I've had the privilege of both attending shows and performing at Van Gogh's Ear Cafe, and I can easily say that it is one of my favorite places to see an acoustic set. Van Goghs Ear does not offer a stage for the musicians, but instead offers a hand painted mural of Van Gogh's Starry Night as the backdrop for a cozy corner. The acoustics are amazing for such a small place. The PA speakers are built into the celling with a well monitored performance space. Tuesday night bands make $20 plus tips and a free meal to sweeten the deal. Any Tuesday that doesn't have a band booked is an open mic night that is always loads of fun. Saturdays tend to be more established jazz groups, but have a few dollar cover charge. The schedule for booked bands can be found here.
The atmosphere screams "hipster" with local art showcased for a month at a time on the walls. Most seating is old leather arm chairs and coffee tables. Whether you're interested in having a cup of tea with a book or a pint with friends, Van Gogh's Ear is pretty hard to beat. The dress is pretty casual and the majority of patrons fall under the category of hipsters (which is a paradox, I know).
And then there's the food. As a proud foodie and self proclaimed food critic, Van Gogh's Ear is such a find. Everything is made to order and there are new menu items and specials regularly. I can personally attest to the Greek pizza, the spinach dip quesadillas, tuna melt, and bruschetta all as to die for. The chocolate truffle cake made me cry tears of joy. To be honest, I didn't see a single food item that left their kitchen I didn't want. Check out their menu!
Van Gough's Ear Cafe is the jewel of Union, NJ and I recommend it to anyone looking for a place to hear some great bands and enjoy amazing food. Its a great place for musicians looking for a friendly atmosphere to perform. Through and through, a good time and true indie venue.
And then there's the food. As a proud foodie and self proclaimed food critic, Van Gogh's Ear is such a find. Everything is made to order and there are new menu items and specials regularly. I can personally attest to the Greek pizza, the spinach dip quesadillas, tuna melt, and bruschetta all as to die for. The chocolate truffle cake made me cry tears of joy. To be honest, I didn't see a single food item that left their kitchen I didn't want. Check out their menu!
Van Gough's Ear Cafe is the jewel of Union, NJ and I recommend it to anyone looking for a place to hear some great bands and enjoy amazing food. Its a great place for musicians looking for a friendly atmosphere to perform. Through and through, a good time and true indie venue.
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I realized that I am not so picky about music at restaurants, No Gangnam Style, No Rebecca Black, No Justin Bieber, No Lady Gaga and I am good to go. I like when a Cafe plays Classical Music.
ReplyDeleteWell, next time, I might dress up like a hipster and visit this Van Goghs Ear Cafe. For the name, for the food and drink, and for their "high quality" of music.
Its good. Its not Madison square garden, but if you're feeling a bit adventurous, there is no better dive.
DeleteVan Gogh's Starry Night as the backdrop for a cozy corner sounds cool. I will definitely check it out one day.
ReplyDeleteNot alot of places offer such a scene setter. Stages are overrated, especially in small venues. Everything about this place feels so intimate.
DeleteLove the venue review. I don't know too much about music, but you've totally sold this place for me. The way you describe the atmosphere, the music, and the food were very descripitve. The visuals you provide really help reinforce your writing too. I could tell how much you love this place. Now I want to go too.
ReplyDeleteIt's a fun place, especially with friends. I really have a romanticised view of dive cafes. It's a lot of fun.
DeleteThe fact that you compare it to European cafes makes it that much more appealing. When I lived in London, we went to so many bars and cafes with live music and undiscovered talents. I found cafes in Italy to be especially refined in terms of food and music-- just a note if you were to plan any future trips! But I'll definitely check it out. I mean, if the name of the cafe didn't capture my attention, your post did.
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