Absecon

Gourmet Italian Cuisine, Pitney and Jim Leeds Rd. (609) 652-1398. Mid-priced Italian fare in casual attractive setting. Large menu should please everyone. Standard. $$

Mt. Fuji Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar, 136 White Horse Pike. (609) 383-8881. Beautiful surroundings. Typical hibachi shenanigans. Affordable.$

Rifici's Ristorante, 308 White Horse Pike. (609) 272-2000. Large Italian-American menu, veal dishes are stand outs. Hand-tossed pizza, calzone and stromboli. Affordable. $

Vic's Subs, 742 Ohio Ave. (609) 645-0500. Small, deli-style setting with a homey feel. The TV's always on and the food is always fresh. Affordable.$

Atlantic City

2825 Restaurant, 2825 Atlantic Ave. (609) 344-6913. Gotta have tripe? Unusual Italian specialties are the way to go. Standard.$$

Amici Brick Oven Pizza, 2010 Baltic Ave.(609) 345-8700. The pizza, pasta, subs and strombolis are so fresh, they aren't even pictured in the menu. The only time you see your food is while it's being prepared right before your eyes. Try the gelato. Affordable. $

Angelo's Fairmount Tavern, 2300 Fairmount Ave. (609) 344-2439. Family fare, family friendly. Red sauce is a must. Standard. $$

Atlantic City Bar & Grill, Pacific and S. Carolina avenues. (609) 348-8080. A staple to the AC goer's diet. Tourists and celebrities alike have indulged at the AC Bar & Grill for over 25 years. Fresh steaks and seafood served up with a whole lot of fun! Affordable.$

Back Bay Ale House, 800 N New Hampshire Ave. (609) 449-0006. A cozy eating nook with the luxury of a sunset toast on the back deck. A real Atlantic City treasure! Affordable. $

Baltimore Grill, 2800 Atlantic Ave. (609) 345 5766 Good food cheap. One of the best pizza's you'll have. The place and the ingredients haven't changed in 30 years! Affordable.$

Carmine's, In The Quarter At The Tropicana. (609) 572-9300. Traditional, Italian fare- especially for the garlic lover! Huge portions, meant to be shared. Standard. $$

Chelsea Pub, 8 S. Morris Ave., (609) 345-4916. Laid back atmosphere with your typical bar food and then some. Great bar! Affordable. $

Dock's Oyster House, 2405 Atlantic Ave. (609) 345-0092. Check out the oyster bar. Only fresh fish and seafood served here. Standard. $$

EVO Restaurant & Bar, Mississippi Ave. & Boardwalk. (609) 441-0400. A newbie hot spot for Atlantic City hipsters. Ambient surroundings and loud, live music. Standard. $$

Flying Cloud Cafe, 800 N. New Hampshire Ave. (Gardner's Basin). (609) 345-8222. Typical seafood fare served with a great view. Affordable.

Atlantic City

Girasole Ristorante and Bar, 3108 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City (between the Atlantic City Hilton and the Tropicana). (609) 345-5554. Watch the servers remove the fillets from a salt crusted branzino tableside. Where the casinos send their high rollers. Pricey. $$$

Hard Rock Cafe, on the Boardwalk at Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, (609) 441-0007. Nostalgic atmosphere chock full of musical memorabilia. Eye-catching decor and one mouth-watering menu. Standard. $$

Hooters, in the Trop, Brighton Ave and the Boardwalk. (609) 449-1500. Great sports bar with world famous wings. Affordable. $

Hooters, in Trump Marina, (609) 449-9300.There's always a party at Hooter's! Loud, fun atmosphere with great, American food. A classic. Affordable. $

Irish Pub and Inn, St. James Place and the Boardwalk.(609) 345-9613.Old-fashioned setting with a true antique flare. Incredibly inexpensive and the food is always delicious; a must-try. Affordable. $

Irish's Grill House, 1501 N. Albany Ave. (609) 347-8665. An Atlantic City favorite. The name tells you just about everything you need to know- great Irish food, fun and flair. Affordable. $

Knife and Fork Inn, Atlantic and Pacific Ave. (609) 344-1133. Bigger and better than ever. Renovated to original grandeur. The food is updated, upscale and excellent. Pricey. $$$

Little Saigon Restaurant, 2801 Arctic Ave. (609) 347-9119. Low-key dining room serving delicious Vietnamese specialties. Don't miss goi coun spring rolls! Affordable. $

Longhorn Steak House, The Walk, 2108 Atlantic Ave.(609) 344-2050. Excellent steaks at an affordable price - what more could you ask for? And, of course, it's in the heart of Atlantic City's premier shopping district, The Walk. Firecracker chicken wraps are addictive. Standard. $$

Los Amigos, 1926 Atlantic Ave. (609) 344-2293. Authentic, Mexican cuisine. Sweet as pie wait staff and bottomless tortilla chips with homemade salsa. Yum! Great margarita menu, as well. Affordable. $

Mediterranean Flames, 2641 Boardwalk. (609) 344-7774. Lounge atmosphere right on the boardwalk. Great salads and prime spot for people watching. Standard. $$

The Melting Pot, 2112 Atlantic Ave. (609) 441-1100. The ultimate fondue restaurant offers high-end experience in classy, modern atmosphere. Interactive format makes for a fun night out. Best experience is signature "Big Night Out." Pricey. $$$

