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Avenue
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Upscale
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
60 reviews for Avenue
Review Highlights
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"Love the tuna carpaccio, octopus salad, and the oysters." In 3 reviews -
"Good seafood restaurant right on the beach." In 15 reviews -
"I started with the macaroni gratin (a meal in itself), had..." In 3 reviews
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60 reviews in English
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Review from William A.
Eatontown, NJ
4/20/2012
We had a great time here! Our reservation for 5 was booked just one day in advance for 7:30 on a Friday and they were able to give us a great view. That really started us off well.
This meal was truly fantastic and reasonably priced. I had the fish and chips appetizer which was pretty simple but had great taste. For my entree I had the duck with lentils. The duck was excellent. I came right off the bone and it was rich in flavor. The lentils went with it very well and were expertly cooked. Finally for dessert I had pecan pie which was tasty too.
For the record all at my table said there meals were excellent and we all looked forward to going back. Their meals included striped bass, salmon and various appetizers and deserts. -
Review from Timothy H.
Long Valley, NJ
2/21/2012
Great setting overlooking the beach. Ate outside which was nice because of its location. We came here for brunch on a Windy summer day, and it was so nice to sit outside and wasn't extremely warm which was nice.
The food was quite delicious and the decor and setting was done in a very tasteful manner, I truly could understand why I was paying a little bit more than other places.
The food was done to perfection, and the combination of champagne made this a truly nice day.
Prices are high, but you pay for what you get (From a setting standpoint, and food quality) -
Review from Mandy O.
I came here on the 14th for a dinner to celebrate my sister's 39th (**cough**) birthday. She has been dying to come to this little french spot and it was a nice choice. It's situated in Pier Village (if you're not familiar, it's the cutest little coastal area just north of the Shore area. Lots of boutiques, cafes, condos and without all the ruckus of the some of it's southern counterparts).
Atmosphere is absolutely AMAZING. This place puts some of Manhattan's finest to shame. Enormously high ceilings with large windows overlooking the waves crashing down on the beach. Beautiful, softly lit interior with french ballads playing and a lovely area near the fireplace with overstuffed chairs and leather sofas we enjoyed a cocktail at before we were seated for our meal.
Sadly, none of my immediate family (with the exception of brother-in-law) is a seafood eater so the raw bar/seafood selections for appetizer were out because with the $120 price tag for them you are served a three foot three-tiered silver tray of crushed ice loaded with crab legs, lobster, and littlenecks. Truly an impressive display - how do I know this? The table next to me ordered it and I resisted the urge to go join THAT family. For our entrees, we had delicious 'Avenue' salads of fresh arugula, shrimp (for us seafood eaters, sans for those who don't), avocado, heirloom tomatoes and the mildest, pleasant homemade vinaigrette I've ever tasted. Huuuuge wine list, so you can drop thirty or three thousand clams for a bottle if you wish. Also, quite a bit of eclectic cocktails.
I chose the Braised Short Rib for my entrée and was not disappointed, like a fine osso bucco, this had been prepared for hours so that it merely fell off the bone it was served on when tapped with a fork (see photo 1). It was accompanied by pomme purée (topped with almond slivers) which were whipped so thoroughly they dissolved like snowflakes on your tongue. My sister declared her steak tartare to be one of the best steaks she's ever eaten and after having a bite I must concur, the sauce was pretty fantastic.
My usually finicky niece had ordered a half roast chicken served again with the pomme purée (see photo 2)and creamed spinach (which was pretty good but pretty ordinary). Overall, she loved it.
For dessert, they brought out a delicious homemade apple fritte (see photo 3) and I was also able to enjoy the sweet, satisfying créme brulée (see photo 4).
Ok, I'm tired of making these french é's on my keyboard so I'll end it here, be prepared to spend a bit but the food is fantastique. I would love to eat in the outdoor seating they have here during spring/summer but I would definitely make a reservation. -
Review from gail a.
Shrewsbury, NJ
5/16/2012 Seated via OpenTable
Very nice Mother's day brunch. The food is high quality and delicious. For the price, though, it would have been nice to receive a cocktail.
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Review from Jeffrey C.
