Gluten-Free Gems on the Jersey Shore

The Marina Grille in Belmar, New Jersey serves up a lively, crowd-pleasing gluten-free menu, all set against the backdrop of stunning waterfront views. 

Two weeks ago, I was on the hunt for the perfect dinner spot… mainly so I’d have an excuse to wear the new sundress I’d found while sifting through the racks at Marshall’s. Per usual, my hunt began with the reliable Find Me Gluten-Free app (which I owe my life to for all of the amazing places I have found through them). 

It felt like they’d read my mind and pulled up exactly what I was dreaming of, because before I knew it, I was deep into reviews for Marina Grille. 

Situated on the Shark River, it’s a popular spot for waterfront views and fresh, coastal-inspired dishes. Marina Grille brings the best of the Jersey Shore, whether you're just dropping in for lunch, staying for dinner or getting a cocktail at the tiki bar.

The Grille has a separate gluten-free menu, which is available upon request. Inside you’ll find their gluten-free ‘lighter fare,’ along with salads, main dishes and two deserts to choose from. 

Seafood Tower:

The seafood tower brings the best of the ocean all within a chilled dish. It includes a whole lobster, snow crab legs, shrimp, oysters and clams, along with cocktail sauce and some lemon. If you’re a seafood lover like me, this is a starter that can bring the challenge of breaking shells and trying your best to get past the texture of the oysters (which is still something my brain can’t enjoy). 

Spicy Crab and Spinach Dip: 

Before my gluten-free life began, I was obsessed with Red Lobster’s spinach dip. The Marina Grille’s spicy crab and spinach dip tops Red Lobster’s on all levels. Modifying this app to be gluten-free is as simple as a quick swap of celery sticks for bread, although I am tempted to bring along my own tortilla chips next time. The dip is creamy, crab-stuffed, flavorful and has a nice kick of heat that is not too overbearing. 

Pepper Crusted Filet Mignon:

Onto mains, I was eyeing the gluten-free filet from the minute I opened the menu. This center-cut tenderloin comes topped with bacon and crumbled bleu cheese, with a side of smooth whipped mashed potatoes. This steak was filled with flavor and paired wonderfully with the tangy taste of the bleu cheese and salty bacon. Being a restaurant reviewer has exposed me to many food pairings I would have even thought of, and bleu cheese mashed potatoes is one of them, although not entirely uncommon. 

Ahi Tuna:

A plate of flash seared ahi tuna coated in a cajun rub paired with grilled pineapple, jalapeno salsa, coconut rice and cilantro, bringing together all of the coastal flavors that come to mind for summertime. This dish paired perfectly with the ‘vibe’ of the marina and, as expected, left me wishing I knew how to cook like this for myself (hence why you always catch me writing restaurant reviews rather than recipes…).

Peanut Butter Explosion: 

The PB explosion puts two of my all-time favorite things onto one plate – peanut butter and chocolate. Balled together is a chocolate mousse, a la mode, peanut butter ganache and whipped cream topped with crunchy peanuts and PB drizzle. Once the first bite was taken it was a free-for-all between spoons, fighting for every last bite due to the lovely explosion of flavors. 

Flourless Chocolate Cake: 

Whenever anything says fourless, I immediately jump to order as quickly as possible. This rich cake topped with chocolate drizzle was a perfect way to top off a dinner on the water that is certainly headed towards perfection. 

Conclusion 

Overall, The Marina Grille checks every box I look for in a dinner spot — great gluten-free options, a waterfront view, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to linger just a little longer. From the seafood tower to that peanut butter explosion, every dish felt like a little celebration. If you’re ever in Belmar and craving fresh coastal flavors (or just need an excuse to wear your favorite sundress), this place should be at the top of your list.