Our Top 15 in ’15: A Year of Fabulous Food
2015 was a great year for us. As a matter of fact, it’s the year we were born. We’ve always been foodies, but this year we made it official by starting our blog, Real People Eating Food. Separately and together, we’ve visited nearly 100 new restaurants this year. Some have been just OK, others were pretty good, but a surprising number have been truly terrific. So, in honor of the year of our birth, we’re happy to share the Top 15 restaurants we’ve discovered this year. In no particular order, but with a great deal of lip-smacking delight, here they are:
The Poached Pear Bistro — 816 Arnold Avenue in Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ. For an upscale, innovative dining experience, Executive Chef Scott Giordano’s delicious and creative meals cannot be matched!
Harvest — 83 Main Street, Farmingdale, NJ. For fresh, seasonal, and local cuisine presented creatively in a casual, friendly atmosphere, Harvest stands above the rest. Try them for lunch, try them for dinner, but by all means, try them. This is a place you’ll return to again and again!
P.J. Sweeney’s — 447 Brick Blvd. Brick, NJ. There’s a new kid in town, and he’s a keeper. A place that does beef, chicken and fish with equal expertise, Sweeney’s is here to stay!
Mexico Lindo — 2063 Route 88 West, Brick, NJ. This old favorite has a new home. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food, you’ll find the best at Mexico Lindo. Call ahead for take-out, and be ready to stand in line. It’s well worth the wait!
Velo Eatery — 1616 Route 9, Toms River, NJ. Outstanding food, fresh ingredients, super-friendly atmosphere… Their motto says it all: “Food. Fun. Love.” Their Buffalo Cauliflower will make you forget about chicken wings forever. If you haven’t yet tried Velo, you are missing out on a great dining experience!
Shore Fire Grill — 34 S. Main Street, Barnegat, NJ. For burgers, tacos, salads, and just all-around great casual fare, you can’t do better than Shore Fire Grill. Check them out on Taco Tuesday, or try their new breakfast menu. They truly do serve “food so fresh, your Momma will wash your mouth out with soap!”
Tardi’s — 931 Fischer Blvd. Toms River, NJ. For delicious home-cooking in a classy, yet cozy setting, try Tardi’s, where every meal makes you feel as if you’re having Sunday dinner with the family. Generous portions and an attentive, friendly wait staff are sure to make your dining experience enjoyable from start to finish!
C&G’s Country Cafe — 213 NJ-37, Toms River. For a fabulous breakfast or lunch, check out C&G’s Country Cafe. Portions are large, but the price tag is more than reasonable at this charming little eatery located in the K-Mart shopping center. Don’t miss the pasta salad… It’s the stuff dreams are made of!
Clementine’s — 306 Main St. Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ. Lush surroundings, splendid seasonal decorations, and a sumptuous Creole menu that will make your taste-buds tingle… you'll find all that and more at Clementine’s. Reserve your table now to see their holiday decorations, which are on display throughout the month of January.
Three B’s Bar and Bistro — 314 NJ-70, Lakehurst, NJ. No matter what the meal, the Three B’s always gets it right. From seafood to sushi, from pizza to pierogies, it’s no wonder this place is so popular. For a casual lunch or dinner in a relaxed and friendly setting, don’t miss this dining experience!
Manalapan Diner — 48 U.S. Route 9, Manalapan Township, NJ. We’ve been to a whole lot of diners, but this one is our new favorite. The choices here are many, each one better than the next. The food is fresh, and the service fast and friendly. Be sure to try the fries… outstanding!
Brick Oven — 775 Mantoloking Road, Brick, NJ. Located in a town known for great Italian food, Brick Oven soars to the top of a competitive field. Whether you’re having pizza or one of their fabulous entrees, you will definitely leave this place with a full belly and a smile on your face. Be sure to try Nona’s Meatballs. They are truly “made with love.”
PhoTastic — 905 Route 70, Brick, NJ. PhoTastic is FAN-tastic! Their specialty is Vietnamese cooking with super-fresh, healthy ingredients, each one a culinary delight. Order one of everything, but get at least two of the spring rolls. They’re just that good!
Burger 25–1611 NJ-37, Toms River. Ladies and gentlemen… Get those knives and forks at the ready, and prepare for a burger experience the likes of which you’ve never known. Made fresh (never frozen) from 100% Certified Angus Beef, each of the 25 burgers on their menu are seasoned and cooked with care. Bring your appetite and get ready to drool!
Waypoint 622–622 Green Avenue, Brielle, NJ. For lunch or dinner with fabulous food and a lovely water view, try Waypoint 622, where Executive Chef Dan Palsi will tempt your taste buds with a variety of both surf and turf options. Save room for dessert… It’s sinfully delicious!
That’s all for now, folks. But 2016 is upon us, and we’re ready for the challenge of finding new and noteworthy restaurants at the Jersey Shore. Happy New Year from all of us at Real People Eating Food!