New York, NY
2/13/2012
Great setting overlooking the beach. Ate here for brunch on a beautiful sunny winter day at a table looking at the empty winter beach.
The food was quite delicious and the decor and setting was tasteful. A huge space and not crowded. I wondered how loud it would get when full due to the hard surfaces. I'd love to try it again when I'm down there again for dinner to see how it is -
Review from Lucky C.
Old Bridge, NJ
2/6/2012
Well we came in in the early fall with another couple. I have to say if the parking was not as bad and this is during lunch I would come regularly.
Well forget the parking the outdoor seating was fantastic and the service dam good service. My wife had a blast everything was delicious! We had the jumbo shrimp cocktail 18 pieces @ $6.00 a piece the waiter repeats himself they are $6.00 a piece. Maybe he thought it was to many for us or what? Also had the raw plater. The mussels in a sauce the best!!!! If you never came here you have to its a little pricey but the view the service and the food is worth the parking hassle. The tuna tar tar was awsome! -
Review from Betty B.
Los Angeles, CA
12/10/2011
Full disclosure: we went with the prix-fixe menu (earlier in the evening). It made me wonder if their regular menu might be much better... who knows?
I ordered the "steak au poivre" medium rare. It still managed to be tough and chewy... like shoe leather. The seafood platter as an app also lacked flavor. Everything just kind of had a BLAH texture to it.
I give the two stars mainly for our waiter, who definitely worked hard. I appreciate good employees, believe me! Also the space inside is pretty nice. The hostess was not very good at greeting guests... totally in her own world.
Finally, I find having Bathroom Attendants around to be pretentious as hell. Really, who needs someone staring at you and throwing a paper towel at you when you're trying to have a private moment in the Ladies Room? Not me! -
Review from Shadi H.
Hoboken, NJ
11/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Excellent .....probably one of the best steak tartare I had ever had!
I went to Monmouth University and use to hang out at long branch before pier village was built . However if you are looking for a date spot that on the water, even in the winter, the avenue is a great spot. GREAT VIEW !!!!
I have yet to attend tonight the night life their, but there is a roof top at night ( in the summer)
Please note that real estate comes at a high price. ("pop bottles")
I just figured I would stop by for restaurant week, and was not disappoint. The food is excellent french cuisine.
I had Assiette de Fruit de Mer for an app and shared the Steak Tartare (Hand Chopped Filet Mignon, Mesclun Salade, Crostini )... FREAKING AWESOME !!!!!
For dinner I had Roasted Faroe Island Salmon-( Braised Cannellini Beans, Cippolini Onions, Spinach, Truffled Nage) which was cooked perfectly
For Desert I had Pot de Creme - "Dark Chocolate Custard Topped with Fresh Whipped Cream " .... Is was rich and amazing. Although now I wish I got the Pofiteroles (Cream Puff, Vanilla Ice Cream, Warm Chocolate Sauce) ..... Oh Man ...:)
No problem with service.
I would go again definitely.... everything was excellent. -
Review from Nikki B.
Stamford, CT
3/4/2012 1 photo
Good service and food on a quiet off-season Sunday night. Prix fixe menu is a great value. We enjoyed our glasses of red and white, the crusty bagette, light and heavenly mac and cheese, escargot, medium rare salmon, tender Boeuf Bourguignon (very smokey) and Creme Brulee. Skip the mushroom soup. Artful decor and perfect, warm lighting with fireplace and ocean view!
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Review from Mark V.
Millburn, NJ
8/2/2011
Was hanging at the beach on Sunday and stopped in on the recommendation of friends. Enjoyed the food, the view and some very interesting cocktails.
Booze: (1/2 price specialty cocktails 3-7)
Melon Martini - a bit too sweet
Mango/Jalapeno Margarita - sweet with a spicy finish, yum
Food:
Brussel Sprouts - Tossed in sesame, lime and chili peppers and roasted, very interesting and tasty
Vietnamese Rolls - mmmmmh, ok
Lobster rolls - a little hint of heat, overall very tasty
Oysters - very fresh, with shallots and malt vinegar
Crab cakes - mmmmmh, ok
Fries - piping hot, lightly salted. just what we needed to balance out the sweet drinks -
Review from sutah r.