Mexico Restaurant, 3810 Ventnor Ave. (609) 344-0366. Local restaurant has evolved for the better over the years. Mexican comfort food like BBQ goat. Affordable. $

Morton's, The Steakhouse, 2100 Pacific Ave. (609) 449-1044. Think Big! Beef is the focus. All cuts are prime, aged meats. Pricey. $$$

New Melaka Restaurant, 28 S. Tennessee Ave. (609) 344-8928. Terrific Malaysian menu plus standard Chinese offerings. Mango chicken is a must! Standard. $$

Old Waterway Inn, 1700 W. Riverside Drive, Venice Park. (609) 347-1793. Romantic atmosphere, great food, and lovely views. Standard. $$

Atlantic City

Polish American Restaurant, 290 Route 9, Barnegat, inside the Lakeside Square Shopping Center, (609) 660-9696. One of the only authentic Polish restaurants in southern New Jersey. Everything is homemade. Affordable. $

Punjab Palace, 1001 Pacific Ave. (609) 344-3003. Excellent Pakistani cuisine. Adventurous diners must come in! Affordable.$

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, 2020 Atlantic Ave. (609) 344-5833. All cuts are from corn-fed, custom-aged, prime Midwestern beef. Red meat rules! Pricey. $$$

Tun Tavern, 2 Miss America Way. (609) 347-7800. Brew Pub offers several beers made on premises. Go for the burgers and great bar food. Affordable. $

Wellington's Steak and Seafood, Brighton Ave. and Boardwalk, (609) 340-4050. Classic seafood dishes elegantly prepared. Stunning atmosphere with a modern flair. Pricey. $$$

Wonder Bar, 3701 Sunset Ave. (609) 344-8888. The bar is for locals, the Sunset room restaurant more upscale. Menu choices are way above average. Standard. $$

Brigantine

Andre's Italian Restaurant, 1312 W. Brigantine Ave., (609) 266-1124. Authentic, Italian cuisine. A gnocchi that keeps bringing customers back. Affordable. $

Hooper's Seafood Cafe, 3312 Brigantine Ave. (609) 266-6826. Combination platters perfectly prepared. Restaurant/take-out and seafood store side by side. Affordable. $

Laguna Grille and Martini Bar, 1400 Ocean Ave., at the Ramada Suites, (609) 266-7731. Excellent and inventive cuisine matched with tropical martinis. Great location, right outside of AC hotspots. Standard. $$

Laragosta Ristorante, 3400 Brigantine Blvd. (609) 266-2808. Tasty Italian food with comfortable ambiance, just like in Italy! Standard. $$

Macedonian Grill, 3015 Brigantine Blvd. (609) 264-8801. Authentic Greek food, Italian specialties and home-cooked diner food in casual atmosphere. Don't leave without trying homemade desserts. Affordable. $

Pirate's Den, 1219 E. Brigantine Ave. (609) 266-1927. Exceptional lunch in a unique dining environment. Standard. $$

Buena

Buena Tavern, Routes 40 and 54. (856) 697-9848. Great, family fun in a comfortable setting. Top quality service and food. Affordable. $

Library V, 206 Route 54, Buena. (856) 697-9696.Hearty portions, never disappointing. Always top quality. Standard. $$

Merighi's Savoy Inn, E. Landis Ave. and Union Road, East Vineland. (856) 691-8051. Well-known and respected Italian bistro. Favorite place of everyday people and celebrities alike. Standard. $$

Cape May Court House

Carmelle at the Doctor's Inn, 2 North Main Street Cape May Court House, (609) 465-1330. Beautiful, Victorian structure. Great wine selection. Affordable. $

Daddy O, 4401 Long Beach Blvd., (609) 494-1300. A contemporary American cuisine restaurant, complete with a retro seashore exterior. Affordable. $

Yvette's Bistro, 104 N. Main Street, (609) 463-8885. Good, fresh, unprocessed food. The place to go for sandwiches, with 13 different sandwich choices. Affordable. $

Corbin City

Buck Tavern, 621 Route 50. (609) 628-3117. Good, basic food. Look for prime rib specials. Neat fireplace and log cabin atmosphere. Standard.$$

Dennis Township

Southville Corner Diner and Pizzeria, 780 Route 47 North, (609) 861-5500. The combo appetizer is a good selection. Great Mickey Mouse shaped pancakes for the kids. Affordable. $

Egg Harbor City

Engine 15 Pub, 236 Philadelphia Ave. (609) 804-8320. Large portions and affordable prices, offering bar and dinner menus with everything from burgers to steaks, seafood and Italian. Friendly, attentive staff. Affordable. $

McKee's Irish Pub, 446 St. Louis Ave. (609) 965-7878. Irish cuisine specializing in homemade shepherd's pie and beef stew. Great bar foods as well. Pub-like atmosphere. Affordable. $

The Renault Winery, Bremen Ave. (609) 965-2111. Prix-fixe menu in romantic setting pairs gourmet cuisine with Renault's best wines. Pricey. $$$

Hammonton Area

Illiano's Ristorante, 705 12th Street, Hammonton. (609) 561-3444. Large portions of homestyle Italian cuisine. Don't let the mediocre decor send you away- the food is good and that's what matters! Standard. $$

Joe Italiano's Maplewood Inn, 470 White Horse Pike, Hammonton. 561-9621. Legendary Italian fare. Nothing fancy, but homemade pasta second to none. Standard. $$

Rocco's Town House, 21 N. Third St. (609) 561-9384. Lively crowd and homemade desserts. Also, the homemade potato chips are out of this world. Standard. $$

Linwood

Fuji Sushi and Steakhouse, 210 New Rd. (609) 926-8861. Small in size but big in taste, especially the fresh sushi rolls named after customers. Standard. $$

Thai Basil, 199 New Rd., Central Square. (609) 926-9339. East Asian fusion food in a quiet, suburban atmosphere. Simple meals with fresh and spicy ingredients. Standard. $$.

