Came here as a suggestion by a friend who knew I'd be in the area & it was a very good experience. Nice exterior in a very chill "vibey" part of downtown Freehold. Interior was very dark, but the staff were so friendly and the drinks were strong!! Metered street parking all around. Chill casual kinda place with a nice dark look. We had the Calamari, Crab Salad, Manhattan (not pictured), & I had the Freehold roll. A overall very good experience. Grades: Calamari: A Crab Salad: C- Manhattan: B Freehold roll: A- read more

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We had a baby shower here this past weekend. everything was exceptional. The food was delicious and the service was fantastic. Rob was easy to deal with and very flexible The upstairs area was very nice. read more

Sadly this was one of our worst meals in a long time. Ordered the manchego cheese and short rib empanadas and for $18, to get one empanada was offensive to be honest and then there was what appeared to be a Kraft cheese slice barely melted on top of it. My husband got a burger and it was the exact cheese on his burger which was to be cooper sharp American. My husbands burger, he said tasted like Burger King, down to the fake grill marks on the burger. Now the manager did stop by to apologize and offer me something else but being that everything else was not great, I declined. Then offered me a desert or a drink to which I declined as well. The manager did say that the cheese on his burger was yellow copper sharp which was not our norm as we have always had white cooper sharp so we questioned it but he assured us it was yellow copper sharp. We are soda people and my daughters came out as seltzer (no big deal it happens) but then the next one was flat. There's nothing worse than flat soda to me. I also got a Cesar salad which was pretty basic. Lettuce was crunch and fresh but the dressing and croutons lacked anything special. The bread they bring to the table is sweet, which we didn't accept and wasn't our fav. I can say with certainty we will not be back. Wish I had taken a pic of the empanada! read more

Phenomenal dinner from start to finish. We began with the short rib empanada, filet mignon spring rolls, followed by the stuffed rigatoni. For entrées, we had the General Tso chicken and the Asian skirt steak -- everything was flavorful and cooked perfectly. Dessert was the perfect ending with donut holes and a mason jar apple pie crumble. Amazing meal and a great experience overall. Highly recommend! read more

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Valentine's Day dinner. We got to the restaurant really early and we were fit in at an earlier time which was perfect as we were starving. Got two appetizers and both were over the top delicious! ( stuffed portobello and Valentine sushi roll). Main course was just as good. Steak for each of us. Whole meal was perfect including a drink for my love and a cappuccino for myself. Our server Amelia made the evening even more special with her attention to our every need. Would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great meal and amazing atmosphere. read more

Metropolitan Cafe - Stuffed Portobello mushroom - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

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had dinner here the other day got a strawberry mule, which was pretty good. The lettuce wraps with chicken were delicious and then my entrée of the grilled chicken with rice and everything was really good too service was good and the inside was really nice as well. read more

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I cannot believe that I have never been to the Metropolitan and enjoyed our lunch very much. Three of us went and ordered Lobster Grilled Cheese & Soup, Crispy Chicken Sandwich and a Chicken Cutlet Sandwich. We shared an order of Edamame - very good. Our server was Kerry, and he was informative and attentive. We will have to come back again. This lunch took place during the Christmas season and the restaurant was tastefully decorated. read more

My friend and I got together for dinner. When we arrived we parked in the lot. We walked into a really cute restaurant. We were sat and were served by Josh and he was great. We had some cocktails that included the vodka martini which were good. We also had some fries. It was a good experience all in all. read more

