Cataldo’s Cuisine – Chef Mike’s ABG [VIDEO]

I make no bones about this one...this week's stop is hands down, no question, one of my absolute must-try restaurants at the Jersey Shore!

This week is all about Chef Mike's ABG in South Seaside Park.

Formerly the Atlantic Bar & Grill, this place is right on the beach, bordering Island Beach State Park. I won't lie, it's a TREK if you live in the northern half of Monmouth County, but I promise you, it's worth it.

Chef Mike Jurusz is one of my favorite chefs, not just because of his bigger than life personality, but because his food is SO LEGIT I CAN'T TAKE IT.

For real, he's just a whiz in the kitchen. Just go. Try anything and everything. The menu changes seasonally, but available now, I'm a huge fan of the blackened Mahi Mahi with coconut rice and mango pineapple salsa but there are also some bangin' lobster dishes. You also can't miss his Asian-style fried calamari, the raw bar, and please don't leave without trying dessert.

I'd also highly recommend sitting at the bar for dinner, because 1) they put bacon on the bar as a snack. BACON. ON THE BAR. And plus, bar manager Johnny LongLegs is my dude, and his drinks are on point!

Summer bonus: The Tiki bar is open now, so you can eat and dine outside, looking out on the sand and sea. May I recommend a pitcher of sangria and some of the giant shrimp?

Check out Chef Mike's ABG at 24th and Central Ave. in South Seaside Park. Summer hours: Open daily at 5 p.m., Tiki Bar open weekends 11a-4p. Reservations are highly recommended. Call (732) 854-1588.