I'm in a mood so I'm gonna go on one today. The Grand Tavern is hands down the best restaurant in the area. My husband and I have been going here for years. We don't come as often as we used to because yes it is pricey but I would much rather come here and have a special night with incredible service, food, and drinks than still spend over $100 at another restaurant and get average food. The Grand Tavern is unpretentious, welcoming, entrees offer sizable portions. I have NEVER left hungry. Main complaints I see are price - again, yes it's expensive but it's worth it. Also you can see the menu before you go, how do you not know what you're walking into?? Complaints about the burger. First of all the menu changes seasonally. There's no way their patty is frozen. Everything is FRESH AF. And yeah, American cheese is king on a burger. Again, it's on the menu what did you expect? This is a restaurant that has literally never disappointed. I will always save my pennies for a great night out here. Everyone's entitled to their opinion obviously but entitlement is a hell of a drug. Check out the menu and have a great night. read more

Terrific food, my cavatelli was great, and the swordfish fresh and tasty. Fun cocktail service (though it's Lent, so I was happy they offer a great NA IPA. The other 5 in my group enjoyed their drinks. Our server took our orders verbally, and all apps and mains came out without a hitch. No menus handed (they ask you to look at their website to choose!) and the menu is small, with specials limited to cocktails. It is dark and quite noisy (they did dial back the loudness after we asked) so keep that in mind.) read more

How have I never reviewed what is surely one of my favorite restaurants ? The staff is amazing; the bartenders are knowledgeable, kind and make a mean cocktail. The entire place is alive with energy -- you can watch the cooks in the back in their flow, while the bartenders stir a cocktail & the waitresses whip around the tables. It's a relatively intimate spot, tastefully decorated. The burger is one of my favorite burgers on the face of the planet. Is it expensive ? Sure. But it is made with quality ingredients and I truly crave this weekly. Just try it. Their menu is small and items change to accommodate local seasonal ingredients. Their salads are incredible, their steak tartare with grilled sourdough is another favorite-- I really have never had a bad meal here. read more

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WOWWWW to this place. I eat a lot of burgers and this was definitely one of the best I've ever had. The menu changes frequently so while I was there, my table and I also got the chicken Milanese, octopus and carrots. Everything was absolutely delicious and staff was super friendly and helpful. read more

The Grand Tavern - Burger - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

My husband and I returned to The Grand Tavern a year after our first visit since we are currently in town, and we had another great experience. Again, the place was really busy for a Tuesday night, and it's understandable given how great the food is. We had the shrimp-stuffed wings, the badger flame beets, sticky ribs, and burger. Everything was really delicious. Our server was Grace, and she was so kind and attentive, and she even ran after us after we forgot our bag of leftovers on the table. So nice of her. Thank you, Grace! We will definitely be back the next time we're in the area. read more

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The whole menu is expensive af yet i received a burger with an actual kraft american single in it lmao and p sure a frozen patty just based on shape/unevenly cooked - pull it together this is not a real cheese burger and its overpriced like the rest of the menu. Def also dont get the steak bro its $72 and was tough and the sauce did not enhance the steak. Total waste of money and we didnt finish either plate of food. Service was good they were attentive to filling bevvies and sat us when we didnt have a reservation. We sat at a shared table on the back patio. Enjoyed the sun and music and outdoor vibe. This place seems like more of a pre-dinner stop for a few drinks. read more

Was really looking forward to eating here as a few friends rave about it. I dunno. Maybe an off night. It's a cozy welcoming open tavern space. Has outside seating but it was 100 degrees so we stayed inside. Service was good however was not warned about a beer I ordered (after the cocktail) that was actually a large bottle. I only wanted a draft so she wasn't clear about the size or bottle. Cocktail menu has plenty of interesting options. Price was steep but that's the cost of diner dining. Ordered apps and entrees. Interesting apps but didn't hit the tastebuds as hoped for. Nor did entrees , as nice as they looked, the fried chicken masala felt undercooked. A few noted it and warranted a few of us not seeking a return anytime soon. Disappointed here. read more

