Went on a date night to Proving Ground on a beautiful summer night. We started with some sushi getting the shrimp tempura roll. It was delicious I was surprised they even had sushi. For mains we ordered the truffle mac and cheese and the steak sandwich. The steak sandwich was on garlic break, the steak was cooked perfectly and the added fries were a plus. The mac and cheese was also delicious not overly cheesy just an all around good meal. Definitely worth checking out we sat outside and admired the boats and sunset. The food came out quick and hot. Service was polite and genuine. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Dining - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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I'm not usually a fan of dishes with a lot of tomato sauce, and unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this entrée as much as I had hoped. Maybe I misunderstood the description, but I expected the Creole flavors to come through more. Instead, the dish tasted heavily of tomato and seemed to be missing some of the additional seasonings I was expecting. The orzo was also overcooked, which made it very soft and easy to break apart. That said, the lobster bisque was absolutely divine, and the fries were perfectly crunchy. Despite my meal not being my favorite, the restaurant itself is beautiful. It was pouring outside during my visit, but the waitress was incredibly kind and attentive, which definitely added to the experience. I would still love to return and try some of the other items on the menu. I especially want to experience their outdoor seating--it looks absolutely gorgeous with the lighting! Overall, it's a beautiful restaurant with a lovely atmosphere, and I'm looking forward to giving it another try. read more

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No veggies with our table's short ribs, or stuffed flounder? Then 7 measely tiny scallops. Never again, and we're locals. read more

First time here, nice place, food & service was good! Had the clams in white sauce, spicy tuna roll & mahi tacos( under seasoned but fresh). Over all it was good and we will return! read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Clams in the white sauce - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

I had the Cobb salad and my daughter had a burger! Yummy! Food was great and the view was so nice! Little sandy beach that my granddaughter collected sea shell on while I watched her from our table! read more

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We love coming here despite the long wait for a table (it's worth it) While we wait, we grab drinks at the bar and enjoy the patio chairs by the water. The food is always delicious and the staff is so friendly and accommodating. We love coming for the live music as well. It brings such an awesome energy to the restaurant read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - French Onion Burger - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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Very disappointed. First off, the tables and floors were very sticky. It was very loud but did get a little quieter once a party left. We had the whipped ricotta, which was good and a lobster bisque which was good as well but could have been a little thicker. I had the crab cake sandwich which came with fries. The fries were overly salty and inedible. Hubby had the shrimp tacos and fries, his fries were better. We told the waitress about ours, she apologized but no comp? Not that I am looking for a free meal, but maybe take off a few $. I don't think I'd go back. I think that is just bad customer service read more

ordered the lobster roll and it was super yummy, stuffed to the brim with lobster (it's like a lobster salad kinda, with mayo). the bun was good too, quality brioche and toasted. for appetizers we're got the steamers and buffalo wings, both were good! the wings stood out as very nice. our server was very nice and helpful, on top of drinks and pre-bussing. we sat outside and the view of the bay was perfect. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - lobster roll - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

So happy I came across Proving Ground while looking for some outdoor dining recently. We came on a sunny Sunday afternoon and were quoted with a 45 minute wait. We grabbed a drink at one of their two bars of their first floor, which has a patio and waterfront sitting areas. The wait only ended up being 15 minutes. Food was quite good and service was quick! My blackened chicken sandwich was super flavorful and juicy. It's a good spot to watch boats on the bay. read more

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Great spot on the water. Outdoor bar and restaurant was busy on a Sunday afternoon. They have chairs lining the docks can enjoy a drink while you wait for a table. We were told a 45 minute wait but table was ready in 10 minutes. Raw clams were fresh. I had the crab cake sandwich, crab cake was delicious and flavorful, fries could be a little more crispy. A band was starting to play outside as we were leaving. read more

Everything we ordered was bold, flavorful and delicious. Stellar Paloma, Mojito and Spicy Margarita. Ahi Tuna, Blue Crab Roll were perfect. Mussels Fra Divalo with garlic bread was a TEN. Beautiful view of Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook. Wish we had time to sit on the pier rocking chairs. Service was quick, but not rushed. Would highly recommend. read more

After a day at Sandy Hook we decided to come here. I guess it was about 5:30. Plenty of tables inside as outside was packed. The place is big so plenty of room. Table by the window. Very nice. The oysters were average side and were sweet and plump. The bacon wrapped scallops were excellent with lots of flavor and cooked perfectly. Sandra had the crab cake sandwich which she loved and said it was very flavorful. I had lime mahi mahi. It was ok as it was cooked a little long and was a bit dry but not terrible. Flavor was strong so it made up for it. The location on the water is beautiful and the outside area is very inviting. Next time we will sit outside. Prices are a bit high but that's what to expect from a place like this with a location like this. Enjoy read more

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Sat outside on a beautiful September afternoon. We walked in and were told it would be a 45 minute wait, which was fine because we were happy to start at the bar - but we ended up getting seated within 5 minutes. We both liked our drinks (Orange Crush and Jameson & Ginger) and our food (steak sandwich, French onion soup and Tuna poke bowl). Prices were reasonable. Would definitely visit again. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Orange Crush and Jameson & Ginger - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Food is decent with a lively atmosphere, however the prices are inexcusable. The younger servers bring a good vibe, however, the vibe is not worth the price tag. I'm sure it's nicer in the summer, but again I can't justify having a good time while my wallet suffers. read more

Just got back from having a 1:30 lunch. We sat on the deck it was beautiful. food & drinks were fine. And it wasn't crowded !! Definitely check the place out you'll be very surprised read more

Proving Ground is a great place to go when everybody wants different things to eat. My husband enjoys their gluten free French onion soup. The cheeseburger is very good. My daughter enjoyed her tuna poke bowl. The portions are generous and we always leave full and unable to get dessert. The view from Proving Ground is gorgeous-overlooking Sandy Hook and the water! It is great no matter what the season is. We have made this one of our regular places to go on a night out. read more

4 stars b/c it's a bit pricy. 3 adults, 1 kid, we shared apps and 2 adults had 1 drink a piece, served in a clear Solo type cup. The wings were good, the crab cake good, etc., etc., but the Mussels Fra D'Avilo were exceptional. Best I have had. Usually I'll eat 2...I ate 8. Big potion of mussels. My friends said prior they had less mussels in quantity, but larger mussels in size - so perhaps they are portioned by weight? IDK, but they were fresh, tender, delicious. Great service, a bit pricy. read more

Your average shore bar/restaurant. Food is pretty good and service is okay. I usually only go here on a holiday or specific night that a band is playing, so when I go it is generally packed. Great vibe during the warmer months being that they are right on the water. Their specials are pretty good and always changing just nothing special about the place. Would recommend to anyone in the area looking for a fun night out or a good stop on a bar hop night. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Meat patties, st patties specials menu - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

I always loved this place and I do hope I'm wrong but they must have changed chefs as items were removed from the menu, the French onion soup which was always great was not good, coconut shrimp was a frozen product with zero flavor. Will give it another shot but was extremely disappointed with this visit read more

I called today, July 10 to find out if they were serving inside or outside it's 87° and the humidity is at 70%. The gentleman told me no outside.. I asked him was there a breeze coming off the water. He said no, people that have respiratory problems can't sit outside like that so they're losing business.. but I guess because of our lovely governor of hiking up all the electric rates they do not want to put the air conditioner on inside. Therefore, even the employees have to suffer. So I guess I won't be going back there anymore think of your employees and the people that have respiratory problems and open up the upstairs dining area. Sad cause I really like that place. read more

I've been to proving grounds for lunch and it is really good , so much so I did my baby sprinkle there . The menu food is not the same as the food for events so let's name my favorites from the regular menu , the grilled octopus , the spicy gnocchi.the bam bam burger- everything is delicious. The restaurant itself is huge and they have valet parking. My baby sprinkle was perfect. Ashley the events manager was wonderful in helping me every step of the way and the food was amazing- my guests loved it ! We had the following : PG SALAD:Garden Salad with Tomatoes, Dried Cranberries, Sweetened Walnuts, Blue Cheese Crumbles, & House Made Vinaigrette Caesar Salad: Parmesan cheese and croutons Chicken Breast Sautéed with Mushroom Spinach & Sun-dried Tomatoes in a Sherry Cream Sauce Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Shallots & Mushrooms in a Red Wine Demi Glaze Grilled Salmon with Tomatoes, Capers, & Lemon I booked the overlook suite which holds up to 40 people. I had 28 guests and the views are spectacular from there. The space was perfect for my guests , I had enough space for a balloon garland wall, dessert table, and the food. This space has its own bathroom and outside the room I had a table for gifts . Overall we all had a great time and I would recommend this place for both a day or night out and an event . read more

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A phenomenal spot, located in Atlantic Highlands, with stellar views, live music daily and good casual American fare. We sat outside at a high top table right near the water. Our server was great! She was friendly and checked on us several times throughout the meal, including refiling our water. With the heat wave, the water replenishment was a gift. The food was your typical burgers and entrees. I ordered the Fish Sandwich and my husband went with the burger. Both entrees were accompanied by the fries. The food is nothing spectacular, but with views like these the food always tastes better than it is. I'll would definitely go back for the ambiance, views and music. read more

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Beautiful restaurant with amazing views. Sat outside for lunch one sat in summer -first time there. Great burgers and chicken sandwiches, drinks and ambiance. Returned for dinner on a Fri night and it was just ok. Unless you valet, parking is hard to find. If you don't have a reservation, be prepared to wait. On colder nights, upstairs dining room is really really loud. Three of us ordered different entrees- pasta, Chicken, salads and fried calamari for app. Just eh. I was really hoping to make this a regular place to eat. Food was nothing to write home about and it was on the pricier side. Won't be back for dinner - it's better as a lovely spot for burgers and apps in summer. Pretty place to watch sail boats -go for the ambience not the food read more

Came back to this restaurant after the Polar Plunge at Gunnison, and the staff were great. The bar area was pretty crowded with everyone from the beach coming here to warm up, they handled the crowd great and I was able to get a drink with ease. Overall positive experience read more

