Baguette Delite
Banh mi as good at the granddaddy’s in New Orleans East? Yes, and reliably so for a decade now.
Local Greek
Just off the main drag, but inked on the dine cards of locals, is this hit restaurant where soul-satisfying foods conspire with a convivial scene to make for anytime eating.
The Smithville Inn
A pretty setting, a gracious staff and a nod to history cannot make up for food that shuns in-season ingredients, plates that are marred by carelessness in the kitchen, and concepts that fail to show respect for the Garden State’s cherished foodways.
TST BBQ
Follow the smoke signals almost to Sandy Hook – but stop five miles short, right here, for brisket, burgers and ribs. And, maybe, a game of miniature golf.
Thai Tida by Mike and Natta
Across from the Delaware in a tourist-destination small city sits a classic-fare Thai that’s a locals’ love – and an away-from-the-crowds find for day-trippers.
Big Wave Burritos
Cowabunga! Ride a party wave to this chill eatery located at the intersection of beachy-keen and decidedly delish.
Bistro d’Azur
Smart, skillful cooking leaves behind any suggestion of a laissez-faire attitude this beachy-hued Mediterranean storefront might convey. No flip-flops here – of any sort.
What’s Dinner?
Change is good. We need it. We may fear it, but it’s healthy. So what’s the deal these days with what we eat? Are you falling back on your same-olds? Or have these times fostered new loves?
The Little Hen
Chef Alan Lichtenstein nails the French bistro concept six ways from Sunday at this chic, yet casual storefront in Camden County that empowers classics with panache.
Point Lobster Co.
Sitting outside, salt-scented air revving up our appetites, we find more to the menu at this market-cum-restaurant in a popular Shore town than its namesake food.
Exit Zero Filling Station
Indian spiced foods and cocktails share a home with diner staples – as well as reading materials, art and (working) gas pumps. Fill ’er up, in every way, at a one-stop with an unusual interplay of indispensables.
Allen’s Clam Bar
Local, venerable, beloved: This seafood shack with strong ties to South Shore waters makes even non-fisherfolk do a “clam dance.”