Porta Asbury Park: Pizza and Pasta Delight

Clamboni Double Sized

Pizza Carbonara

After attending my cousin's high school graduation, we all decided to eat a quick dinner before she had to wisk off to project graduation. Multiple suggestions were thrown in the air until finally deciding on PORTA ASBURY PARK.

The establishment is more of a casual ambiance with distressed cafeteria style long tables and often times a shared experience with other patrons. In the center one is greeted by an oversized bar filled with people dining and sharing cocktails with laughter. Finally, towards the back area you can see up close as the cooks make brick oven style pizza, I find great specially for first time diners.

As everyone begins ordering their meal, the one thing that catches my eye is the plate named CLAMBONI, and I figured why not try something different while everyone decided on pizza. When my plate arrived I was happily surprised that it was mini clams tossed with spinach fettucini and sliced zucchini. I paired my dish with a glass of house white wine and it meshed together beautifully. Of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to try their tantalizing pizza menu, I asked my cousin for a piece of her carbonara pizza, and it was delicious! Cheesy, aromatic, and crispy thin, all of which I love about a pizza.

Porta Asbury Park is one of those places where you can brings friends and family to have a great meal and just have fun. It is priced affordably and the food is amazing.



Watermark: Fire, Air, Water!

Using the elements Fire, Air, and Water as inspiration for its design, Watermark's owner Russell Lewis, ingeniously creates 3 distinct atmospheres where patrons can lounge and enjoy skillfully blended beverages.
As one enters Watermark; directly on the left is the outdoor deck area (opened during the summer season) where the concept of AIR comes to play as one may lounge in this open area and enjoy the ocean breeze. In the center, massive window panes frame the ocean stretching far into the horizon; a wonderful delight to experience WATER. During the cold winter months, Watermark offers a warm escape from the weather as the third section has a toasty fireplace where one can drink either an amazing Raspberry Caparinha, Bahama Bay Breeze, or a Watermark Lemonade (some of my personal favorites) all the while sitting by the FIRE.
As summer is fast approaching I look forward to lazy nights just lounging at Watermark's deck area overlooking the ocean above Asbury Park's famed boardwalk. I do anticipate another season of new summer drinks and revisiting some old favorites. Aside from the beauty and class of Watermark, it holds a special place in my heart; I have celebrated several birthdays, met some amazing people, and shared countless laughters with friends!!!!

Cubacan: 'Modern Cuban Cuisine with Latin Ambiance'

Serving a delightful take on modern Cuban cuisine within a sultry Latin ambiance, Cubacan, proves to be another jewel in the heart of Asbury Park's revitalization. After discovering this amazing place, located on the Asbury Park boardwalk, I have not been able to stop going. Finding every reason in the book from 'happy hour' to birthdays, and even just to bring a friend who haven't been to Cubacan- I find myself drawn to this place and its pallette satisfying cuisine.
My first visit to Cubacan began with a wonderful Guava Mojito drink and a trio ceviche of salmon, tuna, and baby shrimp with fried banana chips. Then, followed with its delightful salmon dinner served with white rice topped with black beans and platanos- DIVINE! The best is yet served in the end with a tantalizing serving of Tres Leches in a creamy sauce with strawberry hearts and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Simply put, it was love on a plate!!! On subsequent visits I sampled other delights on the menu such as the corn with grated cheese, and the fried calamari, as well as the avocado and tomato salad, and beef finger sandwiches.
I certainly have 3 more pages of delights to taste and will share every bite with everyone. Cubacan is located on 800 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712. If your in the area lets grab a bite!!!