Jersey Shore Restaurant Week begins Friday, April 21 and continues through Thursday, April 30. That’s 10 days, but who’s counting?
Speaking of counting, 87 restaurants are participating this year, from Hazlet down to Seaside Park.
And in addition to three-course menus at $22.17 or $32.17, last year’s kickoff event returns and there are tie-ins to other fun food celebrations.
On the eve of the “week,” Thursday, April 20, the Chef’s Invitational officially begins the festivities with dozens of Shore chefs each presenting a signature dish. It takes place from 7 to 9 pm at Spring Lake Manor, 415 Route 71 in Spring Lake Heights.
Even Before the Official Kickoff Comes the First Tie-In:
On Saturday, April 15, enjoy burgers and craft beer at The Great Jersey Shore Burger Contest, held under the auspices of the Craft Beer Fest. Vote for the best burger. It take place from 1 to 4 pm at Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Avenue in Belmar. A burger and beer pass is $50; beer only, $30; burgers only $30. The 40 North Oyster Farm will offer a Two Buck Shuck.
Deadline to purchase tickets is Wednesday, April 12. Tickets available by linking to the contest at eventbrite.com or going directly to jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com.
Two More Tie-Ins:
If the combination of Bourbon, Bacon & Bluegrass floats your boat, head for the patio next to Cross & Orange in Asbury Park on Saturday, April 22.
If you’re more a Burgers, Bloodies & Brews type, then the place to be is Harpoon Willie’s in Manasquan from noon to 4 pm on Saturday, April 29.
For the list of restaurants participating in Shore Restaurant Week, information on the Invitational and tie-in events, see jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com.
Also Coming Up:
Princeton Truckfest: More than a dozen area food trucks will gather from 1 to 5 pm Saturday, April 29 on Prospect Avenue from Washington Road to Olden Street on the Princeton University campus for a charity benefit hosted by the Community Service Interfaith Council and the Pace Council for Civic Values. Admission is free. princetontruckfest.org
This just in for Easter:
Easter Sunday brunch at Piccola Italia, 837 West Park Avenue in Ocean Township, 11:30 am to 2:30 pm. A special dinner menu will be offered that day from 11:30 am to 8 pm.
Included on the holiday menu are Creole Shrimp Bisque with Seared Gulf Shrimp, Brown Butter Roasted Asparagus; Citrus Cured Gravlax, with Watercress, Grilled Red Onion, Beets, Horseradish Cream; New Orleans Omelet, with Spicy Andouille Sausage, Caramelized Onions, Cherry Peppers, Smoked Chili Mozzarella; Vermont Omelet, with Maple Glazed Bacon, Aged Cheddar, Spring Onions, Fingerling Potatoes; Loire Benedict, with Soft Poached Eggs, Fresh Ham, Sautéed Spinach, Wild Mushrooms, Truffle Hollandaise, Served On an Open Faced Croissant. Reservations are advised. 732-493-3090.