The Alternative Press

Totally in need of a treat, I called friends who live in Little Egg Harbor and invited them to meet us at Klein's Fish Market, Waterside Cafe, Grill Room, and Sushi Bar in Belmar. It was as though I’d never left. Definitely in a time-warp, boats were chugging along the Shark River, gulls were calling one another, and servers were busy bringing platters of fresh fish to clients who, like me, were dreaming of their time at Klein's.

It all began in1924 when Ollie Klein, Sr., peddled fish from his truck through Asbury Park, Ocean Grove and the Neptune area. Four years later, he rented a retail store on Firth Avenue in Belmar. One year after that, he purchased the property known as Klein's. Twelve months later, he purchased property at 708 River Rd. and opened Klein’s Fish Market.

Please know that the fresh fish on your plate has to be exactly that: totally fresh fish tastes as if it were caught ten seconds before you’re about to lift your fork to eat it.

As my husband says,’The fish you're eating at Klein's tastes as if it was caught a minute before you’re about to sit down for lunch, or dinner."

Folks are also excited about diving into a platter of Clams on the Half Shell, (Market Price), Steamed Clams, ($12), and Shrimp-U-Peel, ($9.99).

But most of us are mooches for the Manhattan Clam chowder, ($4.50) cup; ($5.99) bowl. And like players on a team, those of us that don’t hanker for Manhattan Clam Chowder most often choose New England Clam Chowder, which is a thick, chunky, seafood soup.

“We only use fresh clams simmered in clam broth with lots of farm-grown vegetables,” said Ollie Klein. “Consistency is our key!”

Should friends join you for cocktails, you might easily add several orders of iced snow-crab clusters (market price), then ponder dinner.  Fresh fish and shellfish is served broiled, fried, grilled, blackened or Cajun grilled as appropriate with cole slaw, vegetable, and choice of seasoned rice, baked potato, or waffle fries.

I chose the broiled Flounder, ($21.99). My husband had the Grilled Red Snapper, ($23.95). Delicious! Our friends opted for the Grilled Salmon platter, ($20.99) and the Grilled Grouper, ($23.99). Service was attentive. The meal: Fresh! As several people ordered more than several drinks, and appetizers, the bill was priced for the season: $88.00 per person (including tax and tip). Of course, you could always ask for separate checks.

As a side comment: The chef’s suggestions feature an appetizer of  Mediterranean style calamari, ($11.99) and Dara’s coconut Shrimp. ($13.99). These friends also adore Klein’s Coriander Back Pepper Tuna, ($24.99).

With its huge Wine List and Cocktails, the good news is a glass of House wine is priced at: $6.00, while a bottle could run you, $22.00.

Definitely worth the ride from Central Jersey, you’ll enjoy lunch or dinner at Klein’s. Although the menu features a variety of desserts, treat yourself to a delicious cup of freshly prepared ice cream from Hoffmans in Spring Lake. Located at 569 Church Street, the phone number is: 732.974.2253. You’ll Love It!!!!

The day after the 4th of July. Why not treat yourself to a day at the Jersey Shore? Why not have lunch or dinner at Klein's Fish Market?

Location: Klein’s Fish Market, Waterside Cafe, Grill Room and Sushi Bar, 708 River Road, (Main Street) Belmar

Call: 732.681.1777

Hours: Lunch:11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday Brunch: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

FYI:

Street or parking lot parking. Guests are invited to eat in or Take out. The menu includes a variety of “small plates”. For example: Tempura Flounder, Shrimp and Grits, Pesto Sea Scallops and a single crab cake. Casual Dress. Sunday Brunch features traditional favorites plus carving station and all-you-can eat sushi rolls. You might consider a Dock and Dine Dinner. Call for details. A place for private parties and catering. You’re also able to purchase gift cards. Preferred seating during the week with Open Tables.

$$$$:Dinner for Two: $88.00 (Includes Tax and Gratuity)

*****

Please let me hear from YOU! Have you dined at a new restaurant? Have you found a particularly good sandwich shop? Would you like to have a conversation? Please send me an email: Mkbrody@aol.com or mkbrody @thealternativepress.com