Moonstruck, Asbury Park, NJ:
A Restaurant Review
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Moonstruck: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: New American with a Mediterranean influence
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Well-executed, inspiring seasonal specials, artfully presented
Service: Friendly, attentive, knowledgeable
Ambiance/Decor: Tastefully refurbished Victorian setting with a romantic vibe. In the warmer months you can dine outside on the porch overlooking Wesley Lake
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = Poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate
Dress: Upscale Casual
Recommended For: Romantic dinners, special occasions, upscale gatherings.
Not Recommended For: Casual family outings with toddlers..
Recommended dishes: When available, The Portuguese Clams appetizer: The Cowboy Steak; Sesame Grilled Tuna; and the Grilled Wahoo.
Liquor: Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Bar scene is vibrant.
Moonstruck in Asbury Park, NJ is a long-standing waterfront restaurant known for its elegant ambiance, American-Mediterranean cuisine, and consistent service.
🌙 History & Vision
- Founded in the late 1990s, Moonstruck quickly became a staple of Asbury Park’s dining scene.
- Original owners Howard Raczkiewicz and Luke Magliaro ran the restaurant for over three decades, building a reputation for refined dining and live piano entertainment
- In April 2025, the restaurant was sold to a real estate investment group that also owns Beacon 70 in Brick. The new owners are committed to preserving Moonstruck’s traditions, menu, and staff
- Known for its romantic setting and community presence, Moonstruck has long been a destination for locals and visitors alike.
🍽 Food & Cuisine
- Cuisine: American-Mediterranean fare, blending coastal flavors with classic preparations
- Style: Elegant yet approachable, with emphasis on fresh ingredients.
- Quality: Dishes are consistently praised for balance and presentation. While not strictly farm-to-table, the menu highlights seasonal produce and fresh seafood.
- Signature dishes: Past menus have featured grilled lamb chops, seafood pastas, and artisanal salads.
- Preparation: Traditional techniques with Mediterranean influences, focusing on flavor integrity rather than experimental gastronomy.
🏛 Ambiance
- Décor: Elegant and romantic, with ornate touches and warm lighting.
- Scenic views: Overlooks Wesley Lake, offering picturesque waterfront dining.
- Vibe: Upscale yet welcoming, enhanced by live piano music
- Table spacing: Comfortable, designed for intimate conversations.
- Noise level: Moderate, softened by music and layout.
- Outdoor dining: Available seasonally, adding to the charm.
🤝 Service
- Staff: Welcoming, knowledgeable, and consistent.
- Continuity: The new owners retained the original staff to ensure seamless service
đź“Ś Other Factors
- Alcohol: Full bar service with curated wine list.
- Child-friendly: More suited for adults and couples; not ideal for young children.
- Recommended for: Romantic dinners, special occasions, upscale gatherings.
- Not recommended for: Casual family outings with toddlers.
- Parking: Street and nearby lot parking available.
- Dress code: Smart casual to semi-formal.
- Holiday openings: Mother’s Day; Thanksgiving, Christmas, and
- Private parties: The restaurant has historically hosted private events in its scenic upstairs dining rooms.
⚖️ What Needs Improvement
- Parking can be challenging during peak summer weekends.
🌟 What Sets Moonstruck Apart
- Longevity and consistency: Over 36 years of continuous operation.
- Waterfront location with romantic views of Wesley Lake.
- Live piano music, a rare touch in today’s dining scene.
- Seamless transition to new ownership, ensuring continuity of service and atmosphere
Moonstruck remains one of Asbury Park’s most iconic restaurants, blending history, ambiance, and reliable cuisine into a dining experience that continues to attract couples, locals, and visitors seeking a memorable evening.
Updated October 2025
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