Avon-by-the-Sea
Avon-by-the-Sea, pronounced “Ah-von”, is a small New Jersey Shore town of 2,000 people that is located between Belmar and Bradley Beach. It was incorporated in 1900 and named after Avon, England. It is more residential than many of the nearby towns and reminds me a lot of Spring Lake, NJ. It has some very beautiful homes, wide beaches and a boardwalk with a Pavilion.
One of my recent finds has closed since I was there. However, getting good reviews is Cavé Bistro at 515 Sylvania at Main St (Rt. 71). It is a small bistro with a “100% gluten free, farm-to-table menu using mainly organic produce and grass-fed, grass finished pasture raised meats, game, poultry and fresh local and wild seafood. We serve a creative menu of delicious dishes made from scratch using fresh, wholesome ingredients.”
Next summer I want to try The Columns across from the Avon Pavilion. Local friends in Manasquan enjoy the food and the music and highly recommend it. It is located at 601 Ocean Ave. in a Victorian Mansion from 1883.
I also recommend The Macaroon Shop Bakery at 107 Main St/Route 71. Established in 1930, this traditional bakery has a large menu of macaroons, French macarons, cannoli, cakes, cookies, brownies, crossants, cupcakes, crumb cakes, donuts, eclairs and pies. I loved the coconut macaroons!
Bradley Beach
Just north of Avon-by-the-Sea is the small town of Bradley Beach. Here you will find:
Perfect Perk Cafe: I saw this fun coffee shop on the way to Asbury Park and stopped in for a latte on the way back to Manasquan. It is a contemporary spot located at 300 Main St. with a full coffee drink menu plus desserts.
Nearby is Bradley’s Beach Plum Ice Cream located at 420 Main St. which is a classic ice cream shop. I stopped in and loved the bourbon and pecan flavor!
After driving by on the way back home from Beach Plum Ice Cream, I wanted to try Vic’s American – Italian Restaurant for pizza and Italian specialties. Established in 1947, it has a traditional Italian atmosphere. I headed down from Newark Airport on the way to Manasquan and was so glad I made the trip. I loved the atmosphere, fun local servers and great food that highlights the family’s signature Italian dishes. My mussels marinara over linguine was the perfect lunch after a long trip topped off by a tortoni and a cappuccino. I really enjoyed talking to Ed, the owner whose children are now involved in the management. They have indoor seating as well as a nice outdoor patio. Don’t miss this fun experience. 60 Main St.
After reading about it in several food articles about where to eat at the Jersey Shore, I went to The Buttered Biscuit Cafe at 700 Main St. and was very glad that I did. They have an extensive breakfast, lunch and brunch menu. I enjoyed my smoked salmon eggs benedict, the casual atmosphere and the service. It is a great place for families.
