Bar of the Week: ROONEYS in Long Branch, NJ

Sweeping views of the shoreline, sunshine, cool drinks, and delicious food. That's just what you'll find at Rooney's Oceanside Restaurant in Long Branch NJ. Can you think of something better? We can't!

We stopped by early on a Saturday night for cocktails and small plates at the bar. Now with the warm weather, outdoor seating is available, perfect for dining. Inside or out, the Rooney's offers comfortable options for parties of all sizes and the service is prompt and helpful.

Mixologist, Brielle DiMauro has created a menu of perfectly crafted classic cocktails and house specialties you won't find anywhere else. There are signature drinks like the "Volcano" with a blend of rums, grenadine, pineapple and orange juice or the "Toasted Coconut Martini" with Kahlua, Malibu rum, cream and a cinnamon rim. Refreshing choices include the "Raspberry" made with Stoli Razberi vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice and cranberry juice. For those that prefer, there's a great selection of wine or beer.

To pair with our drinks, we ordered seafood appetizers as sharing plates. The Tuna Bruscetta is a delicious combination of pan seared rare tuna and spicy guacamole on toast points with sesame seeds, cusabi and orange ginger drizzle served with seaweed salad. The New Orleans Chargrilled Oysters are an oyster lover's dream. Six Bluepoint oysters are topped with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese served with toasted bread. We also suggest the savory Pretzel Crab Bites with lump crabmeat and pretzels, seasoned with old bay and served with a mustard aioli.

Check out Rooney's Happy Hour specials that are served Monday 3:00 pm to close and Tuesday to Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm except on holidays. There are specials on wine, beer, sangria, raw bar, appetizers, and select sandwiches. And on Fridays and Saturdays, there is always live music at the bar to be enjoyed.

There is so much to like about Rooney's. Before or after local theatre, or when beaching in the area, it is a go-to spot for a wonderful, satisfying dinner or drinks and small plates.

Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant is located 100 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch, New Jersey 07740. Call them at 732.870.1200 or visit their web site at http://www.rooneysocean.com/.

Read our recent "Master Mixologist" for Brielle DiMauro of Rooney's: /bwwfood-wine/article/Master-Mixologist-Brielle-DiMauro-of-ROONEYS-OCEANFRONT-RESTAURANT-in-Long-Branch-NJ-20180430

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Rooney's

To post a comment, you must register and login.