Prompt and gracious service, nice atmosphere and very tasty food. Would come back anytime.

Unfortunately, this was a truly disappointing experience. We were a family of three hoping for a nice family-style dinner, but nearly every part of the meal and service fell short. Our waiter was difficult to understand and couldn't answer basic questions about the menu. The bread was so overbaked and hard we were worried about breaking a tooth. The shrimp appetizer was very good, although swimming in oil; the Iberico rib meat was greasy and came with raw garlic. When the plates were cleared, oil was spilled onto our table. Then we waited about 45 minutes for our entrees and eventually had to track someone down ourselves. We later discovered our waiter eating at the bar while we were waiting. The octopus was both charred and undercooked and far too salty. The nearly 3-inch-thick pork chop, ordered medium, was raw in the center. The "apricot brandy reduction" was essentially jam on top, and the potato chips were thick and underfried. The $37 pork chop was essentially inedible. Getting the check was another ordeal--we had to ask multiple times and were even brought another customer's check and credit card by mistake. There was no adjustment to our bill. After paying, we also had to wait to get our card back. The bartender did seem genuinely concerned when we told him what happened and ultimately offered 10% off a future visit, but after this experience, we certainly won't be returning. The shrimp were good and the bartender tried to help, but overall the food, service, and handling of the situation were far below what we expected. read more

Mar Belo has become my dad's favorite restaurant and it was only proper to have his 80th birthday celebration here. The service was wonderful throughout the meal. The entire staff was attentive and our guy Jefferson was awesome! Split the 50oz Tomahawk with my wife and cooked to perfection. Our servers first time cutting one table side and he was solid. I enjoyed the broccoli rabe. Get Sangria, red or white doesn't matter. Both are delicious. My daughter loved her lamb and Creme brûlée. The chocolate cake was a big hit at the table. Overall, everything was incredible and thank you to the entire staff for making it so. Definite game winning Touchdown!! read more

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Usually I sleep on it and write my review the next day (... or day after) but I couldn't wait to share how amazing Mar Belo was! Let's start with the warm welcome... we had been driving all day and our outfits were not matching the vibe. I explained it to our waitress and she was so understanding making us feel at home from the start. The restaurant is gorgeous... white linen, glasses that are lined up perfectly. You walk in expecting the best and they DELIVER! Everything was perfect! The service. The suggestions. And the FOOD! I almost don't know where to start. I'm a trust your server kind of girl. When we were debating on which sangria to get, I asked our server which one and he suggested red... perfect! Whatever you do, don't skip the sangria! It's so well balanced - not too sweet, just the right amount of alcohol and it's juicy! Not sure how else to describe it. Honestly the best part was whenever my glass was low (we got a pitcher) anyone who walked past filled us up. Not just our server. What more could you ask for? It was the small things that made this experience special. Things you can't skip... 1) the garlic shrimp! Looks spicy but it's not - super flavorful and you want more. A hit at our table. As I'm writing this... everything was hit! The calamari, the shish kebab, the Iberico, the cheesecake, the rice pudding... all of the things were perfect! I literally have leftovers that I can't wait to eat for breakfast. 10/10... highly recommend! read more

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I went to Mar Belo for a repass yesterday after the funeral. The service was amazing, and the food was excellent. We had shrimp in sauce, paella, salmon, calamari, vegetables, and Portuguese-style fried chips. There was also a salad with a nice vinaigrette. Everything was really tasty, and the sangria was delicious as well. I would definitely go back and try this place again. Everything was beautiful, parking was easy, and the restaurant itself was very nice read more

The service and the sangria were the best part. For the most part the food lack flavor. Maybe I was just used to eating Portuguese food in Newark. Shrimp on garlic sauce could have used more garlic and the clams in garlic sauce barely cooked! We had the seafood in green sauce which was hardly green at all and again lacked flavor. I had high hopes for this place but unfortunately it won't be repeated. read more

If you have been here before you know a 5 is reserved for my return visit. I don't know if I will ever be in Long Branch-again but if I'm close-I'm driving here for food! This place is very unassuming from the outside but inside it is nicely decorated and would make a great date night location! We got there around 2:30 and there were only a few other tables. That is surprising considering how good the food is! We had the sangria and empanadas to start. The empanadas were full of flavor and the crust was delicious! I had the shish kebab bc I wanted a little of all the meats! The steak was very tender and cooked perfectly. The shrimp was seasoned well and very tasty and so was the sausage. The potato bravas and veggies were all good and I haven't had a lunch this great wt this price in a long time! Huge portions and I would definitely return! Check them out if you're in the area! read more

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Excellent food, great service, and really good sangria. The price is good too. I definitely recommend it and will be back soon.

