Asbury Park, NJ February 2026

Why we love Asbury Park

February Brings Love and Gratitude to All Our Hearts

February has arrived, and with it comes a profound focus on gratitude and love. We are thankful for the gifts we receive every day: the safety and health of our loved ones, the gift of our own well-being, and the joy we feel when we look at those who enrich our lives.

This month truly emphasizes love, providing us with a wonderful opportunity to express appreciation and to give and receive care from those around us. Sometimes, in the rush of our daily life, it's easy to neglect a simple "I love you" or a small gesture of appreciation. A spontaneous hug or a pat on the back in gratitude. Finding ways to express this love is an important and fulfilling action. Find a way to make someone smile and you will feel the love come back at you.

In the spirit of love, we also celebrate our connection to Asbury Park. We invite all our readers to share pictures and stories of what you love about this amazing city and send them in for consideration in future City Lifestyle publications. We love to hear from you and want to share your love with others.

We also encourage everyone to remember those in need and support the vital nonprofit organizations across Monmouth County and beyond. Even the smallest gesture of kindness can brighten a person's day and help them feel the love and appreciation that might have been missing.

The entire Asbury Park City Lifestyle magazine team wishes to express our deepest gratitude for the support and love you have shown us. We appreciate every reader who supports the magazine and our advertising partners who help support our community.

I want to say a special "I love you" to my wife Debra for her love and support through all the years.

Peace and Love to you all,

JIMI

BONARO, PUBLISHER @ASBURYPARKCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Jimi Bonaro jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Ed Condran

ed.condran@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Angelica Niedermeyer angelica.niedermeyer@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Debra Pascali-Bonaro debrapascalibonaro@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Angelica Niedermeye angelica.niedermeyer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Ed Condran

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Ranno

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Steve Van Zandt with Christopher Smith at an awards ceremony at The Lanes. 2: A winter's day on the beach in Asbury Park 3: Convention Hall during the weekend shopping bazaar 4: Steve Van Zandt with Carla Gizzi, Store owner at an awards ceremony at The Lanes. 5: Santa and Mrs. Clause arrive for the tree lighting. 6: Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce Wine tour held at Johnny Macs, Pascal and Sabine, Lovesick, Taka and Black Swan. 7: Photos of the tree lighting in Press with Santa and Mrs. Claus and other local residents.

Smart guidance for buying at the Jersey Shore.

Spring brings new listings, new opportunities, and important decisions. I help buyers navigate pricing, competition, and negotiations with clear strategy and honest guidance, so you can move forward confidently in today’s market. Whether you’re purchasing your first

Thinking about buying this spring? Let’s talk strategy first.

business monthly

Diamond Peak Massage & Beauty

If you would like to take relaxation to another level, visit Diamond Peak Massage and Beauty, (63 W. Sylvania Avenue, Neptune City, 609-756-3595) which offers gift certificates.  Ask for Zilie Louis, who has been a massage therapist for more than a decade. “I was born and raised on the Jersey Shore massaging professionally for a dozen years," Louis said. "It's my destiny to help people. I want to make them feel better.”

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The Connelly Agency, Joe Baumann

With over 25 years of experience, Joe Baumann knows the local market inside and out and can help guide you every step of the way of your buying or selling journey. The majority of his business comes from past happy clients referring their friends and family. Their trust and confidence is one of the highest compliments and it means the world to him.

Indra Holistic Health

It might be time to connect with Indra Holistic Health's Kimberly Kubicke. If you’ve tried all the diets, supplements, or quick fixes but still don’t feel like yourself, Ayurveda offers something different. It helps you understand your body’s unique patterns and how to restore balance - naturally and sustainably. You’ll learn how to eat and live according to your body type, relieve digestive discomfort and inflammation and balance hormones and support long-term vitality.

Home Maintenance Tips

To prevent freezing/bursting water pipes, make sure you are reguarly running hot/cold water.

Plan for heating and cooling maintenance to prevent fires and save on energy.

Clean refrigerator coils.

Find and seal energy leaks.

Clean Dryer Vents.

Vacuum and rotate your mattress.

Test your smoke/carbon alarms.

Clean baseboards.

Repair interior wall damage.

Touch up paint.

Clean showerheads to maintain water pressure.

