10 Ocean County Casual Restaurants Suggested By Locals.
Casual dining describes a restaurant that serves reasonably priced food in a relaxed atmosphere.
I love going out to dinner. Every now and then, I like dressing up to go out and eat. It’s fun to get all dolled up for a night out with my man and some friends.
Most of the time I just like running a brush through my hair, throwing on a pair of jeans, a nice shirt, and heading out to a nice casual spot.
It’s so much more comfortable to sit and chat at a friendly causal joint than to constantly worry if my hair still looks good, if my lipstick is still on my lips, and my napkin is still on my lap.
I want to do as little as possible while I’m enjoying a meal. I’m much less self-conscious when I’m eating in a casual place like a diner, pub, or a small local restaurant.
A lot of people feel the same way. They want to relax and enjoy the food and the company.
I surveyed several sources online, in person, and on the WRAT request line asking people where they like to dine in a casual atmosphere. I got a ton of responses!
Where Do Ocean County Locals Go For Casual Dining?
I want to make sure this list is as varied as possible, otherwise it would be a list full of pizzerias, bars, and diners.
Diners, pizzerias, and bars were heavy hitters.
I can make a separate list for those places another time. Right now, I want to focus on different types of cuisine served in casual spaces here in Ocean County.
I’ve been to a few of the suggested places on this list, and they are some mighty fine eats. I look forward to trying the places I’ve yet to visit, hopefully soon.
Let’s take a look at the top 10 Ocean County places suggested by locals.
Bon Appetit my fellow food lovers.
Little Kusina - 1594 US-9, Toms River, NJ 08755 Located In Victoria Plaza - Filipino- Asian
One of their staple items is Lumpia, which are spring rolls that envelop either beef, pork, or vegetable fillings.
Pansit is also another signature dish. It’s kind of like Lo Mein. There are many different types of pansit,(sometimes spelled pancit) it always features rice noodles and vegetables, and often meat, such as pork or chicken.
The Adobo Chicken was highly recommended as were some of the desserts. The banana egg roll turon comes with two Turon with your choice of chocolate, caramel, or nothing on top! A favorite dessert among Filipinos.
La Cantera Tom's River - 1224 Rte 166, Toms River, NJ 08753 - Columbian
How have I never eaten here before? There are 4 restaurants in this shopping center I’ve eaten at. Today, I’ll make it 5.
This place was mentioned when I was in the mood for empanadas. A listener told me to grab an order from here. She promised 100% love and zero disappointment.
Classic Columbian dishes and baked goods. Family owned and operated. Luis also added that the arepas here are the best I’ll ever eat. The Cuban style sandwich was also recommended.
I’m going here tonight for dinner.
Pho Tastic Vietnamese - 905 NJ-70 E, Brick Township, NJ 08724
I’m not sure how many Vietnamese restaurants are in Brick, but according to my sources, Pho Tastic is rated the absolute best. This is true Vietnamese comfort food.
A Family Owned Business Since 2015, they serve Vietnamese dishes such as Cha Gio (Egg Rolls), Pho Dac Biet, Hu Tieu Xao, and more! You can dine in or order online for carryout or delivery!
If you’re not familiar with Pho, pronounced FUH, Food Network has this description: Pho is a Vietnamese dish of slow-simmered broth, typically prepared with beef bones, served with rice noodles, protein (such as beef, chicken or plant-based protein) and toppings. Pho is the national dish of Vietnam and a beloved comfort food that evokes nostalgia for many Vietnamese people.
I also hear they make an incredible version of Pad Thai. Boba tea and smoothies are also sold here. Portions are plentiful and the service is friendly.
Yianni's Greek Taverna - 645 Mantoloking Rd, Brick Township, NJ 08723
Tender lamb is something I crave often, but don’t have the time to cook during the week. Yianni’s does it incredibly well.
They have a lamb shank and orzo dish to die for. My husband and I used to travel nearly an hour to Monroe to a place called Faro’s to get great Greek cuisine. Now we have a place 20 minutes from our home. If you love incredible Greek food, I highly recommend Yianni’s.
The Avgolemono soup, Moussaka, gyros, falafel, roast chicken with Greek lemon potatoes, kebabs and many other dishes are things I suggest you order. Opa!!
