
TLDR: Great food, service and atmosphere. A little pricey, but I do believe it is worth it. I have not attended during live music so will need to do that soon!
Quality of Food: I don't know why I expected the food here to be sub-par but it actually surpassed my expectations! I have gone twice now to The Mainland Kitchen + Pub, once for dinner and another for lunch, and during both experiences the food is hot and fresh and down right delicious. The Loaded Nachos are huge and will certianly fill you up if it's the only thing you order and the Nashville Hot Chiken is crispy and just has every note of spicey and sweet you could ask for.
Quality of Service: During both of my experiences the Host has greeted us as soon as we walk in and always asks our preffered seating location. Our servers have been friendly, helpful and prompt, making sure our drinks are topped off and quality of food is up to standard. During my lunch visit I was afraid it would suprass the hour I am allotted from work but was pleasantly surprised that the food came quickly and getting the check wasn't a hassle.
Environment & Ambiance: The resturaunt is decorated very nicely. I always comment on decour that I wouldn't mind having in my own home. While I have not sat at either of the bar locations they seem welcomeing and never out of place. You have the option of sitting outside as well, which is always nicely landscaped and lit up. I will be sure to take pictures upon my next visit and update this review because it's just really nice and clean inside!
Pricing and Concerns: It's not cheap, thats for certian. You're looking at a check between $$ - $$$ dependent on your party size and ordering. It can easily cost you $60 for a quick lunch here but what is $60 in this economy anyway? During both of my visits, though, I believe the food has been worth the price and the environment just adds a little je ne sais quoi.
Comment and Recommendation: I don't have any major comments but I would like to update this review with a more current visit as it has been awhile since my most recent visit. I do reccommend The Mainland Kitchen + Pub for both...
Read moreIn the heart of New Jersey, 'neath the azure sky, Lies Manahawkin's gem, The Mainland, a delight to the eye. A kitchen and pub, renowned in equal measure, A visit to this place, indeed, a pleasure.
The façade is inviting, the ambience warm, A haven in winter, a refuge from the storm. Inside, the decor boasts a rustic allure, Seducing you into a world that's pure.
The staff welcomes you with a charming smile, Service so attentive, going that extra mile. From the first warm greeting to the fond farewell, Their professionalism, none can quell.
Ah, the cuisine, a medley of sensory delight, Each bite a testament to the chef's might. Steaks seared to perfection, fish crisply fried, The plethora of choices, too good to decide.
The pub's the heart, where spirits freely flow, Where tales are spun and friendships grow. With brews so diverse and cocktails refined, It's a treasure trove for the liquor inclined.
The Mainland’s clam chowder, a sublime dance of taste, An emblem of excellence, not a spoonful to waste. Their burgers, a marvel, with cheese and delight, A treat in each bite, oh what a sight!
Live music serenades diners through the night, The perfect backdrop to the magical sight. Of conversations, laughter, breaking bread, Creating memories that will never fade.
Under the stars, in the patio's quiet calm, The Mainland weaves a healing balm. With the rustle of leaves as a silent hymn, And the soft glow of the moonlight dim.
In every corner, in every crevice and nook, Resides a chapter from a fascinating book. The Mainland's tale is etched on its walls, In every brick, in every hall.
If food is love, then surely this is so, For love is what at The Mainland they do bestow. An experience so profound, it lingers in your mind, In Manahawkin, a better place...
Read moreMy husband and I had our wedding reception in the Mainland Terrace on Friday 9/13/19. Our wedding day was truly the best day every and The Mainland played a huge part in making our day perfect. Yes, the food, drinks, and cake were delicious and amazing, BUT the staff is absolutely phenomenal here... especially our maitre’d Kim and the event sales manager (our go-to guy), Austin. Jessica, the sales manager, was also wonderful at handling our hotel room block, breakfast vouchers, etc. Honestly, anyone we came in contact with who had something to do with our wedding, was excellent... from the front desk staff, to the servers and bartenders, and of course the rest of the Mainland Events team. Austin was super prompt, helpful, and courteous when answering my [many] questions and he also killed it as bartender the night of our wedding. Kim did an amazing job setting up the venue just the way we wanted it and made sure the event was executed flawlessly... and it certainly was! Kim made sure my husband and I were taken care of the whole night and we did not have to worry about a thing. We were able to fully enjoy our wedding and truly had the best time ever. All of our guests have been raving about it being the best wedding they’ve ever been to. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to the Mainland/Holiday Inn staff! We would 100% recommend The Mainland to anyone. -...
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