February 8, 1974: Butch Pielka & Jack Roig open the The Stone Pony, on the former site of Mrs. Jay's restaurant.

February 9, 2009: Parlor Gallery art gallery opens.

February 22, 1934: Cuba's Night Club opened on the west side, where Billie Holiday, Ike and Tina Turner, Little Richard, and the Four Tops would all go on to perform.

Wine Enthusiast?

Check out these nearby wineries: The Wine Room - Manalapan

Tomasello Winery Tasting Room at Wemrock

Orchards - Freehold

Cream Ridge Winery - Cream Ridge

Laurita Winery - New Egypt

Fox Hollow Vineyards - Holmdel

If beer is more your speed, check out these great local breweries:

Bakes Brewing - Belmar

Kane Brewing - Ocean Township

Little Dog Brewing - Neptune

Twin Lights Brewing - Tinton Falls

Wild Air Beerworks - Asbury Park

Sweet Treat Spots

SweetDaniB Cookie Kitchen - Asbury Park

Confections of a Rock$tar Bakery - Asbury Park

Hey Peach - Bradley Beach

The Macaroon Shop - Avon-by-the-Sea

Cravings Bakery - Allenhurst

Del Ponte’s - Bradley Beach

MEGHAN CARROLL, ABR, PSA, RENE, SRS

REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®

Cell: 732-508-7402

Email: mcarroll@remax.net

URL: www.MCsellsbythesea.com

NJ RE License #: 1642729 Follow me: @MCSellsByTheSea

The jersey for New Jersey

THE NEW JERSEY DEVILS REACHES OUT FOR SHORE NIGHT

ARTICLE

BY

ED CONDRAN

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE DEVILS

No

jersey says Jersey like the New Devils black jersey. The Garden State’s only major level sports franchise that proudly has the state name in its moniker features the fashionable sweater with one apt word, ‘Jersey.’

“We’re the only team in New Jersey who represents New Jersey on our chest,” New Jersey Devils marketing coordinator Jillian Frechette said while calling from her Newark office. “There are teams that play and practice in New Jersey but they represent New York. We’re all about New Jersey here and we have our beautiful black jerseys. With that, we represent the entire state.”

That includes Asbury Park and the Central Jersey shore. The Devils will tip its cap to the beach February 21 when the bladerunners host the Buffalo Sabres on “Down the Shore” night, which returns for year two. The evening will feature a number of summer themed activations, contests and live performances.

The Devils’ connection with Asbury Park and the surrounding area makes sense. It’s not easy for local hockey fans to make the trek to Manhattan to experience the New York Rangers or to Philadelphia to catch the Flyers. Each journey requires a near-two hour trek.

The Devils are less than an hour away and just over 60 minutes by train. And the bonus is that the Devils are Jersey’s team.

The Devils aforementioned rivals haven’t had events in Asbury Park. But the Devils had a swinging draft party at the Stone Pony in July of 2022. The concert, which featured Brian Kirk and the Jerks, was a fundraiser, which benefitted the Devils Youth Foundation and the Asbury Park Music Foundation.

“We had a great time at the draft party,” Frechette said. “We’ve had events at Jenkinson’s. The Devils love

Asbury Park since there is such a rich culture there. There are three things right off the bat that are special in New Jersey. There’s the incredible shore culture, the rich food culture and the music scene. They all unite New Jersey and they’re all in Asbury Park. We here with the Devils love those Jersey shore vibes from Asbury Park. That’s what we’re going to lean in on during our “Down the Shore” night.”

Frechette has been with the Devils for eight years. the South Orange resident is a Canadian transplant, who doesn’t just work for a hockey team but the sport has been in her blood since she was born just outside of Toronto.

Frechette grew up in a house divided. Her mother is a Toronto Maple Leaf diehard and her father, a rabid Montreal Canadians fan. Her childhood memories are of her mother catching the Leafs on television and her father consuming Habs games in French on the radio.

“That served me well,” Frechette said. “I love hockey.”

Prior to landing with the Devils, Frechette worked for the Calgary Flames. She relocated to New Jersey along with Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton, who was a Flame.

“Now we’re both here trying to make a difference with the Devils,” Frechette said.

