The Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Jack Bakers
Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar
101 Channel Drive
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Website
Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar: Highlights
Fare: Seafood
Price: Moderate
Food: Classic American seafood fare with a focus on freshness and simplicity
Service: Welcoming, friendly
Decor: Nautical and rustic, with a touch of old-school charm
Overall Rating: 2 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = poor to Four stars= Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate to high, depending on seating
Recommended For: Families, date nights, group celebrations, seafood lovers
Not Recommended For: Those seeking fine dining or quiet, intimate settings
Recommended dishes: When available, Locally caught lobster; Maryland style Jumbo lump blue crab meat cakes; and Shrimp scampi
Liquor: Full service bar. Bar scene is vibrant
The Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar offers a quintessential Jersey Shore dining experience with dock-to-dish seafood, panoramic waterfront views, and a legacy of local flavor since 1963.
🐟 History & Vision
Founded by Jack Baker in 1963, Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar has long been a staple of the Point Pleasant Beach dining scene. The restaurant’s mission is rooted in serving the freshest local seafood with a commitment to quality and community. Their enduring partnerships with local fishing vessels reflect a deep dedication to sustainability and authenticity.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
Wharfside specializes in classic American seafood fare with a focus on freshness and simplicity. Their dock-to-dish philosophy ensures that local lobsters are kept in pristine, temperature-controlled saltwater tanks until served. While not explicitly labeled organic or farm-to-table, the emphasis on local sourcing and minimal processing speaks to a high standard of quality.
Signature dishes include:
- Clams Casino
- Swordfish and Halibut entrées
- Fisherman’s Platter (lightly breaded fried seafood)
- Lobster Bisque and Volcano Shrimp
The menu also offers vegetarian options and seasonal specials, catering to a range of dietary preferences
👨🍳 The Chulinary Team
The kitchen teams with its commitment to preparing a well-executed seafood menu suggests a seasoned culinary team with a strong grasp of traditional coastal cuisine. The focus remains on technique-driven simplicity, allowing the freshness of the ingredients to shine.
🌅 Ambiance & Setting
The Wharfside boasts a casual yet scenic atmosphere, with panoramic views of the Manasquan Inlet from both the main dining room and the upstairs Topside event space. The décor leans nautical and rustic, with a touch of old-school charm. Outdoor dining on the patio bar is a highlight during warmer months, offering views of passing boats and sunsets.
- Noise level: Moderate, with occasional live music
- Table spacing: Comfortable for families and groups
- Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and nostalgic
🤝 Service & Hospitality
The staff are attentive and friendly service, especially during peak summer months. Staff are generally knowledgeable about the menu and responsive to special requests. However, there have been occasional lapses in the management of wait times during busy periods.
🍷 Other Features & Policies
- Bar Service: Full bar with seasonal cocktails and local beer selections
- Child-Friendly: Yes, with a casual vibe and kid-pleasing menu options
- Recommended For: Families, date nights, group celebrations, seafood lovers
- Not Recommended For: Those seeking fine dining or quiet, intimate settings
- Parking: On-site and nearby public lots available
- Dress Code: Casual resort wear is appropriate
- Holiday Hours: Open Thanksgiving , Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day
🔧 What Could Be Improved
- Consistency in food temperature and timing during peak hours
- Management responsiveness to guest concerns
- Modernization of certain interior elements to match the scenic exterior
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
Wharfside’s unwavering commitment to local seafood, historic roots, and unbeatable waterfront views make it a standout on the Jersey Shore. Unlike trend-driven eateries, it offers a timeless experience that blends tradition, community, and coastal charm.
If you're planning a family outing, a sunset dinner, or a holiday meal by the sea, Wharfside Seafood & Patio Bar delivers a memorable slice of the Shore.
Updated October 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
