A new 'hot spot,' The Beach Gallery in Keansburg hosts rooftop events, brunches and more
The Beach Gallery in Keansburg is more than a restaurant, with three levels all serving a different purpose.
The first floor is a grab-and-go market and cafe; the second is a brunch vista and tea room; and the third is an indoor/outdoor party destination. On top of that, it's a local art gallery, with views of the Raritan Bay, Keansburg Amusement Park, and New York City skyline.
When we first visited in April, when finishing touches were still being worked on, it all seemed perplexing. Could the place be all of these things at once?
The answer is yes.
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Every weekend has drawn in a crowd, with events like drag brunches, foodie events and karaoke nights, which Beach Gallery will host on the Fourth of July.
The upstairs patio features cozy cabanas, ambient florals and foliage. The VIP lounge, on the other side of the main indoor bar, is regularly drenched in sunlight — a perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine and read.
"We've had live music. We've had DJs. We've had karaoke. We've had great crowds and people have been very supportive," said director of operations John Schulte. "We've had some really great packed events.
"Everyone seems to love the patio upstairs, that seems to be a hot spot," he continued, adding that the cabana closest to the front of the building gets the best views and sun.
Art by Tim Lucas, showcased in the gallery and throughout the restaurant, pulls it all together with eccentric and whimsical drawings of fae and the female form.
All the art can be purchased in-house, and some has already been sold.
"The Beach Gallery features rotating art displays from local artists and supports community initiatives promoting the arts, such as donating to the Locals Art Space [in Asbury Park]," said owner and founder Janna Epstein, in an email. "... We believe in celebrating Keansburg's rich history while fostering a vibrant future."
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Every detail in the building — the resin bar counter, the flower-decorated Korbel mimosa flights, the golden oyster shells hidden throughout — ties it all together.
But the real star of the show is the food, featuring sweet and savory bites like homemade sweet potato waffles drenched in smoky bourbon barrel maple syrup and candied pecans, topped by crispy fried chicken with hot honey.
The steak and eggs shakshuka is a Middle Eastern and North African dish featuring ribeye steak and three poached eggs in a zesty red sauce with caramelized onions, roasted red peppers and roasted potatoes. It comes with grilled naan.
Another highlight is the burrata toast: a crisped piece of Italian bread topped with prosciutto, burrata, roasted cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar caviar.
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"Our chef is amazing, she's an artist," Schulte said. "She's not just worried about the kitchen, she's worried about the whole customer experience — the presentation, table settings, the center pieces, the flowers ...
"We want the plates to come out looking like a work of art."
There are plenty of brunch cocktails available. The Korbel flight comes in flavors like Cherry Bomb, Raspberry and Orange Julius. If vodka is more your speed, try the flowering spritz tower with Grey Goose Essence spritz cocktails in strawberry lemongrass, watermelon basil and peach rosemary.
Hardier drinks include the Brunch Julep with Angels Envy Rye, Golden Falernum, Fever Tree Ginger Beer and fresh mint.
Schulte hopes The Beach Gallery can be a place where everyone feels welcome, whether you're on a date or spending time with family after the beach.
In an email, Epstein said this is the perfect time to open.
"As Keansburg continues its redevelopment, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation," she said. " ... The Beach Gallery is contributing to Keansburg’s revitalization."
Go: 260 Beachway Ave., Keansburg; 732-778-4098, beachgallerykeansburg.com.
Gabriela L. Laracca joined the USA Today Network New Jersey in 2021 and eagerly brings her passion for cuisine and culture to our readers. Send restaurant tips to [email protected]. Follow on Instagram at Jersey Shore Eats and subscribe to our Jersey Shore Eats newsletter.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Beach Gallery in Keansburg offers food, drinks, views, local art
