Written by Bryan and Maggie Smith
We might be Two Dopes fom Jersey, but when it comes to eating and drinking on Long Beach Island, we have tons of experience and even more opinions. We always have a great time on the island, but with so many options it can be hard to decide the best places to go. We’ve narrowed our long list down to a few of our favorite spots you gotta hit.
The Arlington
The Arlington serves great seasonal American food in a rustic laid back setting. The menu is as thought out and creative as the tap selection. The ever changing array of fantastic beers will please even the snobbiest of beer nerds. They have a large dining room and the awesome bar room brings a hipster vibe to the Island in the best possible way. Make sure your bring your adventurous side because we guarantee you will find something new here.
Must Try- Anything on tap
1302 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom
Raimondo’s
Raimondo’s has a romantic atmosphere and a flair for dramatic plating. This is a perfect spot to go for a delicious modern Italian dinner and it’s BYOB. They serve up some of your favorite classic Italian pasta dishes with a range of different meats and delicious desserts. Our Dope Recommendation is to get the pork chop with hot and sweet vinegar peppers, onions, and crispy potatoes in a rosemary wine sauce. With the strong flavors and a generous portion size you’ll be sure to yell out “Momma Mia, that’s good!”
Must Try - Pork Chop Calabrese
1101 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom
The Old Causeway
Right over the bridge in Manahawkin, the Old Causeway sits in the marshland of Barnegat Bay. With a salty, upscale back-bay vibe, this joint is a great spot to grab some drinks, amazing bar food, or a steak. Its also a great place to get into long discussions about why the Giants are better than the Eagles, or vice versa. The happy hour rules and they have a great selection of local Jersey brews to accompany their impressive oyster selection. Oh and did we mention the mouth watering, to die for wings? If you don’t get an order, hand in your foodie card.
Must Try - Wings, Daily Oysters, or Parmesan Fries
1201 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin
