Discovering Dining In The Asbury Park, NJ Area:
A Culinary Adventure
What Makes Asbury Park a Culinary Destination?
Asbury Park NJ, and the neighboring towns dining scene has become a go to destination for fine and casual dining.
Asbury Park is a funky, artsy beach town with deep roots in music and counterculture. That energy spills into its culinary scene: Eclectic, creative menus that often take risks and blend cuisines. Many restaurants here have a relaxed, welcoming vibe—laid-back beach town charm with an upscale twist.
The Asbury Park area restaurants are creative, inclusive, and rooted in local culture, with a strong indie spirit that you don’t always find elsewhere in NJ. It’s where food meets art meets music meets the ocean—a perfect storm of good taste.
This town is the birthplace of some legendary music (Springsteen fans, you know!). A lot of the eateries embrace that: Live music and themed nights are common in restaurants and bars. You'll find rock 'n roll-inspired decor, old jukeboxes, or murals celebrating Asbury's rich musical history.
Asbury Park has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and its restaurants often reflect that inclusive spirit. The hospitality is top-tier—friendly, community-driven, and progressive. Many spots are LGBTQ+ owned or allied, and celebrate diversity in both clientele and cuisine.
From retro diners to chic bistros to hipster coffee shops, Asbury nails the aesthetic with Unique decor, often highlighting local artists.Outdoor dining with ocean views, string lights, murals—perfect for date nights or group hangs
Asbury Park NJ area restaurants. Includes the neighboring towns of
Bradley Beach, Neptune, and Ocean Grove.
Barrio Costero
Asbury Park, NJ
Barrio Costero—Spanish for "coastal neighborhood"—is a contemporary restaurant in Asbury Park that offers an inventive take on coastal Mexican cuisine. With an eclectic and elevated menu, it's recognized as one of the area's premier upscale dining destinations.
The heart of Barrio Costero lies in its open kitchen, which turns out a seasonal menu focused on fresh, coastal flavors—distinctly lighter and healthier than the typical Tex-Mex offerings found throughout New Jersey. The culinary approach is refined and creative, drawing on both locally sourced seafood and produce, as well as authentic ingredients imported from Mexico.
The ambiance is trendy yet relaxed, with an upscale, industrial-chic aesthetic. Beyond the food, the cocktail program is a standout. They offer Mexican-inspired cocktails using exotic, high-quality ingredients that complement the cuisine beautifully.
The Black Swan Public House
Asbury Park, NJ
The Black Swan Public House is a modern take on the traditional Irish-British pub, blending European gastropub sensibilities with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests visit The Black Swan for a variety of experiences—whether it’s catching a soccer match over pints of Guinness, enjoying a romantic dinner, or gathering with friends for quality drinks, food, and a lively pub ambiance. It's a go-to spot for both beer and sports fans, as well as those seeking a more refined alternative to the typical sports bar.
The Black Swan’s menu is both innovative and approachable, featuring globally inspired comfort foods—ranging from Indian-style curries and pastas to pub classics like Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, and perfectly cooked steaks
Brando's Citi Cucina
Asbury Park, NJ
Brando’s Citi Cucina has earned a reputation as one of the top Italian restaurants in Asbury Park, drawing a loyal following for its elevated take on traditional cuisine.
Brando's ambiance is warm and sophisticated, blending elegant décor with old-world charm. The menu at Brando’s features beloved Italian classics alongside inventive dishes with subtle French influences
The Buttered Biscuit
Bradley Beach, NJ
The Buttered Biscuit stands out as one of the Northern Jersey Shore's premier destinations for breakfast and lunch.
The secret to its success lies in a kitchen philosophy that prioritizes high-quality, fresh ingredients, avoiding greasy additives and packaged products entirely. Inside, the cafe offers a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere paired with friendly, attentive service. During warmer months, outdoor seating is available.
Cardinal Provisions
Asbury Park, NJ
Cardinal Provisions is a cherished hidden gem in Asbury Park, a Jersey Shore town celebrated for its vibrant dining scene. Their menu is brimming with seasonal salads, sandwiches, and plates that spotlight locally sourced produce. Standouts include house-made pastries and exceptional coffee, alongside thoughtfully curated vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The interior exudes warmth with retro brick walls and soothing decor, complemented by a friendly, attentive staff. In fair weather, enjoy outdoor seating—including three dog-friendly tables—on a heated sidewalk patio.
