Had an early dinner here last night and the young man who was our server was lovely. The mule cocktail selection is such a great idea to stay on theme with the building and restaurant, and the garden mule was delicious. Portions are large. I ordered the calamari appetizer as my meal and could barely finish it. Partner ordered the lighthouse burger. Both were very good. He also got buffalo wings, which I didn't try but he was quite happy with them. The outdoor seating is really nice. Indoors looked good, too, even though I only saw it when I went to the bathroom. Honestly, I am surprised at how good this restaurant is given the remote location. Usually places like this are subpar, but this one I would definitely return to if I'm ever out on this peninsula again. read more

I had a really nice lunch at Mule Barn Tavern! We started off with the pork belly sliders, which were so tender and the bread was super soft. My only complaint is that I wish they put more of the honey sriracha sauce on the sliders. The tuna nachos were super yummy and fresh. I really liked my soft-shell crab sandwich as well and I thought it was pretty unique. Our seating here was cozy and we had a view of the TVs by the bar. All of our food came out pretty quickly and we didn't have to wait too long for a table. Overall, I'd say that Mule Barn Tavern offers some unique and elevated dishes that exceeded my expectations. read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Pork Belly Sliders - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

We sat upstairs and had quick and friendly service. Appetizer was Cerviche. Delicious Hamburger with Swiss cheese and mushrooms. Delicious Chicken capresse sandwich. Delicious Everything had a highly quality handmade taste and feel. Definitely coming back again. Great experience read more

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My wife and I found this "off the beaten path" restaurant with outdoor seating and bar. The place was fantastic. We ordered cocktails that were delicious. My wife had the Sandy Margarita and I had the Bunker Mule. We ordered, the Sweet Chili Wings as an appetizer. My wife had the Steak Sandwich on a Gluten Free bun, it came with tangy bbq sauce and crunchy Cole Slaw, thin fried onions and jalapeño peppers. It was delicious! I had the Chimichurri Chicken Burger. It had Lettuce, Tomato, Onions and a Chimichurri Sauce. Both came with fries! They had a band and you could see the ocean in the background. I would definitely return!! read more

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Stopped in at Mule Barn Tavern and was really impressed with the food and atmosphere. The lobster mac & cheese was rich, creamy, and packed with flavor -- the lobster pieces were fresh and tender, and the crispy breadcrumbs on top gave it a nice texture. Definitely a standout dish. The teriyaki sesame wings were another hit -- perfectly cooked with a sweet, tangy glaze and just the right amount of char. The sesame seeds added a nice crunch without overpowering the flavor. Service was friendly and the setting has that rustic tavern vibe that makes it a comfortable spot to hang out. Portions were solid, prices fair for the quality. The wait was a bit long thats the only complaint. Would definitely come back for the mac & cheese alone, but next time I'll try a couple more menu items. Great local spot in Highlands. read more

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Came here for the first time for a wedding and it was a hit. The staff did such a fabulous job with everything, food was great and the space was nice. They were super accommodating. This tavern is located all the way down the Sandy hook beach with great views everywhere you turn. Would definitely come back for lunch or dinner. read more

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Went for a walk on beautiful Sandy Hook and decided to stop into this restaurant. It is a very open and casual spot (it was a barn) and was not crowded that evening. We got the pretzel and the egg rolls as an appetizer. The pretzel was okay, and the egg rolls too greasy and not explained well (the menu said stuffed pepper roll). We got burgers to eat, except my one son who got pizza. The burgers were just okay, and could use some seasoning on the beef. The pizza sauce was terrible. Our server was very kind but pretty absent and inattentive. My young son wanted to leave and we had to split up so I could wait fifteen minutes just to find him and get the bill. I would not return here except maybe for a drink with a friend. read more

