18 Best Bars near Ocean

“Otto's Tavern is a restaurant that offers a very good meal and service for a fair price. The open floorplan creates a comfortable atmosphere where customers do not feel squeezed in. The service is described as awesome, with cold beer served in iced glasses and great burgers, including one cooked medium rare. The menu features a Western Burger with chips, as well as other standard bar fare like burgers and wings, though the food quality is described as mediocre. Overall, Otto's Tavern is a decent dive/sports bar with a cool atmosphere, good service, and a focus on providing a satisfying dining experience.“

“R Bar is a popular restaurant known for its creative menu and high-quality dishes. Standout items include Cacio & Pepe Deviled Eggs, Garlic Shrimp, Salmon with grits, and a comfort-style Asparagus dish. The Greenhouse area offers a peaceful dining experience, and the service is consistently friendly and attentive. R Bar also offers unique and creative drinks, as well as vegan options. It's a great spot for special occasions, such as Mother's Day brunch.“

“The Squire at Branches in West Long Branch, NJ, offers a delightful dining experience with a diversified menu and excellent service. The ambiance is enhanced by a large bar in the dining room, perfect for a casual drink before or after dinner. The venue is beautifully appointed, with clean and stylish restrooms, making it an ideal location for special events. Guests have praised the beautiful decor, including artificial flowers, elegant windows, and a lovely fireplace. The restaurant's Breakfast Brunch Menu is extensive, featuring options like an Omelet Station and additional Hot Stations, with exceptional food presentation. Guests often go back for second and third helpings, raving about the quality of the food. The staff, described as personable, friendly, and attentive, contribute to a memorable dining experience, ensuring guests feel well-cared for during their visit. The Squire at Branches is a popular choice for celebrations, including birthdays, anniversaries, and baby showers, thanks to its lovely lobby and reception room. The professional and accommodating staff, along with the exceptional culinary offerings, make it a top choice for both dining and special events.“

“Squan Tavern is a cozy gem with a tavern ambiance up front and a full Italian restaurant in the back. The menu is robust, featuring dishes like scungilli and two types of cheesecake. The portions are generous, and the food is delicious, especially the tiramisu. The house salad dressing is reminiscent of homemade flavors, and the bread is crusty and airy. The service is fast and friendly, with professional staff members. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a mix of locals and a friendly attitude. The pizza is a standout, with a thin crust style, while other dishes like the eggplant sandwich are also highly recommended. Despite potential parking challenges, Squan Tavern is worth a visit for its good food, friendly service, and charming ambiance.“

“D'Arcy's Tavern is a highly recommended spot with a great atmosphere for sports watching. The staff, especially David R, is attentive and kind. Hosting a party there is a fantastic experience, with a private room upstairs perfect for events. The food and drinks are top-notch, and the staff, like Courtney, goes above and beyond to make the party special. The bartenders are excellent, offering a great selection of beers. The place has a cozy vibe, reminiscent of Hailey's in the Woodbridge-Metuchen-Edison area, but closer to the Jersey shore. It's a perfect spot for a fun time with a great crowd and delicious food options.“

“McCann's Tavern is a humble eatery that surprises with its excellent food and service. Enjoy great bar food, a pint of beer, and multiple TVs for game-watching. The recently refreshed atmosphere is clean, comfortable, and bright. Don't miss the happy hour from 12-6 daily and try their delicious wings, quesadilla, and shepherd's pie.“

“Mix Lounge & Food Bar is a cozy spot on Brighten Ave in Long Branch that offers a variety of food choices and good drinks. The restaurant attracts regulars, college kids, and locals, depending on the time of day. It's worth waiting for a table if it's under 20 minutes, especially to try their world-famous espresso martini and delicious fish tacos. The dimly lit, chic atmosphere gives off a high-rise condo vibe, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Don't miss out on the daily specials and happy hour prices, with a bonus of all-day happy hour on Mondays. Whether you're there for Taco Tuesdays or cocktail adventures, Mix Lounge & Food Bar promises a flavorful and exciting dining experience.“

“Nicholas Barrel & Roost offers a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including the popular Nicolas Burger, which is said to be exceptional. The Surf and Turf option is also praised, while the pizza and chicken are described as great. The ambiance is beautiful, and the service is excellent, with staff going above and beyond to make guests feel special.“

