Inclusiveness is the theme at Six26 Lounge & Rooftop, a new LGBTQ-friendly bar set to open next month at 128 Christopher Columbus Drive (between Grove & Barrow).
Named after the date on which the Supreme Court ruled in favor of marriage equality (June 26, 2015), the tri-level bar will feature a sleek lower level lounge, rooftop bar, and private events room.
“We want to provide a space for Jersey City’s LGBT community,” says Director of Operations and New Jersey native Andrew Lam. “It’s that simple.”
Along with co-owner Kenny Caulfield, the team behind Six26 gave Jersey City Upfront a tour of the new space. Here’s why you’ll want to be first in line when it opens next month.
The Lounge: From the moment you set foot inside Six26, you’ll know this is unlike any bar in Jersey City, says Caulfield. A secluded stairway will lead you down to the lounge with its sleek 45-foot bar. The space extends from Columbus to Newark Avenue. There’s no official dance floor, but the lounge will include tables, a DJ booth, and stadium seating should you want to show off your dance moves.
“We took the best from Hell’s Kitchen, Brooklyn, and all the places we’ve visited to create Six26.”
The Rooftop: Few spots in Jersey City have rooftop access and practically no bar lets guests choose between a rooftop or lower level. But that’s precisely what’ll set Six26 apart. The rooftop — which will open later this spring — is where you’ll find one of downtown’s very few oyster bars. In terms of decor, expect lots of plants, shady trees, swings arranged around a fire pit, and plenty of local artwork — all overlooking Columbus Drive.
Food & Drink: Both the lounge and rooftop will serve light, comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Seafood lovers will want to party on the rooftop, where you’ll find a raw bar featuring a variety of oysters and more — a rarity in downtown Jersey City. Both bars will feature signature cocktails, local brews, and a curated wine list.
Events: Open seven days a week, Six26 will be more than just an LGBTQ-friendly bar. The owners have already reached out to local organizers to plan a variety of events at the bar, from curated art shows to sports nights. A private events space on the second floor will also be available for weddings, parties, screenings, brand launches, and more.
“We really believe that making everyone feel at home is the key to success,” says Caulfield. So even though Six26 will look modern and sophisticated, you can expect a casual, attitude-free vibe all throughout.
“We took the best from Hell’s Kitchen, Brooklyn, and all the places we’ve visited to create Six26,” says Caulfield.
In the end, Six26 Lounge & Rooftop will be a judgement-free space where locals can enjoy cocktails in the lounge or oysters on the roof deck. Sounds like paradise to us.
