The Junto Attic Bar

68 Mercer St, Jersey City, NJ | @the.junto

“A penny saved is a penny earned,” said Benjamin Franklin. While you won’t stay true to his words at The Junto Attic Bar, you can celebrate his legacy there. In the fall of 1727, Benjamin Franklin and a group of friends founded the Junto Club and would meet weekly to discuss issues of morals, politics, and natural philosophy.

In homage to their group, Skopos hospitality created this vintage cocktail lounge that lives hidden above the nightlife of downtown Jersey City. It’s an intimate, candle-lit space that’s perfect for an evening conversation over very well-made tailored cocktails.

While they have a cocktail list that I’m sure is delectable, I’ve always opted for their dealers choice. It’s akin to a consultation with your bartender on what cocktail would serve you best that evening.

For instance, last time I was there I started the night with a Sazerac downstairs before heading up to the attic with a friend. Being in a tiki sort of mood, I asked about staying within the general flavor profile of the Sazerac, but going more tropical. I stuck to tiki with my second drink, but went in a funkier direction with some Rhum agricole and banana. I was obsessed with both drinks.

Choosing your drink doesn’t have to be as thought out as I made it. Their menu offers three basic building blocks – spirit, flavor, and glassware – with options to choose from. One of their talented bartenders can take it from there.

They operate on a first-come, first-served policy and only accept groups of four or less, so get a few friends together and head over early if you’re looking to skip the wait.