The Arlington — Restaurant in Ship Bottom

The food is delish and the drinks (beer and cocktails) are great. Typically, that checks enough boxes to keep me coming back for more. However, my recent experience here has me wondering why I ever wanted to go here in the first place.

I disagree that they are a family-friendly spot, at least for younger children who aren’t able to sit still in their seat for the entirety of the meal. To make a long story somewhat short, I’ll say that my family and my sister’s family were excited to go here but we were immediately made to feel like we didn’t belong there with our three children, who are very pleasant and happy while also being active and curious. We were encouraged not to sit in the dining area if we couldn’t guarantee the kids would stay put at the table. So, we willingly took the awkward hint and sat in the bar area at a high top. Two of the three children were coloring quietly at our feet and our server came over and put all of their utensils back on the table (while they were in the middle of using them!) while passive-aggressively commenting about them being on the floor. Although we were admittedly annoyed because there was no one else around us and they were harmlessly playing out of anyone’s way, we somewhat understood that they could technically be a tripping hazard. So, we tried to be moved outside to make our server happy, only to have another passive-aggressive and demeaning conversation with the manager who informed us that they don’t have permits to allow food or beverage outside. So, we stayed put at our high-top but endured what seemed to be lots of stares and annoyance from the staff. All 4 adults were highly uncomfortable so we decided to end our outing there (after yummy drinks and some light fare).

Typically, I’ll try any restaurant twice because I think everyone is entitled to an off day, but my recent experience left my family and my sister’s family feeling VERY unwelcome and uncomfortable. With so many other establishments on LBI who are more than willing to make families feel welcome and cared for, I will surely bring my...

In the core of Long Beach Island, The Arlington presents itself not merely as a restaurant but an experience, a symphony of flavors that warrants the attention of any epicurean traveler. The evening began with a sip of the Westbrook Lemon Cucumber Gose New England IPA - an elixir reminiscent of a breezy summer day by the beach. The brew, infused with sea salt, cucumber, and lemon zest, tangoed on the palate with its refreshingly tart undertones, setting the stage for the culinary journey ahead.

The Crispy Chicken Skins, glistening under a sheen of hot sweet glaze, were a testament to The Arlington's prowess in balancing textures and flavors. Each bite was a harmonious play of crunch and sweetness, a daring yet successful venture into reimagining comfort food.

Then arrived the Swordfish. Grilled to perfection, the fish's meaty texture was enhanced by its accompaniments - a creamy goat cheese polenta acting as a bed, with a medley of tomatoes, kalmata olives, and capers adding a Mediterranean flair. It was a dish that spoke of lands afar, transporting one to sun-soaked Grecian shores with every bite.

But it was the Double Cheeseburger that truly encapsulated The Arlington's commitment to decadence. Nestled within a soft brioche roll, the juicy patties were layered with a luscious thousand island dressing, exuding a richness that was both tantalizing and satisfying. The addition of crispy bacon strips was a masterstroke, lending a smoky note to the ensemble. And of course, the house fries - golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection - were the perfect sidekick to this showstopper.

To dine at The Arlington is to embark on a journey, one where every dish tells a story and every bite is a moment to savor. This establishment has certainly etched its place among the stars, and is an essential stop for anyone traversing the culinary landscapes of New Jersey. Highly...

Drawn by their beer list, I dined and drank there 5 times during the course of 10 days. Lunch was good with the crabcake sandwich a little "wetter" than I prefer. The Rueben was a pleasant surprise with the smoked pastrami and house pickled red cabbage. Happy hour was busy with bar packed, however the US women's national team playing Germany during world cup might have been a contributing factor. The blackened wings were great, the house made papardelle amazing topped with house made bolognese and ricotta. The maple glazed lamb ribs were cooked to perfection, with a slight char and the fat rendered to perfection. The portions were perfect for starters and I opted for 3 starters for dinner. Finishing with the Apple Tarte Tatin with bourbon ice cream spot on. Dinner with 7 was another matter. Why I opted for paella, I'll never know. Rice was VERY undercooked and spices lacking. The wife had the special, Viking Village Scallops, which were undercooked and the sweet corn polenta (or was it orzo?) was such a small portion it seemed an afterthought. Nephew's Sea Bass was slightly overcooked but not to the extent it was unpleasant. During a brunch, I tried the biscuits and gravy which certainly benefited from a extra side of gravy. Well seasoned, generous portion of sausage though biscuits less flakey than I prefer. They were most and well prepared. I will caution; growler rates are VERY HIGH. Perhaps it's a West Coast thing but I have never purchased a growler based on a "cost per glass" basis. There is usually just a growler fill price on a "tier" basis with a set price per tier. I spent $120 on 2 growlers before I asked... Shame on me for not asking (in my defense it was...