Cozy up with the Shore’s most comforting eats.

by Cristin McCarthy Krokosz

 

 

Image: Tucker’s Tavern Bay Scallop and Clam Chowder, winner of the Grand Chowderfest competition.

Where the Comfort Food Is…

In the mid-90s, I was working at a fast-paced software company during the tech boom—a time when smaller companies constantly faced the threat of being acquired by larger ones, making every day an all-hands-on-deck experience. Lunch at my desk was the norm, and one day, I brought in some leftover meatloaf I’d made the night before. To my surprise, that simple meal attracted a crowd. The entire sales team gathered around, with hungry eyes and nostalgic comments like, “I haven’t had that in years,” “My mom used to make a fantastic meatloaf,” and even, “I wish my wife could cook meatloaf.” My little Tupperware container of meatloaf seemed to transform my cubicle into a cozy, memory-filled cabin in the woods. 

If you’re craving something warm and hearty on a chilly day, classic comfort food—from hearty meatloaf and savory stews to creamy mac and cheese—brings a taste of nostalgia to winter meals. Here’s your guide to local spots offering dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. 

 

ASBURY PARK 

Black Swan {601 Mattison Ave; 732-361-7159; theblackswanap} 

The Black Swan captures cozy comfort from every angle, whether you’re seated in the vault, front room, or by the windows. Among the top comfort classics are their Shepherd’s Pie, featuring a rich mix of beef, lamb, peas, carrots, and creamy mashed potatoes. 

Jimmy’s {1405 Asbury Ave; 732-774-5051; jimmysitalianrestaurant.com} 

For a taste of classic Italian comfort, Jimmy’s is a must-visit. The restaurant’s house salad alone draws regulars back, while other fan-favorite dishes include their rich chicken parmesan—a hearty portion with bold flavor—and their selection of imported pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo.  

 

ATLANTIC CITY 

Dock’s Oyster House {2405 Atlantic Ave; 609-345-0092; docksoysterhouse.com} 

This Atlantic City institution, family-owned since 1897, is renowned for its incredible seafood. During Happy Hour, don’t miss their steamed mussels in marinara—perfect for dipping with fresh bread. You’ll feel right at home with warm hospitality and exceptional food! 

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS 

The Atlantic House {67 1st Avenue; 848-300-2408; theatlantichousenj.com} 

Kick off a cozy night at The Atlantic House with one of their famous giant pretzels, followed by the smash burger, fish and chips, or braised short ribs. With roots in New England, the owners bring authentic pub culture to the Jersey Shore, creating a warm, inviting space that feels just right.  

BELMAR

F St. Social {1002 Main Street; 732-934-2378; fstsocial.com}

Locals can’t get enough of F. St. Social’s thin-crust pizzas, from the classic margherita to the popular chicken vodka sauce pizza. Another crowd-pleaser on the comfort food list is their “Chicken Social”—a flavorful mix of hot and sweet cherry peppers, garlic, white wine sauce, and crumbled sausage, served over pasta or rice pilaf.  

Mr. Shrimp {1608 Highway 71; 732-681-7755;mrshrimp.com} 

Jersey Shore residents agree: Nothing compares to the iconic shrimp cocktail at Mr. Shrimp, thanks to the high quality of the shrimp and their uniquely delicious cocktail sauce. Their extensive comfort food menu is loaded with seafood classics, from the hearty clam pot and seafood fra diavolo to fish and chips, linguine with clam sauce, and daily specials.  

 

BRICK 

Beacon 70 {799 Route 70; 848-232-4235; beacon70.com} 

Beacon 70 sits right on the water in Brick, where the brisk breeze may greet you outside, but inside, it’s all about cozy, comforting vibes. Kick off your meal with their grilled cheese trio or beef short rib nachos, perfect for sharing. For entrees the French dip burger, and Beacon 70 chicken are local favorites that always hit the spot. 

 

Brownstone Pancake Factory {979 Cedar Bridge Ave; 201-945-4800 ext. 3; brownstonepancakefactory.com} 

The all-day menu at Brownstone Pancake Factory is pure comfort. From their “ultimate insane milkshakes,” pancakes, waffles, French toast, and burgers to their creamy and delicious mac-and-cheese bowls, comfort surrounds diners—along with the wonderfully decorated interiors at all their locations.  

