The Jersey Shore Restaurant Group (The JSRG) recently announced its expansion plans for Harpoon Willy’s in Robbinsville at 2360 State Highway 33 and in Waretown at 537 Route 9, as well as its third restaurant concept coming to Manasquan and Monroe: Coastal Canteen.
The introduction of Harpoon Willy’s to Waretown reimagines the group’s original vision of Three Story Grill, however plans are still on track to open an adjacent banquet venue for celebrations and gatherings.
Originally opened in 1986 on the Manasquan River at 2655 River Road, Harpoon Willy’s was revitalized and reopened in 2008 by The JSRG partners John Kitrick, Jack Kane, and James Scarponi. The restaurant has become renowned for offering comfort and quality fare in a rustic, historic setting that beautifully complements its waterfront views.
Maintaining Its Sensibility
As Harpoon Willy’s expands into the Robbinsville and Waretown communities, The JSRG says it will maintain the beloved atmosphere through the familiar menu staples, interior features, and energy that have made the Manasquan River location so popular.
“The Harpoon Willy’s establishment on the Manasquan River has seen more than two centuries of history, and we’re thrilled to be continuing its legacy in Robbinsville, Waretown, and eventually beyond,” said John Kitrick, CEO and CFO at The JSRG.
“From familiar wooden rafters and stone fireplaces that will warmly accentuate the dining rooms and bars, to menus which will feature our beloved dishes and daily specialties, we’re looking forward to bringing Harpoon Willy’s to new communities, and welcoming guests to experience the charm that has consistently defined it,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Renovations for the Robbinsville location are underway, with an anticipated opening of late fall 2024. Construction plans are also in motion for Waretown — both Harpoon Willy’s and the yet-to-be-named banquet venue — with further updates on opening expected in early 2025.
While the Harpoon Willy’s expansion is in the works, The JSRG is also bringing a third restaurant concept to life. Coastal Canteen, opening in Monroe later this fall and in Manasquan in 2025, will be a coastal dining retreat inspired by the flavor profiles of Mexico, northern Africa, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, and offer a dynamic cocktail program that celebrates the tequilas, mezcals and rums from these regions. Renovations are currently in motion for the Monroe location, which will be situated in the site of the former Tios El Taco in Gables Plaza.
In addition to Coastal Canteen, Harpoon Willy’s, and its event venue in Waretown, The JSRG also owns and operates Half Moon Point, a contemporary dining destination in Point Pleasant, New Jersey.
Check back for concrete opening dates for Harpoon Willy’s in Robbinsville and Waretown, Coastal Canteen in Monroe and Manasquan, as well as the Waretown event venue, along with an official name for the latter property.
Harpoon Willy’s
2655 River Road
Manasquan, NJ
732-223-8880
Coming Soon:
2360 State Highway 33
Robbinsville, NJ
537 Route 9
Watertown, NJ