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After visiting Metropolitan Cafe for the first time yesterday, I'm already dreaming about my next visit to this restaurant. First off, the bread and butter you start off with is great. The raisin rolls with the maple butter is so unique and a pleasant start to the meal. For appetizers, we had the crab cake and the tuna tartare pizza. The crab cake was fresh and pleasantly crispy with a delicious sauce on the plate. The tuna tartare pizza also had a great balance of sauces with the tuna and cucumber on an extra-crispy scallion pancake. For my entree, I got the crab cake sliders. Like the crab cake, the crab itself was delicious. The buns were nice and soft, while the slaw added a nice crunch. The French fries were also decent. I tried a piece of the chicken quesadilla off the specials menu which was pleasant, but nothing special. Additionally, I had the angry dragon roll. This roll had an amazing combination of textures, and the roll melted in my mouth. Outside of the food, the service here was excellent. The servers were regularly refilling our beverages, and the food came out quickly. Additionally, this place has a moody and intimate vibe that makes for the perfect dinner setting. All I can say is I cannot wait to be back here! read more

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Sitting here now and just got the App...tuna nachos. Look good (full review pending). But I need 85 characters... read more

Metropolitan Cafe - Tuna nachos - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

The appetizer consisting of calamari and shrimp was heavily coated in a sweet glaze that was unappealing. The main course of crabmeat stuffed scallops was $28.00 for just two scallops hidden under a pile of spinach. Outrageously expensive for barely an appetizer portion. The salmon was once again covered with a sweet glaze and otherwise had no taste whatsoever. So incredibly disappointed as I took a friend out for her birthday and ended up spending over a $100 with tip for a subpar meal. It was my first and last time to this restaurant. read more

This place is very aesthetically pleasing but food wise can be very hit or miss. I've had meals here which I absolutely loved and meals that were not great at all. Also the menu changes so when I come back to have something I loved it's often gone. I wish they would keep some staples that they've mastered. I am a big fan of the maple butter that comes complimentary with the bread. I've enjoyed the sushi here but find it to be too pricy. I used to love the crabcake appetizer but it's now a different iteration once again. I enjoyed the shrimp tacos on my last visit which had mango and spicy mayo. I also ordered the grilled pork chop which I found very dry. The gravy it came with was sort of bland and in my opinion didn't taste good with the grilled peaches. I liked the concept of this dish but the execution was poor. The lobster grilled cheese came with a tiny cup of tomato soup and was absolutely delicious! The price to portion ratio was pretty reasonable as well which I didn't expect given some of the other pricing. I also enjoyed the sushi nachos, and I do think they do sushi well here- I just prefer to go to my typical sushi which is significantly cheaper. read more

Food service and ambiance was great. The cocktails were fantastic. Will be back and looking forward to sitting outside in a beautiful sunny day, enjoying a cocktail and a wonderful lunch read more

This a fantastic place. Been going here for 25 years. Food is very good. Restaurant has a nice vibe and a good spot for a date. Bar is well equipped with a decent selection of wine. Specialty drinks are also available. Emerich and John are excellent bar tenders and can make anything you want. Rob Kash the owner is a restaurant genius. Try the Twice Cooked Cuban Steak. My favorite and on the menu since the place opened. Little on the pricey side, especially for alcohol. Meals are priced mid range, probably $30 + for entree's. You can save a few bucks if you go during Happy Hour and sit at the bar. Very popular spot and gets packed on weekends especially. Make a reservation if you plan to sit a table. Parking can be challenging as with every restaurant in downtown Freehold. Enjoy! read more

Whether you are a longtime fan like me or trying Metropolitan for the café, you're in for something special. This restaurant located in downtown FREEHOLD is my go to spot for incredible food. The filet mignon eggrolls are a must try and I order them every single time I come here. The tune of volcano was the perfect fusion of sushi and crab salad. I truly enjoyed that tender Asian skirt steak the sushi is impressively fresh and our dessert was nothing short of spectacular. The donuts were heavenly, but the creamy Nutella crème brûlée stole the show. Metropolitan Café never disappoints. It's a place. I will always return to and highly recommend. Don't forget to check out my Instagram. @foodaholicnj read more

