Nestled in the heart of Middlesex Borough sits Ellery’s, The Neighborhood Pub and Grill. It's been a community staple since 1997. Owner—and Emerald Society’s 2019 Irishman of the year—John Ellery, transformed the previously owned Hotel Lincoln into a dynamic venue, which offers a home base for dining, entertainment, catering and more.
A lifelong resident of Middlesex, John prides himself on being an engaged member of the community. Ellery’s participates in many local charities, one of the biggest being the Special Olympics. Over the years they have hosted many fundraisers and have even partnered on events with former Rutgers Head Football Coach, Kyle Flood.
John credits the restaurant’s success to his staff and the relationships they have built with the community.
John explains, “The key to success is surrounding yourself with good people."
Ellery’s stays especially busy throughout March as it celebrates the Irish heritage and the restaurant’s anniversary. The restaurant and Irish bar is gearing up to celebrate its anniversary with a week full of St. Patrick’s Day festivities. This year, the big celebration will take place on Sunday, March 15, which marks 23 years since Ellery’s first opened its doors. Revealers can also swing over after the Somerville Parade to join in on the fun with drink specials, live music, a DJ and bagpipers throughout the day.
“The Somerset County Pipes and Drums have been playing here since we opened. They make frequent stops throughout the week of St. Patrick's Day,” says John.
The fun doesn’t end after St. Patrick’s Day though. Every Friday and Saturday night Ellery’s hosts DJ’s and live bands. Tacos and Tequila Tuesday features 3 tacos for just $6 along with $4 tequila shots and $5 margaritas. When the weather warms up, guests are invited to come “Party on the Patio” with live, acoustic music on Thursday and Friday evenings. Football season also brings food and drink specials during all NFL and Saturday college games.
At Ellery’s everyone is like family. The staff goes out of their way to get to know their customers, many of whom have been regulars at the pub for years. Ben Hydo, General Manager of Ellery’s, takes great pride in the welcoming atmosphere that permeates throughout the establishment.
“People meet here. Most of the clientele that comes through here, you get really close with. I can’t tell you how many people have met their wives here,” says Ben.
Interestingly enough, Ben is also among those who met their significant other at Ellery’s.
John laughs and says, “I know a guy who met both of his wives here.”
In honor of St. Patrick's day, we asked Ben to share Ellery’s corned beef recipe with us. Turns out it’s really simple.
“Put corned beef in a pot with beer and water for ten hours,” says Ben.
While that’s the gist of the recipe, the next page will give you a few more details on how to make this St. Patrick’s Day favorite at home using your crockpot.
Don’t want to do the cooking yourself? Ellery’s takes pride in the great service and consistency of their food. You can drop by to enjoy a delicious meal and outstanding service in the dining room or at the bar, or celebrate your special events with Ellery’s on and offsite catering services. For more information visit Ellerysgrill.com.
Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
Equipment Needed:
-
Slow Cooker- 6 quart or larger
Ingredients:
Guinness and Domestic Light Beer
Fresh, Never Frozen, Corned Beef Brisket
Special Blend of Dry Seasoning
Fresh Jumbo Cabbage
Fresh Jumbo Carrots
Dijon Mustard
Fresh Baked Irish Soda Bread
Instructions:
1. Add corned beef to the pot and sprinkle with dry seasoning.
2. Add the potatoes and carrots on top of the roast and cover with beer.
3. The total cooking time is 10 hours on low. Add cabbage at the 8-hour mark and cook for the remaining 2 hours.
4. Trim the corned beef into slices.
5. Serve with the veggies and a side of mustard.
6. Optional—Complete the meal with a side of Irish soda bread.