Cousins Maine Lobster
Asbury Park, NJ
Cousins Maine Lobster is a national, locally owned franchise --- a welcomed addition to Asbury Park Boardwalk dining scene offering high quality lobster sandwiches with efficient and friendly service.
While the wild-caught, sustainably harvested lobster is sourced from Maine, they are committed to sourcing other ingredients from local purveyors.
The interior is bright and clean, with a nautical decor and a brick wall done up with a lobster painting by a local artist. There is ample table seating both indoors and outdoors.
Cross & Orange
Asbury Park, NJ
Cross & Orange brings a fresh twist to upscale casual dining in Asbury Park. The décor is warm and stylish, with a rustic, open layout that feels both modern and inviting. Embracing an industrial-chic aesthetic, Cross & Orange ditches the traditional linens and carpeting in favor of bare wooden floors and simple, uncovered tables—creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The kitchen serves up a seasonally rotating brunch and dinner menu crafted with fresh, locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients. The dishes reflect a creative take on New American cuisine—non-traditional, inventive, and packed with flavor. Much like the multicolored books lining the bar, the menu is entirely scratch-made, bursting with vibrant ingredients that celebrate cultural fusion and artisanal cooking, all inspired by the spirit of the 1800s.
Dolce Fantasia
Asbury Park, NJ
Nestled in the heart of downtown Asbury Park, Dolce Fantasia is a culinary gem that marries coastal charm with the warmth of an Italian trattoria. Whether you're seeking an exceptional brunch or a romantic evening out, this restaurant delivers an experience as enchanting as its name suggests. Walking into Dolce Fantasia feels like stepping into a Euuropen cafe, the space blends elegance with a modern touch. Not your traditional white tablecloth Italian restaurant that serves a heavy red sauce menu with huge portions. The menu is a love letter to Italy, prepared with authentic ingredients imported from Italy with a mix of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Its vibrant and beautiful in a bold eclectic sort of way. Dolce Fantasia isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of la dolce vita. With its inviting ambiance, inventive dishes, and desserts that border on art.
Flavia's Cucina Romana
Asbury Park, NJ
Flavia’s Cucina Romana has become a favorite among restaurant lovers who appreciate an Italian BYOB spot that combines a chic, modern atmosphere with a thoughtfully crafted, regional Roman menu. Diners more accustomed to the rich sauces and Americanized traditions of Southern Italian cuisine may find Flavia’s offerings a departure from what they’re used to. This is true Roman fare—simple, bold, and steeped in centuries of tradition. The space itself reflects a modern Euro-Italian aesthetic, with an open-concept kitchen, exposed ceilings, hardwood floors, and white marble tables. Counter seating allows guests to watch the culinary action up close, all within a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
The Grand Tavern
Neptune, NJ
The Grand Tavern, nestled in the Neptune warehouse district just across from the Bradley Beach train station, is celebrated for its thoughtfully crafted tavern fare and its warm, inviting neighborhood vibe. The cozy, 50-seat interior has a rustic charm, featuring exposed beam ceilings, green-patterned wallpaper, burgundy leather banquettes, and a striking U-shaped mahogany bar surrounded by copper stools—the centerpiece of the dining room. Guests can also enjoy an open view of the bustling kitchen.The New American menu is focused and expertly executed, offering a curated selection of small plates, a few entrées, and a single house-made dessert. While the wine list is modest, the bar boasts an excellent array of specialty cocktails and craft beers, including a featured porter from Little Dog Brewery in Neptune City.
Homesick Restaurant
Asbury Park, NJ
Homesick has become a favorite among diners for its creative scratch-made menu, lively bar service, and bright, contemporary atmosphere. With white tones, hardwood floors, and a sleek bar accented by colorful hanging lamps, the space offers a modern yet welcoming vibe.
The menu is an eclectic mix of comfort food classics, inventive small plates, and hearty entrées—each crafted from scratch. A dedicated kids’ menu includes four tasty options, making it a family-friendly spot.
Iron Whale
Asbury Park, NJ
A favorite among millennials, The Iron Whale offers a unique Jersey Shore dining experience in a rustic yet upscale-casual atmosphere. Guests are drawn to its vibrant bar scene and a menu that goes beyond the typical boardwalk fare.
