I may be a little biased since I’ve grown up in Monmouth County my entire life, but we definitely have the best food! We've got everything from pizza, to sandwiches, to bagels. Out of all the eateries I’ve been to along the shore, here are nine worth visiting if you haven't already!
1. The Scone Pony — Spring Lake
The Scone Pony serves fresh and delicious pastries including Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Coffee Cake, Cinnamon Muffins, and an array of scones such as Vanilla Bean, Lemon Poppy, and Blueberry. You definitely have to check out this adorable little shop! It’s by far one of the best bakeries in the area.
2. Pete and Elda’s/Carmen's Pizza — Neptune
My family has been dining at this restaurant for as long as I can remember. Pete and Elda’s offers the yummiest pizza along the Jersey Shore, and their appetizers are pretty banging too. Every time I go there I get a plain pie (I know, I’m boring), a Caesar salad, and buffalo wings and I always leave in a food coma with a happy stomach. If you haven’t been here before, you have to try it. I promise you won’t regret it.
3. Windmill — Long Branch, Belmar, Freehold, Red Bank, and Ocean Grove
Whenever I’m craving chicken fingers and cheese fries, I head down to the Windmill! It’s perfect for a family outing and everyone can find something they’ll enjoy on the menu.
4. Circus Drive-In — Wall
Since its opening in 1954, the Circus has been one of the most popular spots in Monmouth County. They provide customers with curbside service, and they even hook trays to your window! It’s a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience that’s perfect for any family or even for an easygoing night out with your friends. My grandma and my mom have been taking me and my sisters here for years, and it’s become one of my favorite places to go in the summer. My favorite is their pink lemonade and mozzarella sticks — you haven’t lived until you’ve had them!
5. Broad St. Donut Co. — Ocean
OK, so I didn’t find this place myself. My little sister has a major sweet tooth and heard of this place, so she wanted to try it. Needless to say, these donuts are insane and she got the entire family hooked instantly. My mom picks up a box of donuts at least once a week! Broad Street Donut bakes fresh and light treats that are always warm, and they have so many different flavors to choose from, it’s honestly so hard to decide on just one. Usually I end up getting their cinnamon sugar, and it’s like a little piece of heaven. I’m obsessed!
6. Whipped Creperie — Red Bank
Since my sister is obsessed with trying new foods, she heard about this cute Crepe spot in Red Bank, so we had to go. I have to admit, at first I was a little nervous because I’ve only had crepes once in my entire life, but it was SO good. It has adorable decor, a happy atmosphere, and our food came out in no time! I ordered the classic, which has fresh strawberries, bananas and Nutella, and my sister got the PB&C, which is crumbled peanut butter cups with peanut butter sauce and chocolate sauce. It was so tasty, but I’m slightly jealous of my sister. Next time I have to be a little more daring!
7. Strollos — Belmar
With over 20 flavors, Strollos serves the best Italian Ice and soft serve ice cream around. You have to try their orange ice with vanilla ice cream because it's delicious.
8. Toast — Asbury Park
With a cute indoor setting, Toast is a great spot for breakfast or lunch! Red velvet pancakes, bananas foster french toast, and an array of wraps and salads, plus so much more — the restaurant is exceptional and worth every penny!
9. Fins — Sea Girt, Bradley, and Brick
My go-to order is a Hawaii 5-0 and a Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie. I love it.
What are some of your favorite Jersey Shore eateries? Tell us in the comments!
