We recently dined at Caroline's Tavern. The cocktails are amazing here. We ordered Chicken wings, Chicken Marshala and dumplings. Everything was delicious. Popcorn bag is complimentary and my baby loved it. The staff is very courteous and the vibes are immaculate. Definitely recommend dining here with the fam. read more

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A time was had yall! Been wanting to come here for their Thursday nights, but instead randomly came on a Sunday. To start off we were very indecisive about where we wanted to sit and They have $20 bottomless burinch for 90 min. Didn't even take 30 min for those bellinis to hit!. Our server Alejandro was AMAZING! Personable, funny, quick, and full of recommendations. What more could you ask for? To eat we each got burgers. I had the truffle mushroom, my sister at the French dip, and honestly I dont remember which burger the other was because I was knee deep in mine. Sweet potato fried were amazing. Truffle fries were ok but disclaimer: I got mine without parm since I dont like cheese but my sisters had it with cheese and said they were great. For dessert Alejandro recommended the tres leches but my boring sister wanted the apple pie. It was exactly what it said it was but honestly I left wanting to try the tres leches. I will be coming back. read more

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My family made reservations for a family of 11 on a Saturday afternoon and we were seated right away. The ambiance was cozy and I love that they have an outdoor patio. There was a DJ too! I ordered a lavender French martini which was a fun twist on the classic French 75. For apps, the bang bang shrimp and fried cauliflower was my fave. For my main dish I tried the fried shrimp wrap which came with fries. Every dish and drink was well presented and delicious. Our waitress was attentive and answered all of our questions. We will definitely return to Caroline's Tavern. And I'm bringing my girls to the next night with a DJ where we can sit on the patio. Parking is free and easy to find as well! read more

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Came here on friday evening. We sat inside but by the garage door opening so we had a nice outdoor breeze and view. Staff was very nice and attentive. We got complementary popcorn which was good. Food was just ok. We ordered the dumplings, pot pie empanadas, fries, tres leches cake, and bread pudding. The food was eh. They didnt really mesh together but that was my fault for ordering what I ordered. Now the desserts went down hill. We waited over 30 min because they had to make the tres leches. The cake was dry and just tasted like regular pink milk. The bread pudding was dense and hard. It wasnt good. I would come back to try other things, maybe it was an off day. read more

Caroline's Tavern - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

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This might be the first review I've ever given where the review was so high but the food was actually only ok. I came here for a Sunday lunch and immediately I felt so welcome. Alejandro was such a vibe and had great recommendations and even better banter. Ricardo was also very friendly and nice. The service was so amazing that I didn't even care that the food was mediocre. The had a bottomless bubble option which was 90 minutes for $20 which was a great deal. The Bellinis were delicious. We each ordered a different sandwich and they were all pretty average. That said, the atmosphere and great service will definitely have me coming back and trying something else. read more

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I sat outside on their patio which was lovely! Their potstickers appetizer was really good. Their bang bang cauliflower appetizer was absolutely delicious. And I ordered their fried chicken sandwich and added cheese- YUM!! Plus the fries were crispy and well seasoned. I also highly recommend their lavender martini. I can't wait to go back! read more

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Food was very good. My fav was definitely the burger and the variety of fries. The stick reins and soy garlic Carmel wings were definitely tasty. And to add had a few desserts, pistachio cherry shake was just ok. Didn't try the strawberry tres leche but it was enjoyed. Service was definitely very good here. read more

Caroline's Tavern - Fried chicken sandwich on pretzel bread and fries - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

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Great customer service! Everyone was so awesome. Ricardo and AJ were the best. The ribs were delicious as was the chicken fried steak. The salmon was very good and very healthy, it felt clean. The Mac was not the best, it was saucy not baked, but I'll definitely be back. Drinks were really good too! read more

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The Lavender French martini was probably the best French martini I have had thus far. We came here on a quiet Sunday evening and were not disappointed. Service was quick and attentive. Love the clocks decor. The fruity pepples tres leches tasted like my childhood. Overall great vibes. Will have to check out a show next door at the Avenel Performing Arts Center one day before or after dinner. Avenel is surprising me! read more

