A’Tavola Ristorante
Seven years established and recently renovated this July, A’Tavola is a gourmet Italian restaurant and caterer whose delightful atmosphere is only matched by its delicious cuisine. Chef Carranza prepares a menu full of authentic classics, along with amazing steaks & a variety of seafood specials. A’Tavola also hosts a wide variety of in-house events and is always looking to expand its schedule with customer requests and favorites. Right now they often host live music, visits by Certified Psychic Medium, Barbara Lee, Cruise Night, karaoke and a “day with the artists.” Zagat Rated “Top 1000″ Italian Restaurants.
Deep Run Shopping Center, 3314 Rt. 9 • South Old Bridge • 732.607.1120 • $ • Italian • Catering/Parties

Ashes
Old world charm meets deluxe gourmet in this steakhouse and cigar club on Broad Street in Red Bank. An innovative and exciting menu features steaks, fresh seafood, and specials which are delicious and very beautifully prepared, creating a feast for both your stomach and your eyes. Or, if you’re in the mood, you can sit back and enjoy a cigar along with a cocktail or something from their lounge menu, which is available from 11pm to 1am each evening. Open until 2am, Ashes truly makes dining out an experience to remember.
33 Broad St • Red Bank • 732.219.0710? • $$ • American, Italian •Dining and Lounge

Basile’s Italian Restaurant
In the mood for food just like Mama used to make? Visit Basile’s in Freehold! A combination of secret family recipes and fresh ingredients creates stand-out dishes. Whether it’s pizza for the gang, something classic like Chicken or Shrimp Parmesan, or the dozens of pasta varieties that they offer, rest assured that you’re going to come away with a full stomach. Fresh, pure, simple, and delicious food is what Basile’s is all about.
536 Park Avenue (Rt. 79) • Freehold • 732.866.4085 • $$ • BYO • Italian

The Breakers on the Ocean
The Breakers on the Ocean offers casual dining in an elegant oceanfront setting. In addition to classic Northern-Italian cuisine, enjoy fresh seafood specials, as well as prime steaks and veal chops grilled to perfection. Cocktails, appetizers, and desserts are served in the piano lounge or on the outdoor Veranda overlooking the ocean for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visit The Breakers on the Ocean to see why this unique destination has been a local favorite for more than 20 years. 
1507 Ocean Avenue • Spring Lake • 732.449.7700 • $$ Wine and cocktails available • Italian/Steak & Seafood • Banquet Facility

Clementine’s Café
Nothing heightens your senses quite like the sights, sounds, and smells of New Orleans. At Clementine’s in Avon by the Sea, the owners have succeeded in recreating this ambiance. From the Shrimp Remoulade and Crawfish Etouffé to the Zydeco Gumbo, Clementine’s Café brings the tastes of Louisiana right to our backyard. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, so if you’re in the mood for a New Orleans-style meal, check out Clementine’s Café.
306 Main Street • Avon by the Sea • 732.988.7979 • $$ • Creole-Cajun

Drew’s Bayshore Bistro
This hidden gem in Keyport has been drawing rave reviews from loyal patrons and critics since it opened in late 2005. Chef and Owner Drew Araneo wows guests with his unique menu which features authentic Cajun-Creole favorites like Jambalaya, Blackened Pork, and other Gulf Coast inspired dishes. These interesting selections, along with nightly specials and delicious desserts, make this tiny bistro a must-add to your list of dining destinations. Zagat rated “28”—play it safe and call ahead for reservations.
59 Broad St. • Keyport • 732.739.9219 • $$ • BYO • Cajun-Creole

The Falls Restaurant and Lounge
This new restaurant is operating in the historical building that once housed the Grist Mill Restaurant. The Chefs and owners have created a venue where old world charm meets new age elegance. The staff presents a new approach to traditional American dining, using the expertise and creativity of their locally renowned Chefs. The Falls features live music on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, showcasing local talent sure to complement your evening out!
1213 Sycamore Avenue • Tinton Falls • 732.542.3131 • $$ • Wine and Cocktails Available • Eclectic

