Best Year-Round Restaurants on Long Beach Island
Where to eat

Best Year-Round Restaurants on Long Beach Island

While some of the island's best restaurants close in the off-season - many of them remain open! Click to see who makes our list.

Drew Guarino
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The numerous tourist attractions and white sandy beaches of Long Beach Island, NJ, make it such a busy destination during the summer months. But while most visitors flock to LBI from Memorial Day to Labor Day, many of Long Beach Island's best restaurants are open year-round.

Whether you are looking for a casual or fine dining experience, the island contains numerous options to suit your palate. These are some of our favorite year-round restaurants.

Fine Dining

Azzurri Italian Cucina

Azzurri Italian Cucina dish
Azzurri Italian Cucina — Harvey Cedars

Azzurri Italian Cucina brings a fresh, coastal twist to classic Italian fare right in the heart of Long Beach Island. Known for its sleek ambiance and standout service, Azzurri offers handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and thoughtfully curated wines that make every meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you're dining al fresco in the summer breeze or cozying up inside, it's the perfect spot for date nights, celebrations, or simply indulging in elevated Italian comfort food.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Imported Burrata — Strawberry rhubarb jam, 24-month aged prosciutto di Parma, chili oil, vincotto, basil, toasted brioche.
  2. Mediterranean Branzino — Crispy herb potatoes, grilled artichoke salad, lemon butter foam, basil oil.
  3. Paccheri Neri — Bone marrow ragu, balsamic reduction, chives.

“This place is just ridiculous. Our first meal there was during restaurant week. Halfway through the meal, our waiter Rich asked how everything was. I said to him, no local is cooking back there — NY was in that kitchen. He said, ‘Yes, you're correct. Both of our chefs are out of NYC.’ He asked, ‘Would you like to meet them?’ They came out and introduced themselves. I said, I'm sorry, neither of you are chefs — you're both magicians, because magic is coming out of that kitchen. Anthony and Joaquin are truly two of the finest chefs I have encountered. On top of that, they are gentlemen, coming out to greet guests and not hiding in the kitchen. We have dined there now several times, and literally everything that comes out of that kitchen is outstanding. The duck was the best duck I had ever eaten anywhere, the pork chop is just stupid good, and all the pasta is fresh — no boxes of Barilla in that kitchen. Well worth the money, and they are BYOB. This restaurant is exactly what we NY transplants needed out here. Keep up the good work, guys.”

— Anthony J. Marino

Address: 8001 Long Beach Blvd, Harvey Cedars
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Black-Eyed Susans

Black-Eyed Susans dish
Black-Eyed Susans — Harvey Cedars

Black-Eyed Susans offers a seasonal, chef-driven menu that celebrates local ingredients and refined coastal cuisine. With its intimate atmosphere and commitment to farm-to-table dining, this BYOB restaurant is beloved for its creative small plates, fresh seafood, and ever-evolving dishes. The combination of a modern, coastal vibe paired with a diverse menu makes Black-Eyed Susans a popular choice among Harvey Cedars locals and summer vacationers alike.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Gnocchi Lobster — Broccoli rabe, garlic, Calabrian chili, parmesan fonduta, lobster.
  2. Black Garlic Caesar (LBI Best Caesar candidate) — Lettuces, parmesan, breadcrumbs.
  3. Burrata Pizza (LBI Best Pizza candidate) — Pecorino, broccoli rabe, Calabrian chili, garlic.

“This is absolutely one of the best restaurants on LBI. You will not find a more friendly staff, service is incredible, food is more than delicious. Whether you are having a simple pizza or one of the amazing fish dishes, Chef Chris has a way of bringing out all of the flavors. The black garlic Caesar salad is a must start. I highly recommend this restaurant — we go at least once a week.”

