entrees. Even appetizers like shrimp cocktail arrive with more shrimp than you’d typically expect, making them perfect for sharing among the table.

This commitment to generous portions means Pub 199 delivers exceptional value for your dining dollar. You’re not paying steakhouse prices and leaving hungry; instead, you’re getting your money’s worth and then some.

The restaurant’s approach reflects old-school hospitality values where feeding guests well matters more than maximizing profit margins on every plate. Families especially appreciate this because kids can share meals or everyone leaves genuinely full and happy.

The fish sandwich gets special mention in reviews as being huge and incredibly affordable, making it a favorite among regulars who want a satisfying lunch without spending much. The crazy-big portions have become part of Pub 199’s reputation, with word spreading that you definitely get more than you bargained for when dining here.

Come hungry and prepare to be impressed by the sheer volume of delicious food heading your way.

Friendly Staff That Makes Everyone Feel Welcome

Great food only tells part of the story at Pub 199; the warm, attentive service from the staff completes the experience and keeps customers coming back. Servers like Adriana earn specific praise in reviews for being friendly, welcoming, and making guests feel like valued regulars even on their first visit.

The entire team seems to understand that hospitality means more than just delivering food; it’s about creating a comfortable environment where people want to spend their time and money.

The staff handles the challenges of a busy, large-scale restaurant with impressive grace and efficiency. Servers navigate the spacious dining rooms carrying those notoriously heavy plates with skill, checking on tables regularly without being intrusive.

When guests have questions about the menu or need recommendations, the staff provides helpful guidance based on what’s fresh and popular that day. They genuinely seem to care about ensuring each diner has a positive experience.

Attentiveness shines through particularly when dealing with large groups, which can be challenging in any restaurant setting. The Pub 199 team coordinates service so that big parties receive their meals at the same time, hot and properly prepared.

They accommodate special requests when possible and handle the inevitable complexity of splitting checks or processing multiple payment methods. This professionalism makes hosting celebrations here stress-free for party organizers.

The welcoming atmosphere starts the moment you walk through the door and continues throughout your entire visit. Staff members greet guests with genuine smiles, help navigate seating preferences, and create an environment that feels more like visiting a friend’s place than a commercial restaurant.

This personal touch transforms a simple meal into a truly enjoyable outing that people remember and recommend to others across New Jersey.

Convenient Location With Ample Parking

Finding Pub 199 couldn’t be easier, situated right on Howard Boulevard in Mount Arlington with excellent visibility and accessibility from major roads. The restaurant’s location at 199 Howard Blvd, Mt Arlington, NJ 07856 puts it within easy reach of communities throughout Morris County and beyond.

Whether you’re a local resident or traveling through the area, getting to Pub 199 involves straightforward navigation without complicated turns or confusing directions. The building itself is large and noticeable, so you won’t drive past wondering if you’ve found the right place.

Parking presents absolutely no challenge here, with a generous lot out front that accommodates plenty of vehicles. Even during peak dining hours on Friday and Saturday nights, finding a parking spot rarely requires circling or waiting.

This convenience factor matters more than people realize; nobody wants to start their dining experience frustrated by parking struggles. Families with young children particularly appreciate being able to park close to the entrance, minimizing the distance little legs need to walk.

The Mount Arlington location serves diners from surrounding towns including Roxbury, Landing, Hopatcong, and beyond, making it a regional destination rather than just a neighborhood spot. The central positioning within the area means reasonable drive times from multiple directions, whether you’re coming from Route 80, Route 46, or local roads.

This accessibility has helped build Pub 199’s reputation across a wide geographic area throughout New Jersey.

Operating hours run from noon until late evening most days, with slightly earlier closing on Sundays and Mondays. This schedule accommodates both lunch and dinner crowds, giving flexibility for when you want to visit.

The combination of easy-to-find location, abundant parking, and convenient hours removes all the typical barriers that might prevent someone from trying a new restaurant, making Pub 199 an obvious choice when hunger strikes.

New Ownership Breathing Fresh Life Into a Local Legend

Pub 199 has undergone exciting changes under new ownership that has invested in upgrading the restaurant while maintaining the core elements that made it beloved in the first place. Long-time customers notice improvements in food quality, service consistency, and overall atmosphere that signal a commitment to excellence.

The new management team has modernized certain aspects, like accepting credit cards, while preserving the unique character and value proposition that built the restaurant’s reputation. This careful balance of evolution and tradition shows respect for the establishment’s history while positioning it for future success.

Recent reviews specifically praise the new owners for breathing fresh life into the space and elevating the dining experience. Menu additions like the hot pastrami on rye have quickly become customer favorites, showing willingness to expand beyond the traditional steak and seafood offerings.

The kitchen seems more consistent in food preparation, with fewer complaints about cooking temperatures or quality issues. These improvements demonstrate that new ownership came in with a genuine plan to enhance rather than completely overhaul what was already working.

The physical space has seen upgrades and improvements that make it more inviting and comfortable for guests. Better lighting, updated decor elements, and general maintenance show attention to detail that customers notice and appreciate.

The environment feels more polished while retaining the casual, unpretentious vibe that makes Pub 199 accessible to everyone. Live music has been incorporated more regularly, adding entertainment value that draws larger crowds on weekends.

Customer feedback indicates strong approval of the direction new ownership has taken the restaurant. Regulars express relief that their favorite spot has been revitalized rather than ruined by change.

The improvements have attracted new customers while keeping loyal fans happy, which represents the best possible outcome when a beloved establishment changes hands. Pub 199’s future looks bright under leadership that clearly understands and values what makes this place special throughout New Jersey.