New Jersey has its fair share of Italians, which makes the Jersey Shore kind of like the Italian Riviera (ok, maybe not quite, but close), which means we also have our fair share of Italian restaurants. You may have your favorites, but here is a list of our favorite Jersey Shore Italian markets and restaurants where you can dine in, grab it to go, or pick up those hard to find Italian ingredients to make that authentic tasting dish. Felice mangiare!

Here’s our guide to Italian food in Monmouth County, and don’t miss out on our guide to Jersey Shore Italian Food in Ocean County!

Where to find Delicious Jersey Shore Italian Food

Monmouth County Edition – Listed Alphabetically

Ama Ristorante, Sea Bright
Tucked away in one of the shore’s beach clubs on Ocean Avenue is Ama Ristorante in Sea Bright, an Italian restaurant that will envelop you in Tuscan notes from the warm mahogany floor to the classic meatballs and Negroni’s. It’s a taste of the Tuscan countryside on the coast of the Atlantic. 1485 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright (732) 530-9760 http://amaristorante.com

Sirena Ristorante, Long Branch
If you’re searching for the perfect spot for a romantic date, look no further. Stroll through Pier Village and end up at Sirena for dinner, where you’ll find top notch Italian specialties, from fresh pasta to filet mignon. Oh, did we mention the fabulous wine and the proximity to the ocean? You may want to call for that reservation right about now.  27 Ocean Ave, Long Branch (732) 222-1119 http://www.sirenaristorante.com

Stella Marina, Asbury Park
Stella Marina is best described as Italian comfort food with a gourmet twist. Romantic vibes and a prime location right on the boardwalk make this a favorite of people looking to dine in Asbury. Enjoy your Picante Pizza with a few drinks to wash down the spice, and be sure to try their outstanding fried calamari. 1200 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park (732) 775-7776 http://stellamarinarestaurant.com

Trama’s Trattoria, Long Branch
Locals have most likely seen owner and chef Pat Trama and Chef de Cuisine Mike Butler of Trama’s Trattoria in Long Branch scouring the stands at the Long Branch farmer’s market. Their menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients, but you can always count on their dishes to have that delicious Tuscan flare. 115 Brighton Avenue, Long Branch (732) 222-1121 http://tramastrattoria.com

Patricia’s of Holmdel
At Patricia’s, it’s like indulging in Sunday family dinner, any night of the week! Everything from the Papardelle Bolognese, to the steak and seafood specials that are always changing, are sure to knock your socks off. It’s BYOB, so grab your favorite hearty red and bring the family to share a wonderful meal. 2132 Highway 35, Holmdel (732) 275-0234 http://www.patriciasofholmdel.com

Pizzuto’s,  Eatontown
Yet another spot where the pizzas are hot, the mozzarella is plentiful, and the craving for arrancini can be met. Pizzuto’s in Eatontown has made a name for themselves as one of the best gourmet Jersey Shore Italian specialty markets in the area providing all of us with all things Italian. Make sure you take home their fresh made ravioli for quick delicious dinner! 15 Main Street, Eatontown (732) 544-2000 http://www.pizzutoravioli.com

Porcini, Highlands
For those who haven’t discovered Porcini in Highlands, let us let you in on a little secret. The chef and owner may be under 30, but that doesn’t mean that Chef Chris Atamian doesn’t have culinary chops – just try the Pork Osso Bocco (and order early because it’s a popular dish!) 168 Bay Avenue, Highlands (732) 291-3080

Piccola Italia, Ocean Twp.
Chef and owner Brian Gualtieri set out to open a restaurant that combined his family’s 13 year tradition of providing high quality food and service using the finest cuts and seasonal ingredients with his own culinary experience. Piccola Italia in Ocean Twp. celebrates signature Italian flavors and then takes them on a modern spin. 837 West Park Avenue, Ocean Twp. (732) 493-3090

Ristorante Giorgia, Rumson
Having to translate from Italian to English on Ristorante Giorgia in Rumson’s Facebook page has to be a good sign when it comes to the level of Italian in their dishes. We’ve gone from not getting enough of the Regola, Vongole e Bottarga di Muggini to cleaning our plates of the pan seared polenta with a sausage and mushroom ragu. All we can say is that we’re grateful that Giorgia shared her recipes (and that we don’t have to speak Italian to order). 102 Ave of Two Rivers, Rumson (732) 741-3880

Front St. Trattoria, Red Bank
Not just your local Jersey Shore Italian restaurant, Front St. Trattoria is an establishment in the community. For years, diners have been enjoying everything from pizza to pasta to seafood specialties for lunch, dinner, dates, and parties. It’s a welcoming restaurant that embraces you on your way in with hospitality and alluring smells. 31 West Front Street, Red Bank (732) 747-9569