The writer was invited to visit Surf City and the meal was complimentary.
Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant in Jersey City is a total summer happening with fine seafood dishes, great views, and a vibe that makes your experience at the waterfront restaurant and bar totally memorable.
Visit just once, and we predict you will become a regular. It is now open for the season inviting Jersey City residents and many more for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch.
Relax and indulge as you view boats cruising to the Hudson River and take in a great view of NYC. Surf City has wonderful outdoor spaces and there is also nice all-weather indoor seating.
The venue is easily accessible by mass transit, the NY Waterway Ferry, and there is a generous amount of free parking available.
We visited on a sunny Sunday afternoon as families, couples, and groups of friends enjoyed the food, drink, and summery atmosphere. Guests can choose between table service and convenient counter service.
Jersey Bites had the opportunity to chat for a few moments with Executive Chef Franco Robazetti, who gave us some important insights about this season. He has put together an all-seafood team meaning that Robazetti’s assistants in the kitchen are expert at preparing fine seafood. “It has been a great season already,” he said. “Many people from the area are discovering that we offer the finest seafood in an atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying the summer.”
Focus on Seafood
This season, Surf City debuts Lobster Sundays with the freshest whole lobsters served as a full meal for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The menu also has one of our favorites, lobster mac and cheese with a creamy cheddar cheese sauce and plenty of tender pieces of lobster on top.
But wait, there’s more! The twin lobster rolls couldn’t be better. They’re filled with lobster meat, wonderfully seasoned with celery and herbs on toasted rolls, and served with cole slaw and fries. We also highly suggest the ahi tuna, served with a zesty wasabi mayo. If you love soft shell crabs—and who doesn’t—you’ve found a home. Chef Robazetti prepares them breaded and lightly fried over a savory bed of rice and they will be available throughout the summer.
If you’re in the mood for clams, the steamed clams, made in a white wine garlic sauce and served with toasted bread and fries, make a great table share.
Beyond the Seafood
Be sure to peruse the full menu. In addition to seafood specialties, other options include salads, starters, and sandwiches. Surf City even has a special station that prepares a creamy, fresh guacamole with creative add-ons like lobster, whole habaneros, chipotle, shrimp, and pork belly. The popular dip served with tortilla chips is great to pair with drinks or as an appetizer.
The beverage program has been specially designed to please guests with refreshing options like their frozen drinks that include pina colada, strawberry daiquiri, mango tango, and island fusion. A nice selection of classic cocktails, beer, wine, and ciders is also an option. We are fans of the sangria, which can be ordered by the glass or by the pitcher, with a choice of red or white. And check out their Happy Hour on weekdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with reduced prices on beer, wine, and cocktails.
Surf City offers plenty of on-site amenities to make your visit outstanding with musical entertainment, expansive bars, beach-chair seating, and the adults-only Sunset Beach area with games, cocktails, and waiter service.
People living in the metro area don’t have to travel far to get that beachy feel. Gather your group or make it a date night. You are also welcome to bring the family. Children accompanied by an adult are welcome until 8 p.m. but as of 9:30 p.m., the venue is adults only.
Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant
1 Marin Boulevard
Jersey City, NJ 07302
20-516-9000
Photo at top provided courtesy of Surf City.
