Summer Salt in concept, is an exciting, inventive meal, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. In reality, this was a grossly overpriced meal for a lot of hit/miss items and rather small portions. To start, we reserved the covered patio. The chairs were wildly uncomfortable with no low back support. Service was friendly and attentive, always refilling waters and clearing plates. I do appreciate how the staff acknowledged our special occasion and even printed a keepsake menu. This did not go unnoticed. Now for the food: You pay $95/pp for a 4 course meal. 6 small (shared) plates that are merely 1-3 bites per small plate, per person, and an entree and dessert of choice per person. $95 pp wouldn't be horrible if the small plates were executed properly and if you got more than 1 small parm crisp and 1 small fritter per person just as an example. The portions were laughable, and this was moreover a tasting. Some items needed simple basics such as salt and acid to round them out. The beet salad, green beans and fritters were severely underseasoned. The star of the show was the linguine and clams. We both ordered this. This portion was appropriate. Again, for the small salads/bites, a pasta dish per person and a slice of cake per person, a more appropriate price point would have been approx $55-75 per person contingent on your entree (there was also steak and fish). The lemon mirror cake was a nice ending to the meal and we appreciated the complimentary coffee. We left with the general consensus that it was good, not great, nor memorable, and felt we overpaid for the quality and portions. Of note: this is also a BYOB. read more

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This definitely would have been 4 stars for the beautiful decor, friendly staff, and interesting menu. The pre fixe menu was good, though not a lot of food per person. The spot on the water with the view of the dunes is gorgeous. I don't mind paying for an expensive meal. But over $100 a person for average portion size and no drinks (it's BYOB) is crazy. For that reason alone I wouldn't go back. I need at least one martini to justify paying $130 a person. read more

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We drove about 1.5 hours to try this farm-to-table restaurant. It was definitely worth the drive! We sat on the outdoor porch which was absolutely stunning as the sun started to set. I like that it was pre-fix and felt like it was worth the price for the attentive service and meal. To my surprise, you actually get all of the small plates from the first and second course. They were fresh, healthy and delicious. For entrees, we had the fluke and pesto fusilli. The desserts were also fantastic with the option to add a scoop of ice cream from the ice cream spot next door. Our server, Aidan, explained everything thoroughly and ensured we had a great experience. Can't wait to try this place again as the menu rotates! read more

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I've been looking forward to trying Summer Salt for a long time, and my friends and I finally went last night. The ambiance was a 10/10. We had a table outside on the patio, and the setting was beautiful. As the sun set, the staff thoughtfully adjusted the lighting, and the service was attentive and friendly throughout the evening. The food, however, fell short. For $95, the tasting menu is not unreasonably priced (we're used to $100+ in the city), but most dishes felt incomplete -- missing salt, acid, or another balancing element. The smoked tomato starter was literally just 5-6 chopped up tomatoes in oil, and the fennel salad was the biggest miss: plain raw fennel with no flavor or dressing. There were some real high points: the corn pasta, pork chop, and lemon dessert were truly excellent and saved the evening. Those bites showed what the kitchen is capable of. Overall, I'd go back for the ambiance and service, but the food needs more consistency to justify the pre-fix tasting menu format. read more

Long overdue review. Dined Early Aug. 3rd or 4th time . Each visit was great! This last was outrageous. Probably best meal I've ever had. Every bite of every dish was Spectacular . Thank you Summer Salt ! See you next summer read more

From the moment we walked thru the door, we were greeted and treated like special guests. All restaurant representatives, meaning the greeters, seaters, servers, and restaurant owner, were so friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, history of restaurant, and just so engaging. Ambiance and esthetics are terrific too. We truly enjoyed the highly coveted outdoor porch seating where we could (practically) touch the dune grass. We enjoyed a 5/6 course pre set menu (which they change up frequently) and each course was wonderful! Nice variety of farm fresh vegetables, meats, seafood and pasta. (Pasta made by 3rd generation Italian chef.. amazing). Unique dishes and the presentation of each dish was stellar. We hit solid gold with Aidan as our waiter. Heather, owner, came by our table to check in on us a few times. So fun spirited and truly passionate about her choices and style of restaurant. We were celebrating my retirement and I had shared that with Jessica (Executive Manager) when making the reservation and our menus were each personalized for our occasion. Sweet keepsake. Wonderful place to celebrate a special occasion, treat yourself or enjoy fine dining in a relaxed beautiful beach restaurant. Did I mention the view. We also enjoyed nice stroll on boardwalk and beach after dinner bc it was right there! Don't hesitate, book the reservation. You will not regret it. read more