— Dan Petrozelli

Address: 7908 Long Beach Blvd, Harvey Cedars
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Raimondo's

Raimondo's dish
Raimondo's — Ship Bottom

Raimondo's has been a beloved dining destination on LBI for decades, known for its elegant atmosphere, attentive service, and classic Italian cuisine with a refined touch. Raimondo's is known as one of the best Italian restaurants on the island, serving only the freshest assortment of meats, local seafood from Barnegat Light, and fresh produce from local growers.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Spedini alla Romano — Fried mozzarella, prosciutto, eggplant in an anchovy, olive, and caper sauce.
  2. Scallop Risotto — Pan-seared jumbo sea scallops over a pancetta, asparagus, asiago risotto, chive oil, and micro herbs.
  3. Parmesan Trio — Chicken, veal, and shrimp with marinara and melted mozzarella served with rigatoni marinara.

“Our favorite Italian restaurant on LBI. Never disappoints, and the early bird is a great deal before 6 pm. When we have out-of-town guests, Raimondo's is always first on the list.”

— Frank Calabrese

Address: 1101 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom
Price range: $50–$100
Alcohol: BYOB

Salt Kitchen & Bar

Salt Kitchen and Bar dish
Salt Kitchen & Bar — Ship Bottom

Located in Ship Bottom, Salt Kitchen & Bar offers coastal fine dining in a modern environment. Eclectic dishes made fresh with locally sourced ingredients are prepared by Chef Nicholas, who is well known for preparing traditional dishes and adding his own flare.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Mediterranean Plate — Dill and garlic hummus, harissa farro, pickled vegetables, romesco, marinated olives, flatbread.
  2. Cajun-Spiced Scallops — U8 Hokkaido scallops, corn maque choux, smoked baby carrots, tasso ham, pimentón crema.
  3. Crisp Calamari — Marinara sauce, hot cherry peppers, basil.

“If there were six stars, I would give it one more. Last night we had an event at Salt. The director of the restaurant, Keith, along with the lead server Laura and staff, could not have been more attentive. We are a group of local women, The Jokers of Mahjong, who support our local restaurants. We had our spring dinner and game night at Salt. Everyone raved about the food, service, and atmosphere — their attention to detail and patience with 60 women was over the top. We look forward to many years and events with Salt. I know I will now be a regular at Salt and the Hotel LBI. They have a wonderful happy hour at the bar in the lobby, with amazing food and a wonderful selection of wines.”

— Debbie Skipper

Address: 350 W 8th St, Ship Bottom
Price range: $50–$100
Alcohol: Full bar

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Casual Dining

Delaware Ave. Oyster House

Delaware Ave Oyster House dish
Delaware Ave. Oyster House — Beach Haven

Sporting one of the coziest atmospheres on the island and some of Long Beach Island's best food, Delaware Ave. Oyster House is a must-visit. Don't let the name fool you — the oysters are accompanied by pizza, tacos, burgers, wings, and much more.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Crab Fried Rice (must try) — Fresh-picked blue claw crab, egg yolk, ginger, togarashi, black sesame, smoked trout roe.
  2. Seasonal Whipped Ricotta Appetizer (one of the best apps on the island) — Varies depending on season.
  3. Crispy Octopus — Roasted red pepper hummus, chili double crunch, black sesame, arugula.

“Discovered this phenomenal find a year ago, and we went back again yesterday — oh boy, it certainly didn't disappoint. Some changes to the menu, but it is one of my favorite dining experiences on the island. The oysters are ridiculously good. We absolutely loved the tuna tartare and the crab fried rice. Yum. P.S. Chef, please bring back the lobster mac and cheese. Amazing food and ambience.”

— Diane H.

Address: 13211 Long Beach Blvd, Beach Haven
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House

The Old Causeway dish
The Old Causeway — Manahawkin

The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House is popular for its premium Angus steaks, hand-shucked oysters, amazing drinks, and lively atmosphere. Seafood lovers will be pleased to know about their impressive oyster selection, with offerings from both coasts.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. "The Black Eye" — 14 oz. rubbed-down NY strip grilled with black seasoning and smothered in jumbo lump crab and gorgonzola cream sauce with house-roasted sunrise peppers.
  2. "Bonsai" Oysters — House oysters topped with sushi-grade tuna, spicy mayo, eel sauce, panko, scallion, and tobiko.
  3. "Steakhouse" Burger — Avocado, cheddar, bacon, fried egg, chipotle ketchup on grilled Texas toast.