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Get the burger cooked medium. It is out of this world. Drinks, service, and ambiance all top notch with rock & roll playing at just the right volume. read more

This place is great. Very good food and drinks and friendly, attentive service. I mixed up my reservation and showed up a day early. They were so nice and accommodating. It was busy, we were grateful they were able to squeeze us in. We sat outside in the cute back patio. Loved the gem salad and the snapper. Both were so flavorful. He really enjoyed the burger and arancini. They have a nice selection of creative cocktails. We both really liked There's Always Money In The Banana Stand - it's a take on a negroni that's not too sweet at all, very balanced blend of flavors. We also liked the All White Everything - a tequila coconut take on a negroni, again very balanced flavors and not too sweet. Will definitely be back! read more

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Everything was awesome. The small plate tagliatelle was awesome. The salmon was yummy. The branzino was delightful. I had two cocktails and they were yummy and very strong and that is why there is not more detail in this review. Highly recommend but definitely pricey.​​​ read more

Excellent top to bottom. Place is classy and the food delectable. Nice and cozy.. ambience and noise level perfect.

I forgot to post: but better late than never..... We stopped by a week or so ago for a weekend dinner and sat indoors since the weather has gotten colder and the patio was closed down for winter. We found being indoors this time -it was so dark inside with a small candle on the table- that it was hard even to see your food well or take pictures. ( sorry- no pictures-) The waitress was friendly, but you could tell they needed to flip the tables since the place was small, and she asked if we were ready to order many times. We got a salad to share for an appetizer, a burger, and a chicken Milanese. But, Be careful with that chicken Milanese. I thought I was crazy because it was very spicy, but after I asked, I was told it was spicy--marinated in some spicy seasoning or something. ( I wasn't told that before ordering, and it wasn't mentioned on the menu, so my mouth had a rude awakening .) They were very kind and offered to switch it when I inquired . It seemed spicy for a chicken Milanese, as I was not anticipating. However, I must admit it ruined our meal that night since we had to wait for each other to eat at different times, dampening the mood and souring our night. We had a whole different experience this last visit, unlike our previous dining experiences here. The menu is on the smaller size changing often but we need up getting another burger and one salad to share, and it is a somewhat rushed evening. We enjoyed the relaxed feel of summer much more with outdoor tables and a more comfortable dining experience. read more

The atmosphere is great here! From the drinks to the food, everything was delicious and we were asking for seconds!

My husband enjoyed his veal chop. I have some dietary concerns and their menu is small and specialized. They refused to accommodate in any fashion at all. They do not have common salad ingredients. I asked for a small salad or side with ingredients they do have and they refused. I love a good burger and was looking forward to it. I would say it was very average. Because of the service experience and my food experience, I would call it an epic fail. If anyone in your party has any specialty diet needs, and mine are not even extreme, this is not the place to go. read more

I had met friends for a drink here and it was packed. I figured it must be a good option so made reservations for dinner. I knew it was expensive, but thought we were treating ourselves. I ordered a steak. My partner had an appetizer. After the app he didn't want more food and seeing my steak reinforced that. There are no specials. My steak cost $65. For that I got a ribeye that was meh. Accompanying the ribeye was about 1 tablespoon of mushy polenta. I asked if there were any sides and the waitress said they had fries. I ordered them. They were fine, typical fries. They cost an additional $12! I also got a glass of wine and he got a beer. Their wine was very good. Ultimately, we won't be going back. We have so many really good restaurants in the area. This one is overpriced and underwhelming. read more

A good friend told me about TGT. I've lived in Neptune for 2 years and never heard of it. When you arrive at the restaurant, it's a simple building with a neatly kept exterior. When you open the door it's a really cool upscale interior. The bar is great with ample seating but they are busy so pick your time. We went at 8:15 and secured 2 seats at the bar. Drink menu was creative and had unique offerings. Mixologists behind the bar. I went there for the burger and it did not disappoint. It could be the best I've ever enjoyed. My date had Chicken Milanese and it was delicious. Food & Service outstanding. Check it out. You'll love it. read more