Upsetting to have entered into an establishment with my 88 year old mother in a wheelchair and limited access. They expect you to go on a busy street to enter where there's no where to park and get out to enter through their accessible door. Otherwise their parking g lot has stairs to get down into the dining space. Crazy. Portions are small. Drinks were fabulous. I'll spend my money elsewhere for better options and more convenience. read more

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Really wonderful service! Beautiful ambience with lovely & comfortable seats. I ordered cod . We also got a big salad and shrimp for appetizer to split. It was a wonderful lunch. Everything was so flavorful and so fresh! I'll be back. read more

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This place is DELICIOUS!! Came here to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday and the food is so delicious. My filet mignon was to die for and melted in my mouth. The hostess set the mood as we walked in, she was so welcoming and happy. Our waiter, Jorge, was also so amazing. The best dinner we've had in a long time. Very cute decor and super clean restaurant. The bread and butter they bring in the beginning was also delicious. read more

Mar Belo - Filet Mignon with rice and fries - Portuguese Near Me - Long Branch, New Jersey

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This Portuguese food was amazing! Every bite delicious!! The service was excellent too! read more

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It was just a half step from being a 5. Our reserved table was waiting. The service was excellent. We shared the Camarao a guilho (shrimp) and polvo a espanhola (grilled octopus). Both were delicious and perfectly cooked. One ordered in the picanha, another the vegetarian paelha, the special double steamed lobsters and I ordered the flat iron steak special. The paelha could have used a touch more seasoning and the lobsters were a bit dry. Everything else was excellent. read more

Mar Belo was an absolutely delightful gem located on 611 Broadway, right in the heart of Long Branch. This Portuguese spot didn't just meet expectations, it danced right past them with a plate in each hand. We kicked things off with appetizers: the CAMARÃO À GUILHO (shrimp in garlic sauce) and the tasty Spanish Meatballs. Both were downright delectable. Then came the main event. The Chicken in Garlic Sauce was rich, flavorful, and borderline addictive. The Picanha (grilled sirloin cap) was grilled to perfection--juicy, tender, and clearly handled by someone who respects a good piece of meat. Both dishes came with Spanish potatoes, sautéed veggies, and rice, and were truly delish! And speaking of the sea--the Paelha Marinera was a surprise hit. I usually don't dive headfirst into that much seafood in one sitting, but this dish was a bombshell of flavor. Clams, scallops, mussels, lobster--it was like the ocean threw a party in my mouth. The atmosphere? Just as impressive. I sat inside with my husband, one of my dearest friends, her fiancé, and a few new faces I got to know over dinner. The decor was charming, the vibe was lively, and the place was packed with people clearly in on the secret. There was even live music outside under a gorgeous evening sky--because apparently Mar Belo doesn't believe in doing anything halfway. I also enjoyed the play, The Music Man that all 25 of us attended at the Spring Lake Theatre. All in all, it was one of those nights that makes you forget how tired you were before you got there. I'll definitely be back! read more

I was there last night for my sister's birthday. The food and restaurant were amazing. The only negative when we requested to have some of our food wrapped. The person assisting our waiter tried to carry too many things back to the kitchen and dropped a fork on the floor which he then placed back on my friend's salad. While I appreciate efficiency, keeping the customers food safe should be his number one priority therefore securing returning customers. We love this restaurant and will be returning but he needs a little more training. Maybe take care of the customer first and then remove the dishes. The ambience was amazing, I also recommend this restaurant. Everyone can remember going thru training for a job. The gentleman that recommended the rice pudding for my friend was fantastic. read more

Lovely intimate atmosphere. Attentive waitstaff. I recognized a waiter who was at the restaurant when it was known as "Pearl of the Sea." Caipirinhas are outstanding. Bread with garlic butter & a variety of olives were complimentary. I started with the meatball appetizer. I had the Portuguese Steak with fries for my main entree. read more

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I randomly visited this restaurant for Sunday lunch and it was very average. My bf and I ordered the grilled Branzino and clams which could have been more flavorful. However, the red sangria was good and the service was good.. It was a decent experience .. read more

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Good staple Portuguese food. Paella was good. Also had the tomahawk. Service attentive been there a couple times now

