Finding the perfect Beach Haven restaurant isn’t as simple as picking the one with the best ocean view or the shortest wait. But that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach, either. Especially with this list. Here are 13 spots where the fish is always fresh, the sunsets are part of the ambiance, and, eventually, you’ll know exactly where to go for your shore-town cravings. Those are the joys of a great beach town meal, after all.
Queen City Crust
$ | (609) 661-7769 | WEBSITE
It’s good to have a long-term plan. And even though we’re not sure what fortune we’re going to stumble upon to achieve it, our long-term plan involves becoming a regular at Queen City Crust. Because even though this Beach Haven pizza spot is reasonably priced, they’re also one of the best, most soul-curing meals around. The Detroit-style pizza here is around $30 for a whole pie, and will involve a light and airy crust that’s deliciously crispy on the outside.
The staff will chat with you from behind the counter, tell you about their favorite beach spots, and make you want to come back this weekend for dinner. And even if two whole pies in a week is a bit unrealistic, you’ll still feel like a regular here when you’re back for your next beach-day meal.
10 South Martini Lounge & Wine Bar
The entirety of 10 South consists of two outdoor bars facing the ocean. Between those bars is a single DJ, who does everything from spinning upbeat tracks to introducing the live band, and a bartender, who will be able to tell you what tropical martini pairs best with the coconut shrimp.
This beachfront spot in Beach Haven is the kind of lively destination we only share with people who really, really like a vibrant scene, because after one visit, it’s going to become a part of their summer rotation, too – and we don’t like to share.
The Chicken or the Egg – Beach Haven
$ | (609) 492-3695 | WEBSITE
We’re probably lucky that there’s usually a morning crowd at The Chicken or the Egg, because if there wasn’t, we’d be here every day. And even though there’s usually a bit of a wait, we still find ourselves driving down to this Beach Haven spot all the time. Because this is one of the best (and most fun) places to eat at the Jersey Shore.
They specialize in wings, and make their own homemade wing sauces that go perfectly with pretty much anything: spicy wings, classic wings, boneless wings, and breakfast things, too. The ultimate omelet is also a favorite of ours – it’s perfectly cooked on the outside, but fluffy and packed with flavor inside. And don’t be afraid to get involved in their massive breakfast selection. It’s one of the best in town, and extremely affordable.
Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard The Original Since 1919
$ | (609) 467-5426 | WEBSITE
Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard combines two things we like very much: classic American nostalgia and creamy frozen treats. This iconic spot on LBI feels like the kind of place where you’d expect long lines and tourist prices, but really, it’s a straightforward custard stand where you’ll get generous swirls of the famous orange and vanilla twist, generous handfuls of chocolate sprinkles, and simple cups of smooth vanilla custard.
They’ve got a limited menu, but when the custard’s this good, you won’t mind coming back for the same delicious swirls over and over again.
Parker’s Garage & Oyster Saloon
$$$ | (609) 492-1066 | WEBSITE
We’re not sure how the team at Parker’s Garage & Oyster Saloon manages to pull it all off. You’ll wonder, too, because by the time you’re finishing your meal, your server will have guided you through the limited but diverse menu with spot-on recommendations, the sunset over the bay will have painted the sky in brilliant oranges and purples, and, somehow, they’ve also created one of the most memorable dining experiences in Beach Haven.
Regardless, this seafood spot right on the water is a place where you’ll visit once, and not only want to return the very next evening, but also start planning how to become a regular who knows all the best dishes.
Delaware Avenue Oyster House & Bar
$$ | (609) 492-3352 | WEBSITE
If making Delaware Avenue Oyster House & Bar your go-to spot is a long-term plan, then doing so during happy hour is an immediate one. Like, tonight, ideally. This Beach Haven spot has a lively menu full of tempting options, but you’ll really only need to try one thing before you decide you’re coming back – the crab fried rice.
The savory crab and perfectly seasoned rice blend together to create a truly memorable dish, and one that will make you decide to build your weekly routine around coming here every Thursday for their $1.25 oysters. Or maybe that’s just us.
Playa Bowls
$ | (609) 467-5818 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of great smoothie bowl spots in Beach Haven, but the one we find ourselves at most often is Playa Bowls. It won’t be long into your visit before you decide you’re going to become a regular here. Because if you’re anything like us, and you order the coconut Nutella bowl and strawberry banana smoothie on your first stop, you’re still going to see someone with an acai bowl walk by your table and think, “Sh*t.
