Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar — Restaurant in Kearny

Well... After being in New Jersey for almost 5 years, I've finally found a spot worthy of my Brooklyn taste buds. Hook and Reel of Kearny is a spot I've passed twice a week for years, mainly because I'm always at BJ's. Now I saw the 4.9 rating but I was skeptical because all these reviews rarely made any comments about the food. It's more of a rating of their service and the staff. Come to find out, they actually have a competition when it comes to how often the servers are mentioned in a review. And they actually give you a card to request reviews when eating at this establishment. All good and fun I suppose. I saw Abby and Ashley's names in reviews so many times that I was actually looking for them when I got there. Unfortunately, they were not there. Maybe I'll catch them next time.The other thing that had me skeptic was the constant "food was amazing" line. Like people couldn't find another adjective to describe the food. Anyway... I arrived around 1pm and the place was basically empty. Maybe 12 ppl at tables and 4 at the bar. Just the way I like it! We were greeted and seated and like the reviews say, the service and staff there are phenomenal. This is where our server Anthony comes in. Great guy, was always there or in sight, just in case I needed anything. As for the food... Now we tried alot from different types of wings, to the grilled salmon, the beef burger and all the shell fish they could bring out and everything was delicious. Loved the wedges. Nothing like a thick french fry. And the drinks were also great. Only issue was dessert. Average at best. I suggest signing a deal with Mia's Brooklyn Bakery. Add a few specific desserts from Mia's plethora of delicacies and they'll be no stopping this place. Only one other thing.... I plan to come there with big groups and not everyone loves seafood or beef burgers. All you guys need to add to your menu is a turkey burger option. Parking is easy. The place looks really good. Tv's everywhere and on mute with sports playing on all the chammels. Music pumping in the background and ppl smiling because they are enjoying their meals. A heads up, gratuity is already added to your bill so it's up to you if you'd like to customize a little extra tor your server, which I did for my guy Anthony. All around, a great time. Side note, wear a hoodie or a sweater, the place was cold. Once again, just the way I like it. I guess it warmed up once I started eating and drinking. Got cold again when I finished. But it looks like I finally found a place that my family and friends can visit for a long time to come. Really appreciate you...

Hook and Reel provided an outstanding dining experience that left a lasting impression. I started with their signature Rum Punch, a perfect blend of tropical flavors and just the right amount of kick. The balance between the sweetness and rum was spot-on, making it a refreshing choice to accompany the meal.

For my main course, I ordered the Lobster Party, and it was every bit as indulgent as it sounds. The lobster was cooked to perfection—juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. The portion was generous, and it came with all the fixings that made it feel like a true seafood feast. The seasoning was just right, enhancing the natural sweetness of the lobster without overpowering it. Every bite was an experience, and it was easy to see why this dish is a standout on their menu.

For dessert, the Dulce de Leche Cheesecake was an absolute treat. The creamy texture of the cheesecake paired perfectly with the rich, caramel flavor of the dulce de leche. It wasn’t overly sweet, which made it the perfect dessert to round out such a hearty meal. The portion size was generous, and it was beautifully presented—definitely a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

We also ordered the kids’ chicken and fries, which were simple but well-executed. The chicken was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the fries were golden and perfectly seasoned. The kids enjoyed it thoroughly, along with their fresh lemonade, which was the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Overall, Hook and Reel exceeded my expectations in every way. From the flavorful Lobster Party to the indulgent Dulce de Leche Cheesecake, every dish was prepared with care and attention to detail. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or bringing the family for a casual meal, Hook and Reel is a great choice. Highly recommend trying the Lobster Party and saving room for the cheesecake—you won’t be...

Packaya is, without a doubt, the best server I've ever had the pleasure of encountering. From the moment I walked into the restaurant, her warm smile and welcoming demeanor set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. Throughout the meal, Packaya demonstrated unparalleled attentiveness and professionalism, effortlessly anticipating our needs before we even had to ask. Her knowledge of the menu was impeccable, and she guided us through each dish with enthusiasm and expertise.What truly sets Packaya apart, however, is her genuine passion for hospitality. It's clear that she takes immense pride in her work and genuinely cares about the satisfaction of her guests. She went above and beyond to ensure that our dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary, from offering personalized recommendations to ensuring that every aspect of our meal was to our liking. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence truly elevated our dining experience to new heights.In addition to her exceptional service, Packaya's warm and friendly demeanor created a welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home. She effortlessly struck the perfect balance between professionalism and friendliness, making us feel valued and appreciated throughout our visit. It's rare to encounter a server who not only excels at their job but also leaves a lasting impression with their genuine kindness and hospitality. Packaya is truly a shining example of what it means to be an outstanding server, and I can't wait for the opportunity to dine at her table again...