Long Branch, NJ
Updated - 2/8/2012
Excellent. Best Happy Hour on the beach. Top shelf martinis $5. Try the brussel sprouts or mac and cheese. Love the cheese board. Great wine list. If you are not sure what wine to order with dinner ask for Patrick.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/28/2011
Try the Brussel Sprouts. I like the cheese board at Happy Hour. Only place I know of in town that… Read more »
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Review from Rita Z.
Hoboken, NJ
6/22/2011
My girlfriends and I had dinner in Avenue last weekend and the food was decent, as were the drinks. We were planning to go to the club upstairs afterwards, but were told that on Saturdays they only let in people who bought bottle service. The waitress then called the manager and he told us that he'll make an exception for us and bring us upstairs himself, all we'd have to do is pay $20 each for the admission fee. I was a bit surprised that after spending $400 on dinner, we would have to pay to get in that kind of club, and was thrown off by the cocky and arrogant attitude of the manager.
Anyway, after dinner, only one other friend and I decide to check out the upstairs so we look for the manager. After being told by one of the bouncers that he is upstairs and will be down after he's finished with something, we wait around. The bouncer comes back after about 15min and says that the manager left for the day and that we would have to stand in line outside to get in. He was extremely rude and after a few minutes of going back and forth, ended up kicking us out, yelling to the bouncers outside that we cannot get in, "line or no line".
We cancelled our lunch reservations for the next day. I do not recommend this place to anyone. It is by the far one of the worst places I've been to with the most ridiculous scene of guidos and snookis, yikes!
Never never again! -
Review from Lucas T.
Atlantic City, NJ
4/11/2011
Hmm. Weird. Why the outstanding reviews?
Dined at Avenue last thursday. Will not be going back. As others have said, and I'll repeat, the menu is in french. In french, you mean francais'? Yes, the menu is in french. The last time I checked, I was in NJ. Anyways, navigating through a restaurant with the menu in french is extremely annoying, and didn't make the restaurant any classier or more fancy.
Parking? No parking. I tasted this restaurant on a cold, Thursday night. Can you imagine this place in the summer? I was forced to park in the parking ramp, [ a mile away, mind you ].
The food was ok, but way overpriced. Tremendously and ridiculously over-priced. For 2 meals, the bill was over $80.00! What a joke. Half the time was spent asking the flamboyant waiter what each meal was. It reminded me a lot of Sapporro In Scottsdale, AZ [ look it up if you wish ] lots of people pretending to be something they are not.
What is it with restaurants on the shore in Long Branch? Rooney's sucks and so does Avenue. -
Review from Mercy A.
7/18/2011
A classy, modern restaurant with nice bartenders and pretty damn good food. Came here on a Sunday for a Yogurt Parfait and Bloody Mary's and was lucky enough to have Thomas at the bar take care of me and my friend. It was relaxing and the Bloody Mary was one of the best we've ever had. The Yogurt Parfait could have used more greek yogurt, but the granola and fruit totally made up for it. After we were done sun bathing, we returned for their fabulous happy hour from 3-7 and all night on Fridays. For $5.00 you can have some amazing martinis (about 8 choices) and additional cocktails on the menu are half off. Pretty damn good for a high end restaurant. I tried the Summerhouse and the Monaco and both were great!
Very busy here, but we loved the energy and the staff was lovely. There's a TV in the bar area and plenty of us were watching the Women's World Cup, along with the staff. I thought everyone was approachable and polite (even though some of the staff did not speak English.) Of course, there are obnoxious people everywhere and you can't always blame the establishment for those people's actions. Just have a good time, and don't worry about how other people behave and you will love it here!
P.S. I've also been here for dinner but cannot remember specifics only that I loved it and that the bill was quite pricey! We went to the club that night too and did not have to pay to get in, but maybe that was before they implemented that policy, which truly is silly if it's accurate. The music was terrible (that night at least). -
Review from Romulus R.
Middletown, NJ
5/30/2011
Food is decent.
Burger is best item on the menu.
Downstairs bar is legit.
Best drinks ever.
I mean ever.
Martinis are out of this world.
Bartenders are friendly & on point.
Fantastic ambience.
Upstairs Le Club is official.
Best looking & best dressed people in this part of NJ.
