Best of the Shore 2025

Our town-by-town roundup of the best places to eat and drink this summer when visiting our beloved seaside retreats.

by Matt Cosentino, Peter Proko, Madeleine Maccar, Carly Murray and Chelsea Valcourt

Nothing beats summertime at the Jersey Shore, whether you’re fortunate enough to head down every weekend, are planning a two-week vacation or hope to sprinkle in as many day trips as possible between now and Labor Day. Visitors of all ages love to head back to their favorite spots that have become traditions among their families and friends, but it’s also fun to discover the new restaurants, bakeries and shops that have come along since last year. As usual, South Jersey Magazine has combed the coast from Long Beach Island to Cape May to highlight our recommendations for everything from a casual, quick bite to eat to an elegant sit-down dinner and the perfect dessert on the Boardwalk. Read on and prepare yourself for another memorable season down the Shore!

 

AVALON

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Ice Cream at Sundae Best
One of our favorite summer haunts, this place scoops up delicious homemade ice cream in a large variety of tantalizing flavors like peanut butter ripple, cinnamon crumb and the divine toasted almond and honey.

Breakfast at Fishin’ Pier Grille
Early risers start their day off on the right foot at this buzzing breakfast spot where the staples are well represented, but the daily specials are even more appetizing. Think pillowy pancakes, dynamite eggs benedict and omelets stuffed with any number of ingredients.  

Pizza at Concord Café
Whether ordering a classic plain pie or opting for one of the specialty pizzas like eggplant parm or the white pie with chicken breast, prosciutto, spinach and roasted peppers, you’ll find something for pizza lover in the group.

Sweet Treats at High Dune Baking Company
at High Dune, it’s all about creativity and showcasing high-quality ingredients, from their signature doughnuts to cookies, cakes, scones and more. You won’t find anything run-of-the-mill here, just a passion for pushing boundaries and satisfying your sweet tooth.

Lunch at Isabel’s Bakery And Café
Isabel’s may be known for its breakfast, but the lunch menu is equally impressive with appealing items like the blackened chicken salad with tomatoes, red onion and feta or the grilled shrimp, bacon and avocado wrap.

Sandwiches at 29^th Street Deli & Grill
The heavenly handhelds at this joint are the talk of the town and for good reason. From hefty hoagies and cheesesteaks to classics like the corned beef special and the Reuben, each sandwich is expertly crafted and full of flavor.

Seafood at Son Of A Sailor
No matter if you like your flounder broiled with scallops, your shrimp fried golden brown or your salmon grilled and lathered in a bourbon teriyaki sauce, this in-demand takeout spot has all that and plenty of other enticing fresh seafood.

For Dinner

Café Loren
The restaurant that created the benchmark for fine dining in Avalon nearly 50 years ago continues to dazzle with well-crafted dishes inspired by the coast and bursting with flavor.

The Diving Horse
Every plate at this farm-to-table restaurant is seemingly better than the last, and the seasonal offerings make it a must-visit beyond the summer months. Seafood is the star of the show here, but you really won’t find a bad option anywhere you look on the menu.

Il Posto
The remarkable dishes here regularly attract crowds who are eager to sink their teeth into fan favorites like the Dover sole, veal piccata and risotto fra diavolo, not to mention the array of other offerings equally deserving of your attention.

Polpo
Every plate of pasta, risotto, chicken, veal and seafood coming out of the kitchen at Polpo is a culinary work of art and tastes even better than it looks. Just be and sure to leave room for dessert because the lineup is full of more can’t-miss offerings.

Summer Salt
Sitting outside just steps from the beach on a beautiful summer’s night provides infinite vibes as you wait patiently to sample the latest four-course menu where locally sourced ingredients inspire creativity and plenty of gastronomic flair.

By the Bar
With ice cold craft brews and a respectable menu of bar bites, pizza and more, Avalon Brew Pub is a great place to settle down and enjoy a few pints. Looking for a more refined experience? Head over to The Windrift where you can sip signature cocktails at multiple bar areas while enjoying its beachfront location. Speaking of lounging seaside, The Sandbar Village over at the ICONA Avalon is a desired spot to dip your toes in the sand while enjoying live music, including the popular Reggae Sundays from 3-8 p.m. The Rock n’ Chair also has a good live music scene as well as happy hour specials daily from 4 to 6 p.m. And few places are as synonymous with Avalon as The Princeton, where multiple generations gather for drinks, dancing and decisions they may regret in the morning.

