For me, it’s never too early to get in the Halloween spirit, and while summer may still be in full swing, I’m already looking forward to October. There’s no better way to get into the mood than with a visit to a legendary haunted tavern in New Jersey – The Old Canal Inn in Nutley. This humble bar-and-grill is a popular spot with locals and bikers, but it has a dark legend behind its walls. Do you dare to eat in a restaurant with something called…the death seat? Legend says that in the 1960s, two regular customers battled over a specific seat in the restaurant. The one who claimed it died of a heart attack, his rival took the chair for himself – and died of a heart attack less than ten days later, same as his enemy! The chair itself is safely off-limits, but the old-school tavern has found some unique ways to keep the eerie vibe going all year long.

The Old Canal Inn is one of those neighborhood institutions that has been around a very long time - long enough for some dark things to happen here.
Star Rochambeau/Google Local
Legend speaks of two mysterious deaths at this bar, but no one seems nervous - the bar is hopping every night, and the Death Seat is safely fenced off.
Luke Michels/Google Local
The bar specializes in classic brews and bar food, and the old-fashioned tap on the wall makes clear this is a place that loves the old ways.
Raj S/Google Local

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One wall has a collection of photos from the restaurant's history, but most tourists are headed to one spot.
Chuck Mound/Google Local
The Death Seat is a popular photo op. It's never open for seating - except for a skeleton prop that is usually dressed up in seasonal garb!
Dan Pronti/Google Local
The menu trends towards wings, burgers, and other bar classics, but there's one signature item - if you dare.
Matt Leszyk/Google Local
Meet the Death Burger, a beer-battered deep-fried burger stuffed with cheese, mashed potatoes, and jalapeños. Do you dare to test your fortitude?
The Old Canal Inn

Have you visited The Old Canal Inn on East Passaic Avenue in Nutley? Tell us about your visit to this eerie haunted tavern in New Jersey in the comments section – did you dare to try the Death Burger? The Old Canal Inn has the full menu and a lot of pictures from the restaurant’s long history available on its website. While you’re in Nutley, why not pay a visit to this stunning private garden if it’s open, or book a stay at this nearby elite hotel?

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The Old Canal Inn, 2 E Passaic Ave, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA