Atlantic Highlands’ waterfront charm isn’t just about sailboats and sunset views—it’s also home to a surprisingly vibrant dining scene. From white-tablecloth seafood houses to dockside lobster shacks, this coastal town offers something for every appetite and budget. While the harbor views are spectacular, what truly anchors this community are the exceptional restaurants tucked along its historic streets.
Harborside Grill
$$ | (732) 291-0066 | WEBSITE
Harborside Grill proves seafood is better with a side of bustling energy. The attentive staff that runs the place (yes, they are really nice) make crab cakes loaded with enough flavor to sustain you through dinner—when it would be entirely appropriate to come back and eat these again. They have a great pasta dish with Harvest pasta cooked how you want, rich sauce, and fresh herbs for only $18.
If you come with a group of friends, get the shrimp fradiablo with spicy tomato sauce and crusty bread to share. The service is really friendly, and if you live in the area, this is the kind of reliable and vibrant spot that demands enough repeat visits to become a regular, and eventually be able to tune out the noise and forgive the chairs.
Sissy’s At the Harbor
$ | (732) 291-2218 | WEBSITE
We wish every breakfast spot in Atlantic Highlands was like Sissy’s At the Harbor. You can definitely get a cup of coffee and some pancakes here, but please don’t let that be the only thing you do. This restaurant located right on the harbor is so well executed that it puts a lot of so-called brunch destinations to shame. We love it for its selection of fresh breakfast items, tasty appetizers, and satisfying lunch options.
The food quality is solid, too, and includes classics like cheese fries alongside some local favorites, like their famous turkey club.
Hudson Cafe
$ | (732) 872-2300 | WEBSITE
Hudson Cafe began as a family-run breakfast spot, where you could grab freshly ground coffee and fluffy eggs—plus more classic morning staples. It still offers all of that, but it’s more known these days for its exceptional (and wonderfully affordable) sandwiches. They’re not small, but they are packed with numerous components that make each bite satisfying.
The other item here that is delighting Atlantic Highlands’ collective taste buds is the special sandwich, which is innovative and available in generous portions perfect for sharing with a friend.
STRADA
$$$ | (732) 872-4632 | WEBSITE
Follow the aroma of baking dough—or the lively chatter from the closely packed tables—to discover this Italian gem in Atlantic Highlands. The open kitchen showcases the imported pizza oven, with peels holding fresh pies, bubbling eggplant dishes, and golden roasted artichokes. Prioritize the bolognese, especially with the homemade pasta. It’s rich and deeply savory. The sauce clings perfectly to each strand, but the meatballs remain tender.
Our favorite dish here, though, is the roasted artichokes. They’re drizzled with olive oil and seasoned simply. That flavor seeps into every leaf and shines through with each bite.
The Atlantic House
$$ | (848) 300-2408 | WEBSITE
Like their location suggests, the menu here is consistently satisfying. Dishes stay reliably delicious, focusing on what’s fresh and gluten-free. You’ll crave the crispy fish and chips with light batter on your first visit. The next dinner introduces you to a juicy chicken sandwich. Only their ice-cold dirty martinis have been a mainstay on their full menu since they opened, and we hope they stay that way.
The upstairs dining area with open windows is airy, lively, and perfect for friends or families. This is the kind of restaurant you’ll want to return to often so you can keep enjoying all the familiar favorites on the generous menu.
Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant
$$ | (732) 291-0251 | WEBSITE
Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant is a Thai spot where dinner feels like eating in someone’s secret garden. The space looks more like a cozy home than a restaurant, and the prettiest seats are in the outdoor garden. So save this place for a night when you want to relax under string lights. The menu is Thai and includes standard dishes, chef specials, and some really good Pad Thai that is almost—but not quite—the best in Thailand.
It’s all fresh and delicious, but also reasonably priced, which makes this restaurant a great spot for a casual date night or group dinner where everyone can share dumplings and curry.
On the Deck
$$ | (732) 872-1424 | WEBSITE
On the Deck is a highly recommended restaurant in Atlantic Highlands with a fantastic view of the water and boats. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere, especially during the summer months when the outdoor bar and seating area are open. We usually focus on the seafood here, particularly the Lobster Bisque and New England clam chowder that are consistently praised for their freshness.