“I recently dined at The Old Causeway Steak & Oyster House — it was a casual yet high-quality steakhouse that exceeded my expectations. The inviting atmosphere seamlessly blended with a top-notch dining experience. The star of the show was undoubtedly the perfectly cooked steak and lobster, showcasing the establishment's commitment to quality. Beyond the food, the vibrant bar scene added an extra layer of enjoyment, and the live music enhanced the overall ambiance. This steakhouse strikes the ideal balance between casual dining and culinary excellence.”

— Ericca Jane Rios

Address: 1201 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Tucker's Tavern

Tucker's Tavern dish
Tucker's Tavern — Beach Haven

Inspired by the best American taverns and English pubs, Tucker's Tavern is LBI's favorite neighborhood bar and tavern. Its creative gastro-pub menu features fresh-caught local seafood, chef-crafted daily specials, and tavern favorites with a twist.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Honey Nut Squash & Arugula Salad — Braeburn apple, honeyed pecans, feta, plum vinaigrette, golden raisins.
  2. Local Tuna Tacos — Spicy mayo, sweet soy, seaweed salad, micro cilantro, crispy gyoza.
  3. Tucker's Burger — Fresh ½-pound burger, short rib, aged cheddar, garlic aioli, fries.

“Rooftop deck is so nice. Had the tuna tacos and calamari, wife had a Tucker burger. Drinks all solid. Service was great — quick and on point. What else can you say? It's LBI with a nice bay view, so don't expect dollar menu prices. Looking forward to the chowder fest coming up — should be a blast. Will be returning for sure soon.”

— Mapleleaf Enterprises

Address: 101 Southwest Ave, Beach Haven
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Daddy O Restaurant

Daddy O dish
Daddy O — Brant Beach

Located in one of the most iconic hotels on the island, the restaurant at Daddy O offers a wide range of eats in a variety of settings. Patrons can choose to eat in a stylish dining room, an indoor bar, an outdoor garden patio, or a rooftop deck with a scenic view.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Manhattan Red (2022 Chowderfest Champ) — Local clams, smoked ham, mirepoix.
  2. Spicy Tuna Tacos — Goma wakame, mango, sweet soy, crispy gyoza.
  3. Barnegat Light Scallops — Applewood bacon–sweet pea risotto, red pepper coulis, Pinelands micro greens.

“Great spot for food and drinks. Didn't stay here but it looks nice. Pro tip: the rooftop bar is first come, first served, but apparently you can call for a reservation too. We took the Long Beach Island Shuttle here, which is also clutch for kids and families at $5 a trip per person.”

— Will Glass

Address: 4401 Long Beach Blvd, Brant Beach
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Kubel's Barnegat Light

Kubel's dish
Kubel's — Barnegat Light

Located near the docks in Barnegat Light, this LBI tradition is known for American eats served in a comfortable setting with a fireplace and a full bar. Kubel's has been a favorite dining spot among locals since 1927.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Barnegat Light Sea Scallops — Broiled with a lemon beurre blanc and topped with seasoned breadcrumbs.
  2. Buffalo Wings (some of the island's best) — Served with celery and blue cheese.
  3. Kubel's Crab Pie (house favorite) — Jumbo lump crab meat in a rich sherry sauce with herbs, spices, onions, and peppers, topped with a puff pastry.