BIGGEST BULLSHIT is waiting in line to get in the club section.
Waited over and hour & was first in line.
Did eventually get in but after a few rounds of complaining.
Do not even bother waiting in line, huge waste of time.
Only way to skip the line is ordering a table.
Overall Avenue is the hot spot.
Food is average but the dining/bar experience is delightful.
The club is the place to be but getting in is an extreme struggle.
Romulus -
Review from Corrie C.
Eatontown, NJ
9/18/2011
Came off the beach in the afternoon and grabbed a bite to eat and a glass of wine w/ the wife. Located in Pier Village, the restaurant looked absolutely stunning -- everything was new and the view of the ocean and the fireplace was beautiful. We sat on the outside deck, which was perfect considering the temperature that day.
As I mentioned, we ordered a glass of wine each along w/ the "exotic mushroom" and "beet salad" dishes. Both were splendid, but the exotic mushroom dish was awesome! Although on the pricey side, the meals and the view did not disappoint and helped make the afternoon a wonderful experience. -
Review from stefan s.
Mamaroneck, NY
8/15/2011
Didn't eat there buy went to the club around 10:30 on a saturday. Don't bother waiting on the general admission line it may seem like it's slowly moving when in fact it's just people leaving the line and spending their hard earned money elsewhere. Doesn't matter if you're with girls or a just a group of guys they are equal opportunity offenders. Why does this seem to be the norm at French joints?
Make a bottle reservation or call your buddy who works in the kitchen or something if u want entrance. Granted once you're in it's nice and fun and could be a cool spot if the whole door thing didn't already ruin your night. Oh and I think they were charging $40 for men and $20 for girls. We did not pay because I think the guy took pity on us for waiting so patiently. -
Review from Brian P.
Little Silver, NJ
5/22/2011
High end atmosphere and fine dining at the shore. Expect a wait on the weekends in the summer. Club on rooftop rocks on summer. Pricey but worth it!
Try the Halibut. -
Review from Juliette J.
Bergen County, NJ
5/2/2011 3 photos
I came here for brunch after running the Long Branch Half Marathon [like an ass! Why do I do this shit?]. 4 people, $222. Perhaps I was delirious from my run and didn't notice the exorbitant prices, but in the end, it was freaking worth it!
The restaurant's decor is simple yet mesmerizing, almost like an extension of the beach - bright and airy, perched above the sand, overlooking the ocean.
I tried and highly recommend:
Macaroni Gratin
Roasted Potatoes [perfection!]
Warm Goat Cheese
Provençale Frittata
Profiteroles [O-M-Effin-G, you MUST have this. Must!]
Peach Bellini
The entire wait staff was extremely pleasant, knowledgeable, fluid and operated seamlessly. I couldn't have asked for a better brunch experience. The impeccable flavors of every dish still lingers on my palate, which should help make the MSG-laced Top Ramen that I now have to consume for the next month a tad-bit tolerable. -
Review from Ranley K.
3/15/2011
This was my go to spot Thursday nights back when I attended Monmouth.
I will talk more about the club upstairs than the bar/restaurant downstairs so stop reading now if that's what you are here for!
Thursday nights = college nights = no cover. Which is why we came! The place is pretty spacious and has an outside patio area that is open during the winter! It's a great way to cool off if you have been dancing nonstop.
Everytime I have been there the DJ has been different. One time I went and the DJ only played techno/trance stuff, boooo, but I do have to take into consideration the company I am in..guids and guidettes. However, other times the DJs have been good.
I think there's a mixed drink special of $5 Thursday nights. I could be wrong, don't take my word for it. I just remembered handing ppl cash and getting a drink haha. (Bad idea, do not try that at home)
Bottom Line:
Pretty nifty place, no cover Thursdays, college atmosphere, I can't complain. Saved on cover, save on drinks. WIN! -
Review from Liana L.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 9/9/2010
OK, the fact that Avenue is full of complete d-bags makes me want to hate it.
The fact that some of the staff is pretentious and condescending makes me really, really want to hate it.
But I can't!
