Tucked away in West Creek, N.J., on land’s end three miles down Cedar Run Dock Road, you’ll find a quaint Victorian-style house known as Antonietta’s. A magical place for sure, the restaurant offers diners an unparalleled view of Barnegat Bay and the Forsythe Wildlife Refuge along with wonderful food, décor and service. If you make reservations for the right time, you’ll have the best view of the sunset. Every seat in the two dining rooms or outside on the deck in season showcases nature’s beauty. If you don’t feel like driving, dock your boat in the slip and come right up.
For my birthday last month, I wanted nothing more than to enjoy good food while watching the sunset, so naturally I opted to eat at Antonietta’s. Unfortunately, the day didn’t have the best weather, as it was rainy and overcast.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the host, who told us our table was being set. Our table was upstairs, and without requesting it, we were seated right next to the window — on a sunny, fair-weathered evening, we would’ve had the best seat in the house; maybe next time. The upstairs room features large, wood-framed windows complemented by gold-striped valances. The architectural details are charming, but they don’t compare to the view.
Unlike many Italian-themed restaurants, it’s not stereotypical. There are no dusty statues, trellises or fake vines. The table is set with sparkling wine glasses on white tablecloths in a softly amber-lit setting. The BYOB venue is known for its elegant yet casual atmosphere serving refined Italian and seafood dishes.
For an appetizer, we split the special of coconut shrimp — which was incredible — shrimp cocktail, and mozzarella en Carrozza (Italian bread fried with mozzarella) and served with fresh basil and marinara sauce. For dinner I ordered the chicken Parmigiano, while other dishes included coconut shrimp (as an entrée), veal Parmigiano, chicken Antonietta and one special dish, chicken mondo. Everything was cooked to perfection, making for an excellent evening.
While we did save room for dessert, we opted to head home and enjoy a piece of Funfetti birthday cake.
— Jenna Payesko, editorial coordinator
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 4, 2024Have an Autumn Wine Soiree The SLO Way in San Luis Obispo
Yes, it’s harvest time — and that means great fall wine festivals, including the third annual Autumn Soirée The SLO Way Nov. 9 on California’s Central Coast. The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Garden Courtyard at luxury boutique Hotel San Luis Obispo, recognized as a MICHELIN Guide One Key property.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
Daily
Nov 4, 20247 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Book a reservation at one of these hotel restaurants around the country, providing excellent dining experiences you won’t soon forget.
Slideshow
Nov 4, 20247 Reasons to Put Strasbourg, France, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Egypt
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS
Daily
Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
Still on the search for your next favorite perfume? Whether traveling, heading out to a fancy dinner or simply spending the day at home, finding the scent that works for you and lasts for hours is essential. These are our eight perfume recommendations for 2025:
Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Extraordinary Egypt
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Sponsored Content
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Make The Londoner Hotel Your West End Base
In London’s arts-central West End district, The Londoner Hotel is an ideal spot to unpack for an active, experience-focused stay. Part of the Edwardian Hotels luxury collection, this swish property offers 350 guestrooms and suites, along with private screening rooms, a ballroom, meeting spaces, and six concept dining and bar selections. There’s also The Retreat, where guests can immerse themselves in a wellness journey featuring a pool; sauna; hydropool; steam room; tranquil cabanas; and a curated selection of holistic body therapies, massages and facials.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Ananda in the Himalayas Unveils New Deluxe Suites, Renovations
The Ananda in the Himalayas, a wellness retreat, recently debuted new additions to its luxury accommodations and a series of stylish renovations to its premier suites.
ShareThis