Week 5 - July 17
This blog is your insider guide to everything edible on LBI. No tourist traps, just good food, local tips, and a little buzz from the beach. Whether you’re here for a week or a whole season, I’ve got you covered with where to eat, what to drink, and how to order like a local!
🍕 This Week’s Bite
Crispy Artichokes at Black-Eyed Susans
Have you ever made that one dinner—and suddenly you’re craving it every day for the next week, until you burn out and move on to the next obsession? I’ve fallen victim to many a good ol’ hyper-fixation meal. But somewhere along the way, I leveled up… and found myself with a hyper-fixation restaurant. Economical? Not even close. Better than rotisserie chicken salad? Without a doubt.
Twice in the past week, I’ve ended up at Black-Eyed Susan’s in Harvey Cedars. Both times, I left full, pleasantly tipsy, and already crafting excuses to return. Top of the list? Their Crispy Artichokes.
Lightly battered with zero grease, they deliver all the heartiness of your favorite fried foods without the guilt. Paired with fresh lemon and a zesty pesto aioli, this dish has quickly become one of my favorite bites on the island.
The most enticing part? The atmosphere—truly a one-vibe-fits-all scene. The indoor dining room is intimate and elevated, the coastal-retro bar buzzes with lively conversation and happy hour hoppers, and the outdoor setup is a little boho, a little coastal, and completely unique.
👆 Insider Tip: Reservations are recommended and tend to fill up fast, though I’ve never had to wait with a party of two. If you decide to try your luck walking in, grab a cocktail from The Marigold Mobile Bar while you wait in their patio area.
The menu matches the eclectic vibe. From light appetizers to upscale seafood and classic bar pies, Black-Eyed Susan’s is a true catch-all.
The Story
Starting out as a small farm-to-table in 2000, Black-Eyed Susans’ mission has always been rooted in showcasing high quality, seasonal, and local ingredients. While their dinner menu is on the more creative side, their take on some Sicilian classics is always LBI-esq at its core.
🌟 Must-Order Dish
Polpette Arabiatta —Sicilian style meatballs, pistachios, sulatanas, ricotta
Honorable mentions go to:
- Golden Tilefish
- Lobster Gnocchi
- Polpette Pie
Black-Eyed Susan’s is the perfect LBI dinner spot—whether you’re celebrating something special, catching up with friends, or stopping by for “just one drink.” It’s the kind of place you visit for the experience, no matter what kind of night you’re after.
📍 Located at 7908 Long Beach Blvd. Harvey Cedars
Friday & Saturday: 4 pm – 10 pm
Sunday-Thursday: 4 pm -9 pm
🌊Weekend Washashores
While lobster rolls may not be LBI’s claim to fame, we’ve got a few that can definitely hold their own against our New England neighbors. If you’ve had your fill of Viking Village scallops and find yourself craving a different kind of crustacean, here are a few fresh options worth checking out.
🍹This Week's Sip
This issue is starting to develop a theme: all things Black-Eyed Susan’s. I’ve already raved about the vibes and the food, so it’s only fitting to give their cocktail menu its well-earned moment.
These drinks are seasonal and artisanal, crafted with the same intention and care as their food.
My Favorites:
~ Dirty Martini with pickle-stuffed olives
~ Suzy’s Marg
~ You Had Me at Aloe
🤙 Order Like a Local
LBI isn’t exactly known for boozy brunches—aside from a few BYOB spots, your options are limited. Which is a shame, because let’s be honest: everything tastes better when someone else makes it.
The good news? If you don’t mind a pastry for breakfast, you can swing by the Marigold Mobile Bar at Black-Eyed Susan’s for a savory Bloody Mary or a crisp Mimosa to pair with your croissant.
👂 Word on the Beach
LBI’s First National Hot Dog Day with Surf City Dog House!
There’s just something about July… it makes me want a hot dog real bad.
Especially on July 16th, which just so happens to be National Hot Dog Day. Did you celebrate by checking out LBI’s newest—and only—dedicated hot dog spot?
Surf City Dog House puts a fun, summery twist on the classic hot dog stand by serving their dogs Hawaiian-style. Instead of slicing the buns, they hollow them out and pack your toppings of choice right inside. It’s the perfect dog-to-bun-to-mustard ratio—without the worry of your hot dog slipping out mid-bite.
The fresh buns, known as “Puka” buns, are named for the hole that’s baked into the bread. Traditionally, a Puka Dog is made with a sweet bread bun, a garlic secret sauce, and tropical fruit relish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try their homemade Spicy Pineapple Garlic Sauce—Surf City Dog House’s spin on the classic Puka Dog toppings.
📍 Located at 1521 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City
About Me
Hey, I’m Hannah! I’ve lived just over the bridge from LBI for the past 25 years and if there’s one thing I know, it’s how to order the perfect after-beach meal like a local. I’ve spent every summer either working in restaurants or hopping between them, chasing the best cosmo, returning for a tried and true classic, exploring new weekly specials, and looking for the thrill of a just-opened spot that’s already getting some island buzz. From takeout in your beach chair to white tablecloths under string lights, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to eat, sip, and celebrate all season long. Let’s dig in!
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