Long Beach Island

The Gables Inn and Restaurant, 212 Centre St., Beach Haven. (609) 492-3553. Gorgeous antique B&B with tea time and brunch served daily. Elegant fixed menu items as well as a la carte. Beautiful surroundings, including an outdoor patio dining area and a staff as nice as could be. Pricey. $$$

The Plantation, 7908 Long Beach Blvd., Harvey Cedars. (609) 494-8191. Progressive, American menu with an ambiance of class. Looks like a chain, eats like homemade. Standard. $$

Sweet Vidalia, 122 N. Bay Ave., Beach Haven. (609) 207-1200. Standard. $$

Tuckers, Engleside at the Bay, Beach Haven. (609) 492-2300. Homey bar setting with delicious beers on tap. Standard $$

Longport/Margate

Barrels, 9 South Granville Ave. (609) 823-4400. Hearty portions of flavorful Italian favorites. Try the antipasta and the potato gnocchi. Standard. $$

FishStixx, 212 N. Washington Ave. (609) 822-4228. Seafood with a Mexican twist. Affordable. $

Manna, 8409 Ventnor Ave. (609) 822-7722. BYO restaurant offers New American cuisine from former mojo and Sails executive chef John Merlino. Pricey. $$$

Steve & Cookie's By The Bay, 9700 Amherst Ave. (609) 823-1163. Famous for great food and hospitality, deservedly so. Try the oyster bar. Standard. $$

Tomatoe's, 9300 Amherst Ave., Margate. (609) 822-7535. Well known for fresh seafood dishes, great sushi and inventive menu. Busy bar area. Standard. $$

Ventura's Greenhouse, 106 S. Benson Ave. (609) 822-0140. The upstairs restaurant is first class food and atmosphere. Order the clams casino with crab meat and veal chop Milanese. Standard. $$

Galloway Township

Fishtales, Risley Square, 319 E. Jimmy Leeds Road, (609) 652-1113. Flawless appetizers The jumbo size coconut shrimp, coated with sweet coconut, browned in a deep-fryer and served with a thin, milky white pineapple dipping sauce, hit the spot. Affordable. $

Fred & Ethel's Lantern Light Tavern, Route 9, Shoppes at Smithville. (609) 652-0544. Friendly atmosphere and staff. Great, homemade foods. The crab sandwich is to die for! Affordable. $

Galloway Township

Athenian Garden, 619 South New York Road (Route 9), (609) 748-1818. Large portions of delicious Greek specialties. Gyros, souvlaki and Greek salad are standouts. Also, try the falafel! Affordable. $

J.D.'s Pub & Grille, Route 9, Shoppes at Smithville, (609) 404-9000.Your friendly, neighborhood sport's bar. Dining section much quieter than bar with serene fish tanks and Musak. Affordable.$

La Hacienda, 265 S. New York Road (Route 9), (609) 652-6050. High-level Hispanic food. The flan is perfect and the extensive drink menu is a sure treat. Affordable $.

Marriott's Seaview Golf Resort, Route 9. (609) 652-1800. An outstanding reputation for several years. Beautiful setting with lush flowers and landscaping. Defines romance. Pricey. $$$

McGettigan's 19th Hole, 500 South Route 9. (609) 652-6476. A great place to catch NFL games, and a super prime-rib dinner is offered on Wednesdays. Affordable. $

Mickey and Minnie's Inn, 733 W. White Horse Pike, Cologne. (609) 965-1877. Great food in cozy surroundings. German food offered as weekly specials. Affordable.$

Oyster Creek Inn, Oyster Creek Dock, Leeds Point. (609) 652-8565. A little hard to find, but fresh seafood worth the trek. Whole lobster special a local favorite. Affordable. $

Ram's Head Inn, 9 W. White Horse Pike. (609) 652-1700. Classic continental cuisine that never goes out of style. First class restaurant that has been in business forever. Pricey.$$$

Shifali, in The Days Inn, 224 E. White Horse Pike. (609) 404-4900. Creative Indian cuisine from an innovative chef. Samosas and pakora are good choices. Affordable. $

Smithville Inn, Route 9, Shoppes at Smithville. (609) 652-7777. Standard American fare like chicken pot pie and double cut pork chops. Lake views. Standard. $$

Tre Figlio, 500 W. White Horse Pike. (609) 965-3303. Old world setting on the White Horse Pike. Italian American favorites we never get enough of. Standard. $$

Galloway Township

W. L. Goodfellows and Co., 310 White Horse Pike. (609) 652-1942. A Galloway institution for about 15 years. Timeless menu and friendly people. Affordable. $

Yiasou Greek Restaurant, 269 W. White Horse Pike. (609) 804-9400. Authentic Greek cuisine with casual atmosphere. Gyros, souvlaki, homemade Greek desserts. Affordable. $

Mays Landing Area

Bayshore Crabhouse, 100 Back Road, (856) 447-4535. This crab house is known as the "The Bull on the Barn" with the interior converted into a barn. It specializes in seafood and has a simple menu. Affordable. $

