50 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants Island Heights

“This place is a Hidden Gem...I can't wait to go back for Sunset Friday night dinner!! My husband is the most critical person when it comes to Restaurants, BUT he LOVES the Food here, 😉😁 See ya soon!!!“

“Started strong with the friendly atmosphere, very cozy and was helped and seated immediately. Our waitress Adriana was a delight and swiftly put in our food! Ordered a breakfast platter and it was tasty and came out fast! Little costly but what isn't in this day and age. Would absolutely recommend and would return! :)“

“Amazingly friendly customer service, great food and coffee with a good selection of gluten free options.“

“The cheesesteaks were delicious, but I wished I noticed the disgusting fan that was above the ordering counter before I ate there. The fan is full of so much thick dust that I felt sick after eating there. Makes you wonder if the kitchen is really clean.“

“This is the best food so far so good one of the best counter got to be young lady name Jessie she so sweet and kind and helpful“

“Had an amazing dinner with my family for my brother birthday everyone enjoyed their dinner and service was amazing. It’s great to have such a great restaurant close by and not have to travel far…“

“La pizza increíble es lo más rico que he probado excelente servicio y los dinners están súper riquísimos“

“Do they serve any Gluten Free bread? Do they have a GF menu of any kind? Thanks“

“Delicious, clean, fresh food with huge portions for very cheap. The whole restaurant down to the bathroom was super clean and the guy at the counter who took our order was the nicest and most helpful. Would definitely go again. The food was amaaazinnnggg“

“Was excellent on DoorDash. Hot and fresh. The corn tortillas didnt fall apart. Prices are good for the quantity of food.“

“Third visit each time at a different location. Million dollar bacon #1 pick. Arianna in Brick was all alone on the floor @ 9am on a Sunday but she didn’t miss a beat. Great service!! Food amazing ! I’m not a coffee drinker usually but coffee was good enough for a second cup. Morning Meditation is great too
We will keep coming back“

“Came here for a quick, Sunday homestyle breakfast and was not disappointed at all. The atmosphere is unique, to say the least, but also gives a lot to start conversations amongst the table. Serving portions were superb and food was very tasty. I have seen other comments and reviews that were very negative and nasty, but everybody can have a bad day once in a while. They were complaining on the service and owner/waiter being rude and yelling. I've seen more positive ratings than negative ones. While not everybody has the same humor, people can definitely be some Debbie downers. All in all, we had a nice experience and enjoyed the food. Ihop who?? Lol will def be back!!!“

“If you’re heading down the Shore and craving something simple, satisfying, and reliably good, Shady Rest Restaurant continues to be a go-to for locals who appreciate classic comfort food done right.

This is the kind of place that doesn’t need a lot of fanfare. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with that familiar neighborhood feel that makes you instantly comfortable. It’s not about trends here—it’s about consistency, and Shady Rest delivers on that time and time again.

On my visit, I opted to take something to go, which is always a great test of a kitchen—because if it holds up outside the restaurant, you know it’s worth it. I tried the sweet potato bisque and the Manhattan clam chowder, and both were excellent in their own way.

The sweet potato bisque was smooth, rich, and full of flavor. It had that perfect balance of natural sweetness and savory depth, without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of soup that feels both comforting and a little indulgent at the same time—especially on a cooler day.

The Manhattan clam chowder, on the other hand, offered a completely different profile. Light, tomato-based, and packed with clams and vegetables, it was fresh-tasting and well-seasoned. It didn’t feel overly salty or thick, which can sometimes be the case—it was clean, satisfying, and exactly what you’d hope for from a classic version of this dish.

The fact that both soups traveled well and still tasted this good says a lot. Even outside the restaurant setting, the quality held up, which isn’t always easy to do.

Beyond the food, Shady Rest has a reputation for being a welcoming, easygoing spot—somewhere you can dine in, grab a drink at the bar, or simply pick up something to enjoy at home. The outdoor space in warmer months adds to its charm, giving it that true Jersey Shore feel.

Service is friendly and efficient, whether you’re dining in or picking up. It’s clear this is a place that values its regulars—and keeps them coming back.

