When it comes to dining with a view, New Jersey has no shortage of exquisite waterfront restaurants. From the charming coastal towns along the Jersey Shore to the scenic Hudson River, this guide will help you explore the best waterfront dining experiences the state has to offer.
Discover Coastal Delights:
New Jersey’s coastline is dotted with picturesque towns known for their inviting beaches and delectable seafood. Indulge in the coastal charm as you savor mouthwatering dishes at renowned waterfront dining establishments. From laid-back beach shack vibes to elegant fine dining, the Jersey Shore has it all.
Unforgettable Hudson River Gems:
For those in the northern part of the state, the Hudson River serves as a stunning backdrop for waterfront restaurants that offer breathtaking views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. Experience the finest culinary delights while immersed in the beauty of the river’s tranquil waters.
Iconic Jersey City Waterfront:
Jersey City boasts an impressive array of contemporary eateries that offer panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. Enjoy a diverse culinary experience, ranging from rooftop lounges to trendy gastropubs, all while relishing in the ambiance of the waterfront.
Historical Elegance:
As you explore various coastal towns of New Jersey, you’ll discover charming locations immersed in history. Some waterfront dining establishments occupy historic buildings or have been serving patrons for generations, adding a touch of nostalgia to your dining experience.
Al Fresco Dining Pleasures:
Many waterfront restaurants in New Jersey offer outdoor seating options, allowing you to savor your meal while relishing the cool ocean breeze or riverside tranquility. Enjoy a meal under the open sky as you take in the scenic views and unwind in the perfect ambiance.
Embrace Seasonal Menus:
Waterfront dining in New Jersey is influenced by the bountiful local produce and seasonal specialties. Chefs often incorporate fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative flavors in their menus, creating a unique culinary experience that reflects the region’s vibrant food culture.
Private Events and Special Occasions:
Waterfront restaurants in New Jersey make for memorable venues for private events or special occasions. Whether it’s an intimate anniversary dinner or a grand celebration, these establishments offer personalized services and stunning views to make your event truly exceptional.
Reservations and Recommendations:
To ensure a seamless dining experience at these popular waterfront establishments, it is advised to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from locals or online sources to discover hidden gems and must-visit spots.
New Jersey’s waterfront dining scene offers a blend of coastal beauty, scenic riverfronts, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re a seafood lover, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable dining experience, the state’s diverse range of waterfront restaurants will cater to your desires. Immerse yourself in breathtaking views, delectable dishes, and warm hospitality as you embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through waterfront dining in New Jersey.
Waterfront Dining in Monmouth & Ocean Counties
- Proving Ground, Highlands
- Casual-chic and cozy, Proving Grounds in Highlands boasts stunning waterfront views and inviting spots to gather around crackling fire pits. Proving Grounds epitomizes the ideal summer dining retreat, whether indulging in modern pub fare, relishing a leisurely Sunday brunch, sipping on signature cocktails, or exploring various culinary delights. Check out their schedule on their website for live music nights adding an extra layer of entertainment to your dining experience at Proving Grounds.
- One Willow, Highlands
- Open seasonally, One Willow in Highlands sits on the waterfront with a breathtaking view. While they are best known for their raw bar selections, they offer an array of entrees from both land and sea. Not only can you dine in their outdoor or indoor dining spaces, but you can also experience One Willow when you dock and dine by their picturesque waterfront backdrop. From lunch and dinner to happy hour specials, and brunch, One Willow is your ideal spot for waterfront dining for Spring and Summer.
- Parker’s Garage, LBI
- Parker’s Garage: an “easygoing venue with a nostalgic vibe” and of course, bayfront dining and gorgeous views. From a vast raw bar selection to their classic seafood selections like Iberico (paella, pork belly, mussels), to their Scallops and “Bacon” (celery root, truffle), lobster, halibut, salmon, and more, Parker’s Garage is the perfect spot for a seafood lover to indulge while basking in views of Barnegat Bay. Parker’s Garage is also the perfect spot for weddings and private parties.
- Pearl at Oyster Point Red Bank
- Priding itself on its “contemporary American cuisine with tastes of Asia and the American Southwest”, Pearl at The Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank offers an incredible view of the Navesink River. Their menu offers many unique dishes such as Duck Sliders, Swordfish Milanese, Fig-Glazed Chicken, Butternut Squash Ravioli, and so much more. You can reserve your table for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch as well as order room service if you are staying at The Oyster Point Hotel.
