Asbury Park has long been known for its music scene and vibrant boardwalk, but the city’s food scene is just as worth exploring. From stylish restaurants and buzzy brunch spots to casual beachside bites, there are plenty of ways to eat your way through town between strolls along the ocean.
Coffee: Café Volan
This cozy café serves expertly crafted espresso drinks like a special spiced maple latte alongside pastries and light bites like avocado toast. It’s the perfect stop to grab a latte before a morning walk along the boardwalk.
Pizza: Talula’s
Wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings have made Talula’s a standout in Asbury Park. Try the Beekeeper’s Lament, made with fresh mozzarella, hot Calabrian soppressata and local honey. Expect blistered crusts, seasonal ingredients and plenty of shareable pies.
Dinner: Judy & Harry’s
This stylish restaurant serves creative American dishes like Roast Chicken Savoy and “Schmaltz” Potatoes in a lively setting. The menu changes with the seasons and highlights locally sourced ingredients.
Seafood: Iron Whale
Overlooking the boardwalk, Iron Whale is known for its fresh seafood dishes and ocean views. It’s an ideal stop for oysters, seafood towers or a relaxed dinner by the water.
Dinner & Drinks: Porta
Known for its lively atmosphere, Porta serves up wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes in a rustic, high-energy space. Order a margherita pizza or one of the seasonal pies to share, then stick around for cocktails and music as the night picks up.
Date Night: Pascal & Sabine
This stylish French brasserie offers a more refined dining experience, with classic dishes like steak frites, escargot and French onion soup. The elegant space and polished menu make it a go-to for a special night out.
Boardwalk Bite: MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos
A walk along the boardwalk isn’t complete without grabbing tacos from this beloved spot. Favorites include bulgogi beef and spicy pork tucked into warm tortillas.
Mom’s Night Out: Watermark
Head to this rooftop lounge for ocean views, creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for meeting friends. The Watermark Lemonade, made with Ketel One Citroen, fresh grapefruit and lemon, St-Germain, and simple syrup goes down easy.
Sweet Treat: Cookman Creamery
This local ice cream shop is known for inventive flavors and house-made waffle cones. Expect rotating seasonal scoops alongside classic favorites. The Cookman Monster, loaded with Oreos, Chips Ahoy and swirled with fudge deserves a double scoop.
Lunch: Catbird Asbury Park
This stylish Sunset Avenue restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting that works well for a midday meal. The Crispy Chicken sandwich and the Fennel and Spicy Sausage pizza are not to be missed.
Family-Friendly: Mutiny BBQ Co.
Barbecue favorites like brisket, pulled pork and classic sides make this casual spot an easy choice when dining with kids.
Breakfast Classic: Frank’s Deli & Restaurant
This old-school diner is a local favorite for hearty breakfasts and no-frills comfort food. Go for a classic plate of eggs, pancakes or a breakfast sandwich to start your day before heading to the beach.
Brunch: Cardinal Provisions
This woman-owned restaurant is known for its creative, ingredient-driven menu and beautifully plated dishes. Try standout options like the egg and greens sandwich or the cacio e pepe scrambled eggs. The bright, airy space makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely weekend brunch.
Make a Day of It:
Start with a walk along the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk, then spend some time on the beach or stop into the shops and galleries along Cookman Avenue. Catch live music at The Stone Pony or check out events at Convention Hall. If you’re visiting with kids, check out the Silverball Retro Arcade for classic games and pinball before heading back out for dinner or dessert.
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Read More:
Things to Do in Asbury Park
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The Ultimate Guide of Where to Eat in Collingswood
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