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Exceptional experience from arrival to departure! Impeccable, friendly service from our server, Morgan and the rest of the staff. The four course meal was exceptional. For the entree selection, the three of us each ordered one of the three entrees available and shared. The filet mignon was smokey and so flavorful in the sauce. The linguini with clams was the best I've ever had. Can't wait to go back!!! read more

The food, service, and view were excellent. Perfect place for a date night and love that it's right on the beach. Delicious- can't wait to go back! read more

If you are in Avalon or Stone Harbor you have to make Summer Salt a priority! The food is fantastic, farm to table fresh and a well thought out menu. Service here is always top notch, we've eaten here many times and we've never been let down. The outside patio has great views. I can't recommend Summer Salt enough! read more

Summer Salt - We had the fluke, short rib and a complementary side of the Bolognese! - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

Wow, it was expensive not much on the menu to choose from and what we did choose was unremarkable. To be honest, I can't even remember what we had at the time. Sat outside, which of course is nice. Can't really see the water though because the dunes are in the way. read more

I can't recommend Summer Salt highly enough. I went last night (Saturday night) for a birthday celebration. The food was creative, thoughtfully prepared, and absolutely delicious. We sat on the terrace, which had the perfect upscale beach vibe--relaxed yet refined. The staff were all incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive. While everything we tried was excellent, my standout favorites were the linguini with clams, green beans with crab, fennel salad, and the raspberry roulade. I have already made reservations to return. read more

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Believe the reviews !! This place is 10/10 for everything including service and food ! Make sure to make a reservation because it gets packed . I was lucky enough to snag a last minute reservation thanks to Brian the manager who assisted my group of 6 adults and a toddler & I am so happy I got in! I got to try their June Prix fixe menu and it did not disappoint. There are 4 courses and the 2 starters are served family style. The portions are small but mighty. This is a BYOB place so make sure to bring your wine or drink of choice, they put out a nice ice bucket to hold your drink for you next to your table. From the moment you walk in , the staff is so welcoming. I asked to sit somewhere with a view and whether you do the covered porch or the extended outside porch , you will love it. Views on views on views . We had a mix of fresh local market veggies to start and for entrees I did their scallops (amazing ), for dessert I had their chocolate cake and asked for vanilla ice cream on the side (incredible). The manager did tell me their homemade ice cream would be some of the best I've had and he was not wrong. If only I could take this place back with me to NYC. Thank you Brian and team for a wonderful dinner , we will be back! read more

This place is amazing! I came here for my cousins birthday, she made the reservations in May. This could be one of the best restaurants I've been to. The ambiance of the patio is perfect along with the food. They change the menu every two weeks. The four courses were all so amazing! Literally everything was perfect. I can't wait to come back! read more

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We were here the first year they opened. Fantastic. Visited this night and disappointed. First two courses of the tapas style dishes very interesting. Main entree, two of the fish and two of the steak, average. Dessert ok. Service and ambiance very good. But at this price we expected to be impressed again and just weren't. Likely that we will not return. read more

Our meal was excellent! The food selections were perfect and the service was great! The views and sounds of the ocean made the experience that much better! read more

After dining at Summer Salt twice, with both experiences being amazing, it has solidified how much we love what they do. The freshness of the produce is unmatched. Seasonal vegetables bursting with flavor, presented thoughtfully. Their approach to food and the dining experience is elegant but approachable and we've enjoyed every minute of it. Having dined off of the vegan and gluten free menu we appreciate their efforts even more. While they have meat, seafood & dairy, they offer absolutely delicious vegan and gluten free alternatives without lowering the standard of taste, quality or presentation. We truly feel like guests, not customers. They've literally nailed the hospitality experience. We will be back when they reopen in the spring and look forward to many more memorable dishes and friendly conversations with their wonderful staff. A+ to everyone for a job well done! I'd be remiss if I didn't mention their outdoor patio which is so peaceful and right along the ocean. While you can't see the water at night, the starry sky and quiet atmosphere are the perfect backdrop for your evening. I can't recommend Summer Salt enough! read more