- Molly Pitcher Inn, Red Bank
- Near downtown Red Bank with incredible Navesink River views, the Molly Pitcher Inn is your ideal destination for dining, as well as a beautiful location for weddings and private parties. They offer a “Dusk on the Navesink” prefix menu in the dining room every Sunday – Thursday from 3 PM – 9 PM, with a 10% discount if dining from 3 PM – 5 PM. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sunset on the river while indulging in Filet Minogn, Scallops, Rack of Lamb, and more. They also serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch as well as a range of cocktails at their International Bar.
- Salt Creek Grille, Rumson
- Salt Creek Grille: a polished and stylish location with classic meat and seafood dishes. Salt Creek Grille offers a panoramic view of the Navesink River with its incredible wall of floor-to-ceiling windows. Their menu offers a great selection of options. Start your meal with Burrata & Fig Jam or BBQ Chicken Flatbread, then move on to your entree switch choices including Coffee Encrusted New York Strip, Citrus Brown Butter Salmon, French Onion Burger, Scampi Gnocchi, and more. They also have a whole sushi kitchen, as well as an extensive wine menu so you can take in gorgeous views while sipping on a delicious glass of red, white, or sparkling wine.
- Donovan’s Reef, Sea Bright
- If you are looking for the perfect outdoor hangout summer spot, Donovan’s Reef in Rumson is just the place. With a classic pub menu, an outdoor tiki bar and patio, private lifegaurded beach as well as frequent live music, with one visit you’ll see why they were voted “One of the Top 21 Beach Bars in America”. Not only are they a great outdoor beach bar, they also have daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From burgers and wraps, to wings, quesadillas, pork roll egg, and cheese sandwiches and more, your meal is made complete with incredible beach and ocean views.
- Shrimp Box, Outside the Box, Pt. Pleasant Beach
- Nautical decor, Manasquan River views, and patio seating are what make this Point Pleasant Beach eatery shine. Just a short walk from Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, The Shrimp Box & Outside The Box are perfect for refueling after a long beach day. Enjoy the breeze on their outdoor patio (Outside The Box), or dock and dine for the full shore experience. Their menu is extensive, so there’s something for everyone: raw bar, sandwiches, wraps, large plates, and deliciously summery signature cocktails, perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
- Red’s Lobster Pot, Pt. Pleasant Beach
- Red’s Lobster Pot has been a Point Pleasant staple for 20 years. This cozy location by the waterfront presents a variety of traditional seafood delicacies. Given its name, it’s no surprise that our menu boasts a delightful array of lobster offerings, from succulent lobster rolls to indulgent twin lobster tails and beyond. Other selections include pasta dishes, a raw bar, seafood platters, and more. Red’s Lobster pot is only open from Spring to late September, so be sure to add them to your Jersey Shore bucket list this summer!
- Drifthouse, Sea Bright
- Ocean views, picturesque sunsets, and delicious eats, Drifthouse by David Burke offers innovative and creative cuisine against the backdrop of an “elegant yet beach-casual full-service restaurant”. Drifhouse offers a jam-packed schedule with Tuesday Burger and Taco Nights, Wednesday Lobster and Prime Rib specials, live music on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and more, so there is always something to look forward to. You can also enjoy their Tiki Bar Thursdays-Sundays for a more casual and upbeat beach experience featuring cornhole and a DJ.
- B2 Bistro, Bayville
- With a casual waterfront dock featuring live music and a vibrant bar scene complemented by a stylish and contemporary indoor dining area, put B2 Bistro & Bar in Bayville on your list of must-try eateries this summer. In the summertime, indulge in a fantastic meal while watching boats glide past from their spacious deck, or groove to the beats of the Jersey Shore’s vibrant nightlife at their lively Tiki Bar, and take a dip in their Bayside pool. You can also dock and dine while you enjoy menu selections such as their wood-fired pizza, sushi, and entrees from both land and sea.
- Chef Mike’s ABG, Seaside Heights
- Check out Chef Mike’s ABG in Seaside Heights; A lively coastal destination providing elevated American cuisine and delectable seafood dishes amidst stunning ocean views. From seafood appetizers to raw bar selections, land and sea entrees and more, Chef Mike’s ABG has something for everyone. Sip on one of their various selections of wine or a delicious signature cocktail while overlooking the ocean. Discover the ideal summer dining spot to unwind after a day of soaking up the sun on the beach and exploring the vibrant attractions of the Seaside Boardwalk.