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We dined here on New Year's Eve with a 6:45 reservation. Although we arrived on time, we still waited about 15 minutes to be seated. Unfortunately, there's no real waiting area, so we found ourselves awkwardly standing in the way of guests entering and exiting the restaurant. As for the ambiance, at least in the downstairs area where we were seated, it wasn't particularly impressive. The space is dark and rustic, with seating broken up into many small nooks and corners. While this might appeal to those looking for privacy, it made the restaurant feel closed-off and less inviting. Perhaps the upstairs offers a more open and appealing atmosphere. Service was slow throughout the evening, which may have been due to the holiday, but it was still noticeable. Bread took so long that we eventually gave up expecting it--only for it to arrive much later. Ordering, receiving appetizers, and finally our entrées all required significant waiting. The food itself was just okay and didn't live up to the price point. We tried the filet mignon spring rolls and yin yang dumplings as appetizers. Both were decent, but neither stood out or delivered memorable flavor. My entrée, gnocchi with duck in tomato sauce, was especially disappointing. The sauce lacked depth, and the duck was bland and tasteless. It wasn't until I asked the server to add cheese that the dish gained some much-needed flavor. That said, the rest of my family did enjoy their meals despite the long wait, so the evening wasn't a complete loss. In the end, I may have chosen the wrong dish, but overall, the experience didn't justify the cost. For the price, I expected better service, stronger flavors, and a more inviting atmosphere. read more

Had a birthday lunch here with family including two elderly people. We attempted to leave through the handicap door, to reduce the amount of walking for them but we were stopped and told that "if we opened the door it would be too cold for the other tables" even though there was no one else in that side of the restaurant. We were also mistakenly overcharged by $50 with no line item. Despite only three tables eating in the entire restaurant there was slow service with inaccurate pricing and rude staff. read more

Came here with my two of my colleagues got some holiday dinner and man I'm glad we came here! I love this spot, great food, great drinks and great service. This is nicely located in heart of downtown freehold by the American hotel with a nutcracker greeting you as you enter their premise. The interior is nicely decorated and the staff is so nice. We've ordered some eel rolls, some crab cakes sliders, pasta and desserts. I think the food was delicious and the dessert was soooo good! Their wild berry sangria btw, you have to try it! I mean I'm a huge fan of wild berry but this sangria really hit the spot! read more

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I went out to the Metropolitan Cafe with my parents for dinner and we enjoyed ourselves! I really like like the atmosphere that the Metropolitan Café has to offer. It has a nice ambience on the inside as well as the covered patio. We sat outside at first but it started raining so we had to move inside. We ordered the calamari / shrimp appetizer as well as the pork fried dumplings. I really enjoyed both appetizers! The calamari / shrimp was definitely my favorite. I also ordered the wonton soup. I loved the wontons as well as the shrimp in the soup; I just wish it had more scallions and a bit more flavor! My parents and I both ordered salads. I ordered a Caesar salad with steak. My mom ordered the pear and walnut salad with steak and my dad ordered the grilled steak salad! We all enjoyed the salads. I did again feel that the Cesar salad was missing that special something though! Overall, I will definitely try out the Metropolitan Café again! I'm very interested to try their other appetizers as well as some of their meat entrées! read more

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The bar had great service, however the music was a little bit too loud. The bartender came by several times to make sure we were alright. The apps hit the spot with enough spice on them. The ravioli dish at lunch only had 4 maybe we can add another 2, so that we can be full. Great job by all. read more

I've been here several times now. I recommend making a reservation. Their cocktails are awesome. The vibe of the place is definitely nice too, even sexy. The food is also consistently good. Just went this past weekend and got the Burrata which was simple yet delicious to start. Then had the Asian skirt steak which was so good. The steak was so tasty and cooked perfectly. The lo mein was fine kind of bland could have used more flavor. We got the skillet for dessert which was good just on the smaller side. We intended to share and should have gotten a second one since it wasn't really enough. Overall definitely recommend. read more