Fanelli’s Italian Grille
This Italian restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere and a selection of classic dishes that keeps everyone happy and satisfied. You can bring the whole family for a casual lunch or dinner, and you can be sure that the Fanellis will serve you with the best ingredients and the warmest service. The atmosphere is casual and fun, and this is also a unique venue for business gatherings or family reunions.
52 West Main St. • Freehold • 732.333.0301 • $ • BYO • Italian American • Catering/Weddings/Banquets

Fuji Japanese Steakhouse
Step back in time to a Japanese home as you go through the decorative wooden doors of this authentic Japanese restaurant. Known locally for presenting superior sushi specials, Fuji is now adding Thai cuisine to an already appealing menu of tempura, hibachi, classic sushi, and other Japanese favorites. Visit the special Tatami room, enjoy a show at the hibachi tables, or eat casually in the peaceful dining room.
Staples Plaza, Route 35 • Shrewsbury • 732.544.8828 • $$ • BYO • Asian

Gianna’s Italian Restaurant
Loyal patrons flock to Gianna’s for their ample portions and tremendous selection of traditional Italian dishes with a gourmet spin. Chef John Mandica creates all meals from scratch, ensuring authenticity in his old-world style Italian menu. Try their fine pastas, delicious veal dishes, and ever-changing dessert menu. With a casual setting, and affordable prices, your search for excellent Italian food is over.
965 Route 36 North • Atlantic Highlands • 732.872.3309 • $ • BYO • Authentic Italian

IHOP
What makes these IHOPs different? “Community Drive Nights” on Tuesdays…”Senior Appreciation Day” on Wednesdays with 50% off…”Kids Eat Free” on Fridays and are entertained by cartoon characters! The Keyport and Neptune IHOPs are open 24 hours every day and have one of the lowest priced IHOP menus in New Jersey. They are owned by Cliff and Mitzy Moore, who are both passionate about serving great food with friendly service.
106 Rt. 36 (Stop & Shop Plaza), Keyport • 2200 Rt. 66, Neptune • 732.264.2390 • $ • American

La Pastaria
A little corner of Europe in Red Bank, this family-owned and operated restaurant features the ancient traditions of Italian cuisine with the latest in new and imaginative recipe designs. The décor is reminiscent of a Tuscan courtyard, complemented by tile floors and a mural of the Sistine Chapel, with more astounding frescos painted on the stucco walls. Enjoy the warm hospitality of Philip and Emanuela Angelo as they treat you to an extraordinary dining experience.
30 Linden Place • Red Bank • 732.224.8699 • $$ • BYO • Italian • Weddings/Banquets

The Lighthouse Restaurant
Jackson locals remember the Lighthouse as the Pasta House, a place famous for great homemade food, but also for questionable service. Under new ownership, the service is now impeccable. This gem of a restaurant is hidden on a back road near the Lakewood border, creating a cozy nook full of fresh seafood, pasta and steak specialties. With a menu that ranges from Italian dishes to fried seafood, you won’t go wrong with a weekly visit to this local favorite.
250 N. Hope Chapel Road • Jackson • 732.363.4111• $$ • BYOB • Seafood and more

The Mad Hatter
Great food coupled with live entertainment makes this Sea Bright restaurant a favorite stop for all. Located on the ocean, a visit to The Mad Hatter will extend your summer far beyond Labor Day. Try their famous thin crust pizza, burgers, appetizers, soups, salads, and enjoy a casual family atmosphere while relaxing with friends either inside or on the patio, where you will be surrounded by palm trees and live entertainment. Satisfy any size appetite with a visit to The Mad Hatter.

