Ask any regular at Great Gorge what happens after the 18th hole, and they’ll tell you the same thing – the day isn’t complete without a stop at Hef’s Hut at Vernon, NJ. While golf might be the reason people come to Vernon Township, this unexpected culinary gem is often why they linger long after turning in their carts.
From 70s icon to Vernon’s go-to gathering spot
First, the backstory that everyone whispers about: yes, this sits on the grounds of Hugh Hefner’s former Playboy Club.
But today’s Hef’s Hut has traded the bunny ears for something with way more soul. The place manages to feel both upscale and completely unpretentious at the same time – a rare combo that’s harder to find than a hole-in-one.
The space balances rustic elements with modern touches – exposed beams overhead, comfortable seating throughout, and a bar that manages to be both the heart of the room and a perfect perch for solo diners. Weekends bring a lively crowd, but somehow the acoustics allow for actual conversation – a thoughtful detail that seasoned diners appreciate.
“Bar Food” That’s Anything But Basic
For those seeking lighter fare, the salads defy the usual afterthought status. Hef’s version of the Wedge salad takes crisp iceberg lettuce and dials it way up with a bold beet ranch dressing that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. It’s topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, a snowfall of shaved Parmesan, crispy pancetta, and golden fried onions for that perfect salty crunch. It’s a salad with a serious attitude—equal parts fresh, rich, and totally addictive.
The burgers deserve their reputation as the menu’s crowning achievement. Unlike the towering, impossible-to-eat creations that have become trendy elsewhere, these focus on quality and balance rather than Instagram aesthetics. The pineapple bacon burger has become particularly legendary – a perfect sweet-salty combination that somehow makes sense of golf’s frustrations and triumphs alike.
Drinks and Desserts That Don’t Disappoint
Despite intentions to resist, the dessert menu proves difficult to ignore. The brownie à la mode has ruined many a golfer’s dinner restraint, with its warm, fudgy center and rich vanilla ice cream. Our strawberry cheesecake tastes distinctly homemade rather than mass-produced – a small but significant detail that reflects the kitchen’s overall approach.
More Than Just Post-Golf Grub
While Hef’s Hut excels as a post-golf destination, it’s also become a sought-after venue for events. Wedding parties, corporate gatherings, and family celebrations fill the calendar year-round. The events team approaches each occasion with remarkable attention to detail – from last-minute floral adjustments to accommodate wedding colors to remembering returning clients’ preferences months later.
In a region where dining options have historically been limited, Hef’s Hut represents something special: a restaurant that would succeed anywhere but happens to be perfectly positioned for hungry golfers. It’s transformed from a convenient stop into a destination worth visiting even when clubs are safely stowed at home.
The next time Great Gorge beckons with its challenging fairways and stunning scenery, consider the full experience. The last hole isn’t really the end of the day’s pleasure – it’s just the transition to a different kind of satisfaction at Hef’s Hut, where good food, mountain views, and warm hospitality create the perfect final score.