“Salty's Beach Bar is a dog-friendly establishment that offers a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for various events and gatherings. The restaurant features a typical dive beach bar ambiance with ample space, including several rooms and bars. It is known for hosting wild and entertaining events such as drag queen bingo nights, as well as charity events like Harpin' Help. The food serves as satisfying bar fare, with options like loaded nachos, chips and guacamole, and other snacks to accompany drinks. The bar offers drinks in plastic cups, maintaining a casual and disposable setting. Salty's has its own parking lot, providing free parking for visitors. The service at Salty's is commendable, with staff like Maddie, Mary, and Maggie going the extra mile to ensure guests have a pleasant experience. The bartenders are also noted for their good work. In summary, Salty's Beach Bar is an excellent choice for those seeking a fun and laid-back atmosphere, where they can enjoy good company, food, and entertainment.“

“Tom's Tavern is a charming "dive bar" that offers a welcoming atmosphere. The staff, including the bartender and locals, are friendly and knowledgeable. The menu features tasty options like pizza, tacos, and stew. Customers can enjoy a range of drinks and activities like pool. Overall, it's a lively and fun spot with a unique, relaxed vibe.“

“Homesick, a charming restaurant, offers a delightful dining experience. The brunch menu features tempting options like the tres leche donut, grilled cheese and tomato bisque, and salmon lox toast, all praised for their deliciousness and generous portions. The warm lentil salad and brisket quesadilla also receive high marks, while the biscuits are deemed the best ever. For dinner, the asparagus soup and lamb pappardelle are described as delicious and filling. The restaurant's inviting atmosphere, complete with live jazz music, and attentive service, make it a win-win destination for both brunch and dinner.“

“Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant offers a great dining experience with a wonderful view and friendly staff. The food is delicious, from the appetizers to the main dishes like the blackened salmon and shrimp and scallops. The service is attentive, and the restaurant takes care to address any issues that may arise. With a pleasant atmosphere and amenities like free parking, Rooney's is a place worth revisiting.“

“The Bar Room + Kitchen offers good food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. The menu features upscale bar food, including zucchini blossoms, burgers, fish tacos, tuna app, and chix empanadas, all of which receive high praise. Standout dishes include the blackened chicken, Swiss cheese burger, and seafood options like Salmon Crusted in pistachio and Roasted Mahi. The service is consistently great, with friendly and welcoming servers. Reservations are recommended due to tight quarters. Overall, this family-run restaurant is a great choice for a delicious meal and a positive dining experience.“

“The Celtic Cottage Pub and Patio Bar offers a great selection of beers and burgers. The cheeseburger is a standout, and the outdoor seating is lovely in the summer. The staff is friendly and welcoming, with the owner, Kevin, being particularly notable for his exceptional service and warm demeanor. While TV placement can be a bit of an issue for sports fans, the pub is a great spot for a casual meal and drink.“

“The Grand Tavern is a culinary gem that serves up exceptional dishes. Their menu features delightful appetizers, including oysters and gem lettuce salad, which boasts a nice crunch from pistachios and bread crumbs. Main courses are equally impressive, with popular choices like halibut, pan-seared to perfection, and snapper. The braised veal dish is a standout, with succulent meat and a savory mushroom stuffing. For dessert, the strawberry shortcake is a must-try, with a moist and dense poundcake and perfectly sweetened whipped cream. With its consistently delicious food and cozy atmosphere, The Grand Tavern is a favorite among foodies and locals alike.“

“Fun bar with decent parking on the outsideIf you show up during the day they also offer a good selection of dishes that the chef picks out everydayMost of the music is Brazilian and they even fly in a couple of artists straight from BrazilIn terms of crowd this place gets packed usually Friday or Saturday nights and it’s a equal mix of newer and older peopleGreat place to visit during a night out by the beach in longbranch

Wheelchair accessibility: The entrance has a ramp for wheel chairs“

“Friendliest bar in Monmouth County. Focus is on the genuine, rather than the pretty. If you care about the décor, go elsewhere. If you care about non-pretentious, friendly folks, and cheap drinks, and good, down-to-earth food, this place is tough to beat.“

“Nip n Tuck Bar & Grill is a dive bar with a great atmosphere, good food (try their grilled cheese), and a solid beer selection. They host live music on weekends and have outdoor music during warmer months. The staff is welcoming and attentive, with delicious chef-curated meals made fresh to order. This unpretentious and cozy spot is worth a visit for a relaxed dining experience.“