If Jesus could make a burger this place is serving it. The best burger in Jersey and the place is just a great place to be at. Go here you won't be disappointed read more

It's a rare find when a restaurant consistently brings out plate after plate of outstanding food, but this one does. The small, often-changing menu can always be counted on for a few things to please everyone. The Chicken Marsala with polenta was matched in its size by its wonderful taste. My companion had the steak option, and it was so good! The place is cozy, and if the online reservation system shows no availability, give them a call. Also- If you're fortunate enough to have Lauren as your server, your night will be that much nicer. She is extremely pleasant, knowledgeable about the menu and wine list - all with a radiant smile. We'll be back - again and again. read more

Make yourself a reservation! It's high quality food in a low-key atmosphere. The menu is limited but absolutely amazing. We had the shrimp small plate to start and then went spitskies with the burger and scallops for dinner. Every bite was delicious and I cannot wait to go back! The couple next to us seemed like regulars and advised to keep coming back because the menu changes. Looking forward to our next stop here! read more

The Grand Tavern - Love the vintage and unique plates. - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

For this price point, I expected better. There were no specials so just going off of their very limited menu, I expected each of these dishes to be incredible. Sticky ribs($27)- meat itself was dry and just lathered in this sticky type of sauce. The tagliatelle small plate($28)- the flavors didn't go well together and it was greasy. The burger($28)- came out medium well when we ordered it medium rare. They remade it, it tasted pretty good but was sooo greasy. Now imagine eating all of this expensive subpar tasting food while songs like "Electric Avenue" and "Another One Bites the Dust" are blasting. Fine dining prices for subpar taste. The waitress was very nice, that's honestly the only good thing I have to say about this place. There's 7 other restaurants around that I can think of off the top of my head with this price point and wayyy better tasting food. read more

Food is terrific and place has nice vibes. Eaten there 3 times. Unique tasty cocktails

We went for my birthday dinner and it was our first time here. Everything was great from the service and food and drinks. We will definitely be back. read more

Reservations are a must here, especially in the summertime. During the summer, they only take reservations for outside or at the bar to make sure there's enough seating to move everyone inside if it rains. Otherwise - I assume walk ins get the indoor tables if there's no rain in the forecast. The menu changes here regularly and is slightly on the expensive side but worth it because the food is very good. This time we did have to sit inside before of rain (even though it never actually rained!), and it was quite loud - not the best acoustics. We started with the house ricotta on toast which was delicious (and I'm happy they gave us extra bread because it was a healthy portion!); I had the grilled swordfish with romesco sauce and broccolini, and my husband had the pan seared scallops, corn succotash. Dinner portions were also sizeable - too big for us to save room for dessert! read more

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So disappointed that we spent $400 yet we were charged a &12 "surcharge". The 4% is cost of doing business. .

The food is always so good. One place I never mind going back to. Like I said before if you have never been it's a must. read more

The Grand Tavern - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

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Salty!! Please taste your food, chef. It's a shame because the food would be delicious if it weren't for the over seasoning. We had the fries, eggplant and burger. read more

Great atmosphere and delicious food. Best burger around, cocktail menu is also a delightful. Service is always impeccable. read more

The Grand Tavern - Grand Tavern - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

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I don't write many positive reviews but when you run across a nondescript little gem like this you gotta tell somebody!!! This little hole in the wall puts out the best burger you will ever have !! The menu does not tell you the fantastic type of beef that they use to make this burger ...instead...they let the food do the talking!! Did I mention the cocktails? The mixology here is innovative and outstanding. Try the " It Takes Two to Mango" ... I only needed one to Mango ... but can't wait to Mango again. Do yourself a favor, cross the tracks and try this place... you won't regret it!!! read more

