17 Best Bars near Lacey

“Fast friendly service as well as Drinks being tasty. The food portion size was plenty for a nice amount of leftovers for lunch. So very delicious.“

“I tried lefty’s for the first time tonight and ordered delivery. The food arrived fresh and hot and the burger was out of this world along side of their wings. Highly recommend to everyone one next time I will be dining in.“

“Sun Harbor never disappoints... consistently great food at a reasonable price..... Highly recommend! Great destination for boaters....“

“I like the Pub“

“Whiting Bar & Spirits is the go-to spot for all your beer and liquor needs! They have an impressive selection, from popular brands to unique craft options, ensuring there’s something for every taste. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to offer great recommendations. The store is well-organized, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re stocking up for a party or just grabbing a bottle for a quiet night in, Whiting Bar & Spirits is a top-notch choice. Highly recommend!“

“thanks to the polite waitress and manager that took care of us last night... have a few too many Doms. They are the best and really hot the spot if you're looking to get a buzz... After our night of getting smashed we got cut off, and manager even gave us a ride to the hotel across the street. so thanks again for taking the time to truly care about your patrons....“

“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.“

“customer service was excellent and food was very good“

“We went to masons, pretty much right before they closed on a Saturday (1am), and Jeremiah treated us (and everyone else) like we were royalty. He was kind, responsive, entertaining, and pretty much made my bad night considerably better. It was the first time we had been to the bar and will definitely not be the last, for us or our friends. We are officially sold <3“

“Came on New Years Eve. Servers were very friendly and attentive and Brianna handled our large party very well. Food was quite good for a chain restaurant and prices are reasonable, portion sizes a bit too big for me! My only critique is reaching the service staff to clear dishes between courses - with appetizers, entrees and desserts it becomes a real mess!“

“TOMS RIVER: We are happy a local told us about Christopher's Pub & Grill Toms River because it is the type of bar where everybody knows your name. More than just a hotel bar at the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Toms River, Christopher’s is a great spot to meet up with friends, enjoy a friendly environment, indulge in a meal from an American-style food menu & a full-bar menu, and bring your well behaved and leashed pup along (the hotel is also dog friendly!). The menu is full of favorites and the environment has warm tones.“

“Doyle’s Pour House Barnegat is an awesome spot to relax and enjoy good food and drinks. The atmosphere is welcoming and lively, making it perfect for hanging out with friends or unwinding after a long day. The food is consistently delicious, and the drink selection is impressive with plenty of options on tap. The staff is friendly, attentive, and makes you feel right at home. Overall, Doyle’s Pour House Barnegat offers a great experience every time—highly recommended!“

“There is no reason this restaurant should not be five star! We eat here all of the time, and the food is 100% perfect every time. Perfectly cooked fish, a huge variety of menu items, great cocktails, and live entertainment. Not to mention its waterfront. We absolutely love this Gem of a restaurant, and think you will too! Great for vegetarians and gluten free diners, too“

“Great place. TV’s along the bar. Great outdoor seating ( weather permitting)“

“Been here a couple of times found this place to be the place for us, comfortable to enjoy a lunch, early dinner orjust some drinks and apps.The servers are the best we ever had, knowledgable and so friendly, the food is good, the menu is a little unchangable which to some is boring, nothing really new but what they do have is tasty to the palit,served justthe way you want it.Burgers are the best and veryfulfilling, we have theFajitas mostly all the time,their chicken is juicy no matter if you get it as tenders orhowever you like.Everthing else from soup to salad is fresh and tasty.Drinks from the bar and their non alcholic are great, nothing to shy away from made as you wish.We enjoy stopping by when we are in the area, for a good bite and friendly face!“

“Love the bartenders and staff❤“

“Amazing staff and food priced right ! The chicken francese was amazing !“