Finally Got to Dine Outside at Barnacle Bill’s

I waited all summer because everyone was clamouring for a table.

This family-owned and operated restaurant is a place where so many of us have made memories throughout the years. Barnacle Bill's is truly a beloved restaurant in Rumson on the Navesink River.

But, up until Covid, it never offered outide dining. Part of its charm was being crammed inside around a table or the bar enjoying a great burger, some drinks, and live entertainment.

We were all concerned when the pandemic shut things down, but Barnacle Bill's rallied with take-out, and then came back big by July with a brand new gorgeous outside garden for dining overlooking the water.

Although known for their burgers, their seafood and other selections are fabulous, too, and they make a mean Pina Colada (when's the last time you had one of those?!)

When Barnacle's re-opened for outside dining, there were some evenings where you simply couldn't get a table. That's how loved this place is.

So I waited. I bided my time. Then the governor started allowing a little indoor dining and the tourists went home, and I was finally able to nab a table as summer wound down and we welcomed fall.

This is simply the kind of casual, friendly place that is indescribable. It's woven into the fabric of the Jersey Shore and so many lives. It's the place you go after a show, or when you're celebrating a birthday, for date night, or just to spend some fun time with your friends.

You'll usually see one of the family members working just as hard and right alongside the staff and you'll hear lots of laughter and see lots of smiles.  You'll never beat that sunset over the water. And, although we miss all the live music, we know that one day it, too will be back.

Here's to supporting locally owned small businesses like this one. May they sustain, thrive, and prosper despite the odds.