The amount of shrimp I just got in my order makes wonder, how can that be profitable? I'm not complaining, it was delicious and fresh. First time ordering from here, won't be the last read more

Your money buys both quality and quantity here. The food here satisfies and the environment welcomes you in. Team came across as particularly pleasant and expert. My meal showed the chef's talent clearly. This place shows remarkable quality. read more

Dined at Me Belo for a wedding rehearsal dinner and we were seated in the private room with the glass doors. For appetizers, we were served fried calamari, mini beef empanadas, shrimp in garlic sauce, and a small side salad. The best of the apps was the calamari. The mini empanadas were very salty and the shrimp was tough and over cooked. For the main I had the rack of lamb and it was perfect! Melted in my mouth perfect. Had everyone at my table asking for a bite lol. What really makes this place great is their service. We had a few servers but the main one was Joe. He was funny, entertaining and just so patient with all of us as we decided on our orders. He also allowed us to take over the music in the room and that's ALWAYS a plus in my book. The last plus was their extensive wine selection. It was a great night and I would return if in the area. read more

Mar Belo - the bar area of a restaurant - Portuguese Near Me - Long Branch, New Jersey

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Mar Belo has been on my list of restaurants in the area to visit, Mar Belo is a popular Portuguese restaurant in Long Branch. I secured a 7:45 reservation on Saturday night, my group arrived on time and were seated promptly. The location is nicely decorated with a full service bar and ample free parking in the rear of the restaurant. The restaurant had a large crowd which is an excellent sign. I gauge all Portuguese restaurants by Newark and South River. The Sangria was solid, not the best I have had but it is well above par. The bread that was offered was outstanding, excellent brick oven style, it was accompanied by whipped herb butter and dynamite olives. The Garlic shrimp was the best I have ever had, phenomenal sauce to dip bread into. The grilled octopus was ok, I felt it needed more seasoning and additional time on the grill. The paella was excellent, certainly enough for 2. The only criticism was the chicken was very dry. The skirt steak was excellent. The duck was awesome, delicious cherry wine sauce. The sea bass special was reported as very good. The espresso and cappuccino was fantastic as was the lava cake with ice cream. The service was very good, plenty of help on hand to handle the crowd. All in all the restaurant has earned itself a regular spot in my rotation. I would not hesitate to return. I recommend Mar Belo. read more

Mar Belo - Specials - Portuguese Near Me - Long Branch, New Jersey

I've been meaning to try this place for awhile and it did not disappoint. Had the twin lobster special and the Strip steak. We were going for a surf and turf theme. lol. Both were delicious. The lobsters were broiled perfectly and had a nice seasoning. The dish came with spanish potatoes also know as homemade potato chips. lol. The steak was very flavorful, had a nice char and came with mixed vegetables. We also had a pitcher of red sangria. It wasn't overly sweet and very "potent" if you know what I mean. lol. Service was great and we all left laughing. Thanks Mr Sangria! read more

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Mar Belo was a Beautiful Experience for my I was Welcomed with a Smile and our waiter was fantastic with recommendations, service was Excellent and I Felt Happy and Welcomed.The food was Also Delicious!!! I Had the shrimp appetizer,Empanadas and the Seafood Paella... EVERYTHING WAS DELICIOUS I'm comfortable if they got me in a Bib . I would recommend this establishment to Everyone and I'll be back soon enough read more

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Many time customer. Fantastic all around. Prices are not a rip for the service and food amounts and taste. read more

Our waiter was very good. Knowledgeable of the menu and specials. The food was delicious. We had a table of five and all the food was received at the same time. Could not have asked for a better evening. read more

What a great dining experience. Super nice staff. The pork chop was over the moon. Wow read more

Mar Belo - Pork chop - Portuguese Near Me - Long Branch, New Jersey

What a great meal . We were a party of 6 and all truly enjoyed every part of our meal ,appetizers, main course and dessert. My martini was delicious and we all enjoyed the red and white pitchers of sangria. All of our servers were excellent,friendly and attentive. Very professional staff. Truly an enjoyable dining experience. read more

I recommend this restaurant when you're in Long Branch, the service is always great and the food is amazing. Everything that I've had here has always been delicious and worth the price. Also their mousse dessert is DIVINE!!!! Be sure to check this restaurant out. The inside is beautiful and the staff are all friendly and helpful. - Critical Hoe read more

Authentic food Service as impeccable Presentation on the shish kabob was superb Highly recommend read more