Whatever you end up ordering, take full advantage of the generous drinks that add to the value of the dining experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making it a welcoming place for families who appreciate the kid-friendliness and ability to cater to dietary restrictions. With live entertainment from the Suyat Band and an elevator for wheelchair accessibility, guests are eager to return for special events or just a great meal with that marina view.
Fair Mountain Coffee Roasters
$ | (732) 708-0800 | WEBSITE
This cozy coffee roaster has been an Atlantic Highlands gem for some of the best coffee in town for years. Everything is brewed with organic beans roasted in-house. But you’re coming here for Fair Mountain’s smooth perfection, like espresso that needs no sugar or cappuccino with rich, bold flavor. It’s hard to walk out of the shop without buying a pound of beans to go if you truly love coffee (or need to impress your visiting in-laws with local quality).
Copper Canyon
$$$ | (732) 291-8444 | WEBSITE
Copper Canyon is a sophisticated steakhouse in Atlantic Highlands with a consistently good menu full of flavorful dishes that’ll guarantee even your pickiest friend will find something to order. If you’re craving steak, this is a good place to be. But we gravitate towards the margaritas. Order the spinach salad as a starter, and definitely get something with the word “nachos.” Don’t be afraid to ask servers like Dustin or David what they recommend that day.
They’re almost always working and often reward a curious customer with personalized service.
Pomodoro Rosso Italian Grill & Pizzeria
$$ | (732) 291-0390 | WEBSITE
Pomodoro Rosso Italian Grill & Pizzeria is a family-owned Italian spot in a typical New Jersey strip mall, which explains why the food is a lot more authentic (and delicious) than what’s at your average pizzeria. They serve an impressive classic menu with stuff like white pizza with ricotta and broccoli, sausage and pepperoni pizzas, and an Italian sub with garlic knots. Coming here hungry is certainly a good idea, but it’s a great place to hang out regardless.
Sit at the cozy table with a glass of wine, chat with the friendly staff led by owner Lewis, and enjoy the inviting atmosphere they maintain every day.
Chiafullo’s
$ | (732) 291-9040 | WEBSITE
Chiafullo’s is where you’ll find classic pizza joint comfort food: crispy slices of margarita pie, hearty bowls of penne vodka, and fantastic sandwiches. It’s a pretty casual space you can stroll into without a reservation, even on a weekend. The inside is funky, but the takeout option is what you want to do. It’s convenient and lets you set up dinner at home while still enjoying that perfect cheese-to-sauce ratio.
Make sure to finish with the soups: they’re to die for and taste like the love child of homemade comfort and restaurant-quality execution.
Dunkin’
$ | (732) 291-5223 | WEBSITE
Dunkin’ might sound like just another chain, but this Atlantic Highlands location will surprise you with its exceptional service. The coffee shop is run by a team that includes staff like Nick, who goes above and beyond to ensure every order comes with a smile. There’s plenty of parking in the shared plaza, so this spot is perfect for quick coffee runs or grabbing a snack to go.
Browse through their reliable drink menu, vegetarian options like hummus and avocado toast, or that morning pastry you secretly always wanted. But if you come during a quiet moment, you should linger, enjoy your coffee, and chat with the friendly staff for a few minutes. While you’re there, try their consistently well-made drinks—our favorite is their classic hot coffee.
Carton Brewing
$ | (732) 654-2337 | WEBSITE
You’re heading to this spot for specific cravings of craft beer, whether it’s a hoppy IPA or a smooth seasonal brew. This brewery pours glasses—actually, more like flights—of experimental styles and rotating options like The Hook that tastes just like a perfect balance of malt and hops. Besides those satisfying pours, there’s not much excitement going on inside. The place is warmly decorated with soft lighting and the comfy chairs are as inviting as your favorite living room couch.
Still, it’s worth going for the beer, especially during a casual hangout with friends, which they encourage with lots of board games and seating.
Mike’s Dairy & Deli
$ | (732) 872-8743 | WEBSITE
Mike’s Dairy & Deli specializes in classic American deli fare. But don’t just come here for the wide selection. You should absolutely order a breakfast sandwich—a simple yet satisfying combination of eggs and cheese on a toasted roll, though it could use a bit more meat. But if you only have enough time for a quick stop, then the clean atmosphere and friendly service are the two things you should be walking out of here appreciating.