In early November 2024, Long Branch, New Jersey, welcomed a distinguished addition to its culinary landscape with the opening of Saltwater Social. This upscale dining establishment has swiftly become a beacon for seafood aficionados and those seeking an elegant surf-and-turf experience, all set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean’s serene vistas.
Saltwater Social’s prime oceanfront location offers diners panoramic views that enhance the gastronomic journey. The interior design exudes coastal sophistication, featuring nautical accents and expansive windows that invite natural light, creating an ambiance that is both refined and inviting.
The menu at Saltwater Social is a testament to culinary artistry, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The raw bar stands as a centerpiece, presenting an array of oysters, clams, and other delicacies from the sea, each selection meticulously curated to ensure peak freshness and flavor.
For those with a penchant for seafood, the menu offers standout dishes such as seared Barnegat Light scallops, elegantly paired with parmesan risotto, lemon, spinach, peas, and garlic. This harmonious combination highlights the natural sweetness of the scallops, complemented by the creamy texture of the risotto.
The surf-and-turf selections are equally compelling, featuring prime sirloin accompanied by whipped potatoes, shishito peppers, salsa verde, and crispy shallots. This dish exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to delivering classic flavors with a contemporary twist.
Beyond the main courses, Saltwater Social offers shareable appetizers designed to foster a communal dining experience. The crispy rice tuna tartare, for instance, reimagines the traditional spicy tuna roll by presenting it atop crispy rice, adorned with unagi sauce and Sriracha aioli, resulting in a delightful interplay of textures and flavors.
The beverage program at Saltwater Social is thoughtfully curated to complement the culinary offerings. The cocktail list features inventive creations such as the Saltwater Negroni, blending Bluecoat Gin, Campari Aperitivo, Aperol, Carpano, Punt e Mes, and cold brew for a distinctive twist on a classic. The wine selection encompasses a range of varietals, with options like the Santi Sortesela Pinot Grigio and the Knights Bridge Chardonnay, catering to diverse palates.
Since its opening, Saltwater Social has garnered acclaim for both its culinary excellence and its ambiance. Patrons have praised the gracious and knowledgeable service, noting that each dish arrives hot and cooked to the desired degree of doneness. The transformation from a simple deli to a full-service restaurant has been described as impressive, with the establishment smoothly incorporating the qualities from its former location and going above and beyond.
Saltwater Social enriches Long Branch’s dining scene by offering an upscale yet accessible venue where the ocean’s bounty is celebrated through innovative and thoughtfully prepared dishes. Its commitment to quality ingredients, combined with its picturesque setting, makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience along the Jersey Shore.