Jersey Shore Restaurant Week runs through May 1
Do you know that restaurant you have been wanting to try but haven't made time for?
The time is now, as Jersey Shore Restaurant Week begins Friday, April 22, and runs through May 1. The annual celebration of Monmouth and Ocean county dining features more than 50 restaurants, which will serve three-course prix fixe menus.
Here's what you need to know.
How did it start?
This is the 13th year for Jersey Shore Restaurant Week, which takes place in April and November to boost business during what is, for many Shore restaurants, the slow season. The idea came from Brielle resident Jim Flynn, who was traveling for vacation when he saw a sign advertising New Haven Restaurant Week in Connecticut. He knew the concept would work at the Shore.
How does it work?
Participating restaurants offer three-course menus for lunch, dinner or both, for $30.22 or $40.22 (the change amount always matches the year). The menus feature specialty dishes, restaurants' signature dishes, and a mix of both.
Reservations are not required specifically for restaurant week but may be requested by individual restaurants.
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What's new this year?
Each year brings new participants, and taking part for the first time are five restaurants that opened within the past year: The Black Swan in Asbury Park, Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson, Smokie's Craft BBQ in the Bayville section of Berkeley Township, Half Moon in Keansburg and The GOAT by David Burke in Union Beach.
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What's on the menu?
There is something for everyone, from a casual burger dinner to fine dining. Dishes include chicken pot pie at Elbow Room Bar + Grill in Bradley Beach, lobster ravioli at Ohana Grill in Lavallette, vegan eggplant rollatini at MonAlyssa Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria in Point Pleasant Borough, and horseradish-crusted tuna at Waterman's Tavern in Brielle.
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And yes, there will be dessert! The Melting Pot in Red Bank will have s'mores fondue, The Bonney Read in Asbury Park will have Key lime pie, The Breakers in Spring Lake will serve profiteroles filled with black raspberry ice cream, and The Grenville Hotel & Restaurant will have waffles and ice cream.
For a full list of participating restaurants and their menus, visit jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com.
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Sarah Griesemer joined the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey in 2003 and has been writing all things food since 2014. Send restaurant tips to sgriesemer@gannettnj.com.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Jersey Shore Restaurant Week for Monmouth, Ocean counties until May 1
