Cafe Loren

Cafe Loren Restaurant Review:

For more than 30 years, this seasonal fine dining establishment has lured knowledgeable guests to its pretty, flower-bedecked tables. With the sea just a few blocks away, the emphasis is on fish and shellfish, but foods of the land are given equal time and attention by talented chef-owner Stephen Serano, who worked with Gordon Ramsay in New York City before finding his way to the Jersey Shore those many years ago. He offers a thoughtful menu with clever twists, such as pan-seared sea scallops served with a unique edamame and yellow corn succotash, roasted garlic edamame purée and star anise red onion marmalade. We also recommend dishes inspired by New Jersey agriculture, such as blueberry braised short ribs accompanied by chili-glazed peaches and plums along with a shaved fennel salad and blueberry parsnip purée. Choose from an array of desserts, but if you’re given the chance, ask for the ginger crème brûlée.