The Grapevine

Samantha Antona

Our server Matthew was AWESOME. He was swamped but so attentive. Someone was always around refilling our water. Great cranberry margarita, the calamari was the standout app and I definitely recommend the Manhattan clam chowder!

Michael “Newmie” Newman

You don’t know Tuckerton? You don’t even know the Jersey shore. Heck, agreed, nothing is known until you step forward into the Light. Life so, so, so gets better when ya do! Hence… this gem of the near-shore, The Grapevine, is indeed a verily must-try when your family road trip takes you along this part of America still unspoilt by a rapidly advancing chaos [Covidmess? Neo-liberalism? The “push the goodness & created order out” lie?] frustrating all of us. “Nothing to be ashamed of!” as Sweet Waitress Michelle presented her case for this Italian restaurant being one to frequent often, whether hailing from the local or, in my case, a “no-origin rolling stone”. Clearly, all the crew understands well that tight service is a big part of the fine, classical dining experience. From the water-boy to the hostess to the guy on the back-kitchen porch finishing up a quick cigarette, words were few and “quick to be in the action” was plentiful. The freshly baked bread with real butter (expected, not always nor everywhere found) and crisp seeds on the crust opened up an evening conversation that saw me learn a brief about not just Tuckerton, Hammonton, and the environs, but also about present spiritual advances in The Garden State. Such pleasantry only multiplied upon me trying the scrumptious New England “chowda” (not too salty, as is unfortunately wont to happen) followed by a hefty Caesar salad (don’t over salt, and no tomatoes, please, this is happily an Italian-cucina after all!) which provided a take-home “tomorrow for breakfast”, eaten thusly before my busting over to Atilis Gym in EHT. My NJ buddy and B&B host, Thomas, had the crusted salmon that almost called for a gilded frame and stage-mounts. I could barely snap a quick pic before he took to it with his silverware and welcoming palate. Without much ado, his hard day’s frown immediately turned upside down. No effort to comment; his reverie from the repast was easily discerned. A very affordable choice for a couple’s evening out, complete with reasonable prices for alcohols and other beverages. Iced-tea a great option here, btw. Families can also make this quiet spot a place for special occasions. However, the incredible luv 💛 put into the food prep and service here is just not going to be appreciated by the younger peeps among us, whom…. <sigh> Joseph Conrad noted, receive “youth”… and proceed to waste it. 😔 I may not know well what’s-what about the government’s current key decisions in NJ. Yet, if The Grapevine can continue just like it is: to keep its doors open, with divine meals and the lovely servers on its payrolls… then no doubt this timeless corner of East Americana-coastline called Tuckerton is going to continue be with us, too…. … and deservedly unspoilt. 🇮🇹 🇺🇸 🤠🙏💛

Denise Remite

If you miss this spot it is your loss! Great service, great food & great entertainment. We simply can’t wait to return! Order the flatbread, it was delicious! The old fashion was spot on!

John Miller

Seated upstairs. The owners might want to think about a total redo. Looks very tired and worn. Food was okay. I ordered the chicken special. Too much sauce on the plate. The service was scattered. Please, please don’t tell me the kitchen is backed up. Better idea, bring bread, drinks and encourage your dinner’s to enjoy.