Incredible restaurant built in an old army barn at Fort Hancock. Live music outside, cool AC inside to escape the heat, and a menu that delivered a nice verity for most anyone. The cocktails were delicious and well balanced while the service was quick and attentive. Overall great experience! read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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As an old-timer that used to come to Sandy Hook all the time when I was still young, dumb and fun... I'm not sure which part is more upsetting - the entrance fee is now $20 (I think we stopped coming when it was still $15 per car) or that there's now real/private businesses inside of the park. (Okay, it's the fact that you can no longer bring/drink alcohol to the beach. Boo!) Not only can you rent out the old military barracks (but those prices!) but here's a very hip and cool (and dare I whisper... trendy) restaurant firing on all cylinders. If you've ever spent some time over in PA - you know they're littered with those very cool brew-pub-eateries (Appalachian Brewing and Iron Hill Brewery come to mind) and that's what this place feels like. (Although I don't believe Mule Barn makes any of their own beer.) The place looks great, inside and out. There's a large staff constantly in motion trying to keep up. A good varied menu (food and booze). We were adventurous in ordering (salads to sandwiches to seafood) and thought they'd executed everything extremely well. (But those "Cape May" prices - like $9 for a pint of domestic beer and $30 for their lobster mac-and-cheese were a bit too rich for a cheap-o like myself. I mean... Sandy Hook is barely 'down the shore', right?!) A few times it felt like we were forgotten but we weren't in any rush. I'm easy to impress and I'd probably come back just to get another sandwich that would have one half of the bun being "branded". A cool far-off-the-beaten-path place to give a shot to. read more

Mule Barn Tavern - "Sandy Hook Summer Ale" (wheat beer from Twin Lights Brewing) - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

A nice spot all the way down Sandy Hook. Seasonal specials with fun cocktails and beers on tap. The room upstairs can be rented out for special events. Friendly staff serving all kinds of tasty dishes from burgers and chicken sandwiches to crab cakes and short ribs. read more

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Chicken Milanese was SO good. I did get it without the truffle sauce though because I'm just not a fan of that but it was fantastic

Enjoyed a delicious lunch on their outdoor picnic area. Fast and friendly service. Enjoyed the fish and chips, fresh and hot crispy beer batted flakey cod hit the spot. Wished the chips were the chunky British style but still enjoyed the thinner version. A pint of cold blue moon was the perfect compliment. Beautiful venue, lovely and clean ambience. View of the waterway was just perfect for a chill afternoon outside. read more

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We happen to be driving through Sandy Hook and came upon the Mule Barn Tavern. It was BUZZING!! Who knew? We didn't. What a great find. All done in reclaimed wood. Nice and roomy. We celebrated Pete's 'Back to Sneakers' event. Pete had an IPO and a Peach Mash. Lovely. Then we had appetizers which were delicious. Wings (yum), pork belly sliders (double yum) and calamari which was light and crispy with a bit of a bite. Also double yum. Our server was wonderful. The delivery of the food vs to the table was a bit slower than we would have liked. Bathrooms can use some work. We're pretty cold. Only one soap dispenser working. And paper towels were messed up. I checked the upstairs and it would be nice for a private party. Would have thought the windows would have been large to show water. But- A wonderful experience. Will definitely go again. read more

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The teriyaki wings are incredible, and the service is top-notch! The beer's cold, the wings are delicious, and bartender Patty is absolutely fantastic. Picture of the bianco pizza! read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Bianco pizza - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Awesome. Sat at bar and a great way to start summer. Bar manager (Christina) was great - engaging and some samples helped choose. So good food. Good service. Good weather and the Mrs for good company. read more

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Have eaten here several times, but yesterday was the first day it was nice enough to sit outside. Each experience has been lovely. Gluten free items are clearly labeled, but be sure to mention that you need it GF as sometimes modifications need to be made. Tuna nachos are delicious!Service has been friendly and attentive and we would absolutely go back. read more

Mule Barn Tavern - View from table outside. - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

The Mule Barn Tavern was delicious and in such a nice spot on Sandy Hook. It was a nice drive down to the restaurant and the aesthetic goes along with the Hook and New Jersey. There was a member of my party with a gluten allergy and they are very accommodating for it. I ordered the Caprese Chicken Sandwich. It was very good and it was a large sandwich. The gluten free pizza is also a good option. I look forward to going back! read more

Good food and a good price. Place feels warm and welcoming and would definitely be nice sitting outside in the warmer weather but nothing special or over the top. Services was a little slow considering it wasn't that packed but nice place, would recommend for a bite to eat to just check out the place or if your out on the hook exploring and don't feel like going far to get something to eat! read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Tuna nachos - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Fun views. Far to get to but very fun experience. Food was pretty good especially for bar food. Would come back. read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Pork belly sliders? - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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Maybe one of the best burgers I have eaten...the burger was enormous, the cook of it spot-on medium rare, and most importantly with a big burger the bun held up and maintained its bite of the juicy burger...the crispy, tasty fries were worth the treat with no bad-soggy-fry regrets. Great view and great food and excellent service. read more

HIGHLANDS/Sandy Hook: Mule Barn Tavern has been open less than a year and has become a popular hangout for a great meal, fun events, and a unique dining experience! The restaurant is located in a historic barn that was once part of Fort Hancock and is right on Sandy Hook Bay. We had a blast at their St. Patrick's Day party with a jamming DJ, leprechaun costume hats, a bagpiper playing traditional Irish music, and had a fantastic server, Christina, on a packed day. Leashed and friendly dogs are allowed at the outdoor patio where the sunshine is strong, so make sure your pup is comfortable. The menu features American-style food made with local ingredients and they are helpful in accommodating for dietary needs. In-season (Memorial Day-Labor Day), there is a charge to enter Sandy Hook, but when you arrive at the front gate, let them know you are visiting Mule Barn Tavern for free entry. 36 Kearny Road, Highlands, NJ 07732 read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Such a Beautiful place,love the drive to get here through Sandy Hook beautiful surroundings. Great atmosphere,great service. Great bartenders,and great food. Will not disappoint Best burger I had in sometime. Excellent wings. read more

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Popped in for a late lunch on a Sunday, one of the first warm days of Spring. The food is pretty good. I had the ahi tuna tacos, and the tuna was fresh and the wonton shell was a nice touch. I do wish it would have came with some type of fries, etc. My wife had the portobello pizza, which had mushroom, burrata, basil pesto and balsamic. It was very good. Pretty decent draft beer selection of local NJ breweries and an extensive "mule" menu. My wife had a bourbon one and it was good. Overall, nice to have a good pub on Sandy Hook. read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Ahi Tuna Tacos - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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I'm glad this place exists because there's not much else around here. This is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and get a bite to eat! I ordered the margherita pizza. It wasn't life changing but had a good flavor. I'd come back! read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Margherita pizza - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Great ambience. Dog friendly on the patio. Love the food. Pretzel was the best burgers good and drinks perfect. Service was slower but good bc we were chilling anyway. read more

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Beachy ambiance; very nice view. We ordered Light House burger and cilantro salad; both were very good. Martini was not good (we returned it), but Bloody Mary was ok. Service was ok. read more

Busy and one server inside, but Deb rocked it! Got to everyone and was super polite and attentive. Food was delicious, environment fun and lively. We had a burger and a salad and split everything and it was perfect! read more

Mule Barn Tavern - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

This was an amazing night out with great evening of good music good food, and great drinks Service was prompt and wonderful read more

Lovely space, the staff is well trained, warm and homey feel. Small beer selection for a tavern, and while they were out of several items on tap I'm cognizant that on Jan 2nd they can be given a pass on that-and our wonderful waitress Emily made a couple trips to the bar to check. Love that they have a Jermann Pinot on the wine list. Meatball app had great sauce and ricotta but the meatballs had a tough exterior and interior. Great for sharing, as there were four. Coulda dropped a slice or two of bread on the plate for $15, no? Burger had terrific char flavor, but my burger was nowhere near the (as rare as possible) request. Were we not on a time constraint I would have sent it back. Terrific fries, just need a shake of salt. Maybe a pickle spear on the plate for color? I'll return, but the food needs to match the ambiance/charm and the wait staff. read more

The food is good, however; the outside seating is only available for guests who bring dogs ;( -S from Port Monmouth, NJ read more

First time: a perfectly dressed,fresh apple walnut salad with spinach. Second time: the chicken Milanese salad. The breaded chicken breast cooked just right. Excellent dressing and not over dressed. Burger was declared excellent by the dining partner, who also enjoyed wings second time. Service was prompt and attentive. And what is better than sitting outside on Sandy Hook? read more

walked out . stood 20 minutes waiting to be seated bar tender told us she would seat us then waitress said go outside to hostess. met waiter coming in who sat us gave it's menus and left and never came back we walked out. Crap service won't be back read more

