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We have some family coming out to visit us from the midwest and some of them have never seen the ocean. So we are going to take them to Island Beach State Park for a nice beach day.
We'd like to go out for a seafood dinner afterwards...someplace not far from Island Beach. We're not big fans of Seaside Heights (esp. the boardwalk) and would like to avoid it if possible, unless there's a nice place not on the boardwalk.
Can you suggest a good seafood restaurant not far from Island Beach that is moderately priced (i.e. entrees in the range of $12-$17), good seafood, casual attire but not a SUPER casual place (i.e. we don't want a place where everything is greasy/fried).
Berkeley Fish Market, right outside the entrance of Island Beach State Park. I've heard that Bum Roger's next door is not what it used to be. And I can't recommend any of the other places on that strip. I've spent about a hundred summers in that town so I know what I'm talking about.
Hemmingway's has excellent seafood (and other dishes). It's in Seaside Heights on Boulevard. It turns into a nice bar/club at night, but it's a total restaurant scene until well after dinner hour and is a great place to eat. Very good local reputation among those of us who live here year-round. I go there a lot, actually. As an side, I also recommend Berkeley Seafood. It's a great stop any time.
As far as Bum Rogers, you have to be in the mood for it. It's got great pizza, but get ready for "just off the beach" atmosphere and a very musty smell, kind of the like the hold of a ship. It's actually really, really cool sometimes, but like I said, you have to be in the mood.
I haven't been to Berkeley in a while but I'm pretty sure the prices for seafood are going to be higher than $17. Someone else whose been there recently might want to chime in here. If you decide on Berkeley and you have a larger group and it's the weekend you might want to call and see if they'll accept a reservation.
The other would be the Crabs in Lavalette which is on Rt 35 between Seaside and Point Pleasant. More pricey but high quality and greast atmosphere. Big place with live music and good crowd.
Forgot about the Crabs Claw, they have been there forever. No doubt a wait, try reservations. The Crab Shack (I think) by the Aztec Motel, is now "Grifs", it looked so yummy before, I love King Crab. How about Rockafellas, in Ortley? Berkeley Seafood, always a winner in my book, been awhile for us as well. Hope you have a good time and weather is great, Enjoy.
Eew the Crabs Claw in Lavallette is gross!!! And expensive!!! No!!!! Plus it's not even close to Island Beach State Park.
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