SHORE BETS FOR GREAT EATS
Beach Haven, LBI
by Lucy Segal
A foodie’s fave eats at her top shore town for time-tested options that are sure bet delish!
For so many in the New York-New Jersey, Tristate area, our childhood summers are literally etched forever in the sands “down the shore.” Long Beach Island is fondly referenced as LBI by those of us who know its “exit” on the Parkway; Exit 63 has held my heart since childhood. LBI is an 18-mile-long barrier island located about 100 miles south of Manhattan aka, ‘the city’.
While so much in life changes over the years, one of the most comforting things that remains are the summer foods we grew up eating. Those homey restaurant and beloved food stands from back in the day, are still around for us to savor the taste of time in the most special way
DELISH FOR A DINER
The Chicken or the Egg {207 North Bay Avenue, Beach Haven; 609.492.3695} aka The CHEG, LBI’s own diner of sorts, hatched back in 1991, and one of the many places that has a line worth waiting on at the height of the season! Order anything from breakfast to dessert, and everything in between. As for the wings, recognized nationally and available in 18 sauces, choose from both Original, Breaded, and Naked! BYOB and It’s open 24/7 from Memorial Day to Labor Day. letscheg.com
GREAT ON THE GO
Pearl Street Market {229 Pearl Street, Beach Haven; 609.492.3910} For anything on the go, this is your go-to. They serve the freshest fish, breads, and meats providing the ultimate in top-service takeout. In fact, Pearl Street Market is affiliated with Eli Zabar’s in New York City to serve daily fresh- baked breads and pastries. They craft their specialties with local ingredients be it via sandwiches, and/or salads. Open Daily 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. during peak season. pearlstreetmarket.com
HISTORIC & HUNGER SATISFYING
Holiday Snack Bar {401 Centre Street, Beach Haven; 609.492.4544} This LBI classic has been around for nearly 75 years! Between its legendary Chocolate White cake to its award-winning burgers, fries, and hot dogs, this is a must try and for-sure worth repeat visits. Holiday Snack Bar has been serving diners since 1948 in its signature circular bar. As they like to say “enjoy some living history right here on Long Beach Island.” Important to note, this is so legit old school that for Cake and Pie orders, are only ordered by face or phone. Open from May til October. holidaysnackbar.com
SUPER SEAFOOD
Howard’s {13500 Baltic Ave, Beach Haven Garden; 609.492.2319} As you drive South on LBI, Howard’s big sign with its giant fish is a landmark that conjures fun summer memories. Howard’s has been serving visitors and locals since 1950, offering fresh seafood and harbor side dining, it’s a must visit yearly. It’s known as home of the Original French-Fried Lobster and started as just a counter with a few tables. They also offer a great kid’s menu. Although it is a BYOB, you can purchase Working Dog wines. howardsrestaurant.com
Incredible Italian & Seafood
Stefanos {1814 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach Township; 609.492.1100} Stefano’s Restaurant offers fine dining with delish contemporary Italian and great seafood selections a la Coastal Cuisine. This year it reopens for its 36th summer season, and its menu offers selections perfected over time. Stefano’s offers of apps, fish, meats, specialty salads, and award-winning chowder. Plus, be sure to grab a bucket of old bay fries, or a bucket of clams for 4 to 6 people. They have a lovely patio, and it’s BYOB. www.stefanoslbi.
The Gables {212 Centre St, Beach Haven; 609.492.3553} Truly one of the prettiest places anywhere, but for sure iconic on the Island. This meticulously restored Victorian bed and breakfast, also has as an award-winning, upscale American restaurant. Built in 1892 it was first home to Beach Haven lifeguards. As LBI’s first bed and breakfast in the 1970’s, there are just five guestrooms each reflecting its heritage. With amazing ambiance, current owner Sondra Beninati says, “It is the perfect place to fall in love all over again.” The Gables is open year-round, but as with most places on LBI, a ressy is required. gableslbi.com
Food Feast & A Family of Choices
Bay Village, the heart of downtown Beach Haven, is the re-creation of a 19th century waterfront village that is literally anchored by the Lucy Evelyn, a three masted, 1917 Maine built schooner. It made its way to LBI 75 years ago and is now surrounded by about two dozen shops, serving as the Island’s own version of “midtown.” Bay Village is also home to many of my favorite foods that truly stand the test of time! bayvillagelbi.com
Crust & Crumb Bakery – for the famous elephant ears. You can often spot the bakers making it in the window.
Cool Beans Coffee Shop – for outstanding iced coffees and tea. coolbeanslbi.com
Bay Village Pizza – serving New York-style pies that even New Yorkers love to takeout. Typically, open late morning into the night.
The Windmill Belgium Waffles and Ice Cream – This is one of my all-time faves for the ice cream and waffles that are so delish you can eat them plain!
Country Kettle Chowda – Yes, the chowder is a hit but for me I love the chicken noodle and Italian wedding soups, especially in the bread bowl, along with generous side package of oyster crackers.
Country Kettle Fudge – This is where the fudge is made for all to see, one small, yummy batch at a time.
Lucy Segal
Lucy Segal is a NY/NJ Metro area broadcast journalist, who is a health/beauty and lifestyle expert as well as news anchor. You can also see Lucy repping the brands we love on global ecommerce giant QVC. And as a busy mom of three, this self-described foodie feels lucky to detail her experiences while: Dining Out Jersey. Be sure to follow her on Instagram at @lucysegal
We’d love to hear about your food faves both here and other places down the shore. editor@diningoutmedia.com