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Community Corner

Beat the Rush Before Local Spots Become Bombarded

Head into these spots now and savor the local treatment, before the summer rush hits

If you’re a local on the Jersey Shore then you are well aware of the post Memorial Day influx of tourists flocking to our seaside towns. So, to help you prepare for yet another bustling year of fun in the sun, here is a list of popular eateries and pubs you’d better take advantage of before May 30.

Surf Club, 1900 Ocean Ave, Ortley Beach— Joey Harrison’s Surf Club is a mecca of sun and fun. Since 1973 this club and entertainment resort has been a prime location for high-energy nightlife, ocean side cocktails, and national performing acts. There's only a couple opportunities left to enjoy this hot spot before the crowds rush in Memorial Day weekend.

Crab’s Claw Inn, 601 Grand Central Ave, Lavallette—Offering some the highest quality seafood in the area, Crab’s Claw Inn is an already frequented destination among residents in Toms River and Lavalette. You can imagine what happens once the shorefront vacation houses are no longer vacant; this cozy inn opens its doors to hundreds of tourists seeking nightly entertainment, fruity cocktails, and heaps of crab!

Seaside Heights Beach Bar, 28 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights— One of the only bars on the boardwalk that has beachfront access and panoramic views of the water, The Beach Bar offers an amazing and relaxing atmosphere for dinner and drinks. The bar has nightly DJs, signature drinks, and a menu that will appeal to just about anyone. We don’t need to point out why this is an important location to hit soon, not to mention there are some killer daily specials through May.

Spicy Cantina, 500 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights— Margaritas and Mexican cuisine on the boardwalk? You got it. Spicy Cantina has live entertainment year round, and authentic Mexican fare upstairs from their boardwalk food court. An all-around great place to stop in for an afternoon snack, we suggest you head there now and enjoy the local treatment!

JR’s Ocean Grill, 601 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights— Being known as having the best food on the “boards,” JR’s is nothing fancy, but it gets the job done! During the summer months you’ll find lines of beach goers here, so whether you’re looking for a casual night out, a simple lunch, or a great happy hour, head over and enjoy this popular spot!

Bum Rogers, 2207 S. Central Ave, Seaside Park—Serving only jumbo crabs from Texas, Bum Rogers takes its seafood selection very seriously. And with their 40 years of experience, you can count on any meal from this tavern to be a quality one. A truly perfect setting for any vacationer, this crab house is one that you should be running to...right now.

Labrador Lounge, 3581 Route 35, Normandy Beach—Specializing in high-quality, sustainable ingredients, Labrador Lounge is a unique and refreshing establishment at the shore that serves organic world cuisine.  It’s a gem among the many typical “ocean fare” restaurants and food courts. For this reason, it stays busy during the summer months. Get a head start on their innovative cuisine and treat yourself to dinner there this weekend.

Used To Be’s, 287 Route 35, Mantoloking—Open until 2 a.m., this ledgendary institution is a haven for the late night summer crowds. This spot has nightly drink specials, bar games, and live entertainment. A trusty destination for seasoned tourists, Used To Be’s fills up quick and stays that way all summer long.

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