Best Southwest American Restaurants in Highlands

30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Proving Ground Waterfront Dining restaurant

1. Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Highlands

Booked 25 times today

At Proving Ground Waterfront Dining in Highlands, the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with flair and finesse. Tucked away in a picturesque waterfront setting, this restaurant thrives on innovation, testing new menu items that delight and surprise, such as the "best buffalo mac and cheese I have ever had!" according to a glowing diner. Patrons rave about both the food and the atmosphere, highlighting the "wonderful water views" and "broad and delicious menu." The dedication to fresh, quality ingredients and a vibrant dining experience makes Proving Ground a culinary beacon for those seeking authentic and dynamic American dishes. Whether it's a casual meal after a beach day or a special occasion, the seamless blend of excellent service, delectable eats, and engaging events ensures every visit is memorable.

A photo of Victory Park Tavern restaurant

2. Victory Park Tavern

4.8

Exceptional(1041)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Rumson

Booked 25 times today

Victory Park Tavern in Rumson, NJ, is celebrated for its exceptional approach to Contemporary American cuisine with a seasonal twist. Guests consistently rave about the "terrific food and ambiance" and the "friendly, attentive service" that elevates each dining experience. The menu, rich with dishes like the praised "tuna tower" and "delicious swordfish," showcases a commitment to quality and creativity. Reviewers are particularly enamored with the "terrific Martini" and special mocktails, enhancing the dining experience. The ambiance, described as "cozy with just enough of an upscale vibe," makes Victory Park Tavern a beloved local gem where every meal is "always a terrific dining experience."

3. The Rum Runner

4.6

Exceptional(2648)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Sea Bright

Booked 22 times today

Welcome to the newly rebuilt, redesigned, and re-imagined Rum Runner! Although a lot has changed over the years, we still look to provide you and your family with same great experience you have come to remember and love. As always, we are featuring exquisite cuisine, paired wine, and creative drinks. We look forward to seeing you soon!

A photo of DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke restaurant

4. DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke

4.7

Exceptional(2251)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Sea Bright

Booked 10 times today

At DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke in Sea Bright, the Steakhouse cuisine is a standout experience that's not to be missed. Reflecting Chef David Burke’s innovative culinary style, the dishes are crafted with a contemporary approach, leaving guests raving about the quality. Patrons particularly praise the NY Strip Steak and steak tacos, noting them as favorites. As one reviewer exclaims, "Great food great service. We will definitely be back. My husband loved his fradiavola and my steak was perfect." The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and a beautiful oceanfront setting makes DRIFTHOUSE a top destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Steakhouse dining experience in New Jersey.

A photo of The Atlantic House restaurant

5. The Atlantic House

4.8

Exceptional(564)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Atlantic Highlands

Booked 15 times today

At The Atlantic House in Atlantic Highlands, you're in for a treat with their standout Comfort Food offerings. Diners consistently rave about dishes like the "always spot on" Pot O' Clams and the double patty burger that's "absolutely delicious." One review highlighted, "The food was absolutely amazing. So much flavor in every bite." It's not just the food that gets high marks; the service is also a highlight, with mentions of attentive servers like Matt who make every visit special. Whether you're enjoying a casual dinner or a cozy drink, The Atlantic House delivers a perfect blend of quality, taste, and comfort in every dish.

6. Beach Tavern

4.4

Awesome(1507)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Long Branch

Booked 6 times today

Beach Tavern, nestled in the scenic locales of Long Branch and Monmouth Beach, offers an unparalleled dining experience with its outstanding sushi selections. Praised for its freshness and authenticity, the sushi at Beach Tavern is a true delight for connoisseurs. Guests rave about the "superb and delicious" seafood and sushi, highlighting the "unbelievable shrimp ceviche and outstanding sushi" as key highlights. The restaurant's beautiful bayside setting enhances the dining experience, making every meal memorable. With glowing reviews that consistently commend the "beautiful spot, great food and service," Beach Tavern stands out as a premier destination for exquisite sushi in a stunning waterfront environment.

7. The Bar

(0)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Long Branch

Nestled in the heart of Long Branch's Pier Village, The Bar is Wave Resort's new cocktail lounge. The Bar beckons resort guests and locals with a tide of seaside sophistication. Prepare to be swept away by the shimmering oceanfront views, delectable light bites, and expertly crafted cocktails.The Bar isn't just a bar; it's a culinary canvas. Our chef's playful and delectable light bites artfully complement expertly crafted cocktails; each a symphony of flavors designed to tantalize your taste buds. Unwind and reconnect with loved ones in this haven of comfort and elegance, where every detail invites you to linger a little bit longer.

A photo of Semolina Restaurant restaurant

8. Semolina Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(3165)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Red Bank

Booked 27 times today

Semolina Restaurant in Red Bank, New Jersey, epitomizes the essence of farm-to-table dining with its dedication to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Celebrated for its homemade pastas and a menu that adapts to the seasons, Semolina offers a dining experience that is both authentic and delightful. Patrons rave about the quality of the dishes with comments like "The balance of flavors is so well executed" and "The food is always amazing." This BYO gem ensures each dish, from the half roasted chicken to the perfectly prepared pasta, showcases the best local produce, making every meal a testament to the culinary treasures of New Jersey. Whether it's your first visit or you're a regular, Semolina's commitment to excellence and warm, accommodating service promises a memorable dining experience every time.

A photo of Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant restaurant

9. Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(6173)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Long Branch

Booked 52 times today

Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant in Long Branch, New Jersey, epitomizes the essence of American cuisine with a creative twist on seafood, embraced by its scenic oceanfront ambiance. Since 1995, Rooney's has been celebrated for its commitment to freshness and quality, with menus that evolve to bring a new culinary adventure on every visit. Patrons rave about the "excellent service" and the "great selection of entries" from brunch to dinner. A favorite among guests is the "lazy poached lobster entree," highly recommended for its exquisite taste. The restaurant's location on the Jersey Shore enhances the dining experience, making Rooney’s a beacon of American dining by the Atlantic. Whether it's the "fabulous" brunch or the "delicious" dinner menu, Rooney’s consistently delivers a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit destination.

A photo of The Robinson Ale House - Red Bank restaurant

10. The Robinson Ale House - Red Bank

4.8

Exceptional(1499)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Red Bank

Booked 42 times today

At The Robinson Ale House in Red Bank, the essence of a classic bistro is brilliantly captured, offering guests an inviting mix of traditional charm and contemporary flair. Renowned for its craft beers and inventive burgers, this bistro stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity. Patrons rave about the "delicious nachos" and "perfectly executed drinks," highlighting the great dining experience. One reviewer encapsulated the sentiment by noting, "Food is always outstanding. Nice atmosphere too." Whether it's the French Onion Soup or the Wedge Salad, every dish is crafted to perfection, making The Robinson Ale House a must-visit destination for bistro aficionados in Red Bank.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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30 restaurants available nearby

1. Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

2. Victory Park Tavern

3. The Rum Runner

4. DRIFTHOUSE by David Burke

5. The Atlantic House

6. Beach Tavern

7. The Bar

8. Semolina Restaurant

9. Rooney's Oceanfront Restaurant

10. The Robinson Ale House - Red Bank

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