{"id":199840,"date":"2025-09-22T21:00:38","date_gmt":"2025-09-23T01:00:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/?p=199840"},"modified":"2025-09-22T12:11:46","modified_gmt":"2025-09-22T16:11:46","slug":"best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-nj","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-nj\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Jersey Shore Restaurants + Bars for a First Date, Depending on the Vibe"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"custom_featured_image\" style=\"display:none;\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1-800x533.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"best first date restaurants bars jersey shore\" style=\"margin-bottom: 15px;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1-585x390.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1-263x175.jpg 263w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/div><div id=\"custom_category\" style=\"display:none;\">lifestyle<\/div><p>First dates get a bad rep. Maybe it&#8217;s earned, because we&#8217;ve all felt the awkwardness of the &#8220;where should we go?&#8221; conversation, and we can all relate to the should I or shouldn&#8217;t I say something mental note when your prospective first date proposes a restaurant or bar that you know just doesn&#8217;t fit the vibe you&#8217;re looking for. Everyone has different expectations for first dates; some <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/jersey-shore-restaurants-family-style-menus\/\">prefer a meal<\/a>, while others want to keep it quick for the initial meeting. <em>JSG<\/em> gets it, so we&#8217;ve compiled a list of local spots with first date potential, broken down into categories of the type of first date you&#8217;re looking for. <strong>Keep reading for a list of restaurants and bars at the Jersey Shore fitting for every kind of first date.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199851\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"best first date restaurants bars jersey shore\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/best-first-date-restaurants-bars-jersey-shore.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for Cocktails with a Vibe<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lanapiervillage.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lana<\/a> | 32 Laird Street, Long Branch<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199846\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"lana long branch\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/lana-long-branch.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lana is an upscale bar and restaurant in Long Branch. It has a moody vibe with dim lighting, crystal chandeliers, and leather and velvet seating. It&#8217;s a great first date spot if you&#8217;re looking to grab a drink, as Lana has an extensive list of crafted cocktails, along with a diverse selection of spirits and wines. It also makes<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> JSG<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2019s list as an appropriate spot for a first date since it&#8217;s 21 and over after 8PM, and there are plenty of cozy corners good for getting to know each other.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Lana often has a DJ go on at 9:30PM, so stay at Lana to listen to music. Or, walk around Pier Village, where there are plenty of other restaurants, <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-rooftop-bars-jersey-shore\/\">bars<\/a>, stores, and of course, the boardwalk overlooking Long Branch beach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><em>Read More: <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/things-to-do-red-bank-nj\/\">23 Fun Things to Do in Red Bank, New Jersey<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/parksociallounge.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Park Social Lounge + Restaurant<\/a> | 1311 NJ-35, Neptune City<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Park Social is a sophisticated lounge and restaurant in Neptune City. It has a <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/thrift-consignment-vintage-stores-asbury-park\/\">vintage<\/a> glamour aesthetic and elevated food and chic cocktails that create a cool atmosphere for a first date. FYI: On Wednesdays and Thursdays, 5PM-7PM, and Friday + Sunday, 4PM-6PM, it has happy hour specials including discounted drinks and social bites.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Park Social also has a garden area, which is a full-service outdoor dining area featuring string lights, a romantic spot for dinner if drinks at the bar aren&#8217;t enough.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for a Pretty View<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marinagrillenj.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marina Grille<\/a>\u00a0| 905 NJ-35, Belmar<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-177020\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"marina grille belmar nj\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-640x640.jpg 640w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/marina-grille-belmar-nj.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Photo Credit: Marina Grille<\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marina Grille is a waterfront restaurant and bar in Belmar. Marina Grille has an open-air atmosphere, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating with a pretty view of sunsets over Shark River. It&#8217;s fitting for a first date as Marina is a good go-to for a laid-back experience, whether looking for a drink at the tiki bar, lunch inside, or dinner by the water. Marina also often has live music, which adds a fun element to a first date.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Consider This Activity After:<\/strong> Visit<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.9thavepier.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the 9th Ave Pier<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the summertime, or<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beachhausbeer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach Haus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> year-round. Both options offer additional views of the marina and are within walking distance of Marina Grille.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theoceanviewrestaurant.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ocean View Restaurant<\/a> | 2 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199845\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"ocean view restaurant seaside heights\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/ocean-view-restaurant-seaside-heights.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Ocean View Restaurant is in Seaside Heights. As the name implies, the Ocean View Restaurant is located right on Seaside Heights&#8217; beach, featuring a large deck for dining outside. The deck also has an outdoor bar and a mini stage where bands often play during the summer months. The patio features steps that lead directly into the sand, with a roped-off section that includes Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, making it a cute option for dining.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Consider This Activity After:<\/strong> The <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-restaurants-outdoor-seating-asbury-park-nj\/\">outdoor<\/a> section also features cornhole, and the restaurant&#8217;s location makes it easy to access games on Seaside Heights&#8217; boardwalk after lunch or dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for a Daytime Cafe Date<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/maeberriemarket.