Best Jersey Shore Restaurants
From waterfront seafood houses to boardwalk classics, here are the best restaurants at the Jersey Shore by category and town.
5
Top Seafood Spots
6
Boardwalk Favorites
Best Seafood Restaurants
Waterfront restaurant with their own fishing fleet. Fresh-off-the-boat seafood since 1954.
Must order: Lobster bisque & fresh catch
Local favorite for fresh fish since 1929. Market and restaurant combo with no-frills perfection.
Must order: Fried clam strips
Historic 1912 speakeasy turned fine dining. Elegant atmosphere with impeccable seafood.
Must order: Crab cakes & oysters
Harvey Cedars Shellfish Co.
$$Casual spot for lobster rolls. Cash only, outdoor seating, on LBI.
Must order: Lobster roll & clam chowder
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Best Boardwalk Food
Pizza
Manco & Manco
Ocean CityThe boardwalk pizza institution since 1956. Thin, crispy, widely copied.
Cheesesteak
White House Sub Shop
Atlantic CityNot on the boardwalk but essential AC eating. Presidential-approved subs.
Frozen Custard
Kohr Bros
Multiple Locations
Orange swirl is the signature. Found on most major boardwalks.
Curley Fries
Multiple Stands
WildwoodWildwood invented the boardwalk curley fry. Accept no substitutes.
Salt Water Taffy
Fralinger's
Atlantic CityOriginal salt water taffy since 1885. AC boardwalk tradition.
Best Restaurants by Town
Cape May
Fine Dining
Top pick: The Ebbitt Room
Asbury Park
Trendy & Eclectic
Top pick: Pascal & Sabine
Atlantic City
Celebrity Chefs
Top pick: Gordon Ramsay Steak
Long Beach Island
Casual Seafood
Top pick: Harvey Cedars Shellfish
Stone Harbor
Upscale Dining
Top pick: Spiaggetta
Ocean City
Family-Friendly
Top pick: Jon & Patty's
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Dining FAQ
What does BYOB mean at Jersey Shore restaurants?
BYOB means Bring Your Own Bottle. Some restaurants without a liquor license allow you to bring wine or beer. Check each restaurant's policy before bringing a bottle.
Do I need reservations at Jersey Shore restaurants?
During peak summer (July-August), reservations are strongly recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends. Boardwalk dining and casual spots typically don't take reservations.
Which Jersey Shore town has the best restaurants?
Cape May is widely considered the dining capital of the Jersey Shore, with numerous fine dining options. Asbury Park has a trendy food scene, Atlantic City offers celebrity chef restaurants, and LBI has excellent casual seafood. Each town has its own culinary personality.
Are Jersey Shore restaurants expensive?
Prices vary widely. Boardwalk food is affordable ($5-15 per item). Casual restaurants run $15-25 per entree. Fine dining in Cape May or Atlantic City can be $40-80+ per person. BYOB restaurants offer good value since you save on drink markup.
Where to eat at the Shore, all year
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Related Guides
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Subs & sandwiches
Best Breakfast
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