Golden Cicada Tavern

Our Two Cents

Do not let the all brick, NJTransit/PSE&G power utility closet exterior fool you. This place is anything but a boring assemblage of switches, gauges, and an old mop. Mosey on through the front front and kiss the daylight - and your assumptions that this place is going to resemble the set of a George Thorogood video - goodbye. The Golden Cicada's interior, with its one oblong cellar window, feels a bit like a theater-club thespian's dream basement. Big, bold artwork adorns the walls, prop-like curios are spread about the room, mirrors all about. The bar is a bit grandma and from what I recall, fabricated from some Formica type stuff with steel coping on the edges. Beer selection is average, and I'm not too sure about the wines, but there is a nice assortment of the hard stuff and mixed drink prices are stellar in their modesty.

All of those in the know will tell you that the bar victuals, especially the non-run-of-the-mill dumplings, are not to be missed. Another item of interest not to be missed is owner Terry, who is a gabmaster's delight. Dry humored but totally witty, Terry fires off quips and his take on the world-at-large like Ted Nugent with an Uzi.

Wii action goes down on the regular as of my last visit, and I think karaoke showdowns aren't unheard of around these parts, too.