Bar Description
If you think you know the spot at the intersection of Routes 50 and 40, think again. What was once a local watering hole has been completely transformed into Freddy J’s Bar & Kitchen, a premier gastropub that brings a serious BBQ flair to the heart of Mays Landing. Owned and operated by the Kneble family (long-time community staples who own the auto service center right next door), this venue perfectly blends the warmth of a family gathering with the high-energy vibe of a modern tavern.
The history here is a true “homegrown” success story. Established in 2021 by Fred and Nancy Kneble, along with their children, the goal was to create a space that felt like a natural extension of their own dinner table. They gutted the previous establishment, added a sleek industrial-rustic aesthetic, and built a menu around Fred’s personal passion: smoking meats. Today, it stands as a culinary landmark in the Historic District, proving that a local bar can deliver world-class flavors without losing its neighborhood soul.
Features & Highlights
The star of the show at Freddy J’s is the Smoker. You can smell the hickory and cherry wood before you even walk in. The menu features standout items like Smoked Buffalo Wings (crispy, smoky, and addictive), St. Louis Ribs that fall off the bone, and their famous Short Rib Grilled Cheese. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.
For the beverage enthusiast, the program here is top-tier. They boast a “Whiskey Wall” with a tiered selection of over 40 bourbons, ranging from accessible favorites like Buffalo Trace to top-shelf pours like Blanton’s. The tap list is features a few local drafts from Cape May and Philly, but it’s not a craft beer bar.
If you prefer cocktails, their mixology is creative and fun. Signature drinks like the Smoked Old Fashioned (made with Misunderstood Ginger Whiskey) and the Espresso Martini (available creamy or dark) are crowd favorites. The venue also features a dog-friendly outdoor patio with turf, making it the perfect spot for a sunny Sunday brunch or a relaxed evening with your pup. With 11 TVs lining the walls, it’s also a fantastic, high-energy spot to catch the Eagles or Phillies game.
Details can change — check the site or socials for the latest menus, hours, and events.
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1 Review on “Freddy Js Bar & Kitchen”
We found this place doing research on DrinkSJ.com and stopped in while we were in town. It was earlier in the day so it was quiet with only a few people inside. With that said, the atmosphere was quiet and friendly. There were about 11 TVs on the walls so not a bad spot to catch a game.
The service was friendly and prompt.
The craft beer selection was a bit lacking. There wasn’t really any GOOD craft beer options which was the most disappointing part of the experience.
My wife ordered a cocktail from their cocktail menu and we both thought it tasted great.
The food was the highlight of the visit. I really enjoyed the smoked wings in the bourbon sauce. My wife got the smoked chicken cheesesteak and she really enjoyed it. I wound up eating the other half of it and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I’d definitely go back.