Drifthouse Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Seabright, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
The Drifthouse by David Burke: Restaurant summary
Fare: Coastal Italian-Mediterranean
Price: Very Expensive
Food Quality: Serves a well-executed inspirational menu prepared using quality products with a commitment to seasonal local foods.
Service: Most of the staff are knowledgeable, attentive, without being intrusive. Though, with high turnover, some of the staff are not yet up to par.
Ambiance/Decor: Upscale with a “beach chic” vibe, tables set with white linen, walls adorned by whimsical artwork, and with beautiful panoramic oceanfront and Shrewsbury and Navesink rivers sunset views.
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = Poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Upscale casual
Recommended For: Date nights, special occasions, foodies, brunch lovers
Not Recommended For: Budget-conscious diners, large groups without reservations
Recommended dishes: When available, The Frutta Di Mare with Lobster, Crab, Shrimp, Squid Ink Pasta, Tomatoes, White Wine, Garlic; The Branzino with Artichoke Hummus, Red Pepper Olive Vinaigrette; and The Center Cut Filet Mignon.
Liquor: Full service bar. Bar scene is vibrant
Drifthouse by David Burke delivers a high-end coastal dining experience with celebrity chef flair, panoramic ocean views, and a menu rooted in local, seasonal ingredients. Ideal for special occasions and upscale seaside dining, it stands out for its inventive cuisine and beach-chic ambiance.
🌊 History & Vision
Drifthouse is the brainchild of celebrity chef David Burke, a New Jersey native and culinary innovator known for blending artistry with technique. Opened in 2018, the restaurant reflects Burke’s vision of elevated coastal cuisine with a playful, modern twist. Located inside the Driftwood Cabana Club, it’s open to the public year-round and aims to bring fine dining to the Jersey Shore without losing its relaxed, beachside charm
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
Drifthouse specializes in Coastal Mediterranean and New American fare, with a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a celebration of farm-to-table freshness, featuring dishes like:
- Lamb chops with rosemary jus
- Pork chop with apple compote
- Watermelon salad with feta and mint
- Signature sushi rolls
- David Burke’s famous Clothesline Bacon
The kitchen’s approach is refined yet whimsical, often incorporating organic produce and sustainable seafood. Preparation is meticulous, with bold flavors and artistic plating that reflect Burke’s culinary ethos.
👨🍳 The Chef: David Burke
Chef David Burke is a James Beard Award winner, Top Chef Masters alum, and culinary trailblazer with over 30 years of experience. Known for his inventive techniques (like Himalayan salt aging), Burke has helmed acclaimed restaurants across the U.S. His style fuses classic French training with American ingenuity, and Drifthouse is a canvas for his coastal-inspired creativity
🌅 Ambiance & Setting
Drifthouse offers a “beach chic” atmosphere with:
- White linen tables
- Whimsical artwork
- Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Shrewsbury River
- Outdoor dining on the Sunset Patio
- Moderate to high noise level, depending on crowd size
The décor is elegant yet relaxed, ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, or upscale brunches. Background music and sunset views enhance the sensory experience
🤝 Service
The staff are welcoming, attentive, and knowledgeable. Servers are well-versed in the menu and wine pairings, offering thoughtful recommendations. While some turnover has led to occasional inconsistencies, the overall service is warm, polished, and professional.
🍷 Other Features
- Bar Service: Full bar with creative cocktails and curated wine list; “Angry Hour” happy hour specials
- Child-Friendly: Welcoming to families, though better suited for older children
- Recommended For: Date nights, special occasions, foodies, brunch lovers
- Not Recommended For: Budget-conscious diners, large groups without reservations
- Parking: On-site and valet available
- Dress Code: Upscale casual
- Holiday Hours: Open on Mother’s Day and Easter with special menus; Thanksgiving and Christmas hours vary,
🔧 What Could Be Improved
- Noise levels can be high during peak hours
- Occasional staffing inconsistencies due to turnover
🌟 What Sets Drifthouse Apart
Drifthouse stands out for its celebrity chef pedigree, inventive coastal cuisine, and unmatched oceanfront setting. It’s one of the few Jersey Shore restaurants that successfully marries fine dining with a laid-back beach vibe, making it a destination-worthy experience year-round.
Updated October 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
