As you know, I thoroughly enjoy taking pictures of my food. If something looks delicious, or I just know it’s going to taste amazing, I like to capture the moment! I don’t post them all because honestly, I don’t want to be that annoying BUT as I’m going thru my phone this morning, I’ve come across a few plates that really deserve some air time… So here’s a breakfast, lunch & dinner wrap-up for ya from some local favorites!
This classic breakfast sandwich comes from none other than the infamous Frank’s Deli in Asbury Park. There’s just something about that egg, meat & cheese combo that completely covers all the bases. I strayed from the typical Jersey pork roll, and went with the ham (it sounds healthier, doesn’t it?) but the flavor satisfied just the same. And that lightly grilled roll was worth every poppy seed I had to pick out of my teeth 😉
This right here is one of the best lunches I’ve had in ages… The Lobster Cobb Salad at Toast in Asbury Park went way beyond my wildest expectations. First of all, it’s gigantic. Secondly, everything is incredibly fresh & the lobster chunks were to die for. Topped with a small drizzle of the Poppy Dijon Vinaigrette, I’m embarrassed to say, that I devoured the entire bowl. This really is a great twist on a classic salad.
I’m giving the chef special kudos for this dinner I enjoyed at Yvonne’s in Neptune City.  I had a craving for scallops, but wasn’t in the mood for the way it was offered on the menu.  I did like the sound of the Mediterranean Pasta however, so I asked if I could have these pan-seared Thai Sea Scallops added to that dish instead (I apologize… I know I’m a pain!).  But they happily accommodated my request and I was able to enjoy the shellfish I wanted atop a delicious combo of penne, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, spinach, garlic, feta and olive oil.  OMG – Yum!!!
I wouldn’t recommend eating all 3 of these meals in the same day unless you have the metabolism of a teenage boy, but rather, spread them out & treat yourself to several glorious days of delectable eats!
Frank’s Deli:  1406 Main St, Asbury Park, NJ, (732) 775-6682
Toast:  516 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park, NJ, (732) 776-5900
Yvonne’s:  1311 Route 35 South, Neptune City, NJ, (732) 775-9004
Arriving at prime time on a Sunday morning (around 10am), we were told there would be a 15-20 min wait. Luckily, they take your cell number & text you when your table is ready, so you’re free to roam around Asbury Park while you’re waiting. Once we got our call, we were seated quickly & handed the delicious menu to peruse.
The food took a little while to arrive, but we enjoyed the bustling atmosphere and our warm drinks (a tasty Pumpkin Spice Latte for me) while we waited.  And it was worth it…  My two over-easy eggs, covered in Mexican cojita cheese, sat upon a crispy tortilla surrounded by a delicious variety of beans, tomatoes & fresh cilantro. Every bite was a treat. My son devoured a giant Belgian waffle topped with fresh strawberries, and my friend enjoyed her “Bacon & Brie” omelette. Delish!
I recommend starting with one of their unique cocktails (I tried the Asbury Green Tea & my husband loved his Blackberry Margarita) or choose your usual favorite from the well-stocked bar. If you’re looking for sake, I think you’ll be impressed with their extensive selection. The menu is described as Asian-Fusion, and offers a wonderful variety of apps, sushi & delicious entrées.
This one features tuna (I opted for the brown rice), rolled with hiyashi wakame (a seaweed salad), cucumber & crunch, and then topped with a perfectly spicy wasabi sauce. Â It sounds fairly simple, but the combination was amazing and that one roll was all I needed after stuffing myself with appetizers!
As I mentioned, it was my birthday, so I was “nudged” by our very pleasant and helpful server, to select a dessert.  I’m a big fan of their Green Tea Cheesecake but was so full that I opted for the gelato, knowing that my son would gladly share.  He chose his usual Chocolate Overload (a dark chocolate delight) and I went out on a limb with the Black Cherry Pistachio, which turned out to be the perfect complement.  After a lovely performace of “Happy Birthday” by the accommodating staff, I blew out my candle & then rolled myself to the car – always the sign of a good meal. 🙂
Trips and Tastes 