Manasquan, NJ is a scenic, seaside town in the southern part of the state. With a full mile of picturesque beach, it’s the perfect place for sand and sea lovers. It also boasts the popular Manasquan river, which is a hub for local boaters and fishermen. Quaint shops line the streets, inviting visitors to browse everything from antiques to beach decor.
It’s a great place for families, couples, and friends to visit while at the Jersey shore. Manasquan is also a fabulous place to grab a quick bite or a full-course meal. Check out the 18 best restaurants this seaside town has to offer.
1. The Salty Whale and Guesthouse
$$ | 732-592-3344 | WEBSITE
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With live entertainment and fun “days” like Wine’d Wednesdays, The Salty Whale is a great place to gather with friends.
There’s something for everyone on the menu, including basil shrimp, hummus, kale quinoa, and rare tuna steak. There’s also great signature drink specials and a large selection of craft beer. There is actually a guesthouse you can rent too!
2. Grandma’Ss Meatballs
$$ | 732-292-4580 | WEBSITE
Open only for dinner, every Tuesday through Sunday, Grandma’s Meatballs is a treat for the whole family. Making classic Italian dishes with their homemade house pasta, you’ll feel like you’re in your grandma’s kitchen!
The menu also includes several chicken, veal, beef, pork and seafood choices. Each Sunday is “Sunday gravy” day. Large parties can be accommodated in their casually decorated dining room.
3. The Peach Pit Cafe
$$ | 732-223-4748 | WEBSITE
Located inside the Main hotel, The Peach Pit is one of the best places to grab breakfast in an upscale atmosphere. Perusing the menu, you’ll find it filled with delightful breakfast fare.
You can dig into the large country breakfast, build your own omelet, or try the super fresh peaches and cream. There’s also the Jersey breakfast that includes a Jersey staple, Taylor ham (or pork roll – let’s not argue NJ peeps).
4. Blend On Main
$$$ | 732-223-0030 | WEBSITE
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Where the Peach Pit Cafe leaves off, Blend on Main takes over. When dinner time strikes, the Cafe transforms into a lovely dinner spot. Great for family celebrations or cozy date nights, the atmosphere is classy but welcoming.
With daily specials full of fresh ingredients, you are sure to be satisfied at Blend on Main. Their signature Wagyu steak burger is a must try. With 8 ounces of prime Wagyu chuck and rib meat, you’re definitely bringing home a doggie bag.
5. Max Devros
$$ | 732-528-1414 | WEBSITE
Offering live music in a comfortable setting, Max Devros is great for everyone. Serving classic American fare like hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, and blue claw crab.
You can also grab a meal with a bit more flare, like brown butter whiskey shrimp or lobster roll tacos. The atmosphere is laid back and the service is great. Max’s also offers brunch and family deals.
6. Antonio’s Trattoria Cucina Italiana
$$ | 732-223-1933 | WEBSITE
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If you’re looking for a casual, comfortable, and scrumptious, head over to Antonio’s. They offer Italian delights with a Meteranean flare. With over 10 years in business, this trattoria cooks everything to perfection with the freshest ingredients.
The fig and goat cheese bruschetta alone makes it worth the trip. The menu is vast. But don’t worry, Antonio himself is always there to greet you and discuss the dishes.
7. George Lu
$$ | 732-223-4224 | WEBSITE
Great Chinese food is a bit tricky to find in this tiny borough. But George Lu has it. Fine in their cozy, unassuming storefront space or take it to go. Whichever you choose, rest assured that the warm and welcoming owners ensure that your meal will be delicious and plentiful, like the good old days. Be sure to try their always freshly made egg rolls.
8. Harpoon Willy’s
$$ | 732-223-8880 | WEBSITE
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Enjoy casual, waterfront dining on the banks of the Manasquan River. Willy’s pride themselves on their friendly service and delicious food and drinks.