The Devils have won three Stanley Cups in 43-years compared to four Cups for the New York Rangers in 99 seasons. But it’s not easy being in a market with an original six franchise. However, the Devils have become an established entity with a loyal fanbase that has been rewarded with the coolest trophy in sports and a number of legends, such as Hall of Famer Martin Brodeur. The Devils aren’t just the Rangers little brother.

“We're the only team in New Jersey who represents New Jersey on our chest. We're all about New Jersey here.”

“The Devils love Asbury Park since there is such a rich culture there... There's the incredible shore culture, the rich food culture and the music scene.”

“We do fine,” Frechette said. “We know who the Rangers are. They are a machine. The Rangers are a storied franchise. Lots of people in our area grew up with the Rangers. The difference between us is that we lean into New Jersey. We love the regional rivalry. When we played the Rangers in the playoffs in (2023), you could feel the magic. We’re okay with having the bad guys close by. They have their fans. We have or fans and we know how fortunate we are since we have this wonderful bling in the rearview with our Stanley Cups. But we don’t just focus on what we accomplished. We look forward to the future and we have a bright one and we welcome everyone in New Jersey to come out and experience what we have here since it really is special.”

The Devils are in the mix for a playoff berth thanks to the considerable talent on the ice. There’s the Hughes brothers, center Jack Hughes and defenseman Luke Hughes. Forwards Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier.

The Devils are a young, exciting squad with much potential. “It’s going to be exciting to see how things go,” Frechette said. “Come on out so you don’t miss out.”

LEARN MORE: The Devils impress with their concessions stands and their suite fare.  Thumbs up for the delicious pulled pork sandwich, the tasty chicken empanada and the comfort food combo, grilled cheese and tomato soup. That's a heck of a hat trick!

Kiwanis and the Community

Where Community and Caring Come Together in Asbury Park thanks to the Kiwanis Club

In Asbury Park, community is more than a word,  it’s a feeling. It’s neighbors looking out for one another, local businesses stepping up without hesitation and volunteers quietly showing up where they’re needed most. Nowhere is that spirit more visible than in the work of the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park, a group of dedicated residents committed to giving every child in the community a chance to thrive.

Founded locally in 1918 and re-chartered in 2020, the club is part of Kiwanis International, one of the world’s largest volunteer-led service organizations. Yet while the global network stretches across 80 countries, the heart of the Asbury Park club beats right here at home.

Its members are business owners, teachers, retirees, young professionals, and longtime residents all united by one mission and that is to improve the lives of children in Asbury Park.

ROOTED IN SERVICE, DRIVEN BY HEART

The club focuses on supporting children facing the greatest challenges, with initiatives centered on education and literacy, food and clothing security, health and wellness, and leadership development. “Our mission is to lift up children who need us most,” says club president Jeannine DeFoe. “Everything we do

ARTICLE AND

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CHRISTINA SMITH

comes from the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and feel supported.”

Much of this impact is made possible by the club’s signature fundraiser, Eat Here Now, a coupon booklet featuring discounts from more than 450 local restaurants and specialty shops. For the fourth year, over two decades, this beloved booklet has been the club’s sole fundraiser, and every dollar raised goes directly toward programming for children. Local businesses play an essential role.

“It’s wonderful to enjoy great food and know your donation supports such a worthy cause,” supporter Pam Callender said. Through these partnerships, Eat Here Now not only strengthens Asbury Park’s small business community it fuels every act of service the club provides.

IMPACT YOU CAN FEEL IN EVERY CORNER OF THE COMMUNITY

The Kiwanis Club’s work reaches children in ways both profound and joyful. Here are just a few highlights from the past year each one funded entirely by Eat Here Now:

• $4,500 in scholarships awarded to Asbury Park High School students

• Room makeovers, birthday celebrations, and holiday support for youth at Covenant House, made possible through volunteers like Karen Harrington

• A magical, fully funded day at Allaire Community Farm for children with Down syndrome

• Weekly summer wellness activities with Second Life Bikes, including biking, crafts, books, water play, and nutritious snacks

• $1,600 raised to support Trinity Center for Community through the Jersey Shore Ride for Food Justice

• Sponsorship of an Asbury Park Little League team, covering uniforms, equipment, and healthy snacks

• Building and stocking Book Arks and Beach Toy Boxes to bring joