Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

    3.8 (418 reviews)
    Closed 11:30 am - 11:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

    Order Proving Ground Waterfront Dining Takeout or Delivery

    Proving Ground Waterfront Dining Photos

    PROVING GROUND WATERFRONT DINING ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Live music
    Casual
    Trendy

    You might also consider

    More like Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

    Recommended Reviews - Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Wendy W.

    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!

    French Onion Burger
    Elizabeth G.

    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

    Chelsea N.

    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.

    Daniel M.

    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

    Orange Crush and Jameson & Ginger
    Marilyn C.

    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.

    Meat patties, st patties specials menu
    Brendan B.

    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.

    Carla O.

    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 .

    Mahi Fish Sandwich
    Leena S.

    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.

    Stuffed flounder
    Joe H.

    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

    James T.

    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!

    Seared scallops

    See all

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Quite good food, but you come here for the ocean vibe, and it delivers. Truly a zoo (in the nicest way) on a summer weekend. Stiff drinks.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Kat R.
    0
    121
    108

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    The place to go any day after a day DTS. Good food, good music, outdoors on the bay. Our server, Kelly, was excellent and accommodating.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Boommar S.
    21
    62
    361

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mel M.
    94
    1017
    1054

    5 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Nice atmosphere and good drinks but the food is just ok. Better places around in the Highlands area.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Not clean, grilled shrimp tacos weak and not grilled. Waitress not very attentive. Nice place to have a drink outside.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    11 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    2 years ago

    Food was decent but you are going mostly to sit outside and soak up the sun/views. Cute little spot on the water.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    WE LOVE IT HERE! stephanie is the best and they accommodated our large table at such a last minute which was amazing!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    4 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Teri B.
    24
    58
    0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    The views of the water were spectacular. The service was fast. Drinks and food were tasty (except for the octopus -- don't get that!)

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Harold B.
    16
    51
    11

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Brad Y.
    109
    11
    0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Reesa R.
    41
    45
    20

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2
    Photo of Dan M.
    0
    52
    5

    2 years ago

    The food was excellent and service was very friendly. Nothing better than sitting and eating with the view of the water and good music.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 2 of 11

    Ask the Community - Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

    Are dogs allowed inside?

    No, they are not.

    Is there a kids menu available? I can't find one here or in their website.

    Yes! We have chicken fingers, grilled cheese, quesadilla's, noodles with butter or marinara...we are family friendly! We hope to see you!

    View All 7 Questions

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Tiki Bars 622 times last month within 10 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Bahrs Landing Restaurant

    Bahrs Landing Restaurant

    3.4(770 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$$

    I have selected Bahrs Landing as my yearly visit for Soft Shell Crab (most commonly blue crabs that…read morehave recently molted their hard outer shell to grow. Caught immediately after shedding, the entire crab can be eaten...shell and all. They offer an intensely sweet, rich flavor and a delicate, crispy texture when cooked). Bahr's Landing prepares this sautéed crab with capers, mushrooms, lemon & butter, mashed potatoes and vegetables. My go-to appetizer is always the Grilled Cauliflower (Topped with tomato pesto, quinoa, and wild rice blend). The crispness of the cauliflower....brushed through the surrounding ingredients.....makes this the perfect starter. Aside from enjoying the mouth-watering food, you'll also feel as if you're dining on a ship, have great views of the pier, water, and the bridge leading into Sandy Hook Beach. Don't forget to visit their gift shop and view all of the maritime decor and beautiful woodwork.

    Food was mediocre. If I'm spending $200 on a dinner for two I expect the food to be cooked…read moreproperly. We ordered clams casino which were meh, lobster bisque had no lobster and was over salted. I ordered scallops, shrimp and crab over risotto. The risotto was so cheese it was just pure salt, shrimp was way overcooked and over seasoned. Crab meat was shredded, no lump. No flavor. My partner had the Captains dish, lobster tails were again over seasoned. His shrimp was ok. Safe your money and go somewhere else.

    Photos
    Bahrs Landing Restaurant - Inside

    Inside

    Bahrs Landing Restaurant - Bahrs Blueberry crumble with vanilla ice cream

    Bahrs Blueberry crumble with vanilla ice cream

    Bahrs Landing Restaurant

    See all

    The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach - Food from food trucks- love the pizza!

    The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach

    4.2(31 reviews)
    0.8 mi

    I had to remove a star because there was no food available during the day. I thought there would be…read morefood trucks but I was told they come closer to dinner time. I did order a pina colada and it was delicious and you are allowed to bring your own food and snacks so definitely do that. We drove and were able to park in the lot. The lot was way more crowded than the sand was, strangely. I thought there would be way more people but it was pretty light. Lots of families so definitely family friendly. They have chairs that many people were taking and sitting on in the water. Lots of picnic tables and areas to sit at. The water is really calm. It's a bay. So you can walk pretty far out and won't be knocked over by any waves. People were playing catch and just having a great time playing in the calm and cool water. It was fun. It wasn't a bad drive from New York so I'd recommend driving if you got the time.

