March 2025: Boozy Jersey

Many Americans, including New Jerseyans, have been changing their relationship with alcohol in recent times. While the pandemic fueled a lot of at-home imbibing, mixology and even brewing, things have changed since then. In January, the surgeon general issued a new advisory on the link between alcohol and cancer risk, and called for the creation of a warning label on alcoholic drinks. Mocktails have emerged as a force in the hospitality industry; in July, we reported that New Jersey had entered the golden age of mocktails, with many of our top bars and restaurants offering delicious and creative nonalcoholic options.

Still, New Jersey’s bar and nightlife scenes remain vibrant. Getting out of the house to unwind means something different for everyone, whether it’s belting your heart out at a karaoke bar, having some delicious bites and drinks while taking in jazz, going on a date night to a speakeasy, or keeping things casual with friends at a brewery. Our March issue focuses on all that and more, giving you a flavor for everything New Jersey’s spirited scene has to offer, whether you’re looking to say “cheers” with a cocktail or a mocktail.