The interior features a nautical-inspired design with reclaimed wood, coiled ropes, and vintage-style gas lanterns. The restaurant features the main dining room, with additional seating at the copper-topped bar, a private dining room, and outdoor seating during warmer months. Highlights include an open kitchen visible from the bar, a cozy fireplace, and round roped booths that seat six and face the boardwalk, offering scenic views. The seasonal menu emphasizes fresh, well-prepared seafood, alongside a "Taco Bar" section known as the “Whale” and hearty meat selections dubbed the “Iron.” While vegan options are not offered, a limited number of paper-wrapped breadsticks are available instead of traditional bread service.
Judy & Harry’s at The St. Laurent
Asbury Park, NJ
Judy & Harry’s at The St. Laurent in Asbury Park, NJ, offers a vibrant blend of Jewish and Italian-American cuisine in a setting that feels both elevated and familiar. Nestled within the historic St. Laurent Hotel—a beautifully restored landmark run by women since 1886—the restaurant brings a unique and heartfelt dining experience to the Jersey Shore. Tucked at the rear of the dining room, the intimate eight-seat counter at Judy’s sets the stage for a personalized culinary experience. Together with the adjoining bar and lounge, these spaces make up Judy & Harry’s.
The cuisine is rooted in comfort and tradition while embracing innovation—elevated Italian fare infused with local ingredients and global inspiration, resulting in craveable reinterpretations of familiar favorites.
Local Smoke BBQ
Neptune City, NJ
If you’re craving authentic, smoky, fall-off-the-bone BBQ in New Jersey, Local Smoke BBQ is where your taste buds need to be. This spot consistently delivers on flavor, quality, and comfort. Local Smoke BBQ slow-smokes its meats using a blend of sugar maple and cherry wood, cooking at a low temperature of 170-200 degrees for hours to achieve deep flavor and tenderness.
Whether you’re a BBQ purist or just someone who appreciates a good meal, Local Smoke BBQ is worth the drive (or detour). It’s the kind of place that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your plate.
Lola's European Cafe
Asbury Park, NJ
Lola’s European Cafe is a beloved hangout for visitors and locals alike, perfect for enjoying a light lunch or savoring a handcrafted cheese board with a glass of wine or a cocktail before heading out for the evening.
While gelato is the star of the show, Lola’s also serves up a thoughtfully curated selection of paninis, salad and cheese boards, and a few signature cocktails.. The interior exudes repurposed rustic charm, with exposed brick walls, distressed wood tables, and vintage metal chairs. Vinyl plank floors and large floor-to-ceiling windows round out the cozy atmosphere. One of the cafe’s standout features is its intimate 8-seat bar—hailed as one of the most distinctive in Asbury Park, a town known for its vibrant bar scene.
McLoone's Robinson Ale House
Asbury Park, NJ
The Robinson Ale House is one of several Tim McLoone restaurants located throughout New Jersey and Maryland’s National Harbor. Located on the Boardwalk, the Robinson Ale House features both indoor and outdoor seating. The main draw here is the stunning ocean views and the lively bar scene. During the warmer months, outdoor dining on the boardwalk provides a perfect setting to enjoy the beach, the sea—and some prime people-watching. The food is solid and reasonably priced, typical of mid-range beachfront restaurants along the Jersey Shore.
Moonstruck
Asbury Park, NJ
Moonstruck is a premier fine-dining destination along the North Jersey Shore, often considered the best in Asbury Park. Set in a beautifully restored Victorian building overlooking Wesley Lake, the restaurant offers seating for 300 across three levels of wrap-around outdoor porches. The ambiance is romantic, with dark wood accents, candle-lit tables, fresh flowers, and a fireplace creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant serves a carefully curated menu that showcases seasonal specialties, artfully presented and prepared with the freshest ingredients.
Pascal and Sabine
Asbury Park, NJ
Pascal and Sabine is a favorite dining destination for both locals and visitors and stands out as one of Monmouth County’s premier French brasseries, known especially for its ambiance. Positioned as an upscale interpretation of a classic French/European brasserie, Pascal and Sabine offers a refined yet approachable menu of high-quality, simply prepared dishes, complemented by a sophisticated drink selection—all within an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The interior design draws inspiration from New York City’s most stylish dining rooms. The space features an eclectic mix of rich fabrics, warm woods, mirrored and exposed brick walls, and soft, ambient lighting. Guests can dine in cozy, cave-like banquettes while enjoying the art of Paolo Ventura, all to the backdrop of classic French pop music that evokes the charm of Paris.
