“Jersey City needs a place for its talented musicians to premiere their skills,” said Michael Ryan, co-owner, PJ Ryan’s Squared, PJ Ryan’s in downtown Jersey City, and other local businesses. “People are looking for a place to enjoy some good, live music without having to leave Jersey City. We want to help bring Jersey City back to the forefront of the music scene and offer quality entertainment to our residents.”
Journal Square has had a storied history as the cultural entertainment hub for Hudson County in the 1900s. The Stanley Theater (1928), one block north, and the Loews Theater (1929), one block west, are giant reminders of Jersey City’s opulent, cultured past, where legends such as The Three Stooges, Tony Bennett and Janis Joplin graced the stage. PJ Ryan’s Squared is one of the only serious music venues in Jersey City— with space for patrons to dance. Like its namesake sister tavern, PJ Ryan’s Tavern, in downtown Jersey City at 292 Barrow Street, the décor harkens back to Ryan’s Irish ancestry. The 23 screens hanging throughout the venue are a major draw for sports fans for miles. What makes this venue unique is the intimate stage, which has as its backdrop the fast moving lights and vibrant activity of John F. The high-tech lighting bathing the stage and surrounding the U-shaped bar features 2,320 LED bulbs. The bar boasts 30 beers—18 of those on tap—including gluten free and alcohol free selections, as well as nearly 40 whiskey options. The gastropub menu presented by Chef Angelo Panageas features Irish-American favorites like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie bookended with pub favorites like the PJ Ryan’s burger and chicken wings.