Careme's Gourmet Restaurant, 5100 Black Horse Pike, Atlantic Cape Community College- Academy of Culinary Arts. (609) 343-4940. Student operated restaurant offers interesting food from chefs-in-training and service from students yearning to please. Standard. $$

Cavallino Nero, 4760 Black Horse Pike, (609) 625-0144. Great food in worn surroundings. Don't let that keep you away. Standard. $$

Crabby's, 1413 Route 50. (609) 625-2722. Fun atmosphere, seafood served any and all ways. All-you-can-eat crab nights can't be beat. Dare to try deep-fried smelts? Standard. $$

Inn At Sugar Hill, Routes 40 and 559, on the waterfront. (609) 625-2226. Sit on the porch for river views. Standard. $$

Joe Italiano's Maplewood II, 6126 Black Horse Pike, Mays Landing. (609) 625-1181. Get in line and wait with everyone else. Large portions and family style feel = great meals. Standard. $$

Mays Landing Diner, 6177 Harding Highway (Route 40), (609) 625-5051. Plenty of specials and quick service. Affordable. $

Shiro Japanese Hibachi Restaurant, 3990 Black Horse Pike. (609) 625-8206. Wonderful sushi beautifully prepared. Worth the wait. Standard. $$

Simply Fondue, 4215 Black Horse Pike, 609-677-1600. A unique dipping experience and a wide assortment of fondues are available, but be sure to try the original milk chocolate fondue. Affordable. $

Testa's Good Guys Pub, 5698 Somers Point/Mays Landing Road. (609) 625-1926. With large menu and daily specials, Testa's offers everything from wings to steaks. Eat like a king for under $20 in pub-like atmosphere. Affordable.$

The Clam Bar, 910 Bay Ave., (609) 927-8783. No-frills seafood restaurant without air-conditioning or tablecloths, but the seafood is delicious. Affordable. $

Mizpah

Uncle Dewey's Outdoor BBQ, 6931 U.S. Route 40, (609) 476-4040. Authentic barbeque ribs and chicken, kettle fried fish and homemade sides. Clean, comfortable and relaxing with a friendly outdoor atmosphere. Affordable. $

Ocean City

701 Mosaic Bistro-Cafe-Catering, 701 Fourth St. 398-2700. Ocean City can now dine Caribbean and Mediterranean style thanks to this chic cafe. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the salmon omelettes. Standard. $$.

Arlene's On Asbury, 624 Asbury Ave.. 399-3639. Cozy family-run breakfast and lunch spot. Great omelettes. Healthy selections a hit. Affordable. $.

Chatterbox, 500 9th St.. (609) 399-0113. An Ocean City institution for more than 70 years, this family-friendly, retro restaurant offers everything from homemade milkshakes and burgers to steak and seafood. Affordable. $.

Emily's Ocean Room Cafe, inside the Historic Flander's Hotel, 719 E. 11 Street. 398-5700. American cuisine, homemade soups and desserts from scratch. Exotic entrees ranging from fish to steaks. Vegetable ravioli for those vegetarians- truly delicious. Standard. $$

F&M Restaurant, 1200 Asbury Ave. 391-0080. Fezzuoglio family tradition continues in Ocean City, blending kosher-style deli with Italian cooking. Everything's homemade and portions are generous. Specialties are grilled pastrami and corned.beef and sweet potato pancakes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Affordable. $

Luigi's, Ninth St. and West Ave., 399-4937. Simple, wholesome Italian fare that's been in Ocean City for 35 years. Never changed the recipes or ingredients. Now, that's REAL Italian. Affordable. $

Ma France Creperie, 596 9th St., Ocean City, 399-9955. You won't find too many area restaurants that specialize in crepes, so take advantage of this rare treat. Ma France offers buckwheat and dessert crepes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Standard. $$

Nag's Head Fine Foods, 801 Asbury Ave., Ocean City. (609) 391-9080. High quality, fresh ingredients at a reasonable price. Affordable. $

Piccini Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza, 13th St. and West Ave. 525-0767. Specialty, wood-fired pizzas, Italian dinners and seafood. Family, casual dining. Affordable. $

Scully's Asbury Cafe & Pizzeria, 955 Asbury Ave. 391-1111. Top-notch Italian cuisine and above-average pizza in a casual, trendy atmosphere. Try the buffalo chicken wrap. Standard. $$.

Spadafora's, Ninth Street and Atlantic Ave., 398-6154. Over 25 years old and never out of style. Casual, patio dining serving the freshest seafood and steaks. Seafood comes from their very own own seafood market. Standard. $$

Northfield

Antonino's Jo-Jo's, 2405 New Road. (609) 646-7565. Our go to spot for broccoli di rabe. Italian specialities like stuffed manicotti with red sauce. Affordable. $$

Atlantic City Country Club, 1 Leo Fraser Drive. (609) 641-7575. Gourmet cuisine overlooking historic golf course in country club setting. Dinners offered on weekends. Sunday brunch. Standard. $$

Giovanni's Best of Italy, 801 Tilton Road. (609) 383-1155. Family owned and operated. Dishes ranging from traditional Italian to exotic treats you've never had anywhere else. Standard. $$

Ventura's Offshore Cafe, 2015 Shore Road. (609) 641-5158. Best bar food in the area. Everything is above average from fried shrimp to roast pork sandwich. Affordable.$$