 

CAPE MAY

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Tacos at Taco Caballito Tequileria
Mexican flavors and favorites tango with fresh local ingredients for an elevated, inviting dining experience. Get a taste of everything with a sampler or dive into their craft tacos by the twos and threes, but you’ve gotta try the crispy fish taco before summer’s end.

Fish and Chips at Fins Bar and Grille
This seafood staple is a great example of why diners keep coming back for lovingly prepared mainstays: fresh and hand-battered cod filets are paired perfectly with other flavors and sides that make the star of the dish absolutely sing.

Breakfast at The Mad Batter
The veritably famous breakfast menu here is as distinctly vibrant as its quirky, whimsical surroundings. Whether you opt for something light and classic or uniquely indulgent—like thick-sliced almond and orange French toast—you’ll be thrilled that this is where your day began.

Sandwiches at Westside Market
Sink your teeth into the sandwiches here and find out why Westside Market only makes its tasty fare with the highest-quality ingredients. Fall in love with the hoagies, cheesesteaks, breakfast sandwiches and other handhelds that have seen this market slinging upwards of 800 sandwiches a day. 

Takeout Dinner at Homestyle to Go
Whether you’re hunkering down at your Shore home away from home and want a home-cooked meal without all the hassle or need catering for a weekend bash, Homestyle to Go’s got dinner covered with low-effort, high-reward favorites sure to please everyone.

Ice Cream at Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream
Nothing cools off hot summer days like creamy, dreamy ice cream, and the 48 flavors at this popular Washington Street Mall favorite all make for an endless array of cups, cones, sundaes, milkshakes and more.

Lunch at Blue Pig Tavern
The upscale eatery that calls the historic Congress Hall home knows how to turn first-time guests into long-time regulars, and its lunch menu is packed with farm-fresh classics featuring irresistible takes on dishes from the land and the sea.

For Dinner

Ebbitt Room
With a beautiful atmosphere befitting its locale inside the impeccably elegant Virginia Hotel, you’ll find similarly sophisticated dinner fare here. The onsite sommelier adds to the experience, and won’t steer you wrong when it comes to pairing the perfect pour with scallops or steak.

Washington Inn & Wine Bar
A favorite special-occasion dining destination, the Washington Inn makes every dinner it serves something special, from can’t-miss appetizers to decadent desserts. The rack of lamb is gaining fans this season, and the crab cakes remain high on everyone’s list.

Maison Bleue Bistro
Here you’ll find all the charm of a French bistro complemented by tastefully modern appointments in an intimate dining space. Classic French cuisine like steak tartar and coq au vin get high praises from guests, as do more nautical dishes like the scallops and oysters.

Grana
Seasonal ingredients and timeless tastes come together at this fine-dining favorite. Executive chef and owner Carl Messick grew up and refined his craft locally, and it shows in how expertly his show-stopping dishes deliver flavor profiles bursting with the best of the Shore.

Primal
This carnivores’ dream is where you’ll find some satisfying starters, steak, seafood and shareables, and the main courses get even tastier when they’re slathered in your choice from a variety of savory house sauces.

Peter Shields Inn
The atmosphere is immaculate whether you’re in one of the dining rooms or overlooking the ocean from the front porch. No longer a BYOB, check out the full list of spirits, wine and beer to make the award-winning establishment’s two-course dinners an even more indulgent experience.

410 Bank Street
This Victorian-era carriage house is home to Creole-Caribbean cuisine so flawless that it famously draws diners to the Cape on its own merit. But we’re pretty sure that one taste of the gumbo, mahi mahi or key lime pie will make you understand why.

Tisha’s Fine Dining
This elevated Americana with a kids’ menu that’ll please even the pickiest palates has been serving up something for everyone for 30 years, so they know what it takes to be a surefire crowd-pleaser—and so does its seafood risotto.

Union Park Dining Room
This revered restaurant offers award-winning fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere, as well as patio seating complete with gentle atlantic Ocean breezes that beautifully complement the North American lobster guests can’t stop raving about.