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maeberrie Market<\/a> | 504 Main Street, Avon-By-The-Sea<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maeberrie Market is a cozy restaurant in Avon-by-the-Sea. Maeberrie Market is the ideal first date location for a coastal breakfast, brunch, or lunch; there are plenty of salads, toasts, breakfast plates, and bowls. Maeberrie Market also has frozen sorbet, which is often used to make frozen mimosas; bring your champagne.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Explore its market, which has housemade lemonade, pastries, and a curated selection of vintage home goods. FYI: There are also fresh-cut flowers if you&#8217;re looking to seriously impress that first date.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/seedtosproutnj.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Seed to Sprout<\/a> | 410 Main Street, Avon-By-The-Sea<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199843\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"seed to sprout avon by the sea\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/seed-to-sprout-avon-by-the-sea.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seed to Sprout is a trendy cafe in Avon-by-the-Sea. Seed to Sprout has <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-jersey-shore-natural-market-health-food\/\">health<\/a>-conscious selections, as well as vegan and gluten-free options, for breakfast and lunch. The menu features organic, fair-trade coffee, lattes with a choice of plant-based milk, fresh juices, and smoothies, and a variety of breakfast options available all day, making it a necessity for a quality daytime cafe date.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Grab a baked good to-go and stroll down Main Street, which has a ton of local small businesses to pop into.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for an Upscale \/ Romantic \/ \u201cTrying to Seriously Impress\u201d Restaurant<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.emberandeagle.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ember + Eagle<\/a> | 2000 Lowther Drive, Eatontown<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-175030\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"ember and eagle eatontown nj\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-640x640.jpg 640w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/02\/ember-and-eagle-eatontown-nj.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ember + Eagle is a steakhouse located at Suneagles Golf Club. Ember and Eagle have impressive first-date vibes right upon arrival, as the grounds are also used as a wedding venue (Tillinghouse), so expect an upscale aesthetic immediately upon arrival. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JSG <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">suggests the <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-seafood-restaurants-jersey-shore-new-jersey\/\">seafood<\/a> tower, crudos, or filet mignon to enhance that grand-first-date experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Head to the Parlor Bar, located on the first floor, which often features live music and a fun atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfseagirt.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scarborough Faire<\/a> | 1414 Meetinghouse Road, Sea Girt<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199844\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"scarborough faire sea gift\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/scarborough-faire-sea-girt.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scarborough Faire is known as a romantic dinner spot in Sea Girt. Scarborough Faire is located inside a 19th-century farmhouse, which creates a &#8220;hidden escape&#8221; feeling at the Jersey Shore. The menu features locally grown and organic ingredients, featuring steak, fish options, and pastas. <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JSG<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> recommends reserving a table by calling ahead of time and asking for a seat by the stairs. Scarborough Faire decorates the stairway based on the season, and the tables that surround it are little enclaves, providing a private space to really get to know each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Go to<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sundaesicecreamplace.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sundaes Ice Cream<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for dessert.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for a Casual Eat + Drink + Activity<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/thebistronj.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Bistro at iPlay America<\/a> | 108 Schanck Road, Freehold<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199850\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"iplay freehold\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Bistro is the restaurant located inside iPlay America in Freehold. The Bistro has a full menu of casual American-style eats like burgers, soups, salads, pasta, and pizza. It&#8217;s also known for its seasonal pop-ups, including past events like Tipsy Tiki and a Valentine&#8217;s Day Pop-Up Bar.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199849\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"iplay freehold\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/iplay-freehold.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Visit iPlay, where you can play arcade games, ride go-karts, and compete in two-story laser tag.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/talloaksbrew.com\/about\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tall Oaks Farm + Brewery<\/a>\u00a0| 450 Colts Neck Road, Farmingdale<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tall Oaks is a farm + brewery in Farmingdale. Tall Oaks has a cozy <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/iplay-america-freehold-nj\/\">indoor<\/a> tasting room and two acres of open land. Besides being a unique farm-style location close to the Jersey Shore, the outdoor seating has options like Adirondack chairs surrounding a fire pit that feels cute for a first date.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If The Date Goes Well, Consider Trying This Activity After: Tall Oaks Farm + Brewery often hosts fun activities like line dancing, has food trucks available, and features workshops like candle making and paint and sip. You can click<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/talloaksbrew.com\/calendar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to view its calendar.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for a Local Foodie Experience<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thegrandtavern.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Grand Tavern<\/a> | 1105 6th Avenue, Neptune City<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grand Tavern is a restaurant beloved by locals in Neptune City. Grand Tavern&#8217;s menu has American comfort food options with an upscale twist, featuring items like its fried pork nuggets and 14-oz New York strip served with fries. The menu includes inventive cocktails, both classic and zero-proof.