Porta
Pizzeria
Asbury Park, NJ
Step through the doors of Porta—literally meaning “door” in Italian—and into one of Asbury Park’s most dynamic dining and nightlife experiences.
By day, Porta is a favorite among families and friend groups alike, known for its communal picnic-style seating, massive rustic dining hall adorned with vintage doors, and a welcoming, barn-like atmosphere.
Come nightfall—especially after 10 PM—the mood shifts. Porta transforms into a buzzing hotspot for the 21+ crowd, with DJs, dancing, and a full-blown nightclub vibe that keeps the energy going late into the evening.
When the weather warms up, the party spills outside. Porta’s spacious outdoor area takes on a festive beer garden feel, complete with a bocce court and plenty of open-air seating. It’s the perfect spot to grab drinks and gourmet pizza with friends.
More Than Just Pizza—But Oh, the Pizza.
Porta’s menu is compact but packed with flavor. Specializing in non-traditional, gourmet thin-crust pizzas, every pie is made with fresh seasonal ingredients and cooked to perfection in their massive wood-fired ovens.
SeaGrass Restaurant
Ocean Grove, NJ
SeaGrass Restaurant, nestled on Main Street in the charming seaside town of Ocean Grove, stands out as one of the few fine dining options in Ocean Grove. It's a favorite among diners who appreciate expertly prepared seafood made with fresh, locally caught fish and farm-to-table ingredients. The kitchen emphasizes simplicity and freshness, featuring seafood, prime steaks, chops, and a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options—all crafted with organic, locally sourced produce whenever possible. The atmosphere is modern and upscale, yet relaxed. A large fish tank near the entrance sets the tone: you’re here for great seafood. Sidewalk dining during summer is perfect for soaking in the artsy Ocean Grove vibe and watching the world go by.
The Starving Artist at Day's
Ocean Grove, NJ
Don't be mislead by the name "Starving Artist" thinking it's a hipster eatery. This restaurant is popular with adults of all ages, especially during the warmer months when eating on the outdoor covered porch.
Nestled in Asbury Park’s iconic 1876 Day’s building, The Starving Artist defies expectations with its quirky charm and crowd-pleasing appeal. Far from a hipster cliché, this casual yet sophisticated spot—draws a lively mix of locals and visitors craving inventive breakfast, brunch, and lunch in a historic setting.
With its blend of history, flavor, and laid-back coastal energy, The Starving Artist proves good taste never goes out of style.
Stella
Marina
Asbury Park, NJ
Stella Marina spans two levels with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, offering contemporary Italian cuisine that's a hit with both locals and visitors. With its sleek, upscale vibe, Stella Marina channels a New York City ambiance. The spacious interior seats 210 guests across both floors, featuring striking bottle chandeliers, elegant tile and stonework, neutral tones, and expansive glass windows that highlight the breathtaking ocean views. The seasonally rotating menu showcases modern Italian fare—beautifully plated, thoughtfully prepared, and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
In the warmer months, guests can enjoy outdoor boardwalk seating with panoramic oceanfront views—perfect for people-watching and soaking up the seaside energy.
Taka
Asbury Park, NJ
Taka is a favorite among locals and visitors who appreciate top-notch sushi and Japanese-Asian fusion, all served in a setting that's upscale yet relaxed and chic. The ambiance channels a SoHo New York vibe, with stylish decor featuring a bold, cartoon-style mural of geishas facing samurai warriors, soft white Japanese lanterns floating above the dining area, and authentic tables imported from Japan. They feature a menu of meticulously crafted Japanese dishes. Taka is far from your typical sushi joint—it offers a high-end, eclectic dining experience with imaginative presentations and the freshest ingredients.
Tim McLoone's Supper Club
Asbury Park, NJ
An upscale theatre in the round restaurant with "Old World" style and supper club with live music,dining, and dancing. Perched above Robinson's Ale House, Tim McLoone's Supper Club offers an upscale, "theatre-in-the-round" experience that blends dining with live entertainment. With a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of 1930s and '40s New York supper clubs, it's ideal for guests who enjoy dinner, dancing, and performances that often cater to a 50+ audience.
During warmer months, guests can enjoy ocean views from the balcony while dining for lunch or dinner