The fact of the matter is: this is the closest you'll get to French food in this area PLUS it's on the beach. Yeah, like practically almost ON it. It really doesn't get better than that. We brought clients who flew in from Miami here and they were really impressed. Maybe it's not saying much considering that they flew in with the preconceived notion that the entire Jersey Shore looked like where Snookie and The Situation hang out.
Regardless, they loved it. And I continue to be pleased with the quality of food they serve here. They did take my favorite branzino dish off the menu, however, to my surprise, it has been re-added! HOORAY! I no longer have to nostalgically daydream about the flaky white fish and tangy fennel salad. It's right there at Avenue--- ready to enjoy whenever I want it!
I must also note that I recently discovered Avenue's amazing brunch. First off: They make REAL bellinis with REAL peach puree. This might not sound amazing to anyone else but I dare you to try to find another place that does on the Jersey Shore. You'll probably just get a bunch of glasses of cheap sparkling wine with some peach schnapps in it.
SECONDLY: I ordered the "Eggs Belladonna" which consisted of poached eggs, polena, and stewed tomatoes. Although it wasn't the most filling breakfast, it was extremely satisfying and undeniably delicious. The egg was poached PERFECTLY, which seems to be a lost art nowadays, but Avenue got it right. The rich yolk sensuously poured out atop the sweet, delightfully acidic tomatoes and creamy polenta. I ate this dish slow and savored it.
This brunch transported me elsewhere, to some scenic European coast somewhere far, far away. A magical land that makes real bellinis and knows how to poach eggs.
I want to go back.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/21/2009
Avenue is not a seafood restaurant, nor is it American as most people have stated. It is French.
Now… Read more »
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Review from Diana A.
Updated - 10/2/2011
The uppity attitudes are a bit much, but the food is still delicious and the views are divine. Check out the prix fixe dinner menu, 7 days a week before 6pm. A ton of food for 29.95. I started with the macaroni gratin (a meal in itself), had the grilled chicken as my entree (so tender) and the profiteroles for dessert. In a word, stuffed. The wine list is extensive (and expensive). For the adventurous, start with the steak tartare or the escargot. Lots of seafood choices for entrees.
Listed in: Shore to Please
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/10/2010
Amazing spot for Sunday brunch. Beautiful oceanfront location, floor-to-ceiling windows, large bar,… Read more »
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Review from Peter K.
9/22/2010
I had to knock off 2 stars not for the food, but for everything else.
First I was greeted by a nice hostess and moved to the bar which had an AWESOME bar tender. How deceiving.
I have never been to a place with so many rules! This place was sooo annoying. The delicious food on the menu was ruined by everything being called Les Appetiziers Le this Les that. The (Les j@ckA!s) Avenue had maybe THREE items that were French on it. Everything else was pretty eclectic, which was pretty nice.
My caprese salad was delicious and tasted so fresh. My steak was cooked perfectly and tender. The greens were over salted. EXCELLENT wine list. They had bottles and so many choices of champagne that you would only find at notable wine bars.
Our waiter was not very accommodating. Rules after rules after rules. We had eight people in our party and he denied us prix fixe. He was like 8 and under can have it. Well we had 8. Then he comes up with under 8 only, house rules saying with a smirk. Well bend them. I would have spent more if I had the Prix Fixe. Mostly everyone would have ordered that if it was available. That was just one instance.
The perfect view of the ocean was ruined by the cheesy interior design and cheap design build construction. It wasn't that bad, but something you would expect from someone that owns a McMansion and calls everything Le Club and Les Pompous.
If you can look past the cheese and the rules, the food is really good and at least you can have a refreshing breeze with a view of the ocean to look past the Le and Les. -
Review from Pamela G.
KEW GARDENS, NY
3/30/2011
You can come here any time of year and have an awesome experience, whether it's an intimate dinner or a group. I've been here in the summertime (try to get reservations for outdoor seating, it's literally on the beach) and in the winter (it's just as nice inside).
The staff is spectacular - from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave. There's a full bar - if you get there early or have to wait, you won't be complaining about this one.
I tried escargot here for the first time (after I swore I'd never eat snails) and it was so yummy! I'd recommend pretty much anything on the menu (wild black sea bass is exquisite).
If you dine at the restaurant, you don't have to wait on line to get into the nightclub (which is absolutely WHACK in the wintertime). -
Review from Vanessa S.