Dinner with friends. Large loud group next to us. Overall ambiance nice and the service was decent, but the food is below par: The appetizers disappointed - garlic shrimp in a weird sauce, instead of just grilled, no olive oil with the bread - uninspired olive-plate. The octopus was terrible - soaking in a puddle of oil, salty and spongy. The entrees weren't much better - the lamb chops came out cold and undercooked, the steak was tough. Too bad. read more

Excellent service with some of the most fresh and authentic food I've had! Great sangria and appetizers. All the steak dishes were prepared wonderfully. read more

I could have had an exceptional meal Saturday at Mar Belo. Unfortunately, the waiter ignored my wants, and did not pay attention to my wishes. The appetizer - garlic shrimp - was very good, however when my entree was presented, I was disappointed. Steak fries accompany the meat I had ordered. I requested that the potatoes be very well done. I sent back the dish to correct this. When the dish was returned the potatoes came back exactly the same. The flow of the meal was destroyed because the waiter and chef did not give me what I requested. I asked if the steak could be prepared "Pittsburg style." The waiter was ignorant of this style of preparation, and had to check with the chef. I requested the steak be prepared "Pittsburg style," but very rare. When I cut the steak open the inner part was neither pink or red. I had to ask the waiter for a pepper grinder twice, and was ignored. I had to ask a bus boy for the pepper grinder. My previous dinner at this restaurant was very good, but I made the decision that I was being ignored this time. I agreed to pay for the appetizer and cocktails but walked out on the main course. The fine experience I expected did not materialize. read more

Everything exceeded my expectations. My challenge was to find a local restaurant that satisfied my New England connoisseur guests with not typical Jersey Shore seafood. My guests were also on a tight timeline on a holiday evening. Each of our selections were uniquely seasoned and served hot. The staff's attention and speed are exemplary. We topped off our delicious meal with uncompromising desserts. I wouldn't hesitate recommending Mar Belo to anyone, anytime. read more

We went here because we heard that the seafood was good but aside from the shrimp dish I had (which was delicious), the supposedly "fresh fish" entree my husband had was not fresh or else it was not cooked properly. I love almost all seafood but this fish dish was disappointing to say the least. They were packed so it took a while before we were served and finally had our dinner. Not certain we will go back even though it is walking distance from our house. read more

Enjoyed a family dinner here on a recent Sunday evening. First time here. Glad we had a reservation, as it was very busy. Good bread and olives. Garlic shrimp and mussels good but mussel meats on the small side. Good sangria. Our table ordered 6 different entrees and each one was very well prepared and enjoyed by all. Steak, seafood, chicken. Paella not up to the quality of the better Newark spots, but still good. Service was very attentive and happily made slight adjustments to some items to meet our request. Prices are reasonable for what is provided. It's busy for a reason and we'll be back. read more

Delicious and beautiful restaurant. White tablecloths. Attentive waiter. Beautiful selection of food. read more

Mar Belo - Paelha Valenciana - Portuguese Near Me - Long Branch, New Jersey

My husband and I came down the shore for Memorial Day weekend and found this place online. Our meal was terrific. We started with the grilled octopus which was delicious and a very generous portion. We also got the empanadas which were fabulous. We got paella and the pork shank for the main course. All the seafood was delicious and the flavor of the paella was lovely. The pork fell off the bone and was a great dish. Unfortunately we didn't have room for dessert but we highly recommend this gem. read more

Great service! Good food. I was running late due to traffic and they were very accommodating. Everything was fresh and exceeded my expectations. read more

I can't even honestly give 1 star to this restaurant. Went with my husband for dinner and the first red flag was there was no soup. Every Portuguese restaurant serves soup. Second red flag for me is the menu has a lot of Spanish items, I've never been to a Portuguese place that serves Spanish meatballs. We started off with bacalhau fritters and they were filled mashed potatoes, we did not taste bacalhau. My husband ordered picanha and I ordered the beef special. The picanha was not picanha, it was a cheap sirloin that was served, we know the taste of picanha. My meal was ver very salty, the carrots were filled with salt flavor and my meat was tough and dry. We did not eat our dinner, we each had 1 bacalhau fritter and a bite or two of our dinner and we paid our full bill and left the food on the table. No manager or owner never came out to ask about our problem with the food. If you want true Portuguese food, you will have to go to Newark. By the way my husband is Portuguese and he never wastes food or leaves food at a restaurant. read more