Yankee Doodle Tap Room | Palmer Square

About Us

The legendary Yankee Doodle Tap Room has a long-standing tradition as Princeton’s destination for gastro pub dining. Featuring an American grill menu and recognized as the central meeting place, there are over 16 world beers on tap and a variety of wines and specialty drinks. Seasonal seating is available in front of a cozy fireplace or alfresco style on their patio in the heart of Palmer Square. Sporting events are broadcasted year-round on 6 large HDTVs.

Named after the mural painted by Norman Rockwell, which resides behind bar, the Tap Room’s historic charm includes the carvings of past guests in the solid oak tabletops, and the famous photo gallery of notable Princeton University graduates from the past century.

Now serving breakfast 7 days a week!

*Bar has extended hours on Friday and Saturday nights

Promotions

555 in 2025 Happy Hour

(Monday-Friday, 3pm-6pm)

5 $5 deals, 5 days a week

$5 Yuengling

$5 Yankee Doodle Ale

$5 House red or white wine

$5 House liquor

$5 Shot of the day

*Join the Mug Club! Purchase our silver logoed mug for $20 and bring it with you to receive your Yankee Doodle Ale’s for $4.

Pub Grub Menu

Weekdays 5pm-7pm
$6 Warm Pretzel Bites with Cheese
$6 Pickle Chips,
$6 Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
$6 Mini Nacho Plate

Our Story

A Princeton institution since 1756, the Yankee Doodle Tap Room began as a drinking club for Princeton University’s male students and faculty until the late 1970s when it was opened to the general population to gather.

Tokens that tell the story of the restaurant adorn the walls throughout. Historic photos from the Edgar Palmer collection, and those of famous Princeton alumni who have frequented the Yankee Doodle Tap Room, immediately greet you when you enter. Located behind the bar is the largest Norman Rockwell mural. The 13-foot painting took the artist nine months to complete. Unfortunately, once finished it was a little too large for the space and had to be trimmed. The painting fits with the historic theme depicting Revolutionary people celebrating in authentic attire and adds to the ambiance of an English tavern.

At the far end of the room is a working fireplace with the inscription “Rest Traveler, Rest, and Banish Thoughts of Care; Drink to Thy Friends and Recommend Them Here,” which dates back to 1756, when the Nassau Inn was located on Nassau Street, before it moved to Palmer Square in 1937.

(pictured: Director of Food & Beverage, Virginia Fry)