Metropolitan Cafe Restaurant Review: A must try spot in Freehold, NJ
Metropolitan Cafe
8 East Main St.
Freehold, NJ
A polished, globally inspired restaurant where sushi, steaks, and creative cocktails meet in the heart of downtown Freehold.
Food
Fare: Asian inspired fusion, modern American plates
The kitchen leans into high quality ingredients, vibrant flavors, and clean, well balanced preparation. The restaurant emphasizes fresh seafood, premium cuts, and seasonal produce that keeps dishes bright and consistent.
Price: Moderate
Menu highlights include:
- Signature Sushi Rolls – inventive combinations with fresh fish, crisp vegetables, and house made sauces.
- Thai Coconut Curry Bowls – aromatic, layered, and deeply comforting.
- Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna – seared with precision, plated with colorful accompaniments.
- Korean BBQ Short Ribs – tender, marinated, and richly flavorful.
- Steak & Seafood Entrées – prepared with a modern, global twist.
The culinary style is clean, contemporary, and flavor forward, with an emphasis on balance—sweet, spicy, savory, and umami all play together beautifully.
Ambiance & Atmosphere
Metropolitan Café delivers a stylish, cosmopolitan vibe that stands out in downtown Freehold.
Décor & Vibe:
- Warm woods, soft lighting, and modern accents
- Blend of elegant and casual, making it suitable for both date nights and upscale lunches
- Subtle Asian inspired design touches without feeling themed
Striking Features:
- A lively sushi bar
- A spacious dining room with comfortable table spacing
- A vibrant cocktail bar that becomes a social hub in the evenings
Noise Level: Moderate—energetic during peak hours but still comfortable for conversation.
Outdoor Dining: Seasonal sidewalk seating adds a breezy, urban feel and is especially popular on warm evenings.
Alcohol & Bar Program
The bar is one of Metropolitan Café’s biggest draws. Expect:
- Creative craft cocktails with Asian inspired ingredients
- A strong martini menu
- Sake selections
- Well curated wines and premium spirits
It’s a standout spot for happy hour, date nights, or pre dinner drinks.
Service
Warm and welcoming. Knowledgeable about the menu, especially sushi and cocktails. Consistent, even during busy weekend rushes. Staffing feels smooth and coordinated, which enhances the overall dining experience.
Other Factors
Child Friendly: Yes—while stylish, the restaurant is approachable enough for families, especially earlier in the evening.
Parking: Street parking and fee based Market Yard parking Thursday-Saturday. They provide free Valet in the Market Yard Parking Lot and will also pay for your parking as a discount on your check
Dress Code: Smart casual fits the vibe perfectly.
What I Like About Metropolitan Café
Metropolitan Café shines because it bridges the gap between trendy and comfortable. It’s polished without being pretentious, creative without being confusing, and consistent in a way that keeps locals coming back. The sushi program is a major strength, and the cocktail bar adds a fun, energetic layer to the experience.
What Sets Them Apart
- A rare fusion of sushi, Asian flavors, and modern American dishes—all done well
- A lively bar scene that elevates the restaurant beyond a typical dinner spot
- A versatile atmosphere that works for date nights, celebrations, girls’ nights, or casual dinners
- Reliable consistency, both in the kitchen and the dining room
If you're building a guide to standout Freehold restaurants, Metropolitan Café earns its place as a stylish, flavor driven favorite with broad appeal and a strong sense of identity.
Updated January 2026
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