Sometimes you’re not looking for a fancy shaken cocktail with a lychee in the bottom. Sometimes you just want your favorite vintage (or the beer already in your fridge) to go with a delicious meal prepared by someone else.
That’s why we say, long live the BYOB restaurant.
BYOB’s are a great way to keep the price of your check down, while keeping the focus on the glorious meal. Jersey Shore residents have it good with a long list of BYOBs in Monmouth and Ocean counties. We’ve found an especially large concentration in Red Bank.
Bring your own restaurants range in cuisine from Italian and American to Asian and seafood. There are even specialty markets where you can snack on gourmet items while drinking your own.
Insider tips: Many of the restaurants also have weekday price fixed deals – those prix fixe menus where you get all the goodies at one flat rate. You can check out 11 price fixe deals here.
If you’re looking for a BYOB event space, many of these restaurants also host private events. Sugarush in Red Bank recently opened an event space adjacent to the bakery, perfect for a shower or bachelorette party. (Or any other kind of party, come to think of it.) And if you don’t see how wine and beer go with cupcakes, you have some sweet research ahead of you.
So load up the cooler bag. Grab a fancy wine sleeve. Because it’s time to unveil our list:
16 BYOB Restaurants to Check Out This Week.
Schooner’s Fishery, Belford – New to the Jersey Shore, Schooner’s Fishery serves up the classic seafood sandwiches we expect with innovative entrees like Octopus Veracruz. You’ll also find land lubber entrees like sliced rib eye sandwiches and chicken parm, both in a quaint and inviting dining room. Also check out their football party platters.
DISH, Red Bank – Classic meals prepared artfully. Whether its short ribs, strip steak or rosemary lemon roasted free range chicken, each dish is flavorful, comforting and generously served. Check out DISH’s weekday price fixed menu with deals on Chef Anthony’s most popular dishes.
Patrizia’s, Red Bank – Known for their homemade breads, cheeses and pastas paired with select meats, and seafood in seasonally inspired dishes. You can bring your own wine or purchase a bottle from their wine list. Also check out their catering services and family style dining option.
Xina, Toms River – This Asian fusion restaurant has been wowing guests with their food and exceptional service for some time now. Their unique take on Chinese food combined with the freshest sushi in Ocean County make for a great meal.
Puglia of NY, Red Bank – You can go classic with the eggplant parmigiano or old school with tripe and capuzella. Either way, you’re going authentic Italian. If you’re heading to a show, check out their theater menu. Puglia also has a weekday prix fixe menu.
The Bistro, Red Bank – At The Bistro you’ll find outstanding dining, sushi bar and seasonal ingredients, plus an extensive by-the-bottle wine list. I love the garlic shrimp with the dancing boñitas. All food should dance. Check out their Monday and Tuesday prix fixe menu as well.
Zoe Bistro, Little Silver – American cuisine with global influences and flares in a casual environment. Check out the Monday prix fixe menu. I dare you to choose between the crab cakes and Kobe burger. Tell us what you think of their newly renovated restaurant.
Runa Peruvian Cuisine, Red Bank– Made with fresh, seasonal foods along with Peruvian ingredients, Runa’s specialty dishes are locally sourced and delicately crafted. Great vegetarian options too. Check out their weekday three course prix fixe dinner.
10th Ave Burrito Co., Belmar & Point Pleasant Beach – Much to the chagrin of many locals, the Belmar location is a BYO in the winter months. Bring your favorite cerveza and enjoy one of their many burritos.
Whipped, Red Bank – Don’t be fooled by the tagline “A Creperie and Dessert Bar.” Whipped has everything you need for a savory meal. Try the Cuban crepe: BBQ pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, BBQ sauce and pickles. They’ve also got a lunch deal and event space.
Temple Gourmet Chinese, Red Bank – Upscale Chinese food made with fresh ingredients. They do take out, but this food deserves a plate, not a to-go container. Also check out their price fixed lunch special and curbside pick-up.
Mamma Mia Trattoria, Long Branch – A Italian restaurant located steps from the ocean who aim to not just bring you a great meal, but a memorable experience fueled with by a vibrant Sicilian family energy.
Matisse, Belmar – Seafood, steaks and salads paired with innovative sides and high end ingredients by Chef Anthony Wall (you may have seen him on The Food Network and the Today Show). Also check out their Monday industry night deal and private party bookings.
Rivoli’s, Toms River – A casual Italian restaurant that delivers generous portions of delicious, Italian fare that is just waiting to be paired with your favorite Chianti or Pinot Grigio.
Spargo’s Grille, Manalapan – An upscale, casual restaurant featuring new American cuisine like: wild salmon encrusted with pistachio resting on sweet mashed potatoes accented with a burre blanc sauce. Yes, please. Also check out their cooking classes and price fixed menus.
The Cheese Cave, Red Bank – Gourmet cheeses and sandwiches pair perfectly with wine or beer. Also check out their $5 Friday deals, cheese tastings and lecture schedule.