"As a fan of McLoone's, I had some reservations as I walked into a lively bar area filled with numerous TV screens, high-top tables, and patrons enjoying their whiskey. However, a friendly hostess guided us to the dining area, which features two distinct sections: one is a bistro-like space where patrons can enjoy the excitement of gamblers and sports fans, and the other is a quieter, more refined area tucked away from the betting buzz.
The decor is similar to other McLoone's locations, albeit without the stunning ocean views of Long Branch and Asbury. Each booth is equipped with its own flat-screen TV, allowing diners to keep an eye on horse races and various cable channels. The ambiance was surprisingly calm, especially since my boyfriend and I were the only couple there, aside from one other man.
The menu is classic McLoone's fare, featuring a solid drink selection and excellent beer options. They also offer a prix fixe menu for about $35, which is a pleasant surprise given the current economic climate—this kind of deal was hard to find in restaurants just a few years ago. The appetizer choices included typical sports bar staples like dips and wings, but we opted for calamari served with chipotle aioli and marinara. It was perfectly cooked—not too greasy or over-fried—and the aioli had a delightful kick to it. I also appreciated the beautiful presentation.
Craving a caprese salad, I was pleased with the fresh mozzarella and tomato stack. The balsamic dressing had a unique almost-maple consistency that added an interesting twist to the classic dish. Now, anyone who knows me understands that I can’t resist ordering mac and cheese if it’s on the menu. I’ve had the Long Branch mac and cheese before, which was creamy and perfectly baked in a casserole dish. Unfortunately, this version felt like a less experienced attempt. The cheese was overly synthetic, reminiscent of Velveeta, and the pasta was a bit tough—not the al dente I was hoping for.
My boyfriend ordered the Chicken Iglesias, which came with a delicious combination of chicken, prosciutto, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, served over parmesan mashed potatoes. I couldn’t wait to snag his leftovers for lunch the next day! His prix fixe meal included a chocolate chip cookie sundae, featuring a freshly baked cookie straight from the oven topped with a generous scoop of ice cream. It was everything you’d want in a dessert—rich and gooey.
We enjoyed a couple of martinis for me and beers for him, bringing the bill to around $90—though it would have been significantly cheaper without my $10 martinis. Overall, it was a good experience, and since I live nearby, I plan to come back frequently to explore other tempting options like the Ahi Tuna and scallops. Plus, being the opportunist that I am, I placed a bet on a horse at the end of our meal and ended up winning back $34—talk about a sweet ending!"