I need to eat that, like, as soon as possible.” And so you’ll be back tomorrow, and next week, and then all of a sudden, you’re not just an imaginary regular – you’re an actual one.
Drift Beach Bar and Restaurant
$$ | (609) 492-1501 | WEBSITE
If you’re not already a regular at Drift Beach Bar and Restaurant, you’ll feel like one before you even sit down. Because within a few seconds of arriving, the friendly staff will greet you, tell you what specials they’re serving, and probably point out the best spot on the patio to watch the sunset over the dunes.
This place feels like the quintessential beachside vacation spot: The sophisticated modern decor, the well-maintained spaces that balance class and affordability, the possibility that you’ll linger for hours just enjoying the view. You can’t go wrong with most of the menu, but our favorites are the ribeye steak, cooked perfectly, and the drunken clams, which are always a hit.
Just be aware that sometimes items like the Sauvignon blanc might be unavailable, and the fish can occasionally be overcooked. But overall, it’s a pleasant dining experience with an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to come back.
The Palm Tree
$$ | (609) 492-4611 | WEBSITE
The Palm Tree is the answer to the question, “What would happen if your favorite beach vacation opened a restaurant?” This comfortable Beach Haven spot somehow involves both tiki torches we suspect were designed by Jimmy Buffett and rattan furniture we haven’t seen since 1998. The food, though, makes a lot more sense. If you’re here with a group, you have to order the truly excellent prime rib, served with all the trimmings, that’s big enough to split three ways.
But most often, you’ll find us alone at the tiki bar, drinking spicy pineapple margaritas, and housing mussels appetizers (and maybe a key lime martini, if we’re feeling really ambitious).
Crêperie de la Mer
$ | (609) 709-1119 | WEBSITE
The first time we visited Crêperie de la Mer, we felt like we had discovered a hidden gem that no one else knew about. And we still feel that way, even though the line out the door on a summer Saturday tells us otherwise. This charming spot in a Victorian neighborhood just a block from the beach serves up some of our favorite crepes on the island, and all of them are made fresh in their cozy kitchen.
Our favorites are the classic, fantastic egg ham and cheese crepe and the delicate salmon crepe, but you truly can’t go wrong with any of them. There’s also some great sweet options – especially the salted honey crepe (really) with its perfect balance, and the rich coffee served in those unique textured paper cups that fill the air with an incredible aroma.
The Windmill Belgian Waffles & Ice Cream
$ | (609) 492-3219 | WEBSITE
If you’re visiting Beach Haven, it’s hard to imagine finding a sweet spot that becomes a tradition. The Windmill is a big exception. This waffle and ice cream shop is one of our favorite places in town – a popular destination for those seeking delicious treats – and a spot where you’ll feel right at home after a single visit.
It’s not just that the freshly made waffles with strawberries, whipped cream, and hot fudge have been a family tradition for many years, but because the ice cream flavors are truly incredible – try the cotton candy chip and coconut/cinnamon, and this will be a treat you won’t forget for a long time. And when you’re in Beach Haven again next summer, chances are, you’ll be back for more.
Black Whale Bar & Fish House
$$ | (609) 492-0025 | WEBSITE
When most seafood joints along the shore feel like they’re designed for tourists and turnover, it can be tough to find a spot that treats you like more than just another customer. Unless you visit Black Whale Bar & Fish House.
This place in Beach Haven has got Big Family Dinner Energy, except instead of chaotic noise, the dining room is filled with families happily enjoying cocktails to go along with standout seafood dishes (and, sure, occasionally getting a bit loud after a few too many glasses of wine). But the tuna’s not the only thing to focus on here – the clams pepperoncini are an ideal way to start a meal, and the salad dressings involve fresh ingredients and house-made recipes.
Country Kettle Chowda
$ | (609) 492-2858 | WEBSITE
Country Kettle Chowda looks like a typical beach town spot – tucked away in a shopping village, take-out only, a few outdoor tables – but this place is anything but. They’re a chowder haven where we recommend grabbing a bread bowl, getting lost in the intoxicating aroma, and eating some truly memorable seafood soups. If it’s your first time here, you really can’t go wrong – just make sure you get the New England clam chowder in that bread bowl.
On subsequent visits, though, you’ll want to pay attention to the lobster bisque. It’s creamy and flavorful, and involves that perfect oyster crackers combination that makes the whole experience dreamy – but no matter what you order, you’ll be happy.