SLOATSBURG, NY — A cornerstone of the Rockland County music and dining scene is turning the page on a beloved chapter. Rhodes North Tavern, the iconic restaurant, bar, and live music venue nestled in the heart of Sloatsburg, is now sold, and being renovated.
Rhodes North in Sloatsburg was established by Tyler Rhodes over 20 years ago. Rhodes quickly became more than just a place to eat and drink—it became a way of life. From its legendary Thursday Wing Nights (wings were $0.10/each back in the 00’s) to the close-quarters stage that welcomed thousands of musicians, Rhodes North was a haven for bikers, bands, and bartenders alike. The bar’s longtime staffer Joe, Rockland’s version of Sam Malone from Cheers – became a fixture of the community, welcoming regulars like family.
A pivotal renovation in the 2010s brought fresh energy to the venue, creating space not only for more patrons, but also for a unique clientele that included a loyal group of motorcycle enthusiasts with big hearts and louder engines. For many, Rhodes wasn’t just a bar—it was Rockland’s answer to Easy Rider, a sanctuary of freedom, friendship, and live music.
The roots of its musical tradition go deep. In a story befitting the Tavern’s spirited legacy, the first band to ever play there—Suffern Succotash—set off the security alarm by mistake, by showing up hat in hand unannounced before the grand opening.
Rather than be upset, Tyler welcomed them to perform just days later. That initial warm-hearted chaos set the tone for what Rhodes would become.
Rockland’s Local Answer to Cheers
Over the years, its humble stage has seen the likes of local and renowned acts alike, from Dave Keyes and Rusty Paul of the Les Paul family, to Iron Horse, Thunderstruck, and a loyal cast of local favorites including “The Band Crasher.” Sloatsburg native Melissa from the band HUSHH is scheduled to return one last time with LAST MINUTE BAND for a Saturday night sendoff on May 3rd.
Tyler Rhodes passed away in 2020, but his vision lived on through his daughter Jenny and the Rhodes family. For the past several years Jenny continued to carry the torch, booking bands weekly, keeping the spirit of the Tavern alive through laughter, music, and stories exchanged over a cold beer, beefy burger, gourmet meal or even a breather outside on the back deck in between musical sets.
Though ownership has changed, the legacy of Rhodes Tavern will remain etched into the hearts of thousands who crossed its threshold.
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