Miami, FL
8/14/2010 1 photo
Hello upscale fat kid heaven!
After a long day of laying out and reading my book I really worked up an appetite! Luckily after only about ten minutes of circling the lot at Pier Village we were able to park.
Having not yet decided on a cuisine of choice I immediately stopped after I read the description for the short rib lollipop! Sadly, having had no reservation we couldn't sit outside, but the indoor part of the dining room is warm, inviting and allows itself to a smaller degree of people watching while you eat.
Our waitress was very nice, in fact all the servers were buzzing around our table the whole time we were there.
To start I had a tuna carpaccio, the presentation alone made me want to drool all over myself then when I finally tasted it I was like, whoa! My aunt ordered the escargot and they smelled like perfection! The fact that she cleaned her plate using every scrap of bread available also let me know they were delicious.
Our entrees arrived shortly after, again, the presentation was great and as was to be expected the meat fell right off the short rib bone and the polenta they served it with was creamy and decadent. My aunt's halibut was cooked to perfection and she didn't even let me take a bite, so again, must have been good.
Without asking, which I think was a total deliberate move the waitress hands us the dessert menu. They actually had a cup of chocolate on the menu, they call it "Pot de chocolat" which literally means a pot of chocolate. How could I not order that?!
Despite all the food I floated out of the restaurant, on a little happy fat kid cloud. I love this place! -
Review from Kimberly C.
New Brunswick, NJ
7/3/2010
Appearances can be deceiving.
The restaurant:
Last night, I ate at Avenue for a birthday dinner. The restaurant is located by the beach in the Pier Village neighborhood of Long Branch. Parking is a pain if you can't get a spot in the lot. The decor is exquisite, very classy and beautiful. The ambiance was relaxing, with soothing music playing in the background.
Service:
The staff were accommodating but not super helpful. They did not tell us about any specials or make us feel welcome to the restaurant. The main waitress was very rude and impatient with us. We were a party of 8 and at the end of the night, we split the bill 8 ways. (Not all of us had cash) The waitress took her sweet time returning the credit card slips/receipts and only brought ONE pen. And she THREW DOWN the receipt holders at us, with a smile of course.
Did I mention that the 20% gratuity was included?
The food:
I order the tomato heirloom salad and mac 'n cheese. The salad was good; I expected more arugula and I think it was missing something... The mac 'n cheese was comforting and delish, just too many bread crumbs. The creme brulee was a nice way to end the evening, but the caramelized topping was kind of in-edible. My cousin (a culinary chef) makes a better LAVENDER creme brulee. And I devoured all of it.
Overall, I'd give this restaurant 2.5 stars. The company (my friends) made it worthwhile. Would I return? Mediocre French "cuisine" and rudeness with gratuity included? No, merci beaucoup. -
Review from lauren o.
Hoboken, NJ
6/11/2007
This place is really pretty because it's a rooftop bar with a fireplace and it is on the ocean. It has a DJ, dancefloor, but the bar tender didn't know how to make a lemon drop martini and gave me some cr@ppy concocktion he shook up w/ a lemon ontop.
I didn't like how pretentious the vibe was. Every girl was the same...very tan, very blond, very fake and they all have the same gucci or dior bag on their shoulder. So if you like that type of girl then this place is like a treasure chest for u guys...
The guys were creepy...older yet still meat heads. I was on a guest list so i didn't wait in the long line, but they wouldn't let my guy friends in...so that reaLLLy p*st me off. The bouncers are rough...much worse than the ones in NYC. I guess I thought this bar would be more chill because it's down the shore...but it's def. not chill...most people were just standing around, staring at people, looking kinda miserable...ughhh. I had a good time with my friends but i def didn't run into anyone who impressed me. -
Review from Bobby S.
Matawan, NJ
5/19/2010
The location if you sit outside couldn't be more than perfect. We hit up happy hour just as it began for once in our lives, parked our butts into plush chairs facing the beach, and forgot we were in Jersey. The happy hour cocktails we ordered were slightly watered down..not too good and the nibbles options were only the sea food bar during happy hour..eh..say what..I can eat oysters, shrimp, lobster half priced but not fries. I was in heaven while my friend who does not do sea food was less than delighted..she didn't go hungry though so don't feel too sorry..
