By JOANNE L. PAPAIANNI
The unofficial summer season is upon us and to help kick it off Monmouth County and local officials will gather at the Bradley Beach Gazebo, Fifth and Ocean Avenues, at 2:15 p.m. Fri., May 26 to usher it in.
Helping to mark the beginning of the holiday weekend will be students from Bradley Beach Elementary School, representatives of attractions, chambers of commerce and hotels.
Business owners will talk about what’s in store for the county from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
In addition, the winner of the first ever Monmouth County Summer Kick-off poster contest will be revealed and Bradley Beach students will learn who among them takes home summer prize packages.
While you’re there see what beach-goers in the early 20th century wore and take a moment to put yourself in their sandals.
The economic impact to the county is reflected in hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, beach badge sales and more.
County and local officials will be in attendance along with representatives from chambers of commerce, Monmouth Park Racetrack, and the Breakers Hotel of Spring Lake.
If you’re preparing your plans for the weekend and are too time challenged to shop, prepare and pack a meal to go, there are plenty of options at the shore for busy beachgoers.
Whether its breakfast, lunch or dinner, a simple phone call or online app will have a meal packed and ready to go for pick up, while some will deliver right to the beachfront.
La Tapatia
La Tapatia at 707 Main Street in Asbury Park has a full menu that can be packed up and be ready to go, to the beach or park. Restaurant Manager Stephanie Garcia said most people order enchiladas, tacos and chimichangas to go. All meals come with rice, beans, sour cream, salsa and guacamole. Chips can also be ordered on the side.
But those wanting a sandwich can order a torta on bolillo bread with steak, chicken or pork.
La Tapatia is open Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Call them at 732.776.7826.
Way Beyond Deli
Way Beyond Deli is on Grub Hub, the online food delivery app which makes their food for breakfast, lunch or dinner on its way with the touch of the screen.
They start delivering early.
“We’re in here at 8 a.m. and start delivering right away,” said Owner Laurie Olsen.
Since they just moved to Sunset Avenue in Ocean Township this year from Tinton Falls this is the first year they will be delivering to the beachfront. Olson said customers can call or order on Grub Hub and then be on the boardwalk to pick up their food.
“If we had to park, it could be blocks away,” she said.
Olson said the full menu will be available but expects subs, salads, juices and smoothies to be favorite beach items.
Way Beyond Deli is located at 3209 Sunset Avenue, 732.918.6161.
Frank’s Deli and Bakery
The iconic Frank’s Deli on Main Street in Asbury Park will pack up sandwiches, chips and a drink for those who call ahead.
“They can call and order and it will be ready to take out,” said the receptionist.
She added that the biggest seller, whether for breakfast or lunch is pork roll, egg and cheese on a hard roll.
“We give them a pickle with their lunch too,” she added. “And we have a full supply of Snapples and soda.”
Frank’s Deli, however, does not provide delivery services. Call them at 732.775.6682.
Buttered Biscuit
At the Buttered Biscuit in Bradley Beach, Gabby Burke said their most popular take out item is pork roll, egg and cheese, for either breakfast or lunch.
She said as far as breakfast goes the hash special or the Maui Meg french toast are also fan favorites.
Burke said beach goers can order anything on the menu by phone and it will be ready at the front desk.
Lunch items come with a fresh pickle and cole slaw.
“We give them ketchup, utensils, really anything they need,” she said.
Call the Buttered Biscuit at 732.807.4069.
Clancy’s Tavern
Clancy’s Tavern also sells a lot of pork roll, egg and cheese to go, but other favorites include kids chicken fingers and grilled or barbecued wings.
Burgers and grilled cheese also top the list along with an unlikely choice, Clancy’s Irish potato soup.
“That’s very popular,” said podium man Ronnie Berardesco.
He said just call ahead and take-out will be ready.
Walk-ins are welcome too, Berardesco said.
Berardesco said for those who like after hours dinner on the beach, the kitchen is open until 1 a.m.
And Clancy’s is now on Instragram so add them to your social media list. Call Clancy’s at 732.988.4500.