By The Bar
Nothing goes better with hot summer nights than ice-cold drinks, and Lucky Bones Back Water Grille has a giant menu of local brews to help you beat the heat. Craft beer aficionados know that Cape May Brewery is a must-visit, and its accessible tasting room makes sure that everyone feels welcome. The Brown Room offers a posh nosh and chic class for those looking for a luxe lounge experience, or enjoy playfully creative drinks at lively hangout Rusty Nail’s bar and deck. Waterfront watering hole Harpoons on the Bay is a great place to catch live entertainment, and the beach bar even has a designated spot for Spot and Fido.

 

LONG BEACH ISLAND

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Pizza at Fusaro Pizza and Pasta
When it comes to meeting everyone’s pizza topping and style preferences, Fusaro Pizza and Pasta is the ideal place to go. From traditional round and square pies to deep dish and gluten free, you can choose from any number of standard or specialty pizzas.

Ice Cream at Ship Bottom Ice Cream
Formerly called The Meltdown, Ship Bottom Ice Cream still offers a variety of classic and creative flavors. Its products are homemade, and there are accommodations for dietary restrictions. The specialty flavors rotate alongside classics throughout the year, so there’s always something new to look forward to.

Breakfast at Dockside Diner
Because Dockside Diner wisely serves breakfast all day, its amazing choices can be enjoyed beyond the morning hours. The options satisfy any craving from sweet to savory, with an extensive menu of eggs, meats, pancakes, waffles, French toast, breakfast sandwiches and sides.

Doughnuts at Ferrara’s Island Bakery
Ferrara’s Island Bakery claims to have the best jelly doughnut on the planet; and its reviews from customers concur. Any of the filled doughnuts have a generous amount inside, and are topped to capacity with sugar, sprinkles, frosting and more. Plus, there are over 20 options from which to choose.

Burgers at Woodie’s Drive-in
Customize your burger to your exact specifications alongside live music at Woodie’s Drive-in, where you can choose a beef, turkey, chicken, veggie or black bean patty. Just a sample of menu choices includes the pizza burger and others topped with homemade potato chips, pico de gallo or fried pickles.

Pies at Holiday Snack Bar
Holiday Snack Bar makes everything from scratch, so its pies’ signature flaky and buttery crusts are accompanied by fresh fruits like key lime, banana cream, apple crisp and more. The options without fruit are equally enticing, with chocolate, nuts or house-made custard.

Lunch at Blue Water Café
With generous portions and toppings, Blue Water Café has lunch options for everyone at your table: an avocado club on seven-grain bread with hummus and veggies, the “millionaire’s meatloaf” with lobster-whipped potatoes, or a Mediterranean salad topped with grilled shrimp and crab.

Sandwiches at The Local Market & Kitchen
The mouthwatering menu at The Local Market & Kitchen consists of a variety of options that can be customized as well. Everything is carefully crafted with ingredients that harmonize well together, like “the local chicken sandwich” with buttermilk fried chicken, pickles, Cajun sauce and a buttered roll.

For Dinner

Stefano’s
Stefano’s offers classic, beautifully plated gourmet dishes that includes a substantial selection of seafood—notably, its award-winning Manhattan and New England clam chowders—as well as steaks, lamb chops, pasta, chicken and veal dishes.

The Arlington
The Arlington is dedicated to serving the freshest local ingredients in contemporary American cuisine. The comprehensive seafood menu can be perfectly paired with craft beers or cocktails for the ultimate, ideal vacation dinner. There are even great vegetarian, dessert and kid-friendly options.

Isola Italian Trattoria
For modern Italian food, Isola Italian Trattoria has it covered. The gorgeous architecture foreshadows the food within: picturesque, family-style plates filled with the finest ingredients. Whether opting for pizza, pasta, salad, seafood or another tempting meal, you’ll eventually need to try it all.

Manera’s
Located in Manahawkin, Manera’s is well known for its steak and seafood. The marinated hanger steak topped with roasted garlic and herb compound butter and the sesame-encrusted tuna are just some examples of the palatable plates you’ll find.

The Gables
With a romantic ambiance surrounded by colorful flowers, it’s no wonder why The Gables is an ideal choice date night and other special occasions. Emphasizing the best and ethically sourced ingredients, the restaurant is partnered with salmon-raising experts who carefully select them at the highest standard.

