The final full week in August is going to be completely radical.
Why?
Because the brilliant minds behind the Asbury Park Surf Musical Festival (Hi-Tide Recordings) have not only constructed the premier surf music concert on the Eastern Seaboard, but also a completely near-week long experience for lovers of surf music, and good times in general.
The actual festival takes place on Saturday August 26 at The Anchor’s Bend located at the north end of Asbury Park’s legendary Convention Hall. However, this is not a one day event. Hi-Tide has developed events happening all around Asbury Park on Thursday August 24, Friday August 25, and Sunday August 27.
While there is a lot happening with the festival, and its sister events — the city of Asbury has a ton of things for festival-goers, tourists, and locals alike to do throughout the “non-fest” times of the day and evening.
But if you’re new to the city, or you haven’t been there in a dog’s age, or you just know very little about Asbury — the cool cats at Hi-Tide (Vincent & Magdalena) have curated this column clueing you in on some of the absolute best places to eat, drink, shop, and hang out at in the famed city-by-the-sea.
WHERE TO EAT
Brickwall Tavern & Dining Room
Fun vibe & best rotating beer selection around. Try the shrimp & grits!
522 Cookman Ave.
Cardinal
Fantastic artisan brunch spot in downtown AP. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu – but if you need help deciding, start with the xiuxo pastry or deviled eggs!
513 Bangs Ave.
Frank’s Deli
Enjoy breakfast or lunch in a booth or at the counter at this old-school eatery. All bakery is done on the premises, and meats are seasoned and cooked on site as well! We love the cheese danish, and fresh squeezed orange juice is go! Try the rye – made fresh daily! You’ll be very satisfied after this classic diner experience. [Editor’s Note: Frank’s was featured in Anthony Bourdain’s CNN series in 2015).
1406 Main St.
Lotería
A great tapas style meal – flavorful à la carte tacos & the queso is delicious! If you’re looking for something refreshing, try one of their in-house agua frescas – the Jamaica (hibiscus) is our favorite.
632 Mattison Ave.
Oyster Bar
This cozy spot is just steps away from The Anchor’s Bend inside of Convention Hall. They offer the freshest raw bar around with local beer pairings. Check the board for the daily specials, ranging from fish tacos to oyster po’ boys!
1300 Ocean Ave.
Porta
Start with the Dayboat Octopus, olives, a bowl of meatballs and a delicious cocktail and you’ll feel like you’re in Italy! Try the Carbonara “Kyle style” – you’ll thank us. Save room for dessert – sundaes or Nutella pies finish off a great meal just a block from the boardwalk.
911 Kingsley St.
Speakeatery
A downtown gourmet deli spot with flavor-packed sandwiches – great for sharing outside, or with a view of Cookman Ave in their window seating.
705 Cookman Ave.
Talula’s
Family owned, this spot is one of our favorites in downtown AP. Order from their selection of local beers, cocktails (Gin & Jam is our favorite, with seasonal variations), and food items. Order yourself a Beekeeper pie, and let’s not forget the ricotta toast! Plus there’s always something great for dessert.
550 Cookman Ave.
DRINK
Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten
Enjoy a giant pretzel on the rooftop with a massive beer in hand, or stop in for a full meal in the main restaurant. We love this spot, and always leave full. Best of all – there is not a screen in the place, so you can enjoy undistracted conversation with friends.
527 Lake Ave.
Asbury Park Brewery
Our local beer sponsor of the festival, stop in for a tour and sample – there might even be some live music for you to check out!
810 Sewall Ave.
Asbury Park Distilling
Intimate and friendly, you can visit the tasting room in downtown AP for a tour, a crafted cocktail and a sample of both their delicious Vodka & Gin.
527 Lake Ave.
Asbury Park Roastery
Killer espresso and local donuts from Purple Glaze, just across from The Anchor’s Bend in Convention Hall!
1300 Ocean Ave.
Bond St. Bar
A great locals spot for a cheap drinks and bar food – enjoy at the bar or outside on their patio. Oh – and go f**k yourself! (That’s their mantra).
208 Bond St.
High Voltage Cafe
Visit their new location on the boardwalk, retro meets modern with an ocean view. Catering to the coffee crowd, with an offering of organic eats.
800 Ocean Ave.
Little Buddy Hideaway
Follow the neon palm tree sign inside to this kitschy oasis. There’s a tiki drink for everyone, but we recommend the tidal wave for your closest enemy!
550 Cookman Ave.
WHERE TO SHOP
ACDWSH
Forgot your sunglasses at home? Or fancy a new wooden bow tie? Visit them in The Market, or inside The Shops at the Arcade on Cookman Ave in downtown AP.
658 Cookman Ave.
Antique Emporium
You’re bound to find something special if you love antiques. They’ve got everything from vintage clothing, lighting, vinyl & furniture. One of our favorite stops!
646 Cookman Ave.
Backward Glances
It’s all in the name, shop vintage items or accessories and clothes that nod to the past! BG will be vending on Saturday, but stop in for the full selection if you’re in town early!
658 Cookman Ave.
Bettie’s Bombshells
Find everything from Marilyn Monroe’s favorite shade of lipstick to shoes & custom reproduction vintage dresses from around the world. Need a swimsuit for the pool party on ‘Surf Sunday’? BB is right in the middle of the AP boardwalk. Try something on, we guarantee you’ll have a great time!
1100 Ocean Ave.
Flux Modern
A mid-century gem – a small, and wonderful selection of vintage furniture & home goods with new items added daily.
658 Cookman Ave.
Groovy Graveyard
An eclectic collection of vinyl, figurines, comic books and memorabilia, stop into the shop on Cookman Ave. You will also find them set up as a vendor at the festival!
658 Cookman Ave.
HoldFast Records
New & used vinyl and CD’s – be sure to look through the boxes of 45’s…you never know what you might find!
611 Cookman Ave.
Russo Music
The best musical instrument selection at the Jersey Shore – stop in to check out their wide selection of Fender guitars & amps, Gretsch guitars & drums, accessories and more!
619 Lake Ave.
Sweet Joey’s
Father & son owned – shop for vintage apparel or a new pair of made-on-site VLAD jeans. It’s worth the trip if your favorite denim needs a patch!
523 Bangs Ave.
WHERE TO RELAX
The Asbury Hotel
Our host hotel for APSMF 2017 was named USA Today’s ‘Best New Hotel’ 2016. Put a record on and enjoy a cocktail in The Soundbooth, or head up to Salvation on the roof for the best view in Asbury Park.
210 5th Ave.
Betty’s Icebox
Classic with a modern twist, this sweet shop is known for their Hawaiian style shave ice, and small batch ice pops made in house from locally sourced ingredients. Other offerings include Scandinavian bulk candy & salt water taffy. Take some home to your friends! Refreshing on a hot day, and located right inside Convention Hall.
1300 Ocean Ave.
Cookman Creamery
A delicious rotation of flavors, with vegan options! Plus, they make their own ice cream sandwiches.
711 Cookman Ave.
Electric Tattoo
Located right on Lake Ave in downtown AP, stop in for $100 Sailor Jerry tropical flash from 12-3p on ‘Surf Sunday’ 8/26.
605 Lake Ave.
Parlor Gallery
Artist directed and curated, Parlor features work by a mix of up and coming and internationally known artists. Their “Pleased To Meet You” exhibition will be on view August 5 – September 11, 2017 in downtown AP.
717 Cookman Ave.
Boardwalk game arcade starring pinball machines from the 1930’s to present, plus a snack bar. Good old-fashioned fun just steps away from Convention Hall!