Summer Salt - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

Summer salt is definitely a place you go for a special event. We particularly liked the main course (linguine with clams and the filet mignon). Some of the "tapas" I felt could have been improved upon, but it was fun to taste all the creative items that came out of the kitchen. You won't see these items anywhere else. If I could just get a big bowl of the linguine and clams I would be very happy. The desserts were also very good. The chocolate orange custard was dreamy. The patio folding chairs could have been more comfortable. read more

Summer Salt - First and second courses. - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

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The staff was fantastic, and the meal was easily the best two I've ever had. My wife and I had been wanting to come for dinner for several years, and this year it finally happened. We couldn't have been happier. read more

Summer Salt - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

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We come at least once every season and it is never a disappointment. We look forward to it every single time. The food is like nothing like anything else on the island and the service is always incredible. The ambience and view are exceptional. Truly, this place is a gem! read more

We had a party of 7 and they accommodated us on the covered porch. The food was excellent and the service was outstanding! We have enjoyed this restaurant for the past several years and every time the experience gets better and better. Grace our server was pleasant and very knowledgeable with the menu. It was wonderful to have Heather the owner stopped by our table and Alex surprised us with a personalized menu which was very thoughtful and appreciated. read more

Summer Salt - The personalized menu - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

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Heather, Connor and Aidan were a resounding success in creating a meal that from start to finish was tasty and all together memorable! Bravo! read more

Summer Salt - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

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Last night was my first formal date with my 14 year old son. He has been to great dinners, is a great conversationalist and has manners but with wild schedules and other kids in our house, 1:1 time is limited. Last night was one of those rare opportunities for us both! Your Menu change next week was a great excuse to go out to dinner NOW, especially as I'll be back two more times this summer (or more!) with other configurations of family and friends. But, back to last night. It was pure joy to bring my son to dine at a place he has heard so much about and to see him soak up for the first time what we all have come to expect from dining at Summer Salt was powerful to observe. He loved the art (he's an artist), he loved the combo of live and dried seed flowers on the table (he propagates plants and loves nature), the music was basically a playlist he would have created ("two back to back obscure Vampire Weekend songs?!") and we just soaked up the food, the portions, the combinations, the time together and just the joy. Being able to taste all off the desserts was the moment that took it next level. And BTW that Raspberry meringue is the most divine thing we have ever eaten. All of this to say that it is an evening we won't forget and hearing him talk about it was delightful. You all are creating something more than yummy food and fun, you are creating memories, you are creating connection and in a world that is busy and hard, y'all are bringing pure joy. For both a mama trying to hold on to her rising high schooler's attention and for a 14 year old boy who is otherwise hard to delight. Bravo and thank you all. read more

Was pleasantly shocked by this place. Came on a recommendation and from the outside I was not expecting this level of food. The atmosphere is kinda ok but once you start eating you're completely caught up in the food. Tasting menu and they have a vegan option for all plates which is amazing on its own. Service was great. It's BYOB so be prepared before going. Will definitely be back next year. read more

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This is one of those restaurants that checks all the boxes. From their alleged farm-to-table ethos to their choice of dishes, it all sounds like a high end dining experience. I wasn't terribly impressed. The service was decent but not great. Felt a little first week of work. The menu is prix fixe and we were a party of six, so we pretty much shared everything. I wouldn't go so far as to say that anything we tried was bad, it just wasn't that good. The first dish I tried, was nothing more than potato wedges drowned in seasoned mayonnaise. They called it "roasted new potatoes with spring onion aioli," and the flavors were good, but it was still roasted potatoes covered in mayo. In our house we call that potato salad and we use a lot less mayo. The dishes felt ambitious and heartfelt but missed the mark for me. Instead of being inventive they struck me as more confused than anything. It's another restaurant where you can't define a single dish, let alone the menu. Some people like that, I guess, because it feels high concept. I find it a little tedious. This is their first year. Maybe things will improve. They apparently change their menu monthly so maybe I'd like a different option. For $85/person and BYOB, I hope for more. read more

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Run - don't walk - to Summer Salt. We were in town for a weekend visit when I stumbled across Summer Salt (advertised as a pop up), and it was truly one of the best dinners we have ever had. From the friendly service to the ambiance of the outdoor patio to the amazing food, there's not a single improvement I could have imagined. Everything was incredible, and I wish I lived in town so I could return. Also loved that it was BYOB! read more

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OK, so let's go with this review. First front of the house was extremely accommodating to my 94 year-old mother who needed to be seated in an appropriate spot and accepted. From the time we first contacted you it was all over the top. You couldn't have done any better. Once we got to our table, the staff that was assigned to us was as terrific as it could possibly be. They responded to everyone of Nana's requests. The food is very, very good. I think the first two courses were even better than the third and fourth. I especially loved, of all things, the lettuce with Caesar dressing. The Caesar dressing was exceptional and I am not a fan of Caesar salad because it's old and dusty. The remainder of the first two courses contains terrific bites of fresh farm to table. Moving onto the entrées, I thought the fish and pork were terrific. Finally, getting to the desserts, the olive oil cake was wonderful and comparable to anything I've had in New York City. we will be back and we will be back with a herd of people. read more

Summer Salt - Nana waiting for everything to come - Pop-Up Restaurants Near Me - Avalon, New Jersey

UPDATE:: The owner sent a very genuine response that drastically improved our impression of this restaurant. I am thoroughly impressed with her customer service and open mindedness to value each customers opinion. Despite our original experience, I would open to trying this restaurant again in the future to see if improvements have been made. read more

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Food: 10/10 simple yet sophisticated. Fresh ingredients reminiscent of our home in the Hudson Valley, NY Service: very friendly, especially accommodating to our 3 little kids. Every staff member was personable and helpful. Ambience: absolutely loved the decor, simple and tasteful without being stuffy. Very enjoyable music and custom playlist. Will be listening on repeat on my Spotify! Overall: being big time foodies from the NYC area, we're always on the prowl for new inventive flavors. Unfortunately will have to wait until next year as this seasonal restaurant closes next. week. read more

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All the stars were in alignment for our evening at Summer Salt. We had a perfect experience at 8PM under the lights, where we could practically touch the dune grasses. The ocean roared in the near distance. If the temperatures are hot, be sure to eat late! Cancel if it rains. Avoid the noisy, crowded indoors. Avoid the covered-porch area, which was steamy hot! I loved the food, but 2 of the 3 entrees were seafood options. I'm allergic to all shellfish. The restaurant has a 2nd menu for people with food challenges, but I found those special entrees uninspiring. BUT overall, the food was delicious, the owner and wait staff very friendly, and the venue nestled into the dune grasses just can't be replicated. Yes, it's spendy. $85 fixed price, 4 courses. First 2 courses are shared with the table. read more

Food slightly above average. It's for people who want to feel like they went somewhere. Nice play Summer Salt. Terribly overpriced - are we in manhattan? The highlight is the staff. Cheers. read more

11/10 dining experience at this small family owned upscale oceanside spot!! The menu is seasonally changing and highlights produce that is currently at its peak depending on time of year. The first two courses are tapas style which maximizes the experience by getting a taste of all they have to offer!! Pan seared scallops with a beurre blanc, and clams and tagliatelle tossed in lemon juice and Parmesan -- the definition of melt in your mouth. The covered patio made for a beautiful and romantic ambiance for a date night, string lights and a fresh sea breeze read more

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While portions appear small they actually appropriate. Everything was fresh and tasted great. I had the pork chop that was made with an apple cider as jus. Fantastic!!! I was only disappointed that they charge $6 for an iced tea and they don't refill it for you so I paid $24 for 4 of them. Service was great, food exceptional. read more

Amazing food, service and atmosphere. Came for our "date night" while at our weekly summer visit with tons of kids. Definitely will be an ongoing staple for every summer visit in the future. read more

This was a wonderful dining experience. We chose to sit inside to enjoy the air conditioning but there was a covered deck and outside seating as well. The pre fixe menu was great with the first 2 courses served family style and an individual selection for the third course and dessert course. The food selection was excellent, fresh and very tasty. Our server Aiden was excellent, engaging, attentive, and helpful.!!! P.S. the restaurant is BYOB so don't forget to take your drink of choice. read more

We were in town for a little getaway to celebrate our wedding and we chose Summer Salt for dinner based on the great reviews. The restaurant absolutely blew us away with the incredible service, food, and experience. Our waitress (Barbara) was very knowledgeable about all of the local foods, made sure we felt special for our celebration, and took great care of us. They have changing seasonal menus based on what's fresh in the area, which means we'll have to come back soon to try out their next menu! We sat on their covered patio area and it was wonderful (kept us out of the heat, while still getting to enjoy the outdoor feel) It's BYOB so be sure to bring your favorite drink along with you to pair with your dinner. We would highly recommend Summer Salt to anyone who is in town! Thank you for such a memorable evening :) read more

The very best gourmet organic farm to table service at the shore, or anywhere! Veggie forward, Four course prix fixe BYO with imaginative Vegetarian menu. Yay! Location on the dunes is pure magic read more

I dislike writing negative reviews but Wondering if we were at the same restaurant. we had a party of four and sat in the coverered patio, which had a nice ambience, but a little strange that the chairs were basically folding wooden chairs. Not horrible for me because I'm petite but not very comfortable. the six small appetizer plates were mediocre at best. there was a feta and beet salad that was good. for the main course, my husband's pasta was really good, but my fish was pretty cold ,a little dry and bland. It was so strange. there were four of us there and all agreed. I like really good food, but I'm also fine with quality diner type food with this wasn't even that. read more

I almost don't know where to start. The restaurant itself is located next to arcade , unassuming and understated. When you walk in take note of the cheesy decor. Dried flowers and dune grass along the wall with brown ripped paper on the ceiling. Was interesting to say the least. Definitely not the caliper of the clientele or the price point. The menu was dropped when we We're seated without direction. Do you order each course is it automatic . We had to ask everything about the menu. The server was awkward and aloof. He explained nothing. He didn't know much about the menu offerings except to say the crab pasta was the "best". The menu is price fix and starts with a garden board of different items. For starters it is a complete mess. The vegetable offerings were radish , cucumber , fennel, and turnip and three pickled green beans. Each item was cut in to 1/16 inch pieces . There were two sauces that were red pepper vinegar which tasted similar to buffalo sauce and the buttermilk dressing was loose and Watery. There were candied walnuts and deep fried garbanzo beans that were almost inedible. As soon as you tasted them they turned in to a powder. The appetizer course was the best executed . The tomato salad was probably the best thing only because the tomatoes were meaty and the crispy prosciutto gave it salt. The clams were thyme heavy but good, the corn burrata salad lacked any salt and was tasteless. The toast with tahini and cucumber and mint was just ok very fresh but underwhelming. The main course you choose from three offerings. The three offerings were scallops and rice, pork chop with potatoes and green beans, and cacio de Pepe crab pasta. We opted for the pork chop but in protest since there weren't any other non seafood option. I would never expect pork to be on a menu of an elevated restaurant especially prepared the way my grandma cooked it , without flavor. The pork came with a romesco sauce that didn't feel like it belonged but tasted ok. At this point we just wanted dinner to be done. The dessert portion of dinner was corn ice cream , caramel sauce , chocolate sauce , zeppoli, and blueberries "two ways" one was raw and the other tasted like a pie filling. It couldn't get any more non-creative than that. Avalon does not have a lot of great restaurants to choose from but this one definitely misses the mark . I read these reviews and cannot help but wonder was I at that same restaurant ? Some items of note... have the server change the plate and serving ware between courses. We were asked to take our forks back "you will need them For your entree". Explaining the food would also be helpful. The best part about the meal was the free Parking and BYOB. All in a disappointing 85.00 pp prix fix plus gratuity. 216.00 total with gratuity. read more

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The food is phenomenal, the service was outstanding, and the personalized touches made it an incredibly memorable meal for us. The covered outdoor porch area is so cute. We will be back! read more

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Fantastic food BUT do not sit on the covered patio in July! If you are spending $85 per person, the atmosphere should be comfortable for guests. That said, we'd definitely go back but sit outside or inside. BYOB so bring wine or other beverages read more

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