We came here for a date night and had a really fun experience. If you're looking for a more intimate setting, be sure to chose the side dining room or upstairs as the main bar area can get a little loud. We sat in the side dining area and started with a couple of adult beverages. I liked how they bring you a flask of bourbon for the old fashioned and pour it into the glass once it's on your table. It took us a bit to order but once we did, we got our food quickly. All of the apps sounded great and we had a hard time deciding on what to get but eventually chose the blistered shishito peppers w/chorizo. Really enjoyed the peppers, sausage and garlic sauce that the dish was served in. For dinner, we each chose two sushi rolls - one off of the specialty list and one from the traditional list. The sushi was fresh, nicely presented, and super tasty. Overall, had a good experience and would definitely come back whether it's for a drink and apps or a full blown meal. read more

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Here you may dine outside or in. Inside there's plenty of tables and, when we were there, a bar full of people. They do take reservations. We didn't make one, but there was available seating so we had a place. The inside has subdued lighting, making it seem intimate. The service is friendly and attentive. We were not so inclined, but the full bar, wine/beer list and specialty drinks can satisfy anyone's palate. Our party of two ordered the crab cake sliders and the chicken and shrimp. The crab cakes were enjoyable, with their side of fries and the chicken and shrimp were very tasty. read more

Metropolitan Cafe - Crab Cake Sliders - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

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We have been there many times. Food and service was horrible. The only benefit was the band outside.

Highly recommend this restaurant. The food and service quality was truly exceptional, I can't wait to come back. The dumplings, sushi, bbq short rib and the Tequila old fashioned was particularly my favorite, great ambiance and customer service. read more

I came here on a Saturday night with a few friends. We had some drinks at the bar which were really good and then we sat at a table after. We got the lettuce wraps which were super good. and the Asian skirt steak and it was phenomenal. I really liked the setting and decorations in there. I would definitely go back this is my new favorite spot! read more

Best spot in downtown Freehold Borough for dining especially with a date! Terrific food, atmosphere and service! The entire place is really classy and sleek. If you recommend this place your group will thank you, terrific service, really nice interior, very well decorated whether on the downstairs floor or the upstairs floor. We started the night with a cold seafood salad and filet mignon spring rolls. I have to say the cold seafood salad was absolutely delicious, five stars! I loved it! I'll get it every time I go! The filet mignon spring rolls were very good, but if you like seafood I recommend the cold seafood salad as a starter. My main course was a maple glazed halibut, delicious! Very well-prepared I enjoyed it greatly. Nice blend of maple flavor with the halibut. My dates dish was the shrimp and grits. Now this dish was delicious here! You really can't go wrong and the sauce was tasty. I want to point out that this place has a spectacular sushi bar! I did not get any sushi this time but I've gotten it many times in the past. Very very fresh and tasty here. But also pricier than usual, but worth every penny. Highly recommended if you're looking for a classy spot to eat in downtown freehold borough and want to impress! read more

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It was super delicious and great service and ambiance !!!! If in area must try, crab cake amazing ... read more

Metropolitan Cafe - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

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I was honestly underwhelmed by this restaurant. I've only heard good things from friends and colleagues but it definitely wasn't up to par with what I imagined. That being said, the atmosphere is lovely. It feels super cozy and romantic, definitely a date night spot. But the food was just okay. As an appetizer we got the roasted vegetable empanada. For my personal preference the skin on the outside was too thick. Inside was an orange vegetable paste mixed with black beans. I thought it would be whole vegetables on the inside not a paste. My friend got the Mediterranean beef wrap which she enjoyed but she thought it would be a hot wrap rather than a cold one since there is prime rib inside. I got the short rib tacos. If you didn't tell me this was short rib I would have never known. The taco is stuffed with much more slaw than the actual meat. I'll probably return to give this place another try. read more

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We had a 5pm reservation but got there early so wanted a drink at the bar. Sat down and we're greeted but then ignored for almost 10 min. Left and canceled dinner. Saw the bartender wrapping silverware but made no attempt to help us. We will not be back! read more