“We had our food trail (Anthony Bourdain's) in NJ and went to Kubel's for lunch. The restaurant receptionist is not that welcoming, but the waitress is awesome — she went above and beyond to provide us with excellent customer service. We ordered clam chowder, steamed clams, and fried clam strips. We already knew what to order, but one of them is no longer on the menu (fried clam strips). The waitress offered that they could make it for us, and I'm so delighted. It's a 5/5 for everything we ordered. Hearty soup, tasty and fresh clams. It's clam-azing.”

— Nic Vldz

Address: 28 W 7th St, Barnegat Light
Price range: $20–$30
Alcohol: Full bar

Buckalew's Restaurant and Tavern

Buckalew's dish
Buckalew's — Beach Haven

This Beach Haven restaurant is popular for its seafood and steaks. It offers an extensive beer and wine list. Enjoy your food and drinks accompanied by great local art and entertaining live music.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Spicy Roll — Choice of shrimp, salmon, or tuna.
  2. Spicy Poke Bowl — Your choice of marinated tuna or salmon with sushi rice, mixed greens, cucumber, carrot, avocado, seaweed salad, fried onions, spicy sauce.
  3. Poached Pear Salad — Mixed greens, goat cheese, softened raisins, avocado, crushed pistachios, raspberry vinaigrette.

“Went to Buckalew's for lunch today, as opposed to normally going for dinner. Christina was our server. She was really great. Today I just had their Reuben sandwich with fries. Very delicious. Looking forward to going again the next time I'm in LBI. Next time, definitely dinner.”

— Michael Robertazzi

Address: 101 N Bay Ave, Beach Haven
Price range: $20–$30
Alcohol: Full bar

The Black Whale

The Black Whale dish
The Black Whale — Beach Haven

This iconic Beach Haven joint is one of four Tide Table Group restaurants located on the island. Most known for their seafood, they also serve up tasty sandwiches, salads, and seafood pastas in a cozy, neighborhood bar setting.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. House Salad (our favorite house salad on the island) — Served with cold garlic buttermilk ranch and a balsamic vinaigrette. We suggest mixing them.
  2. Blackened Grouper Sandwich — 4–5 oz filet with cilantro aioli.
  3. Shrimp and Scallop Santa Cruz — Jumbo shrimp and scallops with artichoke hearts, capers, fresh dill, in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce over linguine.

“This LBI gem seamlessly combines the best of both worlds — a vibrant bar scene and an exceptional fish house. The star of the show, however, was an incredible salad that had me hooked from the first bite. The dressing was so divine that I couldn't resist taking some home. Beyond the salad, the entire menu lived up to the restaurant's reputation. Each dish showcased the freshness and quality of their seafood. Side note: bring mason jars for the dressing and thank me later.”

— Ericca Jane Rios

Address: 100 N Pennsylvania Ave, Beach Haven
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Arlington

Arlington dish
Arlington — Ship Bottom

Located in the heart of Ship Bottom, this hip taproom offers up a wide selection of craft beers paired with updated American fare in a modern, rustic environment.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Caesar Salad — Kale, croutons, grana padano.
  2. Noodle Bowl — Soft egg, pork belly, pickled mushrooms.
  3. Blackened Wings (the best non-buffalo wings on the island) — Served with house-made chipotle ranch.

“The owners are cool. Best bartenders on the island. Food and spirits are slamming. Cold craft beer and wine on tap with ice water on the side. I sit down in my favorite spot at the bar with my special glass filled with gin and homemade tonic created by the mixologist on staff. My favorite sports are on TV while enjoying great conversations with the best customers around. Order a burger — it's the best in town — or enjoy the raw bar and fish on the menu. There are plenty of vegetarian dishes, steak, and pasta as well.”

— Mark Shaw

Address: 1302 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Daymark

Daymark dish
Daymark — Barnegat Light

This Barnegat Light staple offers up chic American fare in a casual, coastal environment. Also equipped with a full-service bar serving up some of the best drinks on the island.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Bibb Salad — Pecans, raisins, Gorgonzola, Banyuls vinaigrette.
  2. Swordfish — Yukons, pearl onions, saffron shellfish broth.
  3. Blackened Wings (the best non-buffalo wings on the island) — Served with house-made chipotle ranch.

