New Jersey's seashore is packed right now, both with locals and tourists - and they're all looking for a bite to eat. But I find the best Jersey Shore dining can be found in a very unexpected place - in the small town of Point Pleasant Beach. It can be hard to think of Point Pleasant Beach as a small town, given how packed it is during the summer thanks to the wildly popular Jenkinson's Boardwalk, but this popular tourist spot actually has under 5,000 full-time residents and is very laid-back outside of the summer season. Even many tourists don't know about its best-hidden gem - The Poached Pear, an innovative New American bistro serving high-end French-influenced food on the main drag of Arnold Avenue, only a half-mile from the Point Pleasant Beach train station. World-class cuisine, walking distance from the Jenkinson's Boardwalk? Believe it, and discover The Poached Pear for yourself.
Located on busy Arnold Avenue, The Poached Pear is an amazing small-town dining destination.
The airy, fancy dining room has enough room for many guests, without anyone feeling crowded. The quirky decor adds to the great vibe.
The innovative meat cooking is a highlight here, such as in these perfectly-cooked lamb chops.
Of course, we're near the Jersey Shore, so fish and seafood is the star attraction on the menu.
It's not all innovative and fancy - some old-fashioned faves are on the menu, such as some of the best fried calamari in the Garden State.
Desserts are a celebration of classic, highly technical French cuisines like creme brulee.
Keep an eye out for new specials, both sweet and savory, making their debut on the seasonal menu all the time.
There are even some outdoor tables, for those who want to enjoy their fine dining in the open air on a nice summer night.
Have you visited the Poached Pear in Point Pleasant Beach? Let us know if you think it's the best Jersey Shore dining around in the comments section. The menu changes frequently, so make sure to visit The Poached Pear website and The Poached Pear Facebook page to keep up on the specials. There's so much to do in Point Pleasant Beach, so stick around and discover why it's the friendliest town in New Jersey. You can also book a stay at White Sands, the town's legendary oceanfront resort.
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