Raimondo’s
Bringing three decades of experience and passion to Italian fine dining, Raimondo’s provides exceptional service alongside creative dishes. Every appetizer, entrée and dessert shows skill and attention to detail, exhibiting the utmost excellence to visitors.

By the Bar
If you’re looking for a little live entertainment to complement a picturesque aesthetic, make your way to Daddy O where you can enjoy a drink on the rooftop or the garden patio and rum bar. Nardi’s Tavern also features live music nearly every night of the week as well as a party bus to take you to and fro. Tucker’s Tavern boasts a no-shower happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m., live entertainment and a constantly rotating list of beers on tap. The Black Whale offers a more intimate experience with quality cocktails and its own signature IPA on tap.

 

MARGATE / VENTNOR

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Ice Cream at Peace Pie
Kids—and the young at heart—who love to enjoy a Chipwich can elevate the experience with a trip to Peace Pie. Their version blends ice cream and signature pie fillings in between fresh-made cookies, with offerings ranging from pecan pie and caramel apple to triple chocolate brownie and many more.

Brunch at Velo Café
The owners of this cozy Ventnor café are committed to using locally sourced ingredients in creative ways, as evidenced by their signature brunch selections, such as the lemon ricotta stuffed crepes and the mascarpone stuffed French toast. Really hungry patrons or those looking to share can dive into the Breakfast Board, which includes scrambled eggs, 10-12 pancakes, bacon and fresh fruit.

Cuban Sandwich at Florida Cold Cuts
The Shore is filled with sandwich shops, but what sets Florida Cold Cuts apart it is combination of deli meat, wine and spirits, and groceries to go with a full menu of hot and cold “subs.” Order the Ventnor Cuban and taste the difference in the baked ham and roast pork that are made in house and topped with melted Swiss, spicy mustard and pickles.

Late Night Menu at Bocca Coal Fired Bistro
Bargains are hard to come by nowadays, but when a late-night craving hits, where else can you get a domestic pint and your choice of any two slices from the pizza window for just $5? This Margate pizzeria/Italian restaurant/bar also offers such items as wings, a meatball parm sandwich and specialty pies until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 10 p.m. every other night of the week.

Baked Goods at Sasscer’s Cheesecakes
In the four years since Lisa Sasscer moved from Baltimore to the Jersey Shore and opened this Ventnor bakery, a whole new customer base has gotten to enjoy her delectable cheesecake creations. There are more than 30 varieties available, such as chunky monkey and butter rum eggnog, and the shop is also filled with cookies, brownies, cupcakes and pies.

Seafood at Betty’s Seafood Shack
Based on the shanties common in New England, the idea behind Betty’s—founded in 2023—is to offer delicious, affordable seafood in a relaxed setting. From “chowdahs” and lobster rolls to seafood towers and everything in between, your best bet is to enjoy a meal on the outdoor patio overlooking the bay while watching the sunset.

Rice Bowls at Wokworks
This popular Philadelphia eatery opened its first New Jersey location last summer in Margate and became an instant hit. The flavorful rice bowls come in eight different varieties, all packed to the rim, and range from the always in-demand tiger fried rice to honey garlic shrimp and spicy orange tofu.

For Dinner

Stella
This classy restaurant is not the place to show up for the no-shower happy hour. Instead, put on your finest summer clothes, make a reservation for date night and enjoy an entrée of seafood or pasta capped off by tiramisu for dessert.

Saltwater
Fine Italian food—from linguini with crab to cutlets with a side of gnocchi—pair perfectly with a glass of wine or a specialty cocktail at Saltwater. Square and round pizza pies are also standouts on the menu.

Sofia Restaurant
For a nice change of pace from the usual fare available at the Shore, this Margate spot specializes in Greek Mediterranean cuisine, with both traditional and modern takes like moussaka, seafood plaki and lamb chops.

Steve & Cookie’s
Reservations are hard to come by here, especially on a summer weekend, but if you’re lucky enough to land a table, the outstanding service and inspired dishes are telltale signs of why Steve & Cookie’s has been a Margate favorite for almost 30 years.

Tomatoes
The energy is palpable at Tomatoes as you’re immediately greeted by a bustling bar scene at the entrance. Many folks need not go any further, but there is also an upscale dining room for those seeking a more intimate sit-down dinner. Either way, you’re in for a memorable night.

Aroma
Formerly a BYOB, Aroma’s new bar was a welcome addition last summer. But the food remains the real showstopper thanks to an extensive menu with highlights including homemade pasta, fresh seafood, veal and chicken.

By The Bar
Before the kids get a chance to bury you in the sand, make your escape to the oceanfront Tiki bar at Ventura’s Greenhouse, just next door to Lucy the Elephant, and grab a tropical cocktail. Johnny’s Café has a popular happy hour from 4-6 p.m. and all night on Wednesday, featuring special prices for martinis, pizza, wings and more. For a night out unlike any other, Nucky’s Kitchen & Speakeasy has a Prohibition-era theme and two 1920s-style bars. For the late-night revelers, Maynard’s Café is the place to let loose, dance to live music and stay out until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

OCEAN CITY

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Fudge at Shriver’s
Shriver’s fudge is a perfect example of why the snack has become such a Shore classic: it’s delicious, easy to share and comes in a variety of flavors including sea salt chocolate, rocky road, chocolate marshmallow, pistachio, peanut butter, vanilla nut and more.

Brunch at Green Eggs Cafe
As the only New Jersey location of a beloved Philadelphia restaurant, Green Eggs Cafe brings a high-quality brunch to the Jersey Shore. From sweet options like their cookie dough stuffed French toast to their savory fried chicken Benedict, their menu has something for every diner including sharables and vegan options.

Doughnuts at Brown’s Restaurant
Brown’s “almost famous” cake doughnuts make for a wonderful start to your morning, midday snack or late-night dessert. Choose from vanilla, chocolate or honey-glazed, plain, powdered sugar or the classic cinnamon sugar. With doughnuts this good, there’s really no wrong answer.

Coffee at Positively 4th Street
Start your morning off the right way with a coffee from Positively 4th Street—a perfect jumpstart to your day. With plenty of syrup, dairy and caffeine level options, its baristas are prepared to brew up your perfect cup of java.

Ice Cream at Hobby Horse
Decorated with carousel horses, beautiful stained glass windows and just two blocks from the beach, Hobby Horse is a great place to relax away from the hustle of the Boardwalk. Make your own sundae, grab a cone or go all out with Marc’s mega sundae featuring five scoops of ice cream, three toppings, whipped cream and a cherry.

Sticky Buns at Mallon’s
Since 1988, this family-run small business has been baking mouthwatering pastries. Whether topped with raisins, walnuts—a mix of both—fruit or plain, these old-fashioned sticky buns are sure to delight your senses.

Pizza at Bakeria 1010
Sourdough fermented for 36 hours using a starter culture sourced from Naples creates a light and crispy foundation for Bakeria 1010’s unbelievable pizza. To ensure peak quality, toppings may change depending on what’s in season, but have included unique options like kiwi, jalapeño, scrambled eggs and Korean barbecue sauce.

Sandwiches at Sandwich Bar
This cash-only stop has all the right ingredients to make your perfect sandwich including chicken cutlets, vegetables, cold cuts, cheesesteaks and burgers. Try the bacon avocado: a long roll filled with bacon, baby greens, tomatoes, avocado and herb mayo.

For Dinner

Island Grill Seafood & Steakhouse
In its 30th season, Island Grill continues to provide guests with fresh seafood, delectable dishes and great memories. Their specials change often and feature unique dining options such as wild boar and bison burgers, Alaskan crab legs, ostrich steak and pan-seared soft shell crab.

The Betz Room
The Betz Room provides an elevated dining experience right in the heart of Ocean City. Its high-class menu—including duck breast, cowboy steak and Chilean sea bass just to name a few—balances art and taste, and sets it apart from many restaurants on the island.

The Crab Trap
Just across the bridge in Somers Point, The Crab Trap offers a wide selection of seafood from lobster, tuna steak and mahi-mahi alongside porterhouse, New York strip and filet mignon cuts of steak. As an added bonus, located behind the restaurant, Crabby Jack’s Bayside Bar is perfect for grabbing a drink and enjoying a view of the bay.

Buona Vita Restaurant
Also in Somers Point, Buona Vita brings the taste of Tuscany to the Shore. Its varied menu provides plenty of options no matter your palate, including lasagna, risotto primavera, veal Francese and chicken Marsala.

By The Bar
It’s no secret: Ocean City is a dry town. However, just across the bridge in Somers Point there are plenty of options for a nice drink. Caroline’s by the Bay offers a lively event schedule and wide range of beer, wine and cocktails, including zero-proof options. If you’re looking for the chance to stick your feet in the sand, enjoy a beautiful view of the island and indulge in a cold tropical drink, The Point is your place. With an impressive wine list, The Doc’s Place is an oenophile’s paradise featuring lovely views of the Harbour Cove Marina. For a healthy pint and traditional experience, look no further than Josie Kelly’s Public House and enjoy a wide selection of craft, domestic and imported beers, alongside cocktails, wines and hot dessert drinks. 

SEA ISLE CITY

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Sandwiches at McGowan’s
From the tasty sausage, egg and cheese to the “broad axe” special—grilled chicken, fried onions, mushrooms, Monterey jack and a horseradish-dijonnaise—McGowan’s has you covered no matter the time of day.

Lunch at Sunset Pier
Grab a bite at this bayside BYOB for an afternoon nosh where the variety is as satisfying as the views. With fresh and light salads, home-run hamburgers, kids’ menu classics and more, there’s something everyone will love here.

Shared Plates at Braca Cafe
With nearly an entire menu page dedicated to shareable options, it’s no wonder this is one of the island’s best spots for crowd-pleasing light bites. The bruschetta is one of our favorites, but don’t sleep on the lobster mac and cheese, either.

Pizza at Zio Niccolo
There’s nothing like diving into a generously portioned pie down the Shore, and the pizzas they’re serving up at this classic Italian eatery are so good that even the crust is praised as the best in the county.

Mussels at Mike’s Seafood
This restaurant and market has been slinging seafood since 1911, so it’s no wonder that everyone knows Mike’s mussels are “to die for.” No matter how they’re dressed up here, the housemade sauces make fresh-caught seafood even better. 

Ice Cream at Yum Yum’s Ice Cream
You could order something different every day this summer and still not try all the flavor, topping, cone and specialty options at the aptly named Yum Yum’s—but we’ll have a hard time not ordering the cool mint sundae every time.

Takeout at Drifter’s
Whether this popular spot for feel-good food is feeding families or the late-night crowd, one thing’s for certain: No visit to Drifter’s is complete without their gourmet sliders, which can be mixed and matched in myriad mouthwatering combinations to satisfy any craving. 

For Dinner

La Fontana Coast
Fine Italian dining and a seaside vibe are complemented by a breathtaking view of the ocean at this BYOB where you arrive as a guest and leave as family. The decadent and delicious menu is full of elevated classics, but we suggest the lobster ravioli.

La Finestra
Spots near the windows for which this ocean-view restaurant is named fill up quickly, but there’s not a bad seat in the house when the food is this good. Whether you’re here for a special occasion or a weeknight out, you can’t go wrong starting with the calamari.

A Modo Mio
Modern flare meets classic Italian fare and locally sourced ingredients that come together for fresh, flavorful and can’t-miss dishes. It’s hard not to overindulge in these authentically prepared dinners begging for just one more forkful but you won’t want to miss dessert either.

Anthony’s
This chef-owned and -operated SIC mainstay has been serving up irresistible dishes since 1993 and knows how to showcase a passion for great food in every bite. Befitting a tantalizing proximity to the ocean, Anthony’s baked clams are a surefire delight every time.

Sole
For Italian-Mediterranean classics with a contemporary twist, you can’t go wrong with Sole’s refreshing menu, attention to detail and service as warm as its decor. Whether you order a pizza for the table or individual entrées, be sure to end the night with a round of espresso.

By The Bar
Boasting seven bars with seven distinct personalities, Kix is a high-energy nightclub serving up cold drinks and lively tunes. Check out the equally lively Ocean Drive if you want to be where daily entertainment and a casual environment keep the good times going. The waterfront Oar House Pub has its own smattering of live tunes paired perfectly with tons of craft beer and specialty drinks. The selection of wine, cocktails, mocktails and more at Henri’s Bar means you’ll find your perfect pour on its massive drink menu. And if you’re craving an authentic Irish pub atmosphere, serving up a textbook pint of Guinness isn’t the only thing O’Donnells Pour House has perfected.

 

STONE HARBOR

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Coffee at Coffee Talk
Enjoy a cup of Joe in a cozy atmosphere with a little bit of pop culture history attached? Then head to this wonderful café where a young Taylor Swift would regularly perform and the wide variety of flavored coffee has kept loyal patrons lining up for decades.

Appetizers at Stone Harbor Bar And Grill
The lengthy list of starters at this happening hangout offer something to satisfy any craving. We’re talking homemade mozzarella sticks, chicken lettuce wraps, sweet chili-roasted Brussel sprouts, wings, cheesesteak egg rolls, a series of flatbreads and more.

Baked Goods at The Painted Pie
Each delightful item at The Painted Pie is made from scratch daily and you can taste the love and dedication to quality baking in each bite. From the pies and cakes to the cookies and quiche, this family-run business will keep you coming back for more.

Salads at Green Cuisine
With 15 salad options, Green Cuisine certainly lives up to its name. You’ll find familiar favorites like Caesar, cobb, spinach, wedge and Greek salads, but we also love choices like the berry burrata—a blend of burrata cheese, fresh berries, red onion and pumpkin seeds on a bed of arugula with balsamic glaze.

Burgers at The Burger Bar
There’s nothing quite like a good, juicy burger and here they come in a wide variety. Think patties covered in bacon and mac and cheese, or topped with sautéed onions, mushrooms, truffle blue cheese aioli and arugula. You’ll even find a Greek-influenced turkey burger, bison burgers and lots other mouthwatering options. 

Cheese Shop at Bread And Cheese Cupboard
You don’t have to be a turophile to appreciate this shop’s stellar selection of cheeses from around the globe. You’re bound to find something you love, but more importantly something new to try. And the homemade cheese spreads and dips (Swiss almond cheddar, anyone?) are also big-time crowd pleasers.

Pizza at Mack’s Pizza
Any frequent Shore-goer will tell you that a visit to Mack’s is a rite of passage each and every summer. For decades, this institution has been serving up perfect pies from the beloved traditional sauce and cheese to favorites like The Glenwood Avenue made with garlic, sausage and broccoli rabe.

Small Plates at Quahog’s Seafood Shack
Whether it’s an order of oysters on the half shell, crispy fish bites with saffron aioli, beef empanadas or the steamed clams with caramelized onions, fennel and chorizo—the small plates served up at Quahog’s are elevated and undeniably delectable.

For Dinner

Borghi’s By The Bay
Chef Dino Borghi’s well-executed menu of seafood and pasta dishes has diners returning season after season. The panko-crusted chicken parm is always a winner, but don’t overlook other standouts like the penne with spinach, mushrooms, roasted peppers, garlic and caramelized onions.

Chantrelle
This quaint 40-seat BYOB has gained a following thanks to executive chef/owner Jeremy Palumbo’s highly polished plates. No matter if you order à la carte or opt for the chef’s tasting menu, a meal here is one you’ll remember.

Jay’s on Third
This dining destination should be on everyone’s radar thanks to its alluring menu where local ingredients and international influences converge to create masterful dishes that consistently raise the bar.

Ristorante Luciano
One of Stone Harbor’s hottest reservations, this staple has consistently delivered immaculate Italian dishes for more than two decades. We’d recommend anything on the menu, especially the homemade spaghetti with crab or the veal Marsala.

Spiaggetta
There are plenty of temptations at Spiaggetta, starting with the fried burrata or the meaty octopus with cannellini beans, onions and basil pesto. The branzino, grilled shrimp risotto and the cacio e pepe are other stars in a spectacular ensemble cast.

By the Bar
Besides boasting some of the friendliest bartenders you’ll meet, Fred’s Tavern also offers Quizzo and lots of live entertainment to ensure there’s never a dull moment. Over at Bucket’s Margarita Bar and Cantina you’ll find no shortage of signature drinks including the must-try blackberry basil margarita and the Mexican espresso martini. The Watering Hull serves up cold pints of craft brews and intriguing cocktails, but just be and sure to include an order of the conch fritters. Stone Harbor Bar & Grill boasts 16 beers on tap, creative cocktails and more than 20 TVs to make sure you never miss any Phillies action. If immaculate bayfront views are more your style, head over to the Water Star Grille located at the Reeds at Shelter Haven to enjoy a signature drink or perhaps a bottle of rosé as you watch the sun go down.

 

WILDWOOD

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Fish Tacos at Hooked Up Seafood
From the boats of local fishermen to the kitchen where it’s combined with simple ingredients, this family-owned and -operated business is passionate about providing the joy of fresh seafood to the Jersey Shore. Its fish taco features the fish of the day with homemade pineapple mango salsa, lime slaw and chipotle aioli.

Hoagies at Russo’s Market
Fresh rolls delivered daily from Liscio’s, fresh-cut meat from brands like Boar’s Head, Thumann’s and Freda, and several cheese options come together to create memorable sandwiches. Be sure to check out Mom Russo’s special—thinly sliced genoa salami, prosciutto, hot capicola, pepperoni and sharp provolone.

Seafood at Rick’s Seafood House
For four decades, Rick’s Seafood House has been serving up some of the best seafood at the Jersey Shore. From owner Rick Moretti’s mother’s own recipes for deviled crabs and crab chowder to shrimp and flounder platters fried to absolute perfection, Rick’s never disappoints.

Bakery at Britton’s Gourmet Bakery
Britton’s is a one-stop shop for all bakery classics from doughnuts, cinnamon buns and sfogliatella to scones, bagels and more. A testament to the quality of its offerings, in 1982 former president Ronald Regan found Britton’s apple fitters to be so outstanding he took the time to write them a letter.

Ice Cream Floats at Johnny Scoops
Johnny Scoops’ ice cream floats combine its delicious soft-serve ice cream with one of three housemade sodas—root beer, cotton candy or orange— to create a unique, mess-free sweet treat perfect for a stroll down the Boardwalk.

Café at Turtle Gut
Tantalizing breakfast, delectable lunch options, and many drink offerings and customizations make Turtle Gut the perfect spot to get out of the sun and grab a bite. Satisfy your sweet tooth with options like jam and ricotta toast or choose something savory like a chorizo burrito.

Hot Dogs at Maui Dog House
Choose from one of 30 signature dogs, piled high with toppings from cole slaw and local beer-cooked sauerkraut to Wisconsin cheddar cheese and chili. Complete your meal with a side of salty balls—small potatoes cooked with salt and spices and served with drawn butter.

Barbecue at Wildwoods BBQ
Since 2021, best friends David Gill and Joel Romano have been combining passion and dedication to bring mouthwatering barbecue to Wildwood. With pulled pork, brisket, burnt ends, ribs, Aussie pork sausage, fried cauliflower and more, there’s plenty to enjoy no matter what your hankering.

For Dinner

Trio
Appetizing menu items like soft shelled crab on a sesame seeded roll, salmon with a honey ginger lemon glaze and sweet onion marmalade and tuna nachos make Trio an obvious choice for a nice meal after a day at the Shore.

Santorini
Sourced from local farmer markets and fisheries, the meals at Santorini are always made with the freshest ingredients each season has to offer. Feast your eyes—and your stomach—on quality Mediterranean options such as moussaka, crab meat gnocchi and lamb shank.

Venezia
Bring your favorite bottle of wine and prepare for a relaxing dinner filled with flavor. Venezia is perfect for any Italian food lover, offering linguine carbonara, risotto scampi, fettuccine alfredo, osso bucco and much more.

Swine Bar
at Swine Bar, enjoy waterfront views in an open air dining room. Crab and kettle chip crusted halibut, Hudson Valley foie gras, lobster pad thai and the bone-in Sakura pork chop are just a few of the innovative dishes on the menu.

By the Bar
Wildwood is known for its bar scene and for good reason—the island is packed with plenty of venues to fit any vibe. With casual bites, traditional bar drinks and a 4-7 p.m. happy hour, North End American Grill makes every day feel like a holiday. Owen’s Pub is a cash-only hangout serving up classics like the espresso martini and inventive creations like a key lime martini alongside beer, wine and seltzer offerings. Star Beach Bar has all the classic Shore drinks from crushes and buckets to margaritas and beer alongside a beach atmosphere. Head over to The Inlet for a wide range of beer, spirits and wine—including Wildwood Days teas and frozen drinks. A combination of traditional craft brews, an impressive food menu and a blend of indoor/outdoor seating make MudHen a great spot to grab a drink or a bite. Brewing up unique beer flavors that perfectly capture the essence of life beachside, head over to Anglesea Aleworks.