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I came to Caroline's Tavern in Avenel to celebrate a friend's birthday and was honestly surprised to find the place pretty empty when we walked in. From what I've heard, it usually gets packed during peak sports seasons--but we happened to hit a lull (post-football, pre-baseball, and no major games on), so we basically had the place to ourselves. That actually worked in our favor--the quieter atmosphere made it easy to relax and enjoy conversation without the usual sports bar chaos. Drinks were a highlight. I went with the sangria, which was refreshing and well-balanced. Instead of ordering full entrees, we decided to share a bunch of appetizers. Everything that came out looked great, and everyone in the group seemed really happy with the flavors. As someone with a gluten allergy, though, I was pretty limited in what I could order. The ribs ended up being one of my only real options--but thankfully, they were tender, flavorful, and definitely the standout for me. Still, I do wish there were more gluten-free choices, especially since we were there to celebrate and share food. One thing that stood out (in a not-so-great way) was that we felt a bit rushed toward the end of the meal. We didn't even get the chance to order a birthday dessert, which was disappointing given the occasion, but seeing since it was only our group there I'm sure they were ready to close and go home. Service overall was attentive and friendly while we were dining, so no complaints there otherwise. It was winter when we visited, but I can see this being a great spot in warmer months--the outdoor seating looks like it would really add to the experience. Parking was easy on a Sunday night, and they do have a lot, but make sure to read the signs carefully since some spots are reserved for the theater next door. Overall it has a great vibe, solid drinks, and food that people clearly enjoy--I just wish there were more gluten-free options so I didn't leave still a little hungry. read more

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Went to celebrate a friend's birthday. I had never heard of Caroline's prior to her reaching out to let me know this was where she planned to go. The staff was so kind. Service is extremely important to me when I am dining out. I was the first to arrive and they allowed me to sit at the table prior to everyone arriving with does not usually happen. I loved the decor. All the clocks were set to 5. "It's 5 o'clock somewhere". I really thought that was cute. To drink I had a Lavender French Martini. Lauren (our server) recommended it. It was so good. We had wings, mozzarella sticks, fried shrimp, and pierogies as appetizers. I ordered the bang bang cauliflower. Everything was really good. The only thing that was weird about getting to Caroline's was that it seemed like you were going to an apartment complex for parking. If you feel that way when your arrive for parking, just know you are in the right place. read more

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Caroline's took over the old Curtains establishment and did a nice cosmetic refurb. Menu is similar and they have about a half dozen beer on tap. We sat at the bar for a beer and a bite. Sticky ribs and buffalo cauliflower were both very good and the beer was cold and fresh. Bartender was friendly and attentive. We'll probably find ourselves perched at the bar again in the future read more

Parking 1star Server 3 1/2 stars Food 1 star Drinks 4 stars The food here was very, very bland. I really don't understand the hype with this place. You really must have no taste buds to enjoy their dinner. If you want to go somewhere to drink, you might have a chance. But eat before you go because the food made here, was made with no love at all! Raw fish and chips, beef ribs was swimming in a diluted substance with absolutely no flavor, and salty wings. Two dined for over $200 with straight disappointment. read more

Went with a party of 5 on a Saturday night. Parking is very limited, which may account for how few other tables were inside. Considering how slow it was, we were surprised our meals took over 25 mins. Ordered birria tacos, cacio de Pepe pierogies, wings & a French dip. The food was good, service was ok, not great. read more

Caroline's Tavern - Cacio E Pepe Pierogies French Onion French Dip - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

Being served complimentary flavored popcorn upon being seated was a tasteful and nice touch we were not expecting. It was addicting! Loved the refined ambiance. The staff was extremely friendly. Every person we passed greeted us and told us to have a great evening. While it is on the pricier side, the food was great and we surely had leftovers as portions were generous. I definitely recommend the chicken tenders and Mac and cheese. (I do feel the Mac and cheese could have used more pulled pork though). The dessert missed the mark for me, but we enjoyed everything else. The sangria was dangerously delicious. read more

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Just tried Caroline's today. We tried their burgers which were really good. The waiter, Ricardo, was attentive and always checked in on us. The ambiance was nice; open space. We didn't sit outside but they have a nice big outdoor space. We'll be back again! read more

Caroline's Tavern - Lavender martini - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

They seated my reserved party of six next to the DJ booth. We had a hearing impaired person with us. We asked to be moved as there were other empty tables in the back that where it was quieter. The manager said it wasn't possible. We said we'd have to leave and go elsewhere and he said fine! read more

They got some good burgers, some good fries some good chicken sandwiches is very well clean

Excellent staff and appetizers as well as fun cocktails. Good to watch a game or hang with family and friends for a good time . Very unique menu items more than just a Tavern and I can't say enough about the staff they were very friendly and made everyone feel at home. The shrimp appetizers was great can't wait to get the cacio de Pepe pierogis next home. We will be back soon. read more

Caroline's Tavern - Fried Shrimp - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

The food was very tasty! My new favorite local spot. I ordered to go, but next time will dine in as the restaurant is very nicely decorated

Fabulous food, service, and atmosphere. Classic with a slight distinctive take on it to bring the food up a level.