10 East Ocean Avenue • Sea Bright • 732.530.7861 • $$ • Wine and Cocktails Available • Eclectic, Pub

Main Street Bar & Grill
One of the best values around, Main Street Bar & Grill offers great food, awesome drinks, and, always, lots of great deals. With 10 brand new flat screen TVs in the bar, 13 different beers on tap, and a new rewards club that offers specials and discounts, everyone is guaranteed to come away happy. Their long list of specials changes daily, so check out what’s cooking today at this local family favorite!
732 Highway 35• Ocean Township • 732.775.7131 • $ • Wine & Cocktails Available • American

Manhattan Steak House
The quality and atmosphere of a fine Manhattan steakhouse just got a little closer to home, and under the enthusiastic leadership of new owner, Robert Heath Jr., is going to new levels of taste and creativity. With only the best USDA aged meats and the freshest of seafood, the Manhattan Steak House offers meals that are unparalleled in quality. The seafood specials are unique and always changing, so you can experience something new every time you visit. With a combination of live entertainment, dancing, and an excellent menu, you can’t go wrong at this gourmet oasis.
2015 Hwy 35 N • Oakhurst • 732.695.6009 • $$ • Wine & Cocktails Available • American • Weddings/Banquets

McDonagh’s Pub
McDonagh’s is an authentic Irish pub in the heart of historic Keyport, complete with Irish décor and live entertainment. It serves up tasty Irish specialties including Shepard’s Pie, fish and chips, and soda bread. Make sure to take a seat at the bar for a creamy pint of Guinness, Smithwicks, or any one of their 15 draft beers and enjoy a basket of pub grub.
2 West Front Street • Keyport • 732.264.0999•$ • Wine & Cocktails Available • Irish Pub

Mike and Nellie’s
Chef Farber has worked hard to establish Mike & Nellie’s as a fine dining, upscale eatery. Priding himself on serving only the best ingredients, Farber will go to great lengths to purchase products of the highest quality and standards, serving only true USDA Prime meats and cuts (like dry-aged Porterhouse, Rib-eye, and mouthwatering N.Y. Strip) regardless of their market price. The restaurant maintains a set menu of Italian-based recipes and some varieties that incorporate Farber’s unique style, and their extensive daily specials menu could be an exclusive menu on its own.
1801 Hwy 35 North • Oakhurst • 732.531.7251 • $$ • BYO • Italian/American

The Mill
Overlooking the Old Mill Pond, The Mill has been a landmark Jersey Shore restaurant for over 70 years and has a long-established reputation as one of the state’s finest restaurants and banquet facilities. Their menu changes often, and their Sunset Prix Fixe Dinner is a classic local indulgence. This season be sure to try their tamarind and pumpkin seed crusted wild salmon, and their 16oz. honey glazed pork chops. The elegantly decorated Sienna Café and Waterview Room, as well as the gorgeously landscaped gardens, are stunning event venues.101 Old Mill Road in Spring Lake Heights • 732.449.1800 • $$ • Wine and Cocktails Available • Weddings/Banquets

Nauvoo Grill Club
Set in the heart of Fair Haven, Nauvoo Grill Club promises new American cuisine with a Southwestern influence all executed with finesse. The warm and sophisticated atmosphere complements the freshness and classic flavors of the lunch and dinner menus. You can go for a spontaneous luncheon or an annual family gathering. Nauvoo Grill Club is also an impressive choice to host a wedding, social affair or corporate event.
Nauvoo Grill Club • 121 Fair Haven Road • 732.747.8777 • $$ • Wine & Cocktails Available • Steak/Seafood

Niko’s Trapezi
Offering a little variety from the typical Jersey shore dining experience, Niko’s Trapezi, or “Greek Grill” as the sign indicates, is a lovely family-owned and operated Greek restaurant that serves its customers traditional Mediterranean fare at affordable prices. You’ll find delicious Kalamari and Dolmades, traditional stuffed grape leaves, as well as some more unusual best-sellers like the Grilled Whole Fish and the Octopus. The staff will make you feel at home, and if you can’t make it over there, give them a call and they will spice up your next party in style.
444 Ocean Blvd • Long Branch • 732.222.4600 • $ • BYO • Greek, Mediterranean

Ocean Wine and Spirits
Looking for a prized Gran Cru Bordeaux or just need some advice on finding a value-priced house wine? The knowledgeable staff at Ocean Wine and Spirits will be able to help. With over “500 beers, 1,000 spirits and 4,000 wines in 10,000 square feet,” it’s a pretty good bet that they’ll have exactly what anyone is looking for. Their reputation among wine aficionados is unmatched. And between their wine of the month club, weekly wine tastings, and educational seminars, it’s easy to see why. 
1104 Rt. 35 (next to Wegmans) • Ocean • 732.660.6700 • Wine and Spirits

