The Best Seafood Restaurants in Monmouth County, NJ
Monmouth County's location along the Jersey Shore makes it one of New Jersey's premier destinations for fresh seafood. Whether you're craving buttery lobster, freshly shucked oysters, steamed clams, or locally caught fish, you'll find everything from casual dockside eateries to upscale waterfront restaurants throughout the county.
Here's a curated guide to some of the area's standout seafood restaurants.
Bahrs Landing – Highlands
A Jersey Shore institution since 1917, Bahrs Landing is one of Monmouth County's most recognizable seafood restaurants. Located on Sandy Hook Bay, it serves fresh seafood classics including lobster, fried shrimp, scallops, chowder, and steamed clams while offering panoramic waterfront views.
Best For: Waterfront dining, family dinners, visitors exploring the Highlands.
Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant – Long Branch
Rooney's combines upscale coastal dining with spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. Known for fresh fish, oysters, lobster, and seasonal seafood specials, it's a favorite for date nights and celebrations.
Best For: Romantic dinners, anniversaries, oceanfront dining.
Klein's Fish Market & Waterside Restaurant – Belmar
Part seafood market and part restaurant, Klein's overlooks the Shark River Marina and serves exceptionally fresh seafood in a relaxed atmosphere. Favorites include raw bar selections, lobster, crab cakes, and daily catches.
Best For: Fresh seafood, waterfront lunches, casual dinners.
Beach Tavern – Monmouth Beach
Beach Tavern offers a modern American menu with an excellent seafood program. From oysters and tuna to seafood towers and fresh local fish, it's one of the county's most polished dining experiences.
Best For: Happy hour, cocktails, upscale casual dining.
Catch 19 – Red Bank
Located in downtown Red Bank, Catch 19 specializes in fresh seafood prepared with contemporary flavors. Their rotating menu features seasonal fish, shellfish, sushi-inspired appetizers, and creative chef specials.
Best For: Downtown dining, date nights, seafood lovers.
Navesink Fishery – Atlantic Highlands
For those seeking incredibly fresh seafood in a casual setting, Navesink Fishery is a local favorite. Known for lobster rolls, fried seafood baskets, chowders, and take-home fresh fish, it has earned a loyal following.
Best For: Casual meals, takeout, seafood markets.
Mr. Shrimp Seafood Restaurant – Belmar
Mr. Shrimp has become a go-to destination for shrimp platters, seafood boils, fried baskets, and family-friendly meals. Its generous portions and approachable prices make it popular with locals.
Best For: Families, casual seafood dinners.
Why Monmouth County is a Seafood Lover's Paradise
With direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, Sandy Hook Bay, and numerous marinas, Monmouth County enjoys some of New Jersey's freshest seafood. Local restaurants often feature seasonal catches, locally harvested shellfish, and classic Jersey Shore recipes that have been enjoyed for generations.
Whether you're spending the day in Belmar, exploring Highlands, enjoying downtown Red Bank, or relaxing in Long Branch, you'll never be far from outstanding seafood.