13 New Jersey Shore Spots Serving Seafood And Seaside Serenity
The New Jersey Shore isn’t just about sun, sand, and boardwalks; it’s a haven for seafood lovers craving fresh catches and relaxing vibes.
Along the coast, restaurants serve everything from flaky fish to succulent crab, all paired with the gentle sound of waves and salty sea air.
Each bite captures the essence of the shore, turning meals into mini getaways. Here, dining blends flavor and scenery, making every visit a serene and unforgettable experience.
1. The Lobster House, Cape May
Picture a working fish market attached to a sprawling restaurant where fishing boats dock right outside your window. That’s the magic here.
Since 1954, this Cape May icon has been slinging fresh catches straight from the boat to your plate, and locals swear by the stuffed flounder.
Grab a cocktail at the raw bar or snag a table on the dock for sunset views that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. The clam chowder is thick, creamy, and worth every calorie.
2. Knife & Fork Inn, Atlantic City
Fancy a side of history with your halibut? This 1912 landmark looks like a Tudor castle dropped onto the Jersey Shore, and the seafood is just as impressive as the architecture.
White tablecloths, dark wood paneling, and a menu that treats ocean treasures with serious respect.
Their lobster bisque has been perfected over a century, and the Chilean sea bass practically melts on your fork. Dress code applies, so leave the flip-flops at the hotel.
3. Dock’s Oyster House, Atlantic City
Operating since 1897, this place has seen Atlantic City transform from Prohibition speakeasy hub to casino capital while never compromising on oyster quality.
Four generations of the Dougherty family have kept the tradition alive, and boy, does it show in every briny, perfect bivalve.
The seafood tower is a work of art piled high with shrimp, clams, and oysters on ice. Come hungry, leave happy, and maybe drop a quarter in a slot machine on your way out.
4. Klein’s Fish Market & Waterside Cafe, Belmar
Half fish market, half BYOB eatery, all delicious. You can literally watch them fillet your dinner in the market section, then have it cooked to perfection minutes later in the cafe.
Talk about farm-to-table, except it’s boat-to-plate and infinitely fresher. The grilled swordfish is a local favorite, and the casual picnic-table setup keeps things refreshingly unpretentious.
Bring your own wine, grab some napkins, and prepare for seafood bliss by the Shark River.
5. The Crab’s Claw Inn, Lavallette
Perched right on Barnegat Bay, this spot has been a Shore institution since 1948, serving crabs by the dozen to sunburned families who know good seafood when they taste it.
The outdoor deck is where the magic happens, especially when the sun sets over the water.
Order the steamed blue crabs and channel your inner Marylander with a mallet and Old Bay. It’s messy, it’s fun, and it’s exactly how summer should be spent along the Jersey coast.
6. Langosta Lounge, Asbury Park
Mexican-inspired seafood meets boardwalk cool at this vibrant spot where margaritas flow and fish tacos reign supreme.
The beachy decor and laid-back atmosphere make you feel like you’re dining in Baja, except the Atlantic is right outside instead of the Pacific.
Try the lobster quesadilla or the grilled octopus tacos for something different. Weekend brunch features bottomless mimosas and ceviche that’ll cure any hangover from the night before on the Asbury Park music scene.
7. Bahr’s Landing, Highlands
Standing since 1850, this place has survived hurricanes, economic downturns, and changing tastes while keeping Sandy Hook Bay views and fresh seafood at the center of everything.
The casual nautical vibe feels authentic because it is, not some designer’s idea of coastal charm.
Their clam strips are addictive, and the lobster roll is packed generously without skimping on mayo. Outdoor seating lets you watch boats cruise by while seagulls eye your french fries with criminal intent.
8. The Shrimp Box, Point Pleasant Beach
Right on the Manasquan River, this family-run favorite has been feeding Shore visitors since 1950 with a menu that celebrates local waters.
The name might suggest they only do shrimp, but the whole menu deserves attention, from scallops to striped bass.
Their coconut shrimp comes with a tangy dipping sauce that’s borderline addictive, and the outdoor tiki bar adds tropical vibes to your Jersey Shore experience. Live music on weekends keeps the party going past dessert.
9. Brando’s Citi Cucina, Asbury Park
Italian cuisine meets Jersey Shore seafood in this stylish spot where the pasta is handmade and the fish is caught locally.
The combination sounds simple, but when executed this well, it’s nothing short of spectacular. Think linguine with clams that would make a Sicilian grandmother nod approvingly.
The branzino is grilled to perfection with lemon and herbs, and the seafood risotto is creamy without being heavy. Make reservations because Asbury Park foodies pack this place nightly.
10. Lucky Bones Backwater Grille, Cape May
Tucked away from the bustling main streets, Lucky Bones brings a laid-back vibe to Cape May’s dining scene.
This backwater gem sits right on the harbor, giving diners front-row seats to watch boats drift by while enjoying plates of fresh catch.
The menu features everything from blackened mahi tacos to steamed clams, all prepared with local ingredients. Families love the relaxed atmosphere where kids can watch the water while parents sip cocktails.
What really sets this place apart is the combination of quality food and unbeatable views. Sunset dinners here become unforgettable experiences as the sky turns orange over the marshlands.
11. Iron Whale, Asbury Park
Named after the town’s historic fishing heritage, Iron Whale captures Asbury Park’s cool, artistic energy.
This spot transforms classic seafood dishes into creative masterpieces that appeal to adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike.
From raw bar selections to wood-grilled octopus, every dish shows attention to detail and flavor.
The restaurant’s industrial-chic design includes exposed brick and nautical touches that feel both modern and timeless.
12. The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House, Manahawkin
Serving as the gateway to Long Beach Island, this Manahawkin treasure offers sophistication without stuffiness.
The name tells you exactly what to expect: premium steaks and incredibly fresh oysters that arrive daily from nearby waters.
Picture white tablecloths, friendly servers, and windows overlooking the bay. Whether you order surf, turf, or both, the kitchen delivers restaurant-quality meals that justify the slightly higher prices.
13. Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, Long Branch
With waves practically lapping at the foundation, Rooney’s offers dining that feels like eating aboard a luxury ship.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Atlantic Ocean, making every seat a good one for watching surfers and seabirds.
The menu ranges from simple grilled fish to elaborate seafood towers piled high with lobster and shrimp. Sunday brunch here has become legendary, drawing crowds who want mimosas with their ocean views.