One of the most prominent dive bars in the Mile Square City is getting a reboot and a new concept, as the former Scotland Yard at 72 Hudson Street is undergoing a renovation and being converted into a British-inspired mixology spot.
After decades in business, Scotland Yard held a “Drink the Yard Dry” party in early May to close out their run. The basement bar, just a block from the PATH station, was known for drawing a younger crowd from the neighborhood and visitors from the nearby NJ Transit train station for games of darts and beer pong.
The owners of The Winston will be embracing a decidedly higher-level concept for the venture that looks like it may cater more to locals. Dubbed The Winston in a nod to Mr. Churchill, the new bar promises that “magnificent cocktails will accompany a speakeasy atmosphere to surely fill the air with social vibes on a daily basis.”
The Winston’s Facebook page went live on June 14, as did their Instagram handle @thewinstonhoboken. Quotes from Winston Churchill and some teasers of drinks have been posted, but the interior renovations taking place at the property are somewhat a mystery, perhaps in keeping with the speakeasy theme.
Hoboken Happy Hours reports that the British phone booth outside of the property will indeed stay put, and The Winston’s ownership says they will be ready to open in “the very near future.”
News of The Winston comes at an interesting time for Hoboken’s evolving hospitality scene; a crackdown on bars with rowdy behavior led to penalties for 15 establishments, including the permanent closure of 1 Republik. Scotland Yard was not one of the bars cited for bad behavior, but Green Rock Tap & Grill, located two doors down, was given a 20-day suspension and is also under renovation.
A new restaurant replacing 1 Republik, dubbed Madd Hatter, didn’t modify too much, so the major concept changes happening at The Winston are notable and should be on full display soon.
