Engleside Inn, Leeward Room, Long Beach Island, NJ: A Restaurant Review
Engleside Inn, Leeward Room
30 Engleside Ave.
Beach Haven, NJ
Engleside Inn: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: American
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Well-executed menu. Seafood sourced daily from nearby Viking Village seaport. The best place on LBI for Sushi
Service: Friendly, attentive
Decor: "Old School" clubby with walls done up with dark wallpaper and wood paneling. During the colder months, cozy dining can be experienced when seated near the fireplace in each of the dining areas.
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 Stars
Note: Four-star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Couples, families, special occasions, and group gatherings.
Not Recommended For: Those seeking ultra-casual or budget dining.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Wasabi Crusted Tuna; The Char broiled Black Angus New York Strip Steak; and The Sushi.
Liquor: Full Service Bar
Engelside Inn in Beach Haven, NJ is a long-standing dining destination on Long Beach Island, known for its blend of classic American fare, premium steaks, and sushi, all served in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant stands out for its consistency, scenic location, and reputation as both a neighborhood gem and a special-occasion venue.
🏛 History & Vision
- Legacy: The Engelside Inn has operated for decades as both a hotel and restaurant, with the Leeward Room serving as its fine-dining centerpiece.
- Vision: To provide guests with a balance of upscale dining and casual coastal hospitality, appealing to both vacationers and locals.
- Reputation: Known for premium steaks, fresh seafood, and sushi, the restaurant has become a staple for visitors seeking quality meals on Long Beach Island
🍽 Food & Cuisine
- Style: American fine dining with a focus on steakhouse classics, seafood, and sushi.
- Quality: Dishes are created with fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and consistent execution.
- Signature Dishes:
- Prime rib and premium steaks
- Stuffed flounder and flounder francaise
- Wasabi-encrusted scallops
- Sushi rolls and sashimi
- Approach: While not strictly farm-to-table, the restaurant emphasizes freshness and premium cuts, aligning with upscale dining expectations.
🎨 Ambiance
- Décor: Elegant yet cozy, with a clean, well-spaced layout
- Vibe: A mix of fine dining sophistication and coastal casual charm.
- Features:
- Scenic location near the beach.
- Indoor dining with a refined atmosphere.
- Outdoor dining available in warmer months.
- Noise Level: Moderate, suitable for both couples and families.
- Music: Background music complements the relaxed yet upscale setting.
🤝 Service
- Staff: Welcoming, attentive, and professional
- Bar Service: Full bar with curated wine and liquor selections
📌 Other Factors
- Child-Friendly: Yes, with menu options suitable for families.
- Recommended For: Couples, families, special occasions, and group gatherings.
- Not Ideal For: Those seeking ultra-casual or budget dining.
- Parking: On-site and nearby options available.
- Dress Code: Smart casual is most appropriate.
- Holiday Hours: Information on Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day openings is not explicitly listed online—reservations are recommended during holidays.
- Private Parties: The Leeward Room and inn facilities can accommodate group events
⚖️ What Needs Improvement
- Menu leans toward traditional American fare; adventurous diners may find fewer innovative options.
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
- Combination of fine dining and sushi under one roof.
- Historic inn setting with both lodging and dining, offering convenience for travelers.
- Reputation as a reliable, consistent choice for locals and vacationers alike.
- Balanced atmosphere: upscale enough for special occasions, yet approachable for families.
Engelside Inn remains a cornerstone of Beach Haven dining, offering premium steaks, seafood, and sushi in a refined coastal setting. The restaurant’s consistency, ambiance, and dual role as both inn and dining destination make it a standout on Long Beach Island.
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
