Once A Bootlegging Spot During Prohibition, Jerry's Jug House Near Cincinnati Now Offers A Historically Unique Atmosphere
By Andrea Limke|Published January 25, 2020
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
It’s no secret that many of the bars and restaurants in the Cincinnati area have an interesting past. Especially those that have lived many lives over the decades, their walls have played host to locals during Prohibition, through world wars, the ups and downs of their neighborhoods, and much more. These experiences are what give these establishments their character and one such place is Jerry’s Jug House in Newport. Right across the river in the historic East Row neighborhood of Newport, Jerry’s Jug House has transformed once again and now offers a unique atmosphere that pays homage to its bootlegging past.
There is really no other place in our area like the East Row neighborhood of Newport, Kentucky.
Beautiful, historic homes line the streets as mature trees provide shade for walks. The neighborhood has evolved in many ways over the years and just around the corner from this spot shown above, you'll find the historic Jerry's Jug House.
Known as a favorite neighborhood bar for years, it was purchased and renovated last year after the owner passed away.
The building dates back to 1925 and it was known to have ties to bootlegging during Prohibition. After that, it became a jug house where locals could purchase beer, wine, and liquor to go. It was perfectly located next to the neighborhood grocery store.
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Eventually, it transitioned into a neighborhood bar and it now has a new life as a cool and comfortable place to hang out, whether you live around the corner or not.
The new owners aimed to maintain the same neighborhood appeal and definitely keep the historic character throughout renovations. While it has a new appearance on the inside, the vibe is much the same.
The bar is large enough to meet up with a crowd, or stop by for a drink after work. Meet up for the game on the weekends and visit after dining at one of Newport's many delicious restaurants.
While you will find all sorts of fancy cocktails and concoctions, this neighborhood bar also continues to serve up a $3 domestic special every day.
If you happen to walk through the door and need a bite to eat, ask about a glass of Totinos Pizza Rolls. And yes, that is a shot glass of ranch dressing for dipping.
Or spend a little time on the weekend hanging out at Jerry's Jug House for some of the best bloody mary's in town.
Topped with a mini-meal, they are tasty and ideal for enjoying while watching the game. You can also have Newport Pizza Co. delivered to the bar if you just want to stay awhile.
Jerry's Jug House once had a, let's say, well-loved exterior on this street corner in Newport.
With a little sprucing up and a whole lot of history inside, Jerry's Jug House near Cincinnati is worth a visit.
Jerry’s Jug House near Cincinnati is one of many bars and restaurants throughout the Queen City that remains relevant and endearing today while holding on to its past. Visit for the stories and memorabilia and stick around for the perfectly made cocktails and drinks. Have you been to Jerry’s Jug House in Newport? What’s your favorite neighborhood spot that has a long history? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!
For more information on Jerry’s Jug House near Cincinnati, follow along with them on Facebook. The bar is open from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Sunday.
And for more on the fascinating history of Newport, check out our previous article featuring this gangster town in NKY.
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