Klee's Bar and Grille

Klee’s has been a Seaside staple since 1931. With the repeal of prohibition in 1933, the business became Klee’s Bar & Grille. Over the years Klee’s has adapted to the growing popularity of Seaside as a vacation destination by reintroducing an even larger restaurant, along with an additional upstairs room for private parties.

During Hurricane Sandy, the building sustained very little damage, but was unable to open due to the closing of the barrier island and power outages. When they reopened on December 28, their main customers were the police and emergency personnel who were rebuilding the infrastructure of the barrier island. Over the next few weeks business was a steady stream of people looking for a warm meal and a friendly smile. Regulars began to return in January and the pace of business has remained steady.

Upstairs at Klee's

When you visit Klee’s Bar and Grill, you are greeted with a warm smile by the hostess. The dining room is large and the décor reminiscent of an Irish pub, with warm wood and green fabrics. The fully stocked bar has plenty of seats, along with televisions tuned to the games of the day. For those who fancy a bite to eat, the menu has a wide variety of options, from small plates to full dinners. In addition to the traditional Irish fare, there are plenty of American favorites. Some notables include the “Basket of Fire,” a platter of buffalo battered chicken and shrimp fried to a golden brown and served with a delightful bleu cheese and Cajun remoulade.  Or you can try the Irish Potato Skins, Idaho potato skins topped with diced bacon and smothered with cheddar cheese. Delicious! There is a wide assortment of salads and sandwiches ($7 - $10), in addition to the famous “Klee’s Pub Burger’, a ½ lb. lean juicy sirloin grilled to perfection and served with a choice of sweet potato fries or onion rings. And what Irish grill wouldn’t be complete without a Reuben? “Klee’s Famous Ruben” rivals the best–juicy corned beef piled high with sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese and Russian dressing. Entrees ($13 - $22) include steaks, ribs, chicken, and seafood. Some creative dishes include the “Chicken Prestige,” with broccoli and artichoke hearts, and the “Chicken Savoy,” with spinach and roasted garlic, each served over pasta. No matter what you order, you can count on it being served promptly and with a smile.

If you go: Reservations are not required, first come, first served. The dress code is casual; however they do ask that you “Please behave as if your Mother was watching you.” Parking is available on the nearby side streets, or in some of the larger lots near the boardwalk. In season, be sure to bring plenty of quarters for the meters as they do not take bills or credit cards. - Debbie Miks

Restaurant Review: Klee’s Bar and Grille101 Boulevard, Seaside Heights, NJ. 732.830.1996