Avalon / StoneHarbor NJ

What does anyone think of Karen and Rei's in Avalon? That place is impossible to get into - it is THE place. We went there a few years ago, before it got hot. It was fine, good even, but not that fantastic. Plus, the service was nothing to write home about. Is it really worth planning ahead and making a reservation weeks in advance?

Also, how about a place between Avalon and Stoneharbor - I think it is called the Backyard or the Back Porch?

We were disappointed to see that the Beach Front in Avalon (upstairs on the Boardwalk) has "improved" itself. The twin lobster special on Sundays was great, but its gone now.

No secret, but I really had a great dinner at Claude's in Stone Harbor. I wish they were still open for casual lunches, but I can understand they have their hands full with dinner.

you should try tortilla flats at on dune at 28th street. it is anotherr place that can be difficult to get into but it is always worth the wait. my family has been going there every summer for 12 years and have never been disappointed. always look at their specials menu first. and BYOB for alcohol

The Beachfront had indeed gone "upscale" for this season...white linens, much floral decoration, and an all around nicer atmosphere. They opened as "Le Plage Devant" ( supposedly the french translation of Beachfront) and had been doing reasonably well, considering that this was the property's 5th name change in 6 years.(TK's Crabhouse, Terranova's Italian Fine Dining, TK's again, The Beachfront, and now le Plage Devant)Same ownership, same kitchen staff, just a more upscale and thoughtfully presented menu. The building inspector for the Borough of Avalon took a look at the place in mid-July, and shut-down/condemned it as there were several floor joists showing fractures. As stated below, I am chef at The Backyard on 81st street, owned by the same people who own both The Beachfront, and The Rock N Chair in Avalon. The loss of a sister restaurant was a little rough, but these things happen...we are sorry for any inconvenience, and hope to see you at one of the other places soon...GM

Hello, my name is Glenn Messick, and I am the chef at "the place between Stone Harbor and Avalon". It is indeed called The Backyard, and we serve dinner daily beginning at 5:30. We are situated on 81st street tucked in behind the Golden Shore Condominiums,(222 81st St to be exact)and we will be glad to accomodate you. Our menu reflects a "global eclectic" type influence, we have some italian style entree (shrimp sautee with roasted garlic, pancetta and plum tomato) and some classical french type entrees( rack of lamb with Pommery mustard and fresh rosemary),and a little asian influence as well(asian dumplings with lemongrass shellfish reduction). I just happened to stumble upon this page in a random search,so my timing may not be perfect, but I must tell you to give us a try...I firmly believe that we are on par with the best that Cape May has to offer...with a LITTLE less attitude...Thank You, and Good Luck.........GM

Thanks, Glenn, for being upfront about your affiliation. Every chef and restaurateur is welcome to introduce themselves in a non-hypey manner, especially if they come back to join other discussions as a "civilian". Many chefs are full-blooded chowhounds during their offtime...(where do YOU like to go when you're off work?)

ciao

[doylestownhoppie]

Glenn, I have some questions for you if you don't mind since you are in town. We will try your restaurant - it sounds great! However, we need some kid friendly places too- seafood, BBQ, that are decent. Any recommendations. We are adventurous.

[BaltoPhilFood]

I'm not Glenn, but I do love the Sea Grill in Avalon whenever I make the trip to the shore. Tortilla Flats is where all of the families go for the big night out with the kids, or Stone Harbor Pizza