Very nice decor but the doors were open instead of the AC so it was a bit warm and humid on an August night. There was a DJ but he needs to realize he was a bit too loud for a place that was essentially a bar for patrons to chat. The skirt steak portion was very small for the price. The nachos were very flavorful and it was a large portion as an appetizer. The short rib was a much better value with a large portion with the flavorful mash. The server was very friendly.the prices were reasonable but be careful with the drinks. Good cocktails but the bill will add up. read more

Two stars only because they have the best karaoke every other Wednesday. BUT I ordered a double Malibu and seltzer because I wanted something light in alcohol. I was charged $19.20!! I thought surely this must be a mistake. I go to the bar and ask, how much is a single Malibu? $12!!!! An extra $7 for a double. WHAT???? This is Avenel, NJ! Not Park Avenue in Manhattan!!! I will be back only because of Debbie Toscano's awesome karaoke but I'll be having beer from now on. What a ripoff!! I'm not the only one who feels this way. Doubt this place will be open for very long. read more

Caroline's was a really nice spot. My husband and I went for a date night and this was the perfect place. We went around the time that they opened, and there weren't many people there but they quickly filled up after an 30 minutes - hour. The potstickers were really good and tasted like they had lemongrass in the sauce. I got the chicken sandwich and it had so much flavor and the sauce that they use was really good. Definitely will come back in the future. Our server was very nice, I feel bad because he accidentally spilled some of my drink and you could tell he felt horrible, but he was really kind the entire meal. The only downside to this place would be that there were many gnats or fruit flies flying around us at the table in the corner and because we were near the windows it was pretty blinding as the sun was setting. I would just suggest paying attention to the blinds for future guests to check in and see if they want them lowered. It definitely wasn't enough of an issue to lose a star though, the food is delicious! read more

Caroline's Tavern - This chicken sandwich was so good! - New American Near Me - Woodbridge, New Jersey

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Went Caroline's tonight, first thing it was the hottest day of the year and the doors were open. Ordered drinks 30 minutes still no drinks.everyone in the place was complaining, someone complained the food was terrible. We walked out.sad read more

Tried Caroline's for the first time. Got takeout. Everything was excellent!! We tried the Pot Stickers, Tavern Bacon Cheeseburger, creamy mac&cheese, Birria tacos, & cheesy broccoli. Definitely putting Caroline's on our repeat list! read more

We went foe Happy Hour and sat at the bard. Looking around the restaurant, I told my wife that the simplicity of the decor and walls was what I would do if I owned a restaurant. The happy hour apps and French Onion Burger were delicious. Our bartender was very attentive and provided everything we needed. We will definitely go back. read more

We were in the area and decided to try this place out. The staff was friendly, food was delicious, and the establishment very clean. read more

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Typical bar food. The salad was crunched and dressing. The hamburgers were decent chicken wings are OK booze was perfect.

Wife and I went for a Saturday lunch. Service was ok and polite. Ordered the French Onion Dip sandwich and Penne Vodka. The sandwich was not to my liking. No dip was provided. Penne Vodka was bland. No bread came with the Penne. Maybe this their take on the dishes. You have to provide bread with any pasta in my opinion. Music was loud, had to talk over it. Will not seek to return here. read more

The food and drink specials were great. I loved the different menu options! Service was fantastic! Cool vibe too with the clocks all at 5 o'clock! Overall great place. read more

Amazing staff and great food. Everything was perfect. Lots of TVs for sports fans. Nice clean place

Excited to try. The atmosphere is amazing. Inside or outside. Love how the patio was set up. Service started out okay. I asked how the Swedish meatballs were and shame on me for not listening!! He said they fill you up. Never said good or bad. Not good, but my hubby ordered short ribs and mashed potatoes and winner!! So I asked for more lingonberry to disguise the meatball taste and it took forever... but manager took notice and completely took over. So nice!! Over and beyond. Asked if he could make me something else, I said no, not necessary. We ordered cappuccino, which was fantastic and pistachio crème brûlée! Amazing. Mgr came back with bill and apologized again. I told him, it happens, everything can't be 100% all the time. He treated us to our dessert and cappuccinos and took off the Swedish meatballs. I told him it was not necessary but he insisted. Now a mgr that concerned with his business is great. Would I go back, absolutely just no Swedish meatballs!! The burgers looked amazing too. Give them a try. Totally worth it! read more