“Had an amazing dinner at Daymark. We're big fans of oysters, and the Delaware Bay ones were so fresh. The crab claw apps were super tasty. Their crab cakes are some of the best on LBI. I had the halibut special with crusted potatoes and celery purée, which was delightful. They have good wines, too — had the Castellucci Miano Bianco from Sicily, which paired beautifully with the cuisine. Great experience and highly recommend.”

— Anthony Margiotta

Address: 404 Broadway, Barnegat Light
Price range: $30–$50
Alcohol: Full bar

Family-Friendly

The Chicken or the Egg

The Chicken or the Egg dish
The Chicken or the Egg — Beach Haven

The Chicken or the Egg in Beach Haven, popularly known as The Chegg, serves some of the best buffalo wings in town, along with local favorites like stuffed omelets, eggwiches, and peanut butter pancakes.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Super Macho Chicken Nacho — Tortilla chips, grilled chicken, onions, tomatoes, black olives, jalapeño peppers, melted jack and cheese sauce, with sour cream and salsa.
  2. The Lumberjack Omelet — Fried chicken tenders, bacon, and pepper jack cheese, topped with country sausage gravy, served with a buttermilk biscuit. Buffalize it with one of 18 famous wing sauces, plus a side of blue cheese or ranch.
  3. Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak (we recommend bee sting sauce) — Chicken steak, American cheese, one of 18 famous wing sauces, on a fresh hoagie roll with a side of blue cheese or ranch, fries, and pickles.

“I have been hearing about the legendary Chicken or the Egg for years now. This Long Beach Island staple is no joke. With an expansive menu, a wide variety of sauces, and a fun atmosphere, Chicken or the Egg is worth a visit. I didn't know if it could live up to the hype, but I have been to the restaurant twice in the last few months and was satisfied by the experience both times. The staff is friendly and the wait time is short. They run the ship like a well-oiled machine. I definitely get the hype and will be returning next summer.”

— Caleb De Jesus

Address: 207 N Bay Ave, Beach Haven
Price range: $10–$20
Alcohol: No alcohol allowed

Burger 25

Burger 25 dish
Burger 25 — Ship Bottom

Burger 25, located in Ship Bottom, offers tasty burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and shakes with friendly service at a reasonable price point.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Chicken Avocado Club — Melted pepper jack cheese, crispy applewood-smoked bacon, fresh avocado, lettuce, and tomato, topped with house-made garlic ranch on a Martin's famous potato bun.
  2. The Smack Burger — Perfectly seasoned Angus beef patty, loaded with American cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped onions, pickles, and house-made Smack sauce on a Martin's famous sesame bun.
  3. Mexican Chop Salad — Grilled chicken, mixed greens, black beans, avocado, tomato, corn, tortilla strips, house-made cilantro lime ranch dressing.

“Really good food — awesome cheeseburger made how I ordered it, and the boardwalk fries were great. Sauces very good too. I pigged out and got the onion rings too, and I'm glad — they were delicious. Service was friendly and efficient, and huge thanks to the guys there for stapling my takeout bag shut because someone pulled out right in front of me on LBI Boulevard and I had to slam on the brakes. It went straight on the car floor upside down, but I only lost one fry. Thank goodness for good servers. I'll be back to try more. So nice to have a decent priced, high-quality burger option.”

— JRP

Address: 1915 Long Beach Blvd, Ship Bottom
Price range: $10–$20
Alcohol: BYOB

Wally's

Wally's dish
Wally's — Surf City

The 2023 Chowderfest and 2024 Chowder Cook-Off champion is known for more than just their Rhode Island clam chowder. One of the few island establishments that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Wally's has something for everyone, with super-friendly service to boot. They even offer up an extensive vegan menu, truly accommodating all customers.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Rhode Island Chowder — The award-winning tomato-based chowder filled with clams, whitefish, vegetables, potatoes, and a unique blend of seasonings.
  2. Buffalo Salad with Chicken — You can't go wrong with any salad here, but this is our favorite. Salad mix tossed in blue cheese dressing, topped with corn, black beans, crispy tortilla strips, red onions, grape tomatoes, mixed cheese, crispy onion straws, and house-made buffalo sauce–tossed crispy chicken or cauliflower.
  3. Grilled Chicken Avocado — Grilled chicken, Swiss cheese, avocado, mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato, served on a brioche roll.

