You must know that I am not into corporate restaurants. Have never been inside an Applebees or an Olive Garden, shun TGIF, Chilli's, and Ruby Tuesday and think that places like Cheeseburger in Paradise, Red Lobster and Chevys can be downright awful.
As a result I was not in a hurry to try Shannon Rose thinking it was just another one of the pack. I was wrong. This is surprising because the company behind Shannon Rose, Doherty Enterprises, owns Johhny Carinos, Panera Bread, Applebees and Chevys locations none of which I like.
Shannon Rose on the other hand seems to be different. Here is why.
I've dined at the Clifton location twice in the past week and am looking forward to going back again. The first time was a Thursday night with Pierce, we arrive around 7:00 for dinner. The parking lot was packed so we had to park in the Target lot. It was a beautiful night, most patrons were at the nice outdoor bar and dining area.
We chose to stay inside, and while Shannon Rose does look like a little like a Disneyworld set, the decor is very comfortable and the place has a nice vibe. There are three bars and lots of different table layouts and places to sit giving the room a very homey feeling.
I had the Shannon Rose Burger medium rare with Irish Cheddar Cheese. Pierce had the Pulled Pork Sliders and we shared some Sweet Potato fries. Both sandwiches came with a pickle and mine with cole slaw. Everything was very good.
To drink I had a Draft Sam Adams Boston Lager which was very fresh. They have 22 ales, lagers and Ciders on draft. 8 are craft. The second night I had a good Six Point Ale and Diana had a "Black and Blue" half Guinness and have Blue Moon which she loved. There are another 25 selections in bottle or can. If you are undecided they offer beer flights, 4 of your choice. The bartender will also provide a taste of something if you like. Pitchers are also available.
Our bartender was awesome, she was able to talk intelligently about the beer list and was very courteous and friendly.
Our second dinner included the very tasty Mini Irish Spring Rolls stuffed with Corned Beef, Cabbage and Mashed Potatoes with a fresh spicy Mustard Dipping Sauce and Diana had the roll-less burger called "The Naked Asian" which is Asian Marinated Beef on a bed of lettuce topped with a sesame Terriaki Glaze with a Asian Cucumber Salad. The burger was very good but initially came out under cooked, like raw inside, so we sent it back and happily got another.
The menu is extensive so there is a lot more dishes to try and since the craft brews are often changing practically and endless selection of ales and lagers.
Clifton Commons (Route 3 East)
98 Kingsland Road, Clifton, NJ
Phone: 973.284.0200
Hours of operation:
Open daily 11am-3am
*21 and Over after 10pm
