AP Rooftop Restaurant, Asbury Park

AP Rooftop Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Asbury Park, NJ

AP Rooftop
1200 Ocean Ave
Asbury Park, NJ

AP Rooftop blends Mediterranean elegance with panoramic ocean views, offering a casually upscale dining experience ideal for special occasions, date nights, and scenic brunches. Known for its ambiance and creative cocktails, it stands out as a premier destination on the Jersey Shore.

Fare and price

Cuisine: Coastal Mediterranean with Italian and seafood influences

Price range: Expensive

The Chef and Kitchen

Executive Chef Robert DiBlasi. Leads a modern Mediterranean leaning kitchen with strong seafood and Italian influences.

  • Style of cooking: Ingredient forward, coastal, and shareable—elevated but approachable plates designed for cocktails, conversation, and views.
  • Ingredients & preparation: Focus on fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and house made elements (e.g., pizzas, orzo, ricotta), prepared with clean flavors and thoughtful plating.

Menu highlights

  • Small plates: Tuna tacos with sesame crust and citrus slaw; pressed meatball with fresh mozzarella and pomodoro.
  • Mains: Skirt steak with brown butter orzo, maitake mushrooms, and house‑made ricotta.
  • Brunch: Boozy brunch Sundays with DJ sets, brunch cocktails, and playful dishes like towers of chicken and waffles.

Ambiance

  • Décor & vibe: Sophisticated yet comfortable, with a casual elegant feel—lounge areas, fireplaces, and modern coastal design.
  • Striking features:
    • Third floor rooftop location with panoramic ocean views.
    • Indoor fireplaces and a dedicated lounge zone for cocktails and conversation.
  • Scenic views: Direct sightlines to the Atlantic, boardwalk energy, and sunset backdrops.
  • Table spacing & noise level:
    • Tables are reasonably spaced for casual elegant dining; lounge areas feel more social.
    • Noise varies: brunch with DJ leans lively; weeknight dinners can feel more relaxed.
  • Background music: Curated playlists and DJ sets for Sunday boozy brunch; volume may be adjusted based on guest feedback.
  • Outdoor dining: Patio/rooftop outdoor seating available in season, ideal for ocean views and cocktails.

Service

  • Full service dining room and bar staff, plus brunch and event staffing for busy weekends.
  • Hosts and servers are generally warm and accommodating, especially for special occasions and scenic‑view requests.
  • Staff can guide guests through Mediterranean leaning dishes, cocktails, and dietary accommodations, and help with large party logistics.

Other key factors

  • Alcohol / bar service:
    • Full bar with creative cocktails, wine, beer, and brunch drinks.
    • Bar stays open until 1 a.m., extending the nightlife beyond kitchen hours.
  • Child friendly:
    • Families are welcome, especially at brunch; however, the rooftop, bar focus, and DJ brunch skew more adult social than kid centric.
  • Best for:
    • Scenic date nights and anniversaries.
    • Special occasion dinners and celebrations.
    • Boozy brunch with friends and social groups.
  • Not ideal for:
    • Very quiet, intimate conversations during peak brunch or weekend evenings.
    • Budget tight casual meals—the price point and cocktails lean upscale.
  • Parking: Street parking; Plan extra time and check signage carefully.

What you’re likely to like

  • Oceanfront setting: The third floor rooftop vantage point makes even a simple meal feel like an occasion.
  • Coastal Mediterranean menu: Fresh seafood, Italian touches, and shareable plates pair naturally with cocktails and sunsets.
  • Brunch energy: Boozy brunch with DJ sets and playful dishes turns Sunday into a social ritual rather than just another meal.
  • Flexible experience: You can lean into lounge style drinks and small plates or commit to a full, sit down dinner.

What sets AP Rooftop apart

  • Location + design: Few Asbury Park spots combine a true rooftop, panoramic ocean views, fireplaces, and a lounge atmosphere in one space.
  • Concept: Coastal Mediterranean fare with a strong cocktail program and brunch culture, rather than a standard boardwalk bar or purely fine dining restaurant.
  • Premier Club & events: McLoone’s Premier Club perks (wine discounts, birthday dessert, anniversary sparkling wine) and special events add a “members club” feel for regulars.

Managing expectations: a balanced look at your visit

To really enjoy AP Rooftop, it helps to align your expectations with what the restaurant is designed to be:

  • Noise & energy:
    • If you’re booking boozy brunch or a prime time weekend slot, expect a lively, social atmosphere—music, conversation, and a rooftop buzz.
    • If you want a quieter meal, aim for earlier dinner times or non brunch days.
  • Pricing & portions:
    • The price point reflects the location, views, and cocktail driven concept; it’s more “special night out” than everyday casual.
    • Small plates and handhelds are designed for sharing—build a mix rather than expecting traditional entrée‑only dining.
  • Policies & planning:
    • Large parties should be ready to provide a credit card and respect the cancellation window to avoid fees.
    • Street parking can be tight and strictly enforced; arrive early and read signs to avoid tickets.
  • Family vs. nightlife:
    • Families can enjoy brunch and earlier seatings, but late night bar hours and DJ events tilt the experience toward adults and social groups.

If you come in expecting a scenic, cocktail friendly rooftop with coastal Mediterranean food, lively energy, and a touch of special occasion polish, AP Rooftop delivers exactly that—and that’s where it shines.

Updated June 7, 2026