What a terrific meal we had in this ana big restaurant. We started with the special appetizer of shrimp and calamari with sweet and sour sauce. It's was delicious. I had a martini, Revolver, it's like an old fashioned but in a martini glass. Loved it! We ordered 3 of the special sushi rolls, they were so fresh. We also ordered pumpkin ravioli and the Korean bbq chicken tacos. Everything highly recommended. The service was terrific. They have a covered patio with nice heating, perfect to enjoy during a cold day. read more

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Is it a coincidence that there is another Barbara H that dined the same night on Dec. 21st as I did? And had the exact opposite experience that we had? Hmmmm "Here is the experience" we had: We had a lovely evening from the time we entered to the very end. Our hostess was very attentive and sweet and acknowledged us the moment we walked in the door. The table was beautifully set and the restaurant was lovely and clean. We started off with a glass of wine for myself and my husband ordered a local beer that was very good! The bread and butter with a hint of maple was scrumptious. We split the Yin Yang Dumplings appetizer which was delicious. I ordered the Asian Skirt Steak and my husband ordered the General's Chicken Bowl. Our meals were absolutely delicious! Our waiter was very attentive and very personable. We will definitely be back! read more

Metropolitan Cafe - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

We decided on a date lunch. When we arrived and were seated we immediately felt so right here. Very romantic and comfortable setting.We Started with the Burrata and Grilled Peaches which was so tasty. We had the Filet Mignon sandwich and also the Barbecue Short Rib Tacos. Both were wonderful and so well presented with a cone of the best fries in a long time. Our server was attentive and well schooled with the menu. We're wanting more and will be back! read more

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Embarrassed by how awful the drinks were. We got the blood Orange margarita, spicy margarita, a mule, Espresso martini and gin and tonic. The only ones that were drinkable was the gin and tonic (how do you screw that up?) and espresso martini. The margaritas were so disgusting, i sent mine back and my friend didn't have more than 3 sips. I've been here before and had not had this experience so I was very disappointed. Their food is sub-par. read more

So we came at 9:30pm after my daughters graduation ceremony in May on a Thursday and the my wouldn't seat us since the kitchen closes at 10! . Really? When I worked at restaurants in Hoboken and Jersey city we sat people until closing and stayed until the last table left. Bad business not to. Times have changed I guess. I wonder what the owner thinks about a table of 6 going to another restaurant around the corner instead of his/her/their establishment?!?!? read more

Great staff ; wonderful mixture of food and the drinks are on point . There has not been anything I haven't liked ... I shall return . read more

Metropolitan Cafe - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

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They catered a party at our house this past Sunday. It was fantastic. When I picked the food up they were very helpful. They are top shelf. Eating in the restaurant is also great. read more

Still great years later! Haven't been here in so long.... food was fantastic, service great and surprise... half price bottles of wine on Mondays! Score!!! Highly recommend if anyone is looking for a great meal in downtown Freehold... I had the scallops with mushroom risotto, delicious. Scallops were perfectly cooked and the risotto was chock full of all kinds of mushrooms... my party all enjoyed their meals as well, I was too busy eating to take pics of what they got! Bottom line, I don't think you'll be disappointed! read more

Metropolitan Cafe - Scallops with mushroom risotto - New American Near Me - Freehold, New Jersey

Nice ambiance and good service. Known for its sushi. Was not disappointed. Good location in Main Street in Freehold. Parking in front and rest. read more

I came in for brunch on a Sunday with three friends. We had an rsvp and were seated even though we came in a bit early. We were happy to see that there were specials for brunch, so we treated ourselves to a carafe of mimosas. The drinks were okay, but didn't seem to Serve a full glass for each of us. We each ordered our meals and were happy with them, but the meals in all were average. The steak in two of our steak and eggs meal were cooked just as we ordered and that was nice. All in all the meals were bad at all, just nothing worth writing home about. Same goes for the service; nothing bad, but nothing worth noting as special. Would I return? Only if someone else wanted to go. read more

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