 

FREEHOLD 

The Cabin {984 Route 33; 732-462-3090; thecabinnj.com} 

Fan favorites to kick off your meal at the Cabin include the Bavarian pretzels, drunken clams, crock of onion soup, and house-made chili. Comfort-food seekers will meet the dinner menu of their dreams, featuring brisket mac-and-cheese, country-style meatloaf, country-style fried chicken and a pulled pork or brisket platter—just to name a few!  

 

The Standard at the American Hotel {18 E Main St, Freehold; 732-431-3220; thestandardnj.com} 

The Standard, located in the beautiful American Hotel on Main Street, is known for its American fare with a flair. Their French Onion Soup with melted Gruyere Gratin cheese and hearty Brioche Crouton is topped with a sizeable crunchy onion ring. Another favorite is their famous Meatloaf cooked to perfection with mushrooms, peas and carrots, mashed potatoes, and a delicious barbeque glaze. 

 

LAVALETTE 

Crab’s Claw Inn  {601 Grand Central Ave; 732-793-4447; thecrabsclaw.com} 

The Crab’s Claw Inn is an iconic go-to for comfort seafood, offering dishes like lobster bisque, crab cakes, baked scallop casserole, and their popular Crab’s Claw Fish Sandwich. For those who prefer land-based fare, there’s a variety of delicious options to choose from. 

LBI 

Tuckers Tavern {101 Southwest Ave, Beach Haven; 609-492-2300; tuckerstavern-lbi.com} 

Inspired by the finest American taverns and English pubs, their menu features hearty and robust dishes. One standout item is the Bay Scallop and Clam Chowder, which won the Grand Chowderfest competition. This delicious chowder is served with flamin’ hot oyster crackers on top. For those who prefer land-based meals, the Pulled Pork Sandwich is a must-try. It comes with house-made BBQ sauce, caramelized onions, Pennsylvania cheddar, slaw, all nestled in a brioche roll, accompanied by crunchy fries. 

LONG BRANCH 

Johnny Piancone’s {732-229-0300; 591 Broadway; johnnypiancones.com} 

No comfort food lineup would be complete without a mention of classic Sunday Sauce, and Johnny Piancone’s serves it any day of the week—complete with a perfect dollop of ricotta! Their rigatoni bolognese, chicken parmigiana, and cacio e pepe pappardelle are all ideal choices for a warm, hearty meal on a chilly day.  

 

MANASQUAN 

Committed Pig {165 Main St; 732-837-9800; thecommittedpig.com}  

The Committed Pig is all about comfort food with a twist. Forget the plain cheeseburger—here, you’ll find creative options like the fried pickle burger, the mac-and-cheese burger, and even a cheeseburger served on a donut. Their breakfast menu is just as indulgent, with choices like Nutella French toast, cookie dough pancakes, and classic pork roll and cheese sandwiches.  

 

Harpoon Willy’s {2655 River Road; 732-223-8880; harpoonwillys.com/manasquan-nj} Closed for Renovations at time of print 

While temporarily closed for renovations, Harpoon Willy’s still earns its spot on our list for comfort food destinations. Comfort is always on the menu here, with favorites like French onion soup, and Harpoon Willy’s specialties like Louisiana shrimp and grits and chicken pot pie.  

 

Squan Tavern {15 Broad Street; 732-223-3324; squantavern.com} 

If you’re craving comfort food, don’t miss Squan’s renowned Sicilian pizza . With its crispy crust, savory sauce, and melted mozzarella, this crowd-pleaser has something for both “corner piece” and “middle piece” fans alike. We recommend you start your night off with their hearty pasta fagioli and crispy calamari! Also, new to the menu is their risotto—a creamy Arborio rice dish —perfect for warming up on a chilly night!

 

PLEASANT BEACH

Sinner’s Steakhouse {20 Inlet Dr, Point Pleasant Beach; 848-232-1672; sinnerssteakhouse.com}  

It’s perfectly fine to love comfort food and embrace a bit of indulgence at Sinner’s Steakhouse. The cozy dining room, wrapped in windows with water views, offers a menu full of rich, satisfying dishes: French onion soup, lollipop lamb chops, truffled Parmesan fries, creamy risotto with scallops, and filet mignon that brings instant warmth. This spot is a true delight! 