In a world of overcomplicated menus and trendy concepts, there’s something refreshing about a place like Shady Rest. It knows exactly what it is: a dependable local restaurant serving comforting, well-prepared food.

And sometimes, that’s exactly what you’re in the mood for.“

“Food was delicious, the staff is friendly and service was great! The pho 🍜 was perfect. I highly recommend the cherry blossom shrimp wontons, we also tried the fried dumplings. Very yummy 😋“

“The friendliest place I have ever visited!! The owner Michele is the nicest and kindest host(also the owner). She goes out of her way to talks and shares with the customers.. and the food is over the top!! Do yourself a favor and get a taste of this place!“

“Great seafood“

“We were in New Jersey for 6 days on vacation. We ate here 3 times and it was delicious!!! Very friendly staff, clean restaurant, and cute decor 💙 10/10 recommend 😁“

“chocolate coconut beer is awesome“

“We stopped in tonight for the 1st time. Very clean, great service and Mr. & Mrs. Claus were there!🎅 I love the family affair! We will be back...Oh, and the ice cream was delicious, too!! 🍨“

“An Episode of the Podcast 🎤Local Neighborhood Experts: Sharon and Kyle was filmed at Divi Tree in Point Pleasant NJ. 1/22/25 This establishment offers a cozy, inviting space while the patrons kept coming in and out. This place was jumping! The decor has highlights contemporary items and unique tree decor as well as comfortable seating. Overall, the sense of friendly hospitality was present. The menu is an array of many coffee selections and pastries were all made in house. Hosts: Sharon McKenzie-Venning ADK Realty & Kyle Farrell CrossCountry Mortgage are local residents, the two incredible professionals are in the Estate Sales, Real Estate and Mortgage space. Guest: Ken Conelly-NJ Life & Health Always remember, If you are interesting in finding a house or finding a buyer for your house contact Sharon, Realtor. Equally important, if you are seeking any loan or financing Kyle can fund you. Contact/Google them. They love talking about coffee by spotlighting local eateries. In addition, highlighting local neighborhood events. You can catch them on Facebook Live 12ish on Every Wednesdays on their Facebook group page. Replays on YouTube WE LOVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD & BEYOND!“

“Food was very tasty and exactly what you want and expect from a NJ diner. They had quite a few daily off menu specials and I went for a classic diner food. Chipped beef on toast, grits and coffee. All tasted really good.

Parking: Plenty of parking on premises

Kid-friendliness: Yes. Easily and happily welcomed“

“first time my wife and I were there for breakfast today the best bacon egg and cheese I ever had very clean courteous staff we will be back.“

“My wife, Meg and I really enjoyed our visit to your brewery and simply loved it! We enjoyed the friendly atmosphere, welcoming bartenders, friendly patrons, and the warm, neighborly environment. We will certainly be coming back to visit again soon to enjoy another great beer! CHEERS! Rich and Meg“

“Some of the best IPAs I have ever had!!“

“Icarus is a great brewery, fun atmosphere, and excellent hospitality.“

“I have tried several items from the menu and continue to be impressed with how amazing everything is. The food, service and bartenders—-fantastic. .“

“We have never been disappointed with a meal at IL Giardinello's. Always excellent food & excellent service.“

“We had food catered for a party last weekend and it was absolutely delicious! Meatballs are out of this world. Platter of wings, vodka rigatoni, sausage and peppers, subs- all phenomenal. Everyone loved it! Our fav place for pizza too. Awesome owners and staff“

“We took a long weekend to the Jersey Shore. We stopped in at Meg's Grill for breakfast. Clean, welcoming staff and a great breakfast! What else can you ask? Oh, and pet friendly.“

“We went there for dinner for the first time tonight and sat outside. Loved the atmosphere of the evening. The service and food were great. We will be going back soon.“

“Tonight was my second time doing happy hour at JoeBellas. The Fig and Pear martini is straight up divine. The happy hour menu is fun. I had no problem eating Parmesan Truffle Fries for dinner LOL so so yummy. My husband and I brought his cousins last Saturday for a beautiful sit down dinner and as we were being seated we saw our neighbor's from two houses over! Bought them a round of course. Everyone was very happy with their meal. What a fun local restaurant. You'll wait in the summer time of course, totally worth the wait but now that we locals have it back I'll be frequenting more often. I happen to bring a friend tonight who is now a loyal fan. #lovejoebellas“

