Sip Savor & Stay Awhile

BY BRENDA HAMLET

Monmouth and Ocean Counties offer more than beaches—they’re home to intimate lounge bars with great ambiance, craft cocktails, and local flavor. Whether you want a quiet chat or a cozy nightcap, these hidden gems invite you to unwind.

FREEHOLD

The Living Room at the American Hotel {18-20 East Main Street; 732-431-3220; americanhotelnj.com} Step into timeless charm at this historic landmark, where early evenings unfold in The Living Room, a warm, inviting lounge nestled just off the main lobby. Sink into cushy seating beside the heritage fireplace, which crackles to life from Thanksgiving through March, casting a golden glow across the room. The double-sided bar boasts a full selection of spirits, curated wines, and local craft beers, with generous happy hour specials offered Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 pm. Pair your drink with bar bites like sliders, BBQ ribs, or fresh selections from the raw bar. During the holiday season, the lobby transforms into a festive family-style wonderland, complete with a lavish brunch buffet and cheerful visits from Santa Claus. (Drinks $4-8, small bites $8-10)

SEA BRIGHT

The DRIFTHOUSE Fireplace Lounge {1485 Ocean Avenue; 732-530-9760; drifthousenj.com} Step into the warmth and elegance of a country manor by the sea. The granite and stone wood-burning fireplace invites guests to unwind, nestled into leather barrel chairs or velvet sofas with sweeping views of the Shrewsbury River and Atlantic sunsets. The ambiance is intimate with low lighting, curated mood music, and tables set with leather wingbacks for fireside dining. Sip on inventive martinis like pumpkin spice, key lime, cucumber, or kiwi while savoring a bite from their elevated bar menu, which includes sushi and maki rolls, sashimi, raw bar selections, and crispy calamari, or try one of their delicious lobster specials. Happy Hour at the bar, Tuesday to Sunday from 4-7 pm (Cocktails $18, small plates $11-30).