    Overview: Came here in the late afternoon with a group of…read morepeople and got two tables with umbrellas luckily! We got drinks, got food from the food trucks, and chatted! Super fun atmosphere with the live music and of course being on the beach. It was nice to be able to walk around in the sand with no shoes. We decided to drive from the city, but if you don't have a car or want to drive, you can take the Seastreak ferry straight to the Sandbox! Which is super convenient and neat! What was ordered: FOOD: Connecticut lobster rolls and clam chowder from Cousin's food truck DRINKS: Cocktails and beer Stand outs: Would I come back/recommend: Yes - I would come back Yes - I would recommend

    Photos
    The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach - Atmosphere early summer here

    Atmosphere early summer here

    The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach - Italian steak sandwich from L'Acquario truck

    Italian steak sandwich from L'Acquario truck

    The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach

    See all

    Paradise Lost - Beautiful interior

    Paradise Lost

    4.4(171 reviews)
    22.4 miEast Village

    Thank goodness we FOUND paradise LOST. You ring the doorbell, and are buzzed in to be put on the…read morelist. For my group of 2, it was approximately a 25 minute wait on a Saturday at 7. We jumped over to the bar right beside and drank some girly drinks before getting the notification our table was ready. As with nearly every establishment in NYC, it is very close quarters in paradise lost. We stood at a table while waiting for seats at the bar to become available. Which, we didn't mind. I could see how this might be a little harder to get a seat for a bigger group if you aren't there before 6. It seemed that once a group got a big table, they camped out. The drinks were strong and creative. Friendly bartenders, good music, and yummy options for bar snacks. Also, the bathroom is a nice touch. Given the hell theming for the bar, the bathroom is a 180 and while using the Lou, you can listen to the bible being recited. Theres also a spooky surprise if you press the button in the bathroom. Speaking of the bathroom, it is at the bottom of some decently narrow stairs. So, try and stay sober enough for stairs or you may fall. Go to this bar. You will have fun.

    Paradise Lost is a speakeasy tiki bar located on 2nd Ave in the East Village. A friend & I went…read morethere after having dinner at Spicy Moon a few blocks away. We wanted to have after-dinner cocktails in a chill space, so we searched on our phones & saw Paradise Lost address via Google. We proceeded to walk down & was unable to find the establishment due to their being no front sign. After walking back & forth a few times, we saw another group walking towards the door & they confirmed the place. We walked inside the front door pressed a "doorbell" & lo & behold we gained entry after the previous group went inside. Definitely an incognito entrance. Once inside that door there is someone to greet you, & take your information. There is a forest/ grass/ jungle-looking foyer/ hallway we walked down to get to the next door. Before we knew it, we were near the "Paradise Lost No Vacancy" neon sign w/ an arrow pointing towards the snake-shaped knob door. It gets opened & a supercool speakeasy awaits.... Paradise Lost has mixed style table / seating arrangements throughout the place. A bar seating section, booth-style seating area, lounge- style seating area, etc. We got there a little after 7pm, so the afterwork crowd was in full swing. Paradise Lost has interesting atmosphere. At times a Gothic / Medieval Vibe, meets place w/ shipwreck decor, meets eleganct /club vibe w/ beautiful ceiling lighting, etc. Music played in the background. Staff are friendly, energetic, & attentive. We were pleasantly overwhelmed w/ the vast selection of tiki cocktails that were on the menu. Paradise Lost also have an intimate selection of snacks/ food menu items. This included Popcorn, Tater Tots, Devilled Eggs Rangoon Dip, etc. We ordered some cocktails served in unique tiki mugs & a bucket of popcorn to munch on w/ our drinks. The popcorn is flavored w/ Sea Buckthorn & Browm Butter, which gave it an special flavor profile. Our cocktails were well-prepared & nice & strong. Paradise Lost has individual unisex bathroom stalls & a communal vanity & sink area. The bathroom stalls have spooky voices coming from a speaker as you use the bathroom. I was so humorously taken aback, it had me laughing when I came out...Definitely a different thing to experience in the bathroom - lol. Before we left we watched one of the bartenders do a cocktail "fire" presentation for some patrons in a booth seated area. Wow.... Paradise Lost accepts walk-ins only, no reservations. Paradise Lost accepts groups of 8 or less, unless you are requesting to book the space for a private event. Ages 21+ paradiselost.nyc @paradiselostnyc Paradise Lost is open everyday - 5pm-2am.

    Photos
    Paradise Lost - Amazing atmosphere!

    Amazing atmosphere!

    Paradise Lost - Beware the shark!

    Beware the shark!

    Paradise Lost - Damned Dumplings ($10) and Kappa Krab Roll ($15)

    See all

    Damned Dumplings ($10) and Kappa Krab Roll ($15)

    Proving Ground Waterfront Dining - tikibars - Updated June 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...