“This has become my new go-to bagel place! Always the freshest and best bagels, staff is very nice and coffee is great!“

“Food was amazing! Will definitely be back to try so many things!“

“Wow this place is the best in the area. Ask about the loyalty card and don’t take no for an answer 🤫 it’s the real deal.“

“The Bomber Sandwich is tremendous. Have known the owners for years. Always great 👍 food 🥘“

“I ordered a custom icecream for a special occasion. Cake was made exactly to my request, everything from the different layers, icecream flavors, & toppings. Everyone enjoyed the cake and asked, where is the icecream cake from? If you have a peanut butter lover in your life, I highly recommend this peanut butter themed icecream cake. Aside from this custom order, we are regular customers. The icecream sundaes are our favorite. You always get good portions (scoops) served. The medium is almost too much for me. That's a good thing. Chocolate Chip Mint, Hot Fudge, Whipped Cream, and topped with M & Ms is my favorite. This review is for the Lanoka Harbor, NJ location.“

“The other day my friends and I had the pleasure of eating at the Langhorn Steakhouse on Rt 70 in Lakewood. The meals were more than reasonably priced, and they were delicious. The staff was attentive, extremely friendly and courteous. Ty, the host, met us so amiably and showed us to our table. The server, Sharon B., was so attentive we never had to ask her for anything. Anything we needed she was right there to give it to us. We couldn't have asked for more.“

“Food is delicious, service is friendly“

“It has been a minute since visiting Olive Garden. This Tomsriver NJ resturant was right on point. A lot of really nice people engaged with customers. A quality budget friendly dinner out. Jared was our server. He was very attentive, and professional. The salad was super fresh. I enjoyed the Pasta e fagioli and gnocchi chicken soup. I appreciated the smaller bowl size on soup, to be able to try more than one. My wife had create you own Pasta, that was a hearty Rigatoni with meat sauce. Great rich flavor. The second bowl of salad was larger than the first. Would have preffered a smaller second serving, as not to waste. The customer could always ask for more. The olives were good! This is a keynote, as every resturant I have visited in years past, had a poor variety metalic tasting black olive. Not the case this time😁 Every ingredient in the salad was fresh!! Food was hot and delicious. Probably the best Olive Garden visit I have ever experienced. Thank you!!“

“Grub hub ordered three sandwiches today, along with their side of sweet potatoes and kale/apple salad. Even with delivery, the food was fresh and absolutely wonderful! We will definitely order again.“

“My granddaughter & I were there for lunch today & we had Denise as our server (waitress), she was so nice & very patient - I give her 5 🌟 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🥰“

“Can I just give a shout out to this neighborhood gem who always delivers high quality, delicious sushi. They are creative, they are consistent, and are one of our top ‘go to’ places when we order in. Thank you Koi for being such a wonderful local business! 🍣🍱❤️“

“Cute little place. Waitress was lovely. Food was decent. Nothing to really go crazy and rave about. Very very pricey. More expensive than center city steakhouses! Hated the weird dim led lighting. Guitar guy was fun. Wine was good. We would return but wouldn’t rush back. SP has limited options so, God Bless. Don’t blame you for charging top $. Atmosphere was much nicer than Chef Mike ABG. Updated and clean! A plus for that. Thank you for a fun night 🥰 Bring on summer“

“Great food and so relaxing there too everyone works there very friendly and owner Maria she great person too“

“Great place to eat good food..great service“

“These guys are hands down the best Pizzeria in the area. Our go to spot for pizza, subs and authentic Italian dishes. Very friendly group of guys, with fast delivery and they stay open late. Don’t bother with anywhere else in town.“

“Just have to say I finally found the best Chinese food in our area.“

“I just stumbled upon you guys at the Point Pleasant Farmer's Market on Sunday, June 22, 2025, and you hand-rolled fresh mozzarella for me, it was piping hot when you first handed it to me - it doesn't get any fresher than that! Plus I got some Burrata and Ricotta. AMAZING! I'll definitely be back to the market to replenish!“