Legendary New Jersey Restaurant And Bar To Close Forever
In 1966 Alexander D. Sotirellis and Arthur Haby opened The Crows Nest at the crossroads of Routes 17 and 80. However, Next week the Hackensack landmark will close after over 57 years serving Bergen County. Above all, known for their famous roast beef sandwiches, perfectly made old school cocktails, and generations of great local bands on weekends, the actual address of ‘The Nest, is 309 Vincent Avenue.
A million memories, some more infamous than others are stored inside the walls of the restaurant & pub.
According to Tim Adriance of Vintage Bergen County, one story states, the restaurant with a bar got in trouble in 1970. State inspectors found that a bottle of whiskey and a bottle of gin did not contain the kind of liquor on the labels.
Meanwhile, another story is a bit more nefarious.
In 1972, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office raided 10 locations that were suspected of running illegal gambling operations. The Crow’s Nest was one of those locations, and some of the owners were arrested for “maintaining a gambling resort and conspiracy.” Those owners arrested, including Arthur Haby, were indicted. However, it appears that history shows Haby beat those charges.
In 1974, The Crow’s Nest applied for permits to enlarge the restaurant. Opening a new space, the restaurant started advertising music acts. Furthermore, by 1990, they branched out to include comedy acts.
New ownership kept the good times rolling.
Andriance went on to write that in 1991, the restaurant was sold to the current owners Andreas and Angela Hajiyerou. They have run the landmark 400-seat restaurant and catering facility for the last 31 years. However, Now looking toward retirement, the couple has sold the property. It is unknown what will become of the location.