Don’t tell the folks in Hoboken, Jersey City, or whichever shore town claims the best nightlife, but Brick is quietly stacking up bars and restaurants that could rival any boardwalk. There’s a spot for every craving—from cozy taverns to sleek cocktail lounges—and not all pour equally well. So we’ve narrowed it down to the 12 best for 2026.
Charlies of Bay Head
$$$ | (732) 295-1110 | WEBSITE
Seafood and cocktails are a classic combination that defines much of the Jersey Shore. And Charlie’s of Bay Head near the beach serves both exceptional seafood and delightful cocktails. The perfectly cooked halibut dishes here are considered among the best in the state. You can only make a reservation for special occasions, but there’s a lot of seating, so even if you’re just dropping by, you probably won’t have to wait too long for a table.
The staff is professional and dedicated, too, so it’s an especially good choice for celebrating memorable dining experiences.
Boathouse Bar & Grill
$$ | (732) 681-5221 | WEBSITE
Just a short walk from the waterfront is Boathouse Bar & Grill, another top Brick spot for casual dining. They have a kid-friendly weekend brunch, delicious vegetarian options, and regularly scheduled DJ sets for football games (there’s even a standout menu item named after the grilled wings). And if you’re hoping to enjoy some lively atmosphere while you wait for your fishing trip to wrap up, be sure to check their schedule for early weekend openings.
Amendment 21
$$ | (732) 295-9619 | WEBSITE
Though originally a Point Pleasant establishment, Amendment 21 has been a staple of Brick’s bar scene for years. But it wasn’t until they refined their cocktail program that you could get custom-crafted drinks alongside their huge draft beer selection without leaving the neighborhood. Their relaxed space channels the energy of a classic speakeasy, complete with a well-worn bar and friendly bartenders who actually talk with customers.
Plus, with everything from consistently good food to that welcoming atmosphere, there’s always a reason to stop by here.
Boatyard401
$$ | (732) 714-6689 | WEBSITE
Boatyard401’s marina-side location, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff make it feel like a coastal neighborhood hangout—but one with wheelchair accessibility, a fantastic bar, and windows that look right out onto the water. This Brick spot doesn’t offer fancy tasting menus, but you’ll feel perfectly content enjoying those views with a crispy crab cake sandwich and thick fries, anyway.
Houlihan’s
$$ | (732) 262-5100 | WEBSITE
Houlihan’s is inside a popular Brick restaurant strip with plenty of free parking. And while we’re not exactly sure how they manage to keep spots available even on weekends, we appreciate it because Houlihan’s service is fantastic. They focus on attentive servers with a variety of friendly staff ranging from Will and Mackenzie to Brooke and Jenna. And make sure to check out their early bird dinner special, which happens to be one of our favorite deals.
Their welcoming atmosphere makes you ask ‘Is that really just good management or is that genuine hospitality?’ But there’s plenty of value here, so it’s perfect for post-work dinners or a celebration.
McCann’s Tavern
$$ | (732) 556-6210 | WEBSITE
McCann’s Tavern is a cozy eatery in Brick, and it’s kept some of the welcoming touches, like a clean, comfortable atmosphere and multiple televisions for sports viewing. It’s a bright space that can easily fit casual gatherings, but also isn’t bad for a celebratory occasion. There’s classic bar fare available, plus refreshing beverages.
And the food highlights include delicious wings, quesadilla, and shepherd’s pie—so while you can get the special Berrata with its incredible presentation, you can also enjoy the happy hour from 12-6 daily. Not every spot in Brick could easily accommodate both sports fans and those looking for attentive service, so consider this a great local utility spot.
Arrowhead Inn
$ | (732) 899-0432 | WEBSITE
Arrowhead Inn in Brick is one of those spots that’s perfect for a weekend hangout with people you’ve known forever. In other words, it’s always a lively time, and you won’t get bored if you run out of games to play—just grab another drink and enjoy some of the awesome, crowd-pleasing bar food. Expect things like burgers, wings, and very cold draft beers. If that weekend vibe is what you’re after, this place is also great for catching live bands with friends.
Castaway’s Pub
$$ | (732) 250-2688 | WEBSITE
While Castaway’s Pub may have the same lively atmosphere as other bars that serve pub fare, this Lavallette spot stands out with its excellent vegetarian options and whole menu that’s to die for. They have selections like the charred cauliflower or lentil soup, which was praised as outstanding.
There’s plenty of space to unwind with friends after making it through a long week, or you can always swing by for a solo burger at the outside bar during happy hour (the bartenders provide exceptional service). And while Castaway’s is known for its steak and wings, we like stopping by on weekends to enjoy the fun, energetic vibe that makes it a favorite night out spot.
D’Arcy’s Tavern
$$ | (732) 774-9688 | WEBSITE
One of Brick’s cozier taverns, D’Arcy’s Tavern specializes in sports-watching atmospheres that probably won’t show up at the more mainstream bars in the area. We’re talking attentive bartenders like David R and private upstairs rooms perfect for parties. Their Brick space has the welcoming charm of their friendly staff, and it has a covered patio setup that’s great in any season.
And you should definitely try the OG Tomato Sandwich with three thick slices of Jersey ripe tomato and a generous side of chips.
Rosie’s Ocean Gate
$$$ | (732) 998-8314 | WEBSITE
Rosie’s Ocean Gate feels like a classic coastal kitchen from a food lover’s dream, has its own creative cocktail program, and serves excellent prosciutto-wrapped burrata and wasabi-encrusted sea bass from their skilled chef, Chris. They also have homemade bread and butter, pappardelle bolognese, short ribs, wagyu carpaccio, oysters, and pork belly & bacon duo. Basically, this place is a destination restaurant as much as a neighborhood spot, but one where you can order a rich lobster bisque.
The Elbow Room
$$ | (732) 898-6860 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of reasons to love The Elbow Room in Bradley Beach. Their space has a cozy and inviting ambiance where you can relax with a drink, and they provide exceptional service for special occasions or everyday gatherings. The diverse menu is full of amazing dishes like teriyaki bone wings or a cowboy burger with hand-cut French fries. But the coolest thing about The Elbow Room is that it’s actually led by Chef KC and the owner who ensure every detail is handled with care.
This means you can get a BBQ chicken sandwich and salmon with pineapple upside down cake all in the same welcoming spot.
Squan Tavern
$$ | (732) 223-3324 | WEBSITE
Stumbling across certain places can be like finding a real-life easter egg, like the tunnels below the Green Mill, or that rock in Hyde Park where the Obamas had their first kiss. Discovering Squan Tavern, tucked away in Brick with its tricky parking situation, can feel like this. This cozy spot has the atmosphere of a nostalgic neighborhood tavern at the front, but instead of just pub fare they’re serving generous Italian dishes and thin-crust pizza that locals rave about.