Peter’s Fishery
Combining a casual atmosphere with a fine selection of dishes and ingredients, Peter’s kicks casual dining up a notch. Owners Jason & Peter Pylarinos are committed to creating a getaway for young and old seafarers alike and treat every customer like a member of the family. Try Peter’s famous crab legs and their assortment “fisherman’s platter,” or give your kids their very first lobster, caught fresh just hours before.
921 State Route 34 • Matawan • 732.583.5666 or 732.583.9857 • $ • Seafood

P.O.P.’s Cafe
The acronym in their name stands for “Pagano’s Other Place,” the same Pagano family who operated Pagano’s in Bradley Beach for 25 years. Melissa (Pagano) Leech creates a menu of unique dishes that depart from typical café fare, like the Cubano Sandwich, with herbed pork shoulder and manchego cheese, or their Avocado Fix, a garden salad with chicken, diced avocados, feta, and avocado vinaigrette. Don’t forget to sample their espresso menu or taste the home-made gelato prepared by Melissa’s husband, Kevin.
410 Main Street • Avon-by-the-Sea • 732.361.8377 • $ • BYO • American, Eclectic • Dine-in, Take-out, delivery, and catering.

Raven and the Peach
This restaurant offers a unique menu and a refined and elegant venue for events, with refreshing views of the landscape and stars behind the windows which cover the walls and ceiling. You can stop in for lunch, tea, or dinner and try any one of their interesting culinary combinations: from pan-seared duck with pistachio and kiwi quinoa, to kalamata olive swordfish, to marinated hangar steak spring rolls. Remember to ask for their martini and wine list!
740 River Road • Fair Haven • 732.747.4666 • $ • Wine and Cocktails served • Weddings/Banquets

Ricky’s Candy, Cones & Chaos
Visit this cafe for the ultimate ice cream and candy experience! Families will love their “Chaos Center,” where kids can build their own fabulous sundaes. Ricky’s luscious ice cream is made daily in the store using only the freshest of ingredients. Some of their unique ice cream flavors include cotton candy, yum yum bubblegum, peanut butter & jelly ice cream, and smurf! Ricky’s custom birthday cakes and parties (they even do baby showers and sweet 16s!) are nothing less than extraordinary.
86 Broad Street • Red Bank • 732.842.4637 • Sweet Shop • Parties

Sal’s Original, Trattoria, Deli, & Catering
Not many chefs can boast that their food is patented, but in fact, Sal obtained a patent for the Lemon-Basil marinade that is used on his now very popular Turkey London Broil. In addition to the Deli and Catering service Sal’s provides, a traditional Italian pizzeria has been added to this miniature Italian oasis. With a kids menu, great prices, and so much variety, you can bring the whole family here again and again, adding to the layers of tradition which began with the small deli Sal opened in New York in 1923.

1075 Broad Street • Shrewsbury • 732.460.0166 • $ • Specialty: Italian • Deli/Catering

Sickles Market
Improving on the gourmet experience year after year, Sickles Market provides the highest-quality produce, exotic cheeses, fresh baked goods, prepared foods, and so much more. Bob Sickles and his family pride themselves on delivering quality products and helpful customer assistance. A treasure trove of seasonal fruits, rare mushrooms, and even fine caviar is all under one roof; you never know what you’ll find! 
Harrison Ave. off Rumson Rd. • Little Silver • 732.741.9563 • $ • Gourmet Market

Spargo’s Grille
Every time you dine at Spargo’s, expect something wonderful and exciting. Chef and owner Tim Murphy takes pride in creating truly original dishes and hand-selects his fish and produce every day to create inspirational and unmatchable masterpieces. The atmosphere is casual but neat, and the Mediterranean style dining room will welcome you back for fine food any night of the week.
130 Rt 33 W • Manalapan • 732.294.9921 • $$$ • BYO • New American