Food was amazing. We started with the Oysters Rockefeller. They were wonderful. Great flavor. We also had the Tuna Tartar which was delicious as well. For dinner we had the scallops and fried chicken Marsala. Both were amazing. They have a small menu but everything is prepared beautifully. Ambiance was very nice. Dark, moody and casual. Service was amazing. A place to experience something different. read more

Run here. The food is outstanding! As well as the service and the drinks. Truly, our server was the sweetest person. The Grand Tavern is fairly small, darkly lit and casual. However, there is nothing casual about their food. We ordered the Bibb lettuce and white lasagna for starters for the table. They were gone in 2 minutes. For mains I split the burger and the fried pork chop. My goodness. What an experience. Come here! Order great food and have some nice cocktails too. Would recommend for any occasion. read more

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Cool atmosphere and some of the best food in the area. Their menu is always seasonal, creative and exceptionally delicious! It is one of my go to spots in all of Monmouth County. read more

My husand and I come pretty often and I can't say enough good things about this place but tonight brought it to another level. The food was, as always, spectacular! I had the chicken Milanese and my husband had the pork cheek, 10/10!! Then to top it off, our server Lauren was the absolute best! read more

The Grand Tavern - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

My sister and I sat at the bar. I ordered the duck entree and it was amazing. I would recommend to make a reservation since their tables are normally full. Our bartender was great as well. It has a romantic atmosphere so it would be perfect for a date as well. read more

Food and cocktails are always coming out with new flavors in this tiny establishment. Food and drinks are extremely flavorful. They rotate the menu and drinks so their is always something new there . read more

Unassuming excellence is served daily at this dressed down gold mine. Everything from the burgers on up are marinated in flavor and served swiftly at this frenetic and loud shoreline bistro. The scallops are sublime with the hangar steak running a close second. Personally, I'd make a reservation but if you're nearby on a weekday or off hours, The Grand Tavern will become a fixture on your GPS... or just follow your nose. Five easy stars. read more

The food was nothing of note, and it was overpriced. I asked for a sprite to drink, and what I got was mostly ice in a glass used for a drink with liquor, only to be charged $2 a glass. I will never go there again. BTW, the burger wasn't very good either. read more

Local spot. Overall, food ok, service was on point, ambiance was that of a typical bar. We shared burrata app, delicious caesar salad, burger and salty fries. read more

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Great food, staff and ambiance. Delicious cocktails and wine list. The menu is small-ish, very unique and always changing. Incredible quality and beautiful and creative dishes. But yet the burger is always a sure thing. One of our favorite spots! read more

This is my third time here. Every time I go it is better than the last time. The food is amazing, the service is wonderful, and the atmosphere is cozy. I can confidently say I'll be back for a fourth time soon! read more

The Grand Tavern - Braised Beef Cheek - Bars Near Me - Neptune, New Jersey

I just spent a few hours at the GRAND and, let's just say, the name is an understatement. Grand was the most modest descriptor of the time we had; the experience was exceptional. You walk into a non-discreet building and immediately you're skeptical. We speak to the hostess who lets us know bar seats are for reservations but, as luck would have it, we have two seats available until our reservation begins (table for 7). Luck is always a friend to me so we embrace it! A few cocktails to kick things off? Yes please. Maine Brew Co Lunch and a few other beverages and I haven't even made it to the seats. That's a W. I take in the view; what a cute job they did with very limited space. I love peeking into the kitchen and there was ample view of the same. The bar was spacious and drinks were cold before they passed us off to table service. A beautiful young lady was incredibly attentive through the meal and couldn't be more sweet and patient. Consistently attended to, the apps arrive delicious and plentiful! We ordered Arancini, broccoli, and steak tartar. Wonderful! Drinks kept coming at a leisurely yet attentive pace. Dinner arrives, a few burgers, some chicken and a fish dish. 10 out of 10. We order dessert, carrot cake. No chance it lives up to the dinner experience. Wrong again! Outstanding and a night cap to boot. If you're in the mood for a fun, under the radar meal, please try this place. I would practically never go to the other side of the tracks but I will be back. Thank you again to our lovely server who made our collective evening!! read more