Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant is Jersey City’s hidden gem that everyone should know about. The outdoor oasis offers the most amazing views of the Manhattan skyline while serving up delicious seafood, tropical drinks, and service that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. Surf City arrived in the Liberty Harbor Entertainment District back in 2010 by developer Peter Mocco and nightlife impresario John Argento.
We stopped by on a magical Wednesday evening (the weather was perfect). Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the friendly waitstaff who were eager to get us seated and a cocktail in our hand, what more could you ask for? For the perfect sunny day, we highly recommend a few of their frozen tropical drinks, with an extra shot to take away some of the sweetness. The mango margarita was a hit with us. Beer lovers rejoice as Surf City has more than a few craft beers on tap. The food selections include everything from Lobster Quesadillas and Clam Chowder to Mahi Mahi Burgers and Snow Crab Legs. With so many food items to chose from, here are our favorites:
Peel and Eat Shrimp
The shrimps were huge and perfectly seasoned. They’re cooked in a boiled of beer, herbs, and spices. We could have eaten them for the rest of the night and been satisfied.
Crispy Calamari
The calamari is served with a few banana peppers and comes with spicy chili sauce. They were tender and a great starter option.
Lobster Guacamole
You really can’t go wrong with guacamole, but when you add large lobster pieces, it takes this dish to a whole new level of yumminess. We had to order another round because it was that good.
Seafood Paella
This dish is served in a traditional Paella pan. Expect to indulge in fresh clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid. It is served over tasty saffron rice.
Steampot
Mussels, Clams, and Sausage, OH MY! The steampot is for any true seafood lover. This dish is served with PEI Mussels, Little Neck Clams, Andouille Sausage, potatoes, and corn in white wine garlic sauce.
Surf City is open seven days a week and also has a sandy beach, fire pits, outdoor dining, and so much more. They also have a DJ spinning on Fridays and Saturdays, starting at 10pm. There is no cover and tons of unlimited free parking. Getting there is easy if you’re not driving. You can take the Light Rail, PATH Train or a boat.
Surf City Beach Bar & Restaurant is located at 1 Marin Boulevard in Jersey City. For more information, head over to www.surfcitybar.com.