Whether you’re there with friends, family, or as a couple, everyone is sure to enjoy watching the boats motor down the river as you enjoy dishes like blackened halibut, seared scallops, or the juicy river road burger.
9. Asahi Steakhouse
$$ | 732-223-2669 | WEBSITE
Gather around the hibachi grill for birthdays, anniversaries, or just for the fun of it! Asahi is a Japanese fusion restaurant serving the freshest sushi and sashimi.
Watch as their skilled chefs prepare your choice of hibachi, and maybe even catch a shrimp in your mouth. They also serve delicious noodles and traditional pad Thai.
10. Kitchen 35
$$ | 732-528-1000 | WEBSITE
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Named for the Highway New Jersians take to get down the shore, Kitchen 35 offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a vast diner like menu. You must try one of their signature sandwiches, like the Fig E – Smalls, The Green Latifa, or Da Louie.
Kichen 35 also caters to seniors with their own menu. All items are one base price and include soup, salad, and a beverage. We love businesses that help their community!
11. Via Veneto Ristoranto
$$ | 732-722-8408 | WEBSITE
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Perfectly plated Italian dishes await couples and friends at this upscale eatery. Called a “hidden gem” in Manasquan, folks rave about the food and supreme service. With dishes like Balsamic chicken and pistachio ricotta cake, you’d be missing a tasty treat if you didn’t BYOB and swing by for a meal.
12. Reef and Barrel
$$ | 732-449-4114 | WEBSITE
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Using only fresh local ingredients and supporting fellow small businesses is what Reef and Barrel is all about.
Their menu changes with the seasons, but you can always count on staples like the Cajun pierogies and the large choice of Barrel burgers. For the adults in the crowd, there is a rooftop space with DJs, live bands, and karaoke.
13. The Irish Rail
$$ | 732-223-9300 | WEBSITE
This casual bar and grill offers American and Irish-style eats. From the giant sliders, fish n chips, and Reubens, the food sets the tone for a great time with friends. The Guinness is always on tap at reasonable prices. Stop by to sample some of Manasquan’s best bar food with an Irish twist.
14. The Breeze
$$ | 732-279-7973 | WEBSITE
Located near Seawatch beach in Manasquan. This small, quaint spot is the perfect place to stop for breakfast or lunch after a stroll on the beach.
The menu includes huge breakfast wraps, platters of morning comfort foods, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great place for the whole family to stop before hitting the surf.
15. Legget’s Sand Bar
$$ | (732) 223-3951 | WEBSITE
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Legget’s is a great waterfront spot for adults to enjoy an evening with friends. You can dine inside or out surrounded by tiki umbrellas and palm trees.
Serving classic seafood and American dishes like jumbo shrimp cocktail, clams galore, and burgers of your choice. Offering a full bar, relax with a signature margarita, join a game of darts, or dance the night away on the rooftop space that features live entertainment and karaoke for all.
16. Four Winds Restaurant
$$ | 732-223-3010 | WEBSITE
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Four Winds’ focus is on bringing its guests the best seafood dining experience in Manasquan. From appetizers like clams casino and oysters, to entrees like sea scallops and fresh caught fluke.
Seafood lovers will not want to leave. Not to worry if seafood is not your thing, they serve up fabulous chicken and beef dishes as well. The servers are great and always available to answer any questions about the menu.
17. Esposito’s Pizza
$$ | 732-528-1111 | WEBSITE
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When looking for a great pizza in Manasquan, look no future than Esposito’s. With great service and gluten free options, it’s a great place for any pizza lover.
A must try is their signature sesame seed crusted pizza with fresh mozzarella and caramelized onions. The pizza is quite large and enough for a family. The menu also includes a large selection of salads, sandwiches, baked dinners like ziti and fresh pasta dishes.
Summary
Manasquan, NJ is a great town. Whether you want to basque in the sun and sand, boat, fish, or walk around town and shop, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to take a break from your fun to enjoy a bite in one of these 18 fabulous dining spots.