Such an amazing addition to the Gateway National Recreation Area in Sandy Hook, NJ (also - Atlantic Highlands). You would expect that a restaurant in this location would have mediocre food quality at astronomical prices, but that's not the case at all. I've eaten here a few times already and each meal was spot on and totally affordable; especially for being the only restaurant in the #nationalpark Menu items selected today included: * Patriot Burger: 10 oz Burger topped with Slow Cooked Braised Short Rib, Arugula, Candied Jalapeno, Bacon, BBQ Sauce, and Cheddar Cheese * Industrial Burger: 10 oz Burger topped with Cheddar cheese, bacon, onion rings and BBQ sauce And while I'm leaving this review, it is super important that we talk about how nice, helpful, and energetic our waitress was. Thank you for a great experience. Nestled at the scenic tip of Sandy Hook in Highlands, New Jersey, a landmark restoration project has breathed new life into the historic Mule Barn, transforming it into a magnificent American-style tavern. Mule Barn Tavern not only offers a delightful dining experience but also pays homage to the area's rich history and the significance of restoring this extraordinary location. Check Them Out @mulebarntavern read more

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Great food been going here since it opened up. Never had a bad meal here. Services are awesome. The outside sitting is real nice on a spring summer day. read more

Delighted to have a place to eat and drink in Sandy Hook again! Indoor, outdoor and dog friendly! Water & sunset views from many tables. (Great Osprey viewing for bird nerds) Husband had mahi tacos and gave them 4 stars. I'm vegetarian, not many interesting vegetarian options--the usual portabella sandwich, a couple of salads, pizza & a so-so 2-star mushy veggie burger. Subbed onion rings for the French fries & they were not bad-had a little kick to them. read more

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This little bar and grill is at the end of Sandy Hook right by the Coast Guard Station. There is outdoor seating as well as inside. Waited about 5 mins for a table which isn't bad. Food was delicious. We had the pork belly sliders as an appetizer and split the burrata, sausage, pork roll and cherry pepper pizza. Sauce was very flavorful and crust was crispy and sweet. Only thing wrong was they were very skimpy on the toppings. Nice place to visit in the evening where you can see the Shrewsbury River inlet. If sitting inside, ask to sit far away from the air conditioner; it was so cold and I was shivering because it was blowing on me. Also, our waitress was very nice but was forgetful and hard to find sometimes. Never came by to refill drinks or offer dessert when we were done. read more

Love this place. Great scenery and a really cool history. I have been there at least a dozen times and the food and service has always been good. read more

Great food and drinks by the beach. It's the place to be in the summer. The calamari is delicious, and mule drinks are fun themes

so many gluten free options! GF buns for burgers, and one of the better GF pizza crusts i've ever had. they went a little light on the cheese for the margarita pizza, a little disappointing but that's okay i'm lactose intolerant anyways. tried the espresso martini and spicy margarita, both good drinks! nachos had little flavor. a little pricy for the type of food but that's okay. vibe inside is cool read more

Mule Barn Tavern - margarita pizza - Pizza Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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The mule barn tavern is a neat little pub near the Coast Guard base on Sandy Hook. I've been there a couple times and honestly it's a bit hard to find. There's no signs pointing you where to turn and no sign out front... or side, even the entrance is a bit elusive. It's nice inside, kind of a new modern attempt and a vintage look. The tables along the outer walls have a bench on one side and the chairs on the other are a bit lower, let the shorter people have the bench. The bar is nice but doesn't seat many. There's some high top table also and an upstairs dining area however I haven't see it yet. There is not view of the ocean, the inlet, or the bay. Service is laid back, just the right amount of attention. Orders are filled in a timely manner and everything that comes out of the kitchen looks terrific. The burgers are humongous! They have a nice menu with salad, pasta, steak, and seafood choices. I had the lobster salad sliders and they were very good. Big chunks of lobster with crispy veggies and mayo. I have to say the bread to salad ratio was too high and in retrospect I should have combined everything into one sandwich and ditched the second roll. I wasn't thrilled with the fries. It's like they were sitting under a warming lamp too long, they were chewy, not crisp, and doused with too much salt. I enjoyed the burger egg roll appetizer but it had no zip, I asked the waiter for hot sauce which helped tremendously. I didn't eat too much so I could enjoy the entree. My GF decided not to have any of the appetizer, for 1 person this could be a meal in itself. She had the meatball calzone which seemed good but actually it was weirdly greasy. Equally, it's served on a metal tray with paper so when she cut it she had to dodge the black checkerboard parchment coming up with a fork full of calzone. Overall this place is a good joint to sit at the bar and drink. after a good buzz you can order some really eye appealing mediocre food. We had a calzone with a side salad, the egg roll appetizers and the lobster sliders, 2 iced teas and no alcohol and the bill was $100 bucks including the tip. That's a bit pricey for lunch I have to say overall this turned out to be a tourist trap. Try it for yourself. There's little choices for food on the hook. read more

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