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Go to<\/span> <a href=\"http:\/\/delpontesbakerybb.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Del Ponte&#8217;s<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">for pastries post-dinner.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/lasierrarestaurantandbar.menufy.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">La Sierra Restaurant + Bar<\/a> | 1621 Main Street, Lake Como<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199847\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"la sierra lake como\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/la-sierra-lake-como.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">La Sierra is a Mexican restaurant and bar in Lake Como. La Sierra is decorated from ceiling to floor with vibrant colors, making a festive aesthetic that feels fun for a first date. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes, including tortas, chimichangas, tacos, and fajitas. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plus, there&#8217;s a hidden backyard patio that feels like a local&#8217;s go-to spot for a first dat<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">e.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Walk the trail surrounding Lake Como.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nettiesrestaurant.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nettie&#8217;s<\/a> | 5119 Asbury Avenue, Tinton Falls<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nettie&#8217;s House of Spaghetti is an <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/best-italian-restaurants-jersey-shore-nj\/\">Italian<\/a> restaurant in Tinton Falls. Those who live in the area appreciate Nettie&#8217;s for keeping its roots as a red sauce joint, with simple food and an ingredient-driven menu. Menu highlights include its house salad, fresh pastas, meatballs, and hot or sweet Italian sausage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After: Visit the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.coachoutlet.com\/stores\/cafe\/nj\/tinton-falls\/1-premium-outlets-blvd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coach Coffee Shop<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for an after-dinner latte (open until 7PM).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>If Looking for an Open Kitchen \/ Hands-On Dining Experience<\/h2>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/hadakanj.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hadaka<\/a> | 527 Bangs Avenue, Asbury Park<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hadaka is an omakase restaurant in downtown Asbury Park. Hadaka&#8217;s intimate 12-seat <a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/european-style-cafes-restaurants-jersey-shore\/\">restaurant<\/a> makes this a rare first date experience. The chef at Hadaka leads the meal right in front of you. Besides getting sushi prepared right before your eyes, there are also interactive touches like sake toasts and blow torches that feel like a dinner and performance type experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Consider This Activity After:<\/strong> Downtown Asbury Park has a variety of venues, including concert halls, distilleries, and breweries, as well as charming bookshops and boutiques to explore after Hadaka.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/st-laurent-hotel-restaurant-judy-and-harrys-asbury-park-nj\/\">Judy + Harry&#8217;s<\/a> | 408 7th Avenue, Asbury Park<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-199848\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-800x800.jpg\" alt=\"judy harrys asbury park\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-800x800.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1-585x585.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/09\/judy-harrys-asbury-park-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Photo Credit: Michael Persico<\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Judy + Harry&#8217;s is a bar and restaurant located inside The St. Laurent Hotel. The main restaurant, Judy&#8217;s, has comforting Italian plates with Jewish inspiration like its matzah ball soup and pan-seared ricotta. Judy&#8217;s signature items are made by Chef David and his team in an open kitchen visible to diners, and there are even barstools overlooking the kitchen. Harry&#8217;s, the cocktail bar, is located next door, making it easy to switch up the environment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>If The Date Goes Well, Try This Activity After:<\/strong> Take a stroll on Asbury Park&#8217;s boardwalk, steps away from Judy + Harry&#8217;s.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><em>See More: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hobokengirl.com\/first-date-ideas-hoboken-nj\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Best First Date Spots in Hoboken, New Jersey<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Follow @thejerseyshoregirl_ on\u00a0<a class=\"c-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thejerseyshoregirl_\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-stringify-link=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thehobokengirl\/?hl=en\" data-sk=\"tooltip_parent\">Instagram<\/a>\u00a0for the latest Jersey Shore updates,\u00a0<a class=\"c-link\" href=\"https:\/\/twilight-lion-90332.myflodesk.com\/jrf4qhj7qk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-stringify-link=\"https:\/\/view.flodesk.com\/pages\/62f92877e5ea6b3d8aea50ad\" data-sk=\"tooltip_parent\">sign up for our weekly newsletter here<\/a>\u00a0that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our\u00a0<a class=\"c-link\" href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-stringify-link=\"https:\/\/www.hobokengirl.com\/events\/\" data-sk=\"tooltip_parent\">events calendar<\/a>, which has over 40+ events weekly to peruse.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/category\/lifestyle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-120157\" src=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719-800x240.jpg\" alt=\"read more button\" width=\"300\" height=\"90\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719-800x240.jpg 800w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719-1024x307.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719-768x230.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719-585x176.jpg 585w, https:\/\/thelocalgirl.com\/jerseyshore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/02\/1-e1658249565719.jpg 1170w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>lifestyleFirst dates get a bad rep. Maybe it&#8217;s earned, because we&#8217;ve all felt the awkwardness of the &#8220;where should we go?&#8221; conversation,&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":391,"featured_media":199853,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[9644,9659,8821,9645,8823,764,7997,9641,9643,8824,9647,9640],"tags":[9676,9706,9673,9702,9667],"class_list":["post-199840","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-asbury-park","category-avon-by-the-sea","category-bars","category-belmar","category-coffee","category-food-drink","category-lifestyle","category-long-branch","category-neptune","category-restaurants","category-sea-girt","category-jersey-shore-towns","tag-bars","tag-food-drink","tag-jersey-shore","tag-lifestyle","tag-restaurants"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.6 (Yoast SEO v27.6) - 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