“My daughter and I enjoyed a really delicious breakfast outside on a beautiful sunny morning. She had a vegan Japanese soufflé pancake. I had the breakfast burrito. Both were amazing, as was the cold brew coffee. Our server Brooke couldn't have been nicer. Quick update: my family of six returned for breakfast two days later. Brooke told her manager that we came back. She stopped at our table, thanked us for returning, and offered us a free entree. Impressive manager. My omelette was excellent.”

— Clifford Ehrlich

Address: 712 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City
Price range: $10–$20
Alcohol: No alcohol allowed

Uncle Will's Pancake House

Uncle Will's Pancake House dish
Uncle Will's Pancake House — Beach Haven

Uncle Will's Pancake House, located in Beach Haven, has been a beloved breakfast destination for over 50 years. Known for its eclectic pig-themed décor, the restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu features a variety of breakfast classics, including fluffy pancakes, omelets, French toast, and a robust lunch menu. In 2024, the restaurant was passed on to former Chegg owner and co-founder Mark Cohen, who has continued the tradition laid forth by longtime owners Tom and Margie Stewart.

What to Order
Our Favorites
  1. Pacific Coast Benedict (one of many delicious Benedicts) — Topped with smashed avocado, smoked Nova Scotia lox, poached eggs, hollandaise, and everything seasoning on multigrain toast.
  2. Pancakes — Regular, potato, buckwheat, or gluten-free. You can't go wrong with any pancake option here.
  3. Bodacious Breakfast Burrito — Three farm-fresh eggs scrambled with tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and cheddar cheese folded inside a tortilla, accompanied by homemade salsa. Recommended to add chorizo.

“Incredible food. The combo platter I received was a sizable helping and was delivered in the most efficient manner. I wish it survived for a photo. Staff and service were nothing short of perfect and pleasant. The environment of the establishment itself, as well as the heartfelt preparation of the dishes, truly makes the customer feel at home.”

— Zander Papandrikos

Address: 3 S Bay Ave, Beach Haven
Price range: $10–$20
Alcohol: No alcohol allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best months to visit Long Beach Island for dining?

April through June and September through October. A majority of restaurants are still open, and you can easily get a table without the summer crowds.

Are reservations recommended for these restaurants?

In the off-season, you can usually get away with not making a reservation at most places. However, it's recommended to still make a reservation at fine dining establishments such as Raimondo's and Black-Eyed Susans.

Do these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions?

Many of these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions, including Wally's, Kubel's, Buckalew's Restaurant & Tavern, and Raimondo's.

LBI Locals Team
About the author

LBI Locals Team

LBI Locals was founded in 2024 by Beau and Drew Guarino, driven by a shared love for the Long Beach Island community and a belief that it needed a common ground where businesses, locals, and visitors could connect and celebrate everything that makes LBI special. What started as an idea has quickly grown into a dedicated team of over 10 people, along with a summer internship program made up of individuals who share the same deep appreciation for the island.Our mission is simple: highlight the best of LBI while supporting the local businesses and community that make it so unique. We do not accept payment from businesses for features or coverage—everything we share is completely unbiased and rooted in genuine experiences, ensuring our audience can trust what they see.As we continue to grow, we have exciting plans ahead, including contests, giveaways, local events, and more ways to bring people together.We truly appreciate you visiting our site and hope you find it both useful and enjoyable. If you ever have feedback, questions, or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to hear from you.