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Stopped by Proving Ground for some appetizers and soft drinks on the deck, and it was a perfect experience from start to finish. The view overlooking the bay was absolutely beautiful -- the ideal backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. We had a few apps (everything was fresh and flavorful), and the drinks were served quickly, Service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Great vibes, great food, and that waterfront setting can't be beat. Looking forward to coming back soon! read more

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We had cosmos, they were ok. Food was also ok. We had buffalo wings which were average at best. Crab dip with pretzels was more cream cheese and mild cheddar than crab? Dinner was short rib special which was decent. Place was loud and service was slow and messy. We would only come back for the beautiful view in nice weather, maybe have a cocktail or two. read more

We usually go for a Happy hour at outside bar. We had dinner this time. Was absolutely delicious didn't disappoint. One of the best beef barley soup I had in a very long time. Great variety of food. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Seared scallops - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

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I really enjoyed the atmosphere here. It's right on the water and has really nice views. The restaurant is spacious and has an outdoor bar. I've been here for lunch and for drinks at night, both experiences were good. The bartenders are attentive and make good drinks. read more

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Proving Ground Waterfront Dining is an amazing spot in Highlands, New Jersey that just oozes ambiance and vibe. The service is amazing and the food and drinks are very good. Places like Proving Ground Waterfront Dining are what make the Jeesey Shore such an amazing place. I would definitely recommend Proving Ground Waterfront Dining. read more

Simple food and it was great. Love sitting outside by the water. And live music made it all the better. Been here several times and will be back in the spring for outdoor seating. read more

Started off at the bar, Jake was an amazing bartender helping us navigate through what we wanted to drink . Then we had a server , Emily she was witty and helpful! Overall would not ask for a better experience! Love the Proving Ground atmosphere and impeccable staff. Will be back soon! read more

The location is great with a beautiful view. My Husband and I sat at the outdoor bar. Service was quick. I ordered the Cobb salad and hubby had the mahi mahi. He said the fish didn't taste that fresh but I enjoyed my salad! We will definitely be back. read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - A peach flavored cocktail and Moscow mule - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

Not impressed ! Members of our party ordered and not happy with any aspect of the experience ! Price , quality and service . Only positive was the view read more

Amazing views right on the water. It's a very casual atmosphere. Good food and drinks, I enjoyed the lobster roll. They have live music on the weekends. Service was very friendly. I'll definitely be back. They have free valet parking. read more

I was visiting NJ and stopped here for brunch with my cousins. We were seated within 15 minutes of arriving. The view from the deck, the outdoor bar, and live music was a vibe. I had ordered eggs with a side of potatoes. The serving sizes was massive for 1 person. The pricing was reasonable for the view and the food. Would recommend people to stop by. Reasons for Rating: +1 Excellent location and parking +1 Food taste really good +1 Customer service +1 Interior/atmosphere +1 Would return/recommend others read more

Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - Tiki Bars Near Me - Highlands, New Jersey

we had 7:15 dinner reservations the other night. we got to the restaurant at 6:45 to discover that the valet parking lot was full. how do you offer valet parking but I could not valet my car. I was extremely disappointed. I have never been to this restaurant and was looking forward to it. we were celebrating our 29th wedding anniversary. we ended up going to another restaurant read more

The bar tenders that work 1 pm til the night shift stink. They NEVER look up at customers. We have gone time and time again only to experience this over and over. Not only us but I see other patrons experience the same. Bar tending 101. Eyes on the customers not your fellow bar tenders! Other than that the food and view are great! read more

This place never seizes to amaze me by how they come up with any little thing to celebrate and bring in a huge crowd to come, while having long wait times and all. The food is great though, and the staff are great, so I can see why they are always a hit. This time it was for a Flannels and Firepits night, and I had the soup of the day which was potatoes, veggies, and sausage, kind of like their rendition of a baked potato soup, but not as creamy or thick; it was a little watery, but still good flavor. I also had the pear harvest salad which was a great serving and the roasted pears were delicious. The best tip I can give is do make a reservation, because this place gets packed on any given day, very quickly. And the deduction of a star is because of the fact that they still charged us for a drink we spilled within minutes of getting. It just seemed like an honest mistake, we come here a lot, and we ordered a lot of food and drinks (not just this time, but everytime). Best thing off the menu is the dynamite shrimp wrap and oysters when they have them. Drinks are ok, but can be a bit pricey. However, they do have an outside deck over looking the water, equipped with mini firepits, outside heaters, live music and best part yet it's dog friendly! read more

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Good location, decent food, good music. I do not like dogs brushing up against me while I'm eating and the fact that several patrons needed to bring their dogs into the restaurant was annoying. No, they weren't service dogs. They barked and were reactive. read more

Proving Ground was on my list to try because when you pass it by boat in the summer, it is always packed. It's a very pretty place right on the water, casual & fun. We were happy to get a table at the window. The menu is pretty standard American + Seafood. We started with Octopus & Clams, both of which were excellent. Our entrees were the Cobb Salad, Burrata Salad, Tilefish & the Major Mahi sandwich. Aside from the sandwich being somewhat dry, we were all very happy with our meals. If you're looking for good food with a view & a fun atmosphere, Proving Ground is a good choice. read more

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