You don’t need us to tell you about Tim McLoone’s, The Butcher’s Block or Anjelica’s—you can Google “best restaurants Long Branch” for that. Instead, I’m sharing how to eat like a true insider on the Jersey Shore: curated, little-known experiences not often advertised. These are the best-kept culinary secrets you learn only by living here.
As a longtime Jersey Shore resident, writer, and passionate foodie, I’ve spent years uncovering hidden gems. I’m sharing a few of my favorites with you because I trust you — just keep them out of the hands (and mouths) of the New York City crowd. Promise?
My Kitchen Witch
By its sheer existence, My Kitchen Witch qualifies as a secret eat. Primarily a breakfast and lunch spot — it belongs in your go-to brunch rotation — the candied bacon is a must-try. But the real insider move is their Friday Night Dinners: once-monthly candlelit dinners with a four-course, $39.99 prix fixe menu.
Each Friday Night Dinner menu is new and handcrafted. When I last went in June, diners were offered a choice of soup or salad (I chose the peach basil salad over watermelon gazpacho), a seafood or beef entrée (herb-roasted prime rib with chimichurri, though I’d have been just as happy with the jumbo shrimp over orzo), and desserts of competing flavor profiles (red velvet cake for me instead of blueberry lemon cheesecake brownies). All preceded by a surprise appetizer (which I won’t spoil for you).
Friday Night Dinners are reservation-only and fill up quickly, so call on Monday: 732-229-3033. And don’t forget to pick up a bottle of your preferred wine on the way.
2nd Floor
The Mix, a downtown Long Branch staple, has been serving cocktails and elevated pub grub on the building’s first floor since it opened almost 25 years ago. But venture upstairs — on one of two designated weekends each month — and you’ll find 2nd Floor, an exclusive supper club serving classic fine dining fare like short rib, branzino Milanese, and butternut squash and roasted apple soup.
It’s the kind of place that strives to make you feel more guest than customer — and if it feels cozy and homey, that’s because it is. Owners Michael Bienz and Sam Navito converted their old apartment above The Mix into the space for 2nd Floor. You have to contact Bienz by phone (732-443-7399) for reservations. Don’t be surprised to get a call or text back from him to check in on you.
Reyla
You’re already going to this beloved family-style Middle Eastern restaurant for dinner — but you should be going for brunch. Known for its to-die-for small plates (hello, Turkish hummus, warmed and dusted with cinnamon), this Asbury Park eatery is on every foodie’s radar.
A bit less known: Reyla serves one of the best brunches on the Jersey Shore. Skip the eggs Benedict and fluffcakes at Turning Point or MeeMom’s and try the green shakshuka with wagyu kofte and fried halloumi drizzled in hot honey. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You’ve been doing it all wrong.
Cardinal Provisions
Our tip for this essential Asbury Park brunch spot is a bit different than the others. There’s no secret basement supper club, and the chef doesn’t slaughter the fatted calf if you use a code word while ordering.
However, after 2:30 p.m., all the treats in the bakery window drop to $1. You have 30 minutes to get there before closing — and two minutes if you want any of the salted vegan chocolate chip cookies. By 2:32 p.m., I will have cleaned them out.
About the Author: Caroline is a longtime Jersey Shore resident, writer, and passionate foodie who has spent years uncovering the area’s hidden culinary gems. Whether it’s a tucked-away supper club or a brunch spot with a twist, she loves sharing insider tips that help locals and visitors alike eat like true insiders.