The Quay
The Quay Restaurant and Marina, located in Sea Bright, is a favorite of local residents and summer visitors. With an extensive menu of first class food, waterfront dining views, and top-notch entertainment, there’s something to please even the most discerning patron. Join them on Thursday nights for performances by the Jazz Lobsters and a special menu to match, or come in on any other day for a gourmet meal with a gorgeous view.
280 Ocean Avenue • Sea Bright • 732.741.7755 • $$ • Wine and Cocktails Served • Seafood

Tre Amici
Chef Matthew Zappoli, one of Bon Appetit’s “5 Chefs to Watch,” has created a fresh and innovative menu at Tre Amici. Enjoy their palate-pleasing cuisine with the last summer sun and new autumn breezes in their al fresco dining area. Tre Amici is probably the only restaurant that will also let patrons have gourmet-on-the-go: their new delivery service brings their famous cuisine to your door!
628 Ocean Avenue • Long Branch • 732.571.8922 • $$ • BYO • Italian

Tuscany
Simple in taste and rich in tradition, Tuscany is the answer for those searching for authentic Italian Specialty foods: pastas, tangy sauces, and nostalgic baked goods. Family-owned and operated by veterans in the business, Tuscany is certain to tempt any palate. Embark on a journey that will lift your spirits and inspire you to eat, drink and dream. Tuscany also makes delicious baskets made to order.
10 South Prospect Rd, Romeo’s Plaza • Jackson • 732.942.1011• Caterer • Italian Specialty

Val’s Tavern
At this Rumson landmark, which has been a favorite since 1942, the change in ownership has ushered in a light and lively atmosphere that has locals flocking back for their favorite comfort foods. Rest assured that Lobster Pizza and their heavenly garlic puffs you’re craving are still on the menu, but you’ll also notice some great new items like hot wings—prepared 3 ways: asian sesame, chipotle barbeque, or traditional buffalo style.

123 E. River Rd. • Rumson • 732.842.9159 • American, Pub • Take-out, Catering.

The Windows Dining Room
At Windows, students in the Monmouth County Vocational School District/Brookdale Community College Culinary Arts Program prepare lunches and dinners under the supervision of master chefs. The menu changes frequently, and the on-site bakery offers delicious treats at bargain prices. Windows is open September – May (except holidays and school vacation times), weekdays for lunch (seating from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm – reservations or walk-in) and Monday – Thursday for dinner (seating from 5:15 – 6:30 pm, reservations required).
101 Drury Lane • Asbury Park • 732.988.3299 • $ • American, International

Yumi
Artful, delicious and one-of-a-kind. All three terms aptly describe the sensation of dining at Yumi. Featuring a beautifully arranged dining room and a distinctive menu of Neo-Asian and Sushi dishes, everyone who visits Yumi has a similar reaction: “tantalizingly delicious.” From their duck spring rolls and Japanese pasta with clam sauce to Kobe Beef and Organic Salmon, Yumi stands out from the crowd. 
1120 Ocean Avenue • Sea Bright •732.212.0881 • $$ • BYO • Neo-Asian/Sushi

Yvonne’s Café
Yvonne’s Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast selections include oversized omelets, specialty pancakes, and fabulous French toast. For lunch, choose from a wide variety of salads, wraps, burgers, and hot dishes. The evening menu accommodates all palates with taste-tempting appetizers, healthy salads, and lighter side-choices. Try their eclectic entrées with a Mediterranean flair, and don’t forget the homemade desserts!
54 Main Avenue • Ocean Grove • 732.775.9004•$ • BYO • Eclectic

ZOE: an American Bistro
Located in the heart of Little Silver, ZOE offers American cuisine with global influences in a casual environment. It is brought to you by the owners of the always popular Bistro at Red Bank, so diners can expect the same quality, consistency, and delicious food at this cozy sister bistro in Little Silver. From a classic New England Lobster Roll to the Kobe Burger, great pasta, fish, and “kids plates,” there’s something for everyone. Starting Sunday September 13, join them for Sunday Brunch!
151 Markham Place • Little Silver • 732.747.9988 • $ • American • Catering