There are so many wonderful restaurants within a 10 mile radius, that after over 10 years here, I still wish I had more time to get out and enjoy them more - you'll need to come back again and again to appreciate them all. I have highlighted my favorites below:
Avon Pavilion - Avon by the Sea. This place just keeps getting better. It is literally on the boardwalk, hence open seasonally, with amazing ocean views. Summer Salad, Linguini Catalina, Mocha Caramel Mousse - better than, well, you know...
Black Trumpet - Spring Lake. Chef Mark and staff consistently do an exceptional job with an ever-changing menu that somehow just keeps getting even better and better. Happy guests return to the inn raving until they run out of superlatives. The Lobster Special and Crème Brulee Trio are absolute must haves!
Brandl's - Belmar. Innovative food, Comedy on Wednesday nights and on-line reservations make this a place not to miss.
Fins - This super casual tropical grill serves up the absolute best smoothies around along with fun surfer dude food. The Bomba Shack Salad with Coconut Sesame Battered Tilapia is my favorite food to take out when I am cranky - it always makes me smile.
Harrigan's Pub - Sea Girt. Better than ever! From consistently good Sizzling Sliced Steak Sandwiches and Fish and Chips to a broad menu with lots of daily specials, this is a comfortable friendly pub where you can relax and enjoy Smithwick's Ale on tap or the best Orange Cosmos in the area - ask for Tammy our favorite barmaid ever!
The Island Palm Grill - Spring Lake. Quite simply, this place is amazing. Chef Dave (who used to work with Bobby Flay at Mesa in NYC) makes food that is beyond delicious and fun to eat. The Escabeche, the Paella, the Plaintain Crusted Grouper in Mango Ginger Bauce - don't even get me started with the Chocolate - Chili, dessert thing that makes my toes curl - SO good I can hardly contain myself!
Kaya's Kitchen - Belmar. This is THE vegetarian/vegan place at the shore. I've never been (sorry, total carnivore) but every guest I have ever sent has come back with glowing reviews and promises to return again.
Klein's Fish Market and Waterside Cafe- Belmar. Casual dining, the freshest seafood and a view of the inlet make this popular spot a staple to tourists and locals. If you like sushi, the Green Dragons, Lobster Rolls and Shrimp Tempura Rolls are my favorites.
La Nonna Piancones - Bradley Beach. The best Italian food around. Their eggplant is the favorite of vegetarian/vegan guests and the secret-recipe Sangria is SO good.
McCann's Tavern - Belmar. A local bar in the best possible way. It is jeans and beers here while you watch the game or shoot pool. Gaelic Steak is simply the best I have ever had and those potatoes...
Moonstruck - Asbury Park. I normally don't send folks to Asbury, but Moonstruck is so good that I make the exception. Moonstruck Cosmos, Fried Oysters, Salmon Wellington, Black & White Creme Brulee topped off with a Raspberry Moon Coffee - what a perfect night.
Pete and Elda's - Neptune. The best thin crust pizza I've ever had. Listed in all of the guidebooks, it's a great place for all ages.
Red's Lobster Pot - Point Pleasant. Adorable restaurant with limited seating. Fresh seafood, casual dining and an expanded raw bar overlooking the water. Grab a bottle of wine, throw back some oysters and let the sunset do the rest...
Rooney's Ocean Crab House - Long Branch. It is a little far, but they have the best Crab legs around. Lobstercargot alone is worth the trip, lobster, garlic, butter - all good. Flights of wine - 3 or 4 glasses half-full let you sample as you go. A romantic atmosphere and great views of the ocean make it a perfect last stop on your way home.
Sand Bar - Brielle. Sweeping views of The Brielle Yacht Club - across from The Union Landing. Lobster Specials, Mexican nights, and oodles of activities make this place good and fun! Lots of us 'local folk' hang here.
St. Stephen's Green Publick House - Spring Lake Heights. Brandie new in 2007 and instantly a place not miss. An Irish Pub and then some.
Shipwreck Grill - Brielle. A raw bar, a terrific menu, nightly specials and a full bar make Shipwreck one of the best choices for a perfect night.
Surf Taco - Manasquan. Fun and super-casual surf pop-culture meets Mexican food. For an inexpensive meal on the go, it is a homerun. Try Garlic Shrimp Tempura Taco - yummy!
Union Landing - Brielle. Dining is available inside but we prefer outside on deck overlooking the boats on the inlet. This is the spot for a sunny Sunday afternoon. The Thai Spring Rolls are my all-time favorite food down here. Crabmeat wontons are also fantastic.
Whispers - Spring Lake. Elegant Fine Dining in Spring Lake recommended by Fodor's and Zagat.
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