Ocean County Area

Allen's Clam Bar, 5650 Route 9, New Gretna. 296-4106. Go for the food, not the ambiance. Famous for oyster stew and clam chowder. Affordable.$

The Grapevine, Route 9, Tuckerton. 296-7799. Friendly people, casual atmosphere and great eats. Kid friendly. Standard. $$

II Giardino Sul Mare, Route 9 and Hollywood Blvd., Forked River. 971-7699. You're favorite Italian dishes, made to order just the way you like it. great wine! Standard. $$

Pleasantville

JoJo's, Black Horse Pike and Main St. 646-8332. Above average Italian American fare. Baked manicotti is our favorite. Affordable. $

Pistol Pete's Beef 'N Beer, Black Horse Pike and Noah's Rd. 484-1000.Waitresses in costume and a country flare that's hard to come by anywhere else. Good food in an outrageous setting. Affordable. $

Somers Point

Amor Mexican and Italian Cuisine, 801 Bay Ave. Family fighting about where to eat? Check out Amor, which offers Italian and authentic Mexican cuisine in a classy setting. Great service. Standard $$

Anchorage Tavern, 823 Bay Ave. (609) 926-1776. Renovated after major fire. Great bar food and cold beer. New/old surroundings. Somers Point institution that wonderfully straddles culinary fence of bar food and quality cuisine. Affordable.$

Charlie's Bar and Restaurant, 800 Shore Road, (609) 653-9848. Good food in an informal atmosphere. Affordable. $

Crab Trap, Somers Point Circle. (609) 927-7377. Restaurants only survive this long for a reason. Fresh seafood done well. Standard. $$

Doc's Place, 646 Bay Ave. (609) 926-0404. Above average dinners, great brunch menu. Known for its fabulous martinis. Standard. $$.

Enzo's, 269 New Road, Somers Point Shopping Center, 609-927-9477. Good, quality food. Enzo's uses 100% Grande cheese and all fresh ingredients. Affordable. $

Gregory's Restaurant & Bar, 900 Shore Road. (609) 927-6665. Well known for great, daily specials like Taco Tuesday. A great place for good food and fun. Standard. $$

The Grilled Cheese & Crab Cake Co., 55 Laurel Drive. (609) 601-7533. The restaurant's name tells it all: great grilled cheese and crab cakes. What it doesn't tell you is that everything on this American menu is fresh, homemade and scrumptious. Try the cream of crab bisque and fresh baked goodies. Affordable.$

Joe's Restaurant, 131 Jordan Rd. (609) 927-4637. Very good Greek and Italian cuisine. Demand a bowl of chicken pastina soup. Affordable. $ Mac's Restaurant & Lounge, 908 Shore Rd. (609) 927-2759 New surroundings with food reminiscent of an earlier era. Standard. $$

Shanghai House, 28 E. Maryland Avenue, 609-926-3388. Great soups. Try their wonton egg-drop mixed soup. Affordable. $

The Clam Bar, 910 Bay Avenue, at Smith's Pier. (609) 927-8783. No credit cards, no air conditioning. Basic seafood dishes perfectly prepared at a fine price. Affordable.$

Taco Bill's Gringo Grill, 718 Bay Ave. (609) 601-1061. "Gringo Mexican" featuring fish tacos as specialty, plus salads, quesadillas, more. Affordable.$

Up the Creek Clam Bar, 97 Somers Point/Mays Landing Road. (609) 927-5030. New place, eager to please. Seaside views and delicious seafood. Standard. $$

Ventnor

Amedeo's, 5012 Wellington Ave. (609) 822-9522. Homemade and fresh Italian food in an upscale setting. BYOB, beautiful entrees and nightly specials. Standard. $$

Gertrude's, 7309 Ventnor Ave, (609) 823-3003. A cozy, classy and sophisticated American-regional restaurant with influences from the Caribbean, Creole and Southwestern. The Vegetable Wellington must be tried. Affordable. $

Sage, 5206 Atlantic Ave. (609) 823-2110 . An inventive Italian menu in a fine-dining arena makes Sage just as good, if not superior, to Lisa Savage's former Savaradio's in Linwood. High-quality, imported delicacies, a stunning ambiance and a friendly wait staff is reason enough to come experience Sage. Standard. $$

Yama Japanese Restaurant, 5305 Atlantic Ave. (609) 822-8007. Lovely food and service. Everything is as fresh as can be! Standard.$$

Avalon

Bobby Dee's Rock'n Chair Restaurant, 2409 Dune Drive. (609) 967-3300. Eclectic menu and great wine list. Good shore bet! Affordable. $

Cafe Loren, 23rd St. and Dune Drive. (609) 967-8228.Upscale, expertly prepared foods. Quaint atmosphere. Pricey. $$$ Seasonal.

Golden Inn Fish Co., 78th St. and Dune Drive. 368-5155. Luxurious atmosphere with a sophisticated menu. Standard. $$

Kipper'z Restaurant, 2109 Dune Drive. (609) 967-5779. Enjoyable atmosphere and hospitable staff. A safe bet- never fails. Pricey. $$$

Mirage Restaurant, 79th Street and Third Avenue. (609) 368-1919. Interesting menu to begin with but an accommodating chef willing to make any special requests. Worth the money! Pricey. $$$. Seasonal.