 

RED BANK 

Robinson Ale House {26 Broad Street; 732-383-8219; therobinsonalehouseredbank.com} 

Robinson’s Red Bank location is the perfect destination after a chilly day of shopping. Mac-and-cheese, meatloaf, Guinness beef stew, and fish-and-chips are just a sample of the comfort food you’ll find at this popular restaurant. Visit their other locations in Asbury Park and Long Branch! 

 

RUMSON 

Salt Creek Grille {4 Bingham Ave; 732-933-9272; saltcreekgrille.com} 

Salt Creek Grille is a go-to destination for special occasions like date nights and gatherings with friends. Start with their warm burrata and fig jam, spinach artichoke dip, or lobster bisque.  For entrées, choose from hearty options like their porterhouse stroganoff, or a center cut pork chop—paired with their indulgent “adult mac-and-cheese.” 

 

SEA GIRT 

Rod’s {507 Washington Blvd; 732-449-2020; rodstavernnj.com}   

Rod’s Tavern has all the classic comfort dishes to warm up any winter gathering.  The chicken pot pie, filled with chicken, peas, carrots, onions, potatoes, and topped with a golden crust, is a crowd-pleaser, as is their shepherd’s pie with savory minced lamb and beef, root veggies, and whipped potatoes with a parmesan dusting.  

Four Winds {1316 Jefferson Ave; 732-223-3010; fourwindsrestaurant.com} 

The Four Winds Restaurant offers a warm, inviting tavern vibe and a menu packed with comfort-food favorites. Start your meal with a classic French onion soup, or try the crispy potato skins, fresh chicken Caesar salad, hearty roast beef dip sandwich, or the sizzling sirloin over toast points.  

 

SPRING LAKE 

Joseph’s Delicatessen {516 Warren Avenue; 732-449-1412;}  

If your idea of comfort food is a hearty, quality sandwich, then a trip to the “Italian Deli in the Irish Riviera” is a must. Fan favorites include the famous “Sloppy Joe”—piled high with roast beef, turkey, cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on soft rye.  

SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS 

St. Stephen’s Green Publick House {2031 Route 71; 732-449-2626; ssgpub.com} 

When it comes to comfort food, St. Stephen’s Brown Derby Meatloaf is unbeatable— Topped with rich Guinness mushroom gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy onions, this dish truly brings that cozy, homey feel to the table. As the name suggests, Guinness plays a starring role in many of St. Stephen’s dishes, making this a top spot for anyone craving comfort food with an authentic Irish twist. 

 

TOMS RIVER 

B2 Bistro & Bar {1250 Hooper Ave, Toms River: 732-797-2570; b2bistro.com} 

Each of the B2 Bistro + Bar locations offers a variety of specials, but new at the Toms River location is the Garlic Parm Chicken Pizza. This newcomer is topped with grilled chicken, bacon, caramelized onion, mozzarella, garlic parm sauce, and ranch dressing. If you are looking for comfort without the meat, try their hearty Pesto Gnocchi & Eggplant “Meatballs”. 

 

WALL TOWNSHIP 

D’Amore’s Caffe & Toast {1861 Highway 35; 732-561-0114; damorescaffeandtoast} 

If you’re craving comfort food for breakfast or lunch, D’Amore’s artisan toasts are a must-try. Among the most popular is  the “Architecture Toast,” featuring smashed avocado, arugula, bacon, a perfectly poached egg, everything bagel seasoning, and shaved parmesan on top.  

 

Lubrano’s Trattoria {2439 NJ-34; 732-292-0050; lubranostrattoria.com} 

The Lubrano family’s restaurant is a beloved local spot, known for serving exceptional Italian comfort food. Try the Chicken Lubrano, featuring tender chicken paired with broccoli rabe, roasted peppers, sundried tomatoes, and a rich wine sauce topped with melted smoked mozzarella. Don’t forget to sample their freshly baked rosemary bread, a crowd favorite that adds the perfect touch to any meal.