June 08, 2015
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South Jersey local Tom D'intino shares his favorite restaurants.
Summer is in full swing at the Jersey Shore, and everyone is open for business. Whether you're a day-tripper, couch-surfer or have a season pass, avoid the tourist traps and eat like a local. From fine dining to delis, here are some regional institutions and hidden gems to hit while down the shore.
Cuisine: Asian fusion
Drinks: Full bar
Reservations: Recommended
Vibe: Unwind in Buddakan's cool and exotic environment, which features an oversized golden Buddha, soft red lighting, starlit ceiling and rice paper walls. Don't forget that the food is the main attraction. Everything is made-to-order and served as ready, so items will come out staggered versus traditional service. Buddakan is perfect for couples and groups and good for families with adventurous eaters. Atlantic City has many great restaurants, but Buddakan is consistently excellent, and it's hard to beat those odds.
Gotta try: Edamame ravioli
If you're hungry for: Creative, Asian-inspired dishes.
The Pier Shops at Caesars, Atlantic City. (609) 674-0100
Cuisine: Deli, sandwiches, party trays
Drinks: Ocean City is a dry town.
Reservations: Takeout
Vibe: Looking for a couple of hoagies or sandwiches to take to the beach? Then Boyer's is the spot. The market also has an excellent selection of party trays and catering options for bigger groups, gatherings and events.
Gotta try: Chicken Italiano Sub
If you're hungry for: A quick bite at the beach or need to feed an army.
1340 Asbury Ave., Ocean City. (609) 399-1343
Cuisine: American, diner, breakfast and lunch
Drinks: Ocean City is a dry town.
Reservations: N/A
Vibe: Some places are a blast from the past, and Ready's tears a hole in the time/space continuum with its 1950s classic greasy spoon ambiance and prices that will have you openly wonder if you didn't just time travel. Ready's is small, and there can be a wait, but the food and experience are absolutely worth it. You have to try this hidden gem.
Gotta try: Cream chipped beef
If you're hungry for: A great breakfast without the tourist trap gouge.
415 E. 8th St., Ocean City. (609) 399-4418
Cuisine: Homemade Italian
Drinks: BYOB
Reservations: Recommended
Vibe: Basilicos has a warm, relaxed atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out that won't break your wallet. The restaurant is also family friendly. Basilicos specializes in homemade pastas and sausages. You'll come for the traditional Italian fare, and then come back for Chef Scott Oliver's innovative spin on those classics.
Gotta try: Any of the house-made pastas.
If you're hungry for: A great meal in a casual setting at a good price.
27 43rd St., Sea Isle City. (609) 263-1010
Cuisine: Irish, American
Drinks: Full bar
Reservations: Recommended
Vibe: This is an Irish bar with a great menu and eclectic specials. There is also a full bar and dining room overlooking Sea Isle's main drag. O'Donnell's is good for a night out with friends or family and has excellent selections of both scotch and whiskey.
Gotta try: Braised short rib
If you're hungry for: A lively night out on the town.
3907 Landis Ave., Sea Isle City. (609) 263-5600
Cuisine: Seafood
Drinks: BYOB
Reservations: None
Vibe: Looking to step into the tropics while already on vacation? Enjoy your meal in Quahog's breezy backyard, where seafood is served with a Latin-barbecue twist. This place works for groups and couples. The patio is excellent for families.
Gotta try: Tuna watermelon ceviche
If you're hungry for: Seafood, cool breezes and some tropical flair.
206 97th St., Stone Harbor. (609) 368-6300
Cuisine: Modern American
Drinks: Full bar and craft beers
Reservations: None
Vibe: Upscale casual dining. The food is American cuisine with various global influences. The Establishment also boasts a great craft beer selection. The small, medium and large menu allows the right portion size for your mood.
Gotta try: Grilled prawns
If you're hungry for: A well-priced fine-dining experience or a drink at the bar with some delicious appetizers.
100 Olde New Jersey Ave., North Wildwood. (609) 523-8100
Cuisine: Seafood
Drinks: BYOB
Reservations: None
Vibe: Fun bayside feel with picnic benches overlooking the bay and some of the freshest seafood around. Get messy and crack some crabs or try the fish of the day pulled in from one of the restaurant's two fishing boats. This is an excellent spot for all seafood lovers. This is classic Jersey Shore seafood.
Gotta try: Fish tacos
If you're hungry for: Clams by the two, three or four dozen, fresh seafood and super casual dockside dining.
1044 W. Rio Grande Ave., Wildwood. (609) 522-2722
Cuisine: American & French fine dining
Drinks: Full bar and extensive wine cellar
Reservations: Recommended
Vibe: Cape May has several excellent fine-dining establishments, but the Washington Inn is the crown jewel. It is great for date nights and anniversaries. From the food to the service, everything is top-notch. It's not cheap but is worth every cent.
Gotta try: Espresso-rubbed duck breast
If you're hungry for: A high-end culinary experience in a romantic setting.
801 Washington St., Cape May. (609) 884-5697
Red's Jersey Mex (Ocean City), Mike's Seafood (Sea Isle City), Tomatoe's (Margate), Hibachi (Rio Grande), Ocean View Sushi (Ocean View), OC Surf Café (Ocean City), Il Mulino (Atlantic City), 410 Bank Street (Cape May), Sea Grill (Avalon), Surfside West (Wildwood), Yum Yum Affair (Sea Isle City), Jay's on Third (Stone Harbor), Voltaco's (Ocean City), Souzai Sushi & Sake (Atlantic City).