Princeton Bar and Grill, 2008 Dune Drive. (609) 967-3456. Great live music with fine American cuisine. Tons of fun comes free with every meal! Affordable. $

The Sea Grill, 225 21st St. (609) 967-5511. Darling location with inventive and unique meals. Truly one of a kind! Standard. $$

Sylvester's Fish Market, 503 21st Ave. (609) 967-7553. A reputation for out of this world crabcakes. Small place with a homey feel but don't let that think they aren't big on food. Great family establishment. Affordable. $

Tortilla Flats, 2540 Dune Dr. (609) 967-5658. Fantastic, authentic Mexican cuisine. Very accommodating for kids, groups or a romantic evening out. Affordable. $. Seasonal.

Windrift Restaurant, 79th St. and the Beach. (609) 368-5761. Great place to see live music and dance. A hoppin' place to go on weekends with classic bar food. Standard. $$

Whitebrier, 260 20th St. (609) 967-5225. Long-time, professional chef serves up delicious, traditional Italian and American dishes. Vintage-like atmosphere, cool and unique. Affordable.$

Bridgeton Area

Coach Room, 59 W. Broad Street, Bridgeton. (856) 451-0041. Large dining area with extensive menu including salad bar. Very cozy setting. Standard. $$

Newport House Restaurant, Husted Lane, Newport. (856) 447-3597. Quaint and elegant in style and food. Standard. $$

S.R. Riley Musical Cafe, 101 E. Commerce St. (856) 459-1109. Beatles-themed eatery offering American cuisine from steaks to pasta to seafood to sandwiches for lunch and dinner. Try the grilled crab cakes or the Beatle burgers. Standard. $$

Cape May

410 Bank Street, 410 Bank St., Cape May. (609) 884-2127. Cajun, Creole, French fusion. Standard. $$

A Ca Mia, 524 Washington Mall, Cape May. (609) 884-6661. Perfect for dining and people watching along the mall. Trattoria-style soups and salads. Standard.$$

Aleathea's, 7 Ocean St., The Inn of Cape May, Cape May. (609) 884-5555. Ocean views from the porch seating area. Full bar with American style food. Standard.$$

Alexander's, 653 Washington St. Cape May. (609) 884-2555. Quaint, colonial setting. Great for romantic weekends. Pricey. $$$

Axelsson's Blue Claw Restaurant, 991 Ocean Drive, Cape May. (609) 884-5878. Tucked back near the fishing docks, seafood doesn't get much fresher. A wide variety of seafood prepared your way. Standard. $$

Ballyhoo's, 1045 Beach Dr., in the Grand Hotel, Cape May. (609) 884-5611. Food's fair, but it's a fun after-hours gathering place, especially for dancing. Inexpensive bar drinks. Standard. $$

Blue Pig Tavern, 251 Beach Ave., Cape May. (609) 884-8422. American fare with a classic and fresh ambiance. Different dining rooms offer different atmospheres, very chic. Standard. $$

Copper Fish, 1246 Rt. 9, Cape May. (609) 898-0354. Smoked selections from crab cakes to mozzarella. Bouilliabaise is always a great choice. Standard. $$

Cucina Rosa, 301 Washington St., Cape May. (609) 898-9800.Homemade Italian favorites with fresh coffees and desserts. Zagat rated - one of the best! Standard. $$

Ebbitt Room at The Virginia Hotel, 25 Jackson St., Cape May. (609) 884-5700 or 800-732-4236. Definitely Cape May's best. Ask for a tasting menu when available. Pricey. $$$

Elaine's Haunted Mansion Restaurant, 513 Lafayette St., Cape May. (609) 884-4358. Menu changes daily but always something for everyone. A barrel of laughs with dinner shows. One of the most entertaining places to eat. Standard. $$

Freda's Cafe, 210 Ocean St., Cape May. (609) 884-7887. European bistro feel with interesting menu. Standard. $$

Frescos Ristorante, 412 Bank St., Cape May. (609) 884-0366. Food ranges from Mediterranean to Tuscan to Venetian but it's all good! It's been said that once you visit, you always come back! Pricey. $$$. Seasonal.

Godmother's Restaurant, 413 Broadway, Cape May. (609) 884-4543. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Henry's On the Beach, 702 Beach Ave., Cape May. (609) 884-8826. American comfort food in a casual, oceanside setting. Standard. $$

Lobster House, Fisherman's Wharf, Cape May. (609) 884-8296. Still "the" place for seafood in South Jersey. Schooner dinner showcases local seafood at its best. Standard. $$

Lucky Bones, 1200 Route 109, Cape May. (609) 884-1919. Full bar and light menu with good Cuban pork sandwiches and soups. Standard. $$

Mad Batter, 19 Jackson St., Cape May. (609) 884-5970. The mother of all Cape May gourmet restaurants. Still quirky after all these years. Standard. $$

Magnolia Room, 301 Howard St., The Chalfonte Hotel, Cape May. (609) 884-8409. Homemade food with a Southern flair. Everything is delicious and everyone leaves happy. Pricey. $$$. Seasonal.