The crowd is a bit older, sugar mamas and papas galore. Would I go there again..YUP.. I hear its 'banging' weekend nights..so to be continued... -
Review from Patrick M.
Holmdel, NJ
11/23/2007 1 photo
I watched with great anticipation as the Avenue was built and prepared for its grand opening. So far I have only had one occasion to eat dinner there but it was a great experience.
We had originally planned on having Easter at another restraurant but when that turned out to be a buffet brunch only we decided to give Avenue a try. This worked out perfect since Avenue was my original choice but I got over ruled.
We had missed the lunch hours but the hostest suggested we wait until 4:30 PM when Avenue opened again for dinner. We walked along the boardwalk/pier enjoying the crisp spring day. Eventually we made our way inside and sat at the bar.
Avenue is located on the beach side of the Piers at Long Branch. The view of the Atlantic Ocean is spectacular (which reminds me of Terri Hatcher).
Eventually our table was ready and we were shown to a sea view table. Our server recommended the Price Fix (cash only) Sunday special. I was planning on using a credit card and had not brought enough cash but the server told me that it would be alright this time.
I do not remember what I had but I definitely know I enjoyed it. My daughter enjoyed as well. Unfortunately, we have not had the opportunity to return. Hopefully soon. -
Review from John K.
Rockville, MD
6/30/2009
Good seafood restaurant right on the beach. If you like fancy places with a great view of the beach, this is your spot. But for a fancy place, the prices are fairly reasonable.
I had the duck confit which was good, but kind of on the small side when it came to the portions.
My friend had the roasted chicken and my other friend had the streak frites. Both a very good size in portion. I'll admit that I was a little envious of their food. I'll definitely have to try their dishes next time I come here.
If you sit outside, you get a pretty good view of the beach as well as the main pavilion of the newly built town-center-ish place. Parking is a pain, but if you come here, there is plenty to do. -
Review from Matthew R.
Austin, TX
12/28/2009
Avenue was really good. I think that the quality of the food has dropped off. The steak frittes used to be made with a fantastic strip. I mean it was fucking good. Now they have a bullshit flat iron steak instead but didn't cut the price for a shittier cut of meat. The last time and only time I go to Avenue is for brunch every-so-often on a Sunday. The burger is fucking awesome. So is the mac-n-cheese. Yes. It's really good. It's too pricey for me to eat dinner at and the clients aren't exactly my crowd. But happy hour for 75cent clams and 1.50 oysters is solid.
I dunno, if they kept their cute summer bartenders I'd probably still go there but until the hire those babes, I'm gonna pass. -
Review from Pat D.
Berkeley Heights, NJ
4/30/2011
The Avenue is a great place, Love there HAPPY HOUR. I wish the Dinner special would be extended for at least 2 hours, 4-6.4:30-6:30. It is very expensive, however the view is unreal!!
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Review from Justin E.
Oceanport, NJ
4/4/2011
Downstairs: 4 stars. I can't believe how good the food is here, the Raw Bar is very impressive. I recommend grabbing some oysters during happy hour. The specialty drinks are also exceptional. Entrees and apps are good, but the raw bar is great. Not a good place for beer, very limited selection. Stick to the martinis. Huge ceiling, beautiful layout with a great view of the beach. I like the fireplace, elegant.
Upstairs: 2 stars. Head upstairs if you're ready to dance. It's a good nightclub layout, very open with good views of the water and even an outdoors area. Music is often good here too, I like their DJs. But I don't like the upstairs staff very much. The "shot girls" stand around looking bored with judging eyes, doing absolutely nothing except getting in the way unless you call for bottle service (which I'm sure is reasonable priced... NOT). Meantime, I notice that there are often not enough bartenders to keep up with the crowd, and the drink charges are inconsistent. Lastly, don't get comfortable on the nice couches they have either... all seats can be "bought." One time, a gruff bouncer pushed me and my friends out of our section, telling us out seats were just "bought." How about the manager sending a few drinks our way for the trouble? The club is nice, and the people-watching opportunities are hilarious (the NY crowd fascinates me). But wow, what's up with the upstairs staff??? -
Review from Marc F.
