While Rumson does have some great restaurants (Undici, Salt Creek Grille…), it isn’t known as a dining destination. Unlike nearby Asbury Park, people don’t typically flock here for a meal. However, that might be about to change!

You could easily drive by Val’s Tavern and not realize what you’re missing out on.

Google/Glenn C It doesn’t stand out on its street and, except for a few awnings, it looks much like the homes in the neighborhood. However, it’s been around so long for a reason. Open since 1942, it’s a community staple. Locals gather here to eat, drink, and celebrate. It may not be a fancy award-winning bistro or the like, but we say it’s worth a try. Why?

Let’s start with the perfection that is their pizza.

Facebook/Val’s Tavern Just looking at it, I want a slice or two (or a whole pie). Thin crust is their specialty, with the mouthwatering LOBSTER PIZZA headlining the show. Topped with chunks of fresh Brazilian lobster tail and your choice of mild or hot marinara sauce, it’s spectacular. The Buffalo Chicken and Shrimp Fra Diavolo are also mouthwatering masterpieces with a bit of a kick.

The rest of the menu does not disappoint!

Google/Jon D Pizza isn’t all they do right. They have something for everyone and all of it is good. You’ll find sandwiches, salads, soups (the french onion is fantastic) burgers, Italian hot dogs, pasta dishes, wings, shrimp, chicken tenders and a wonderful kids menu. Being a tavern, they also have delicious drinks.

And, you’ll never be bored.

Facebook/Val’s Tavern Catch a game on their flat screens, enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights, or check out one of their special events. Don’t miss St. Practice Day on the 17th of every month! There’s Irish whiskey flight samplers, live Irish music, and corned beef reuben pizza to enjoy.

You can find Val’s Tavern at 123 East River Road in Rumson. They are open 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday-Thursday and until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. To see their full menu, visit Val’s website here. To check out another one of my favorite shore area eateries, click here. It’s located in Keyport and the building is BEAUTIFUL.

Google/Glenn C

It doesn’t stand out on its street and, except for a few awnings, it looks much like the homes in the neighborhood. However, it’s been around so long for a reason. Open since 1942, it’s a community staple. Locals gather here to eat, drink, and celebrate. It may not be a fancy award-winning bistro or the like, but we say it’s worth a try. Why?

Facebook/Val’s Tavern

Just looking at it, I want a slice or two (or a whole pie). Thin crust is their specialty, with the mouthwatering LOBSTER PIZZA headlining the show. Topped with chunks of fresh Brazilian lobster tail and your choice of mild or hot marinara sauce, it’s spectacular. The Buffalo Chicken and Shrimp Fra Diavolo are also mouthwatering masterpieces with a bit of a kick.

Google/Jon D

Pizza isn’t all they do right. They have something for everyone and all of it is good. You’ll find sandwiches, salads, soups (the french onion is fantastic) burgers, Italian hot dogs, pasta dishes, wings, shrimp, chicken tenders and a wonderful kids menu. Being a tavern, they also have delicious drinks.

Catch a game on their flat screens, enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights, or check out one of their special events. Don’t miss St. Practice Day on the 17th of every month! There’s Irish whiskey flight samplers, live Irish music, and corned beef reuben pizza to enjoy.

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