Merion Inn, 106 Decatur St., Cape May. (609) 884-8363. Have a drink at the piano bar. Creative cuisine makes for a fun evening. Standard. $$

Moonfish Grill, 416 S. Broadway, Cape May. (609) 898-1600. Eclectic, modern fusion cusine celebrating steaks and seafood. Wood-grilled items and attention to details make Moonfish stand out. Great sauces and homemade desserts. Standard. $$

Oyster Bay Steak and Seafood Restaurant, 615 Lafayette St., Cape May. (609) 884-2111. Surf and turf with a twist. A brand new bar with excellent drinks to match. Standard. $$

Peter Shields Inn, 1301 Beach Drive, Cape May. (609) 884-9090. Elegant food and surroundings. Up there with the best of Cape May. Pricey. $$$

Union Park Dining Room, 727 Beach Ave., Cape May. (609) 884-8811. Thought by many to be one of the best restaurants in Cape May. Contemporary cuisine and it's BYOB. Try executive chef John Schatz's South African lobster. Pricey. $$$

Washington Inn, 801 Washington Ave., Cape May. (609) 884-5697. The Cape May standard bearer of luxury cuisine. Everything is always perfect. Pricey. $$$

Dennis Township

Karen and Rei's, Route 9, Clermont. (609) 967-4488. Interesting food from a creative chef. Service is heavily orchestrated. Pricey. $$$

Lower Township

Bella Mangiata, 1891 Bayshore Rd., Villas. (609) 889-6800. "Italy without airfare." Try their famous crab cakes and prime rib diners. Standard. $$

Harpoon Henry's, 91 Beach Drive, Lower Twp. (609) 884-5697. Tropical food, drinks and setting. A fun place to dine with fresh and delicious entrees. Standard. $$

Middle Township

Atkinson's Restaurant and Tavern, 1010 Route 9 South, Cape May Court House. (609) 465-5641. A favorite. Great food and an exciting bar scene. Standard. $$

Bellevue Tavern, 7 S. Main St., Cape May Court House. (609) 463-1738. Great lunches are served. Bar food menu done well. Affordable. $

Doctor's Inn, 2 N. Main St., Cape May Court House. (609) 463-9330. A 19th century masion turned into a cozy B&B. Beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings. Pricey. $$$

Millville

Next Oar, 127 North High Street. (856) 293-1360. Intimate restaurant with plenty of candles and atmosphere. Well prepared menu with interesting choices. Standard. $$

Oliver's Twist, 66 Sassafras St. (856) 327-4288. Simple yet fun menu and clever decorations. In the arts district of Millville so nearby many attractions. Downright cute! Affordable. $

Old Oar House Irish Pub, 123 N. High St. (856) 293-1200. A first-class establishment. Outside beer garden and seating area. Pub style menu with favorites like coconut shrimp and everyday homemade soups. Affordable. $

Port of Call, Route 47 and 55. (856) 327-5547. Contemporary American cuisine in a casual and comfortable setting. Standard. $$.

Winfield's Restaurant, 106 N. High St. (856) 327-0909. Urban upscale restaurant. Lunch, dinner and brunch is served. Standard. $$

Rio Grande

Menz Restaurant, Route 47 and Fulling Mill Road. (609) 886-9500. Goofy, nautical decorations make Menz's memorable. Happening bar scene on Friday nights. Standard. $$

Rio Station, Route 9 and 47. (609) 889-2000. All aboard! Great railroad decor and standard, hearty fare. Standard. $$

Sea Isle City

Basilico's, 27 43rd St. (609) 263-1010. Ethnic cuisine down by the shore. Delicious! Standard. $$

Braca Cafe, Kennedy Blvd. and the Beach. (609) 263-4271. Friendly bar/restaurant located on beach block. Solid food and drink. Standard. $$

Busch's Seafood Restaurant, 8700 Landis Ave. (609) 263-8626. When is the last time you had she-crab soup? Have it at Busch's, a family restaurant forever. Standard. $$

Lobster Loft, 42nd St. and the Bay. (609) 263-3000. Fun and entertaining restaurant with large menu that specializes in steak and seafood. Great bar with live entertainment. Check out their early-bird specials. Standard. $$

O'Donnell's Pour House, 3907 Landis Ave. (609) 263-5600. Pub atmosphere attracts a young crowd. Varied menu. Extensive beer and scotch selections. Standard. $$

Vince's Restaurant, 25 John F. Kennedy Blvd., 609-263-4567. A multi-level restaurant with two dining areas. A menu "where people can enjoy themselves from beginning to end." Affordable. $

Strathmere

Mildred's Strathmere Restaurant, 901 Ocean Drive, Strathmere, Upper Township, (609) 263-8209. Homemade pastas. Try the Jewish apple cake and an Italian rum cake. Affordable. $

Stone Harbor

Kuishimbo, 330 96th St. (609) 967-7007. Typical Japanese done right. Always enjoyable. Standard. $$

Mildred's, Ocean Dr. and Prescott Rd. (609) 263-8209. A weekenders paradise. Lovely food in a beachy setting. Standard. $$

Upper Township

Deauville Inn, 201 Willard Road. (609) 263-2080. Friendly staff, fantastic food with gorgeous sunset view. Dine inside or outside. Open year round. Standard. $$

Mama Mia Ristorante, Cedar Square Shopping Center, Seaville. (609) 624-9322. Mix of American-Italian standards and upscale specials. Always crowded, because the food is always good. Standard. $$

Obadiah's, 321 Roosevelt Blvd., Marmora. (609) 390-3574. Incredible seafood. Need you know more? Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Red Sky Cafe, 3054 Route 9, Seaville. (609) 624-2550. Southwestern and Tex-Mex offerings. One of those little gems along Route 9. Order the cowboy steak, any style, pardner. Standard. $$

Tuckahoe Inn, 1 Harbor Rd. and Route 9, Beesley's Point. (609) 390-3322. Standard continental menu fare with beautiful views. Crabcakes are a specialty of the chef. Standard. $$