Wayne, NJ
7/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great Place for a first date or hanging out with firends for some over prices drinks overlooking the long branch beach area. At night great trendy place to meet some sexy singles.
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Review from Dani S.
Paramus, NJ
8/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am a huge fan of their happy hour from 3-6pm. Avenue can get a little pricey but if you come for happy hour, you can get a great deal on fresh fresh seafood appetizers and great made drinks! Dress to impress!!!
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Review from Gil R.
Bridgewater, NJ
7/29/2011
My wife and I had a nice experience here on a sunny and warm Saturday evening. We were promptly seated outside (requested) after checking in.
We qualified to choose from a prefixe menu ($29 for 3 courses) but opted to go on our own from the main menu. The Avenue Salad was very good. The tuna carpaccio was very nice as well. We split a Bronzino though slightly disappointed with not seeing the whole fish on the table.
We shared the profiteroles (excellent) and my wife's tea was divine (hints of chocolate and coconut). Glasses of white wine were refreshing.
View is great. Our table overlooked the beach/ocean. A little loud with the club bar right below but fine nonetheless. Valet parking worth it for $15. -
Review from Meg D.
New York, NY
6/23/2010
Went with a group for a wedding rehearsal dinner. We sat at three long tables in the middle of the room and the place looked beautiful. We loved the decor and the vibe is energetic but not too loud.
The club upstairs looked like it drew a super cheesy "we're Jerzy cleasssy" crew. Glad we didn't have to dip our toes into that part of the place.
Our meal choices were limited because of the occasion but everything was super tasty. Here's the rundown:
Bibb lettuce salad--very good if lacking in other veggies
Mac 'n cheese (Big Guy's)--flavorful, al dente and breadcrummy in a good way
Steak au poive--Yes, please! Came with truly excellent creamed spinach.
Pots de creme--chocolately goodness!
Service was discombobulated (I had to get up and beg the waiter for my drink after ordering from my seat THREE times) but truly well-intentioned.
If we go back down that way, Avenue will definitely be a stop for us. Dying to try the awesome-looking fries... -
Review from Lea A.
Atlantic Highlands, NJ
9/6/2011
The location cant be beat and neither can the view. In an area saturated with meager run-of-the-mill restaurant choices, Avenue definitely stands out above pretty much most of the others for sure. The staff is great and the food is very consistent. The menu is very well done also. My one major critique regards the chef. I went here with my sister-in-law who was pregnant last year and pregnant women cant have goat cheese so she asked for a sandwich without goat cheese and asked if another cheese they have in house could be added. The server was very accomodating; however, the chef was not willing to put another cheese on the sandwich. Being that she didnt want a dry sandwich the server asked her if she wanted avocado with it so she said yes please have that put on. Chef said no, only on the side. She ended up getting 3 slices of avocado (not even a whole avocado's worth) and when the bill came was charged 6 dollars for the side of mini avocado. Im not cheap by any means but was so disappointed in the lack of consideration and basically insensitivity of the chef. I have been back many times since - my sister in law has not. Bottom line: if you dont have special food needs the restaurant is great just dont ask the chef to swirve off course at all.
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Review from Caroline P.
Perth Amboy, NJ
3/12/2011
I went here for my birthday I really liked it everyone in the whole place stared at me in my Shrine Betty dress it was rad. My friend had the Trout Almondine which was divine. I had the Lobster Salad which was amazing and Steak Tartar. My brother in law had the escargot which was amazing too. This place is in an old arcade, so it feels like you are in a hanger or something. They had good music and a big roaring fire. A romantic walk on the boardwalk completed the excellent night.
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Review from Tom P.
Middletown Township, NJ
12/2/2010
Very pretty place and creative menu. Food for the most part is very good but it's really the attitudes of the wait staff and the front of the house that gives this place a mediocre review. The Managers and wait staff make it seem as if they are doing you a favor serving your food in a friendly manner - they are ALWAYS crowded and 1200 negative reviews will never affect this place b/c it is the "it" place down in Long Branch and the place where people want to be seen - entrees are overpriced in terms of quality of ingredients. If you're looking for an upscale place head to Serena down a few buildings.
