Savor Sunset Views and Fabulous Food at This Belmar Bar & Grill

Since New Jersey’s beaches are on the East Coast, it’s impossible to watch the sun set over the ocean at the Shore. But Marina Grille in Belmar is positioned on the bay side of this happening beach town, so it’s one of the best places in the area to take in a beautiful sunset over the water while enjoying a delicious meal. That’s one reason there always seems to be at least a one-hour wait to dine here in the summertime. The other reasons are the atmosphere and the great food—plus a friendly and attentive staff.

Opened in 2017, this sprawling restaurant seats around 450 people and has two outdoor bars and a huge wraparound deck overlooking the water. It’s open year round, with overhead heating in the outdoor sections on chilly days. In the summer, the place is often completely exposed to the elements when the garage doors are opened. That makes for a fun, festive atmosphere—with incredible views of the sun setting over the bay in the evening. Be prepared to take plenty of pictures.

Marina Grille has a well-rounded menu, with something for everyone. Start with the tuna nachos: ahi tuna, avocado and sriracha mayo on homemade wontons. It’s a generous portion, big enough to share with your table.

There are healthy lunch options, such as the baja bowl: plump, grilled shrimp served over basmati rice. The caesar salad is a step above the average, with braised lettuce and grilled shrimp as an option. But the specialty here is seafood—don’t miss the ahi tuna tower special, served with mango, avocado and crab over coconut-ginger rice. For dessert, the warm chocolate chip molten lava cake served with chocolate syrup is delish.

HOW WE REVIEW: Restaurants are chosen for review at the sole discretion of New Jersey Monthly. These unstarred reviews of more casual restaurants are written after one critic’s visit with two people; the magazine pays for these meals.

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