Yesterday's Restaurant, 316 Roosevelt Blvd., Marmora. (609) 390-1757. The name echoes its old-timey feel and the food is just as classic. Check out the unique decor above the bar. Great service. Standard. $$

Vineland

Continental Room, West Landis Ave. and Route 55., in the Ramada Inn, (856) 692-8600. Fine continental cuisine in ana upscale setting. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two. Pricey. $$$

The Garden Room, 3722 E. Landis Ave., Vineland. (856) 691-3303. Drab exterior, fine-dining interior. Huge banquet room for large groups, parties, etc. Exotic and artistic decor with a creative menu to match. Standard. $$

Lucia's, 785 W. Sherman Ave. (856) 692-0300. Visit Italy. Dine in an indoor courtyard. The atmosphere is a theme; the food is very good. Standard. $$

Maplewood III, 200 N. Delsea Dr. (856) 692-2011. Daily dinner and early bird specials and a strong focus on hospitality. A pleasant place to dine. Standard. $$

Neptune Seafood House and Cocktail Lounge, 1554 S. Delsea Drive. (856) 692-2800. Affordable seafood that's big on taste. When we say big, we mean 1-pound lobster big. Standard. $$

Red Lobster, 3849 S. Delsea Drive. (856) 825-9600. The classic chain you've come to know and love. Standard. $$

The Wildwoods

The Bayview, 8100 Bayview Drive, Wildwood Crest. (609) 522-1287. Classic food, classic taste. Something for everyone- from the fancy to the standard. Standard. $$

Boathouse Restaurant, 506 W. Rio Grande Ave., Wildwood. (609) 729-5301. Try the surf and turf. Very clean with outside dining. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Cafe Jon Paul, 2501 New Jersey Ave., North Wildwood (609) 729-4600. For some California cuisine in southern New Jersey, there's no better place than Cafe Jon Paul. You get the best of both worlds here - a trendy environment with a casual and laid-back feel with creative salads, sandwiches and upscale entrees. Standard. $$

Claude's, 100 Olde New Jersey Ave., North Wildwood. (609) 522-0400. On the lookout for Dover sole, coq au vin or bouilliabaise? Visit this petite oasis in North Wildwood for typical French delights. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Duffy's On The Lake, 7601 New Jersey Ave., Wildwood Crest. (609) 522-1815. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Gia, 3001 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood. (609) 729-5959. Everyone's favorite veal, chicken and seafood dishes. Upscale food and surroundings. Standard. $$

Groff's Restaurant, 423 Magnolia Ave., Wildwood. (609) 522-5474. Outdated ambiance but amazing prices with excellent food. Family friendly beyond belief. Affordable. $

Jersey Girl Drinks and Dining, Corner of Schellenger and Atlantic avenues. (609) 523-1800. Contemporary American cuisine focusing on meat and seafood. Everything from roasted corn crab chowder to seafood paella to Ahi tuna worth the visit. Beautiful bar. Standard. $$

Juan Pablo's, Garfield and Pacific Ave., Wildwood. (609) 729-6500. A corner bar that doubles as a Mexican restaurant with delicious entrees and crayons for the kids. Covered in festive accents, makes for a fun dining experience. Hot spot after hours, as well. Standard. $$

La Piazza Cucina Italiano, 4600 Pacific Ave., Wildwood. (609) 522-8300. Hot Italian food,live music, family atmosphere. Don't miss the clams in red sauce. Standard. $$

Lighthouse Pointe, 5101 Shawcrest Rd., Wildwood. (609) 522-SHIP. Seem to cater to an older audience with little kid-friendly diversions but the food is great and the dining room is big enough for large groups. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Marie Nicole's, 9510 Pacific Ave., Wildwood Crest. (609) 522-5425. One of the first "gourmet" restaurants to succeed in Wildwood area. Order the ancho-chili crisp fried calamari and the horseradish crusted swordfish. Standard. $$

Neil's Steak and Chowder House, 222 E. Schellenger Ave., Wildwood. (609) 522-5226. Never a disappointment. The crab imperial stuffed flounder is a big seller. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Nino's Family Restaurant, 201 West Walnut Ave., North Wildwood. (609) 729-9314. Homey pasta house with gigantic portions. Standard. $$

Owen's Pub, 119 E. 17th Ave., (609) 729-7290. Comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Affordable. $

Sunset Bay, 400 W. Spruce Ave., North Wildwood. (609) 523-0411. Tropical meets traditional in this gem of a shore restaurant. Great service and fun for the kids. Standard. $$.Seasonal.

Tucker's, Wildwood and Atlantic Ave., Wildwood. (609) 846-1110. Happy Hour and daily specials a must. Beautiful furniture like an enormous stain-glass chandelier. One of a kind Irish pub! Standard. $$

Two Mile Inn & Crab House, Ocean Drive, Wildwood Crest. (609) 522-1341. Fresh seafood, gotta try the jumbo steamed shrimp.Outside Tiki Bar a big draw, as well. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Urie's Waterfront Restaurant, 588 West Rio Grande Ave. (609) 522-4189. Urie's has lost much of its luster over the years. Typical menu of broiled/ fried seafood combinations. Standard. $$. Seasonal.

Woodbine

Soprano's Pizzeria, Route 550, corner of Dehirsch and Heilprin, (609) 861-3663. Delicious pasta dishes. Try the baked ziti and cheese ravioli. Affordable. $