Set in a historic 1874 hotel, this chill bar & eatery features seafood & steaks, plus porch seating.
Al Bunshaft
We chose this for the vegetarian options. It doesn’t seem like that kind of place, but there were actually a few good choices in addition to the usual salad, pizza or pasta. We started with the brussels sprout appetizer which was delicious and then had the Buddha bowl with tofu and chickpeas, and the other person had the black bean burger. The Buddha bowl was with Asian flavors and delicious. The black bean burger was simple and more than acceptable. What you would expect.
The place is big and typically busy. There is a bar scene as well with people watching the ball game. The staff was friendly and prompt. Would go again.
… moreDave Boyer
Buckalew’s is a great gathering place, for both families and the adults-only after-hours crowd. The menu is varied to suit many tastes. The main bar area also doubles as the audience area for live musical acts. In late September through October, they supplement the menu with Oktoberfest favorites (food and beer).
… moreJoseph Iacono
Nestled in the heart of Beach Haven, Buckalew’s Restaurant & Tavern is more than just a meal—it’s a moment. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1874 hotel, the ambiance strikes a perfect balance between laid-back beach vibes and timeless elegance. Whether you’re unwinding on the porch with a cocktail or settling into the cozy tavern interior, the atmosphere invites you to linger.
The menu is a celebration of American classics with a coastal twist. Their seafood dishes are a standout—fresh, flavorful, and plated with care. The crab cakes are golden and crisp, with just the right touch of spice, while the grilled salmon melts in your mouth. For steak lovers, the ribeye is a revelation: juicy, expertly seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
Service is warm and attentive without being overbearing. The staff seem genuinely proud of the place, and it shows in their thoughtful recommendations and easy smiles. Prices are reasonable for the quality—expect to spend around $20–30 per person, which feels like a steal given the experience.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through Long Beach Island, Buckalew’s is the kind of spot that makes you want to come back before you’ve even left. It’s not just dinner—it’s a slice of shore-town soul.
… moreSarah Cain
We went on a Wednesday and there was no wait. The servers and staff were nice and accommodating. My friends are gluten free and they had a ton of different options. For an appetizer we got 12 chicken wings with buffalo sauce. The wings were $25 which was way over priced and the buffalo sauce was extremely spicy. I got the sushi (Philadelphia roll and miso soup) which were both really good however they served them in small portions. We also got a Buck’s burger but the burger was dry and not seasoned. Then we got a gluten free margherita pizza which was very good. Overall this was a pretty good restaurant on the island.
… moreChristopher Guarin
Post-beach-nap Eats
Crispy Hot Honey Brussels w/ feta and sundried cranberries
Hawkeye Burger w/ bacon, blue cheese, sauteed onion, Chipotle mayo
Blackened Tuna – seared rare yellowfin tuna, coconut rice, broccoli, Teriyaki sauce
Crab Cake Sammy – jumbo lumber crab, lettuce, tomatoe, onion, tartar sauce
… moreEnrique Cafaro
Had a pleasant evening on a cold December night that was warmed by the friendly service and the festive Holiday atmosphere. A good selection of beers and special cocktails also helped to make us get comfortable. We started with their celebrated New England Clam Chowder, a little too thick but very flavorful, that was followed with a healthy house salad. For dinner I had the fish and chips, which was outstanding, the very fresh cod like filet was served batter fried and done perfectly with a little malt vinegar topping it off. We also had the French dipped steak sandwich, the best on LBI according to the eater. Glad we made it for dinner finally to this renowned LBI favorite, been here for drinks before but never for dinner since it gets very crowded in summer, we will most definitely be back.
… moreDawn Ziegler
Super fun and cute restaurant!! we sat at the bar and enjoyed the French dip sandwich and the surf and turf burrito. Excellent staff. We will be back.!!!! We were only in town for 24 hours but quickly fell in love with LONG BEACH ISLAND, NJ!
… moreC. Siegert
Classic rustic beach town bar. Menu had a great mix. Can’t get pot pie and sushi at many places. Wife and I sat at the bar. The bartender was very nice and attentive. Sushi was nice but the flavor of the rice was a bit bland. Maybe didn’t have any rice wine vinegar cooked into it, not sure. Jumbo pretzel was fantastic. Fish and chips were great. Clams we slightly undercooked but the broth an bread made up for it. Beer was tasty
… moreXavier Casey
Buckalews is a great place to go for a nice dinner. Very convenient and easy to get to with it being close to the beach. In door and outdoor seating. My fiancé and I were walking by and were attracted by the beautiful flowers hanging outside and the great smell from the kitchen, so we decided to check it out.
The decorations are nautical and classy. It is nice but also relaxed. What i really liked about this restaurant is the menu had a lot of variety so if you come with a group you shouldn’t have to worry about finding something for everyone.
We were seated very quickly which is always a plus. The staff was friendly and helpful fielding our questions about the menu. The wine, espresso martini and appetizers were excellent. I definitely reccomend the calamari. We both ordered the steak and we were satisfied. For the price and convenient location I say it’s a solid spot.
Thanks Buckalews
… moreemme k
The food was great and as well as the service! I’ve been wanting to try Buckalew’s for a long time and I was not disappointed. I got the linguine with clams and it was super good. I also tried the new york 14oz. steak which had some fatty pieces, but it was still delicious especially with the vegetables on top. I had a party of 7 and I believe that everyone at my table was satisfied. Buckalew’s honestly have a lot to choose from. There’s sushi, steaks, burgers, pasta, grilled cheese and everything in between. Because of this I think the restaurant can appeal to more and more people (because a lot of variety type foods there are still delicious). I give this restaurant a solid 5/5 because although I did give the food 5/5, it’d probably be more like 4.7/5 but the service was good. Not to mention the atmosphere was pretty cool although it wasn’t like outstanding, it was still pretty great and a really amazing restaurant and I recommend to anyone who wants a good sit down bite down in LBI.
… more