The Jersey Shore is famous for its iconic boardwalks, soft sandy beaches, and long-standing summer traditions — but every season, it reinvents itself just a little. This summer, the Shore is buzzing with exciting new openings, from bold restaurant concepts and local bakeries to seafood bars and culinary fusions that are drawing foodies, families, and beachgoers alike.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or looking to spice up your shore routine, here’s a look at what’s fresh, flavorful, and worth the trip down the Parkway this summer.
Red Bank: Anderson Market
Anderson Market is poised to become a new culinary hub in downtown Red Bank. Set to open this summer, this food hall and gourmet grocery space blends upscale provisions with community vibes. You’ll find favorites like Booskerdoo Coffee, Nick + Sons Bakery, and Namkeen, along with pop-up vendors and immersive food experiences. With communal tables and a focus on local products, it’s set to become a can’t-miss Shore destination for brunch, bites, and browsing.
Margate: Betty’s BBQ and Fried Chicken
If you’re heading to the bayfront in Margate, prepare to indulge in smoked meats and crispy comfort food at Betty’s BBQ and Fried Chicken. This sister spot to Betty’s Seafood Shack brings Southern-style classics like St. Louis ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and fried chicken to the waterfront — perfect for a laid-back summer evening by the bay.
Long Branch & Beyond: Buttermee Pancakes
First winning hearts in Asbury Park, Buttermee Pancakes has now expanded to Long Branch. These mini pancake stacks come loaded with toppings like Nutella, fresh fruit, and crushed cookies — an instant hit with kids and sweet-toothed adults alike. It’s part dessert, part breakfast, and 100% Instagram-worthy.
Bradley Beach: Hey Peach Bakery & Steady Hand Cafe
Bradley Beach is becoming a hotbed for creative, small-scale food artisans. At Hey Peach Bakery, baker and artist Erin Kilker brings her whimsical touch to sourdough breads, giant pretzels, croissants, and herbal teas. Just down the road, Steady Hand Cafe — once a pop-up — now has a full brick-and-mortar space serving up inventive lattes and culinary-inspired coffee drinks. Think matcha with lavender, or espresso infused with brown butter.
Asbury Park: Judy & Harry’s, Mutiny BBQ, Palmetto
Asbury Park continues its culinary evolution with multiple exciting newcomers:
- Judy & Harry’s, formerly Heirloom at the St. Laurent, blends Italian staples with classic Jewish comfort food. Expect matzo ball soup alongside handmade pastas — a pairing you didn’t know you needed.
- Mutiny BBQ Company has expanded its beloved smokehouse to Convention Hall, serving Texas-style brisket, ribs, and coastal-inspired sides right off the boardwalk.
- Palmetto brings the flavors of the South to the Jersey Shore. Chef James Avery fuses Lowcountry cuisine with Shore flair, serving dishes like shrimp & grits and craft cocktails inspired by Charleston charm.
Atlantic City: Big Flavor Moves
Atlantic City is leveling up its food scene in a big way this summer:
- Jennifer’s Oyster Bar is a fresh addition to the outdoor beer garden at Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, offering local oysters, clams, crab legs, and ice-cold drafts — a must for seafood lovers.
- Macau Kitchen introduces a fusion of Vietnamese pho, wonton soup, and pan-fried noodles, paired with a sleek gaming lounge vibe.
- Paulie’s Steak Italiano sets the mood for late-night dinners and date nights, with osso bucco, lobster ravioli, and a curated wine and cocktail list.
- Stephen Starr — the Philadelphia-based restaurant mogul — is opening two new concepts at Ocean Casino Resort, including a comfort food bistro (think meatloaf and year-round Thanksgiving) and a stylish steak-frites destination with French flair.
Long Branch: Mogo Korean Fusion Tacos
Mogo, the Asbury Park favorite known for Korean BBQ tacos, is now also serving in Long Branch’s Pier Village. The flavors are bold, the vibe is casual, and the ocean views are unbeatable. Whether you’re into bulgogi, tofu, or spicy pork tacos, Mogo’s bringing global street food to the Jersey boardwalk.
Allenhurst: The Reef Club
Just steps from the beach, The Reef Club is one of the Shore’s most anticipated new seafood spots. With a menu full of fresh fish, lobster rolls, and beachy cocktails, it’s the perfect post-beach hangout — combining coastal cuisine with a touch of nautical elegance.
Middletown: Rosie’s Pizza
Fans of Rosie’s Pizza in Point Pleasant Beach have reason to celebrate — the beloved pizzeria now has a second home in Middletown. Known for its sourdough crust, wood-fired ovens, and inventive seasonal toppings, Rosie’s elevates the classic Jersey pizza game to artisanal heights.
Why This Summer at the Shore Feels Different
There’s a renewed energy at the Shore in 2025. With a mix of established talent, exciting new ventures, and a deeper focus on local ingredients and creative concepts, this summer’s crop of openings adds texture and flavor to New Jersey’s most beloved beach towns.
From foodie havens to family-friendly finds, there’s something new to explore every weekend. Whether you’re planning your next beach trip or a day of dining and discovery, make sure these new spots are on your radar.
Plan Your Summer Shoreline Adventure
🌊 Bookmark this guide and follow us as we continue to explore more hidden gems, local events, and restaurant highlights throughout the Jersey Shore. This summer, let Explore New Jersey be your trusted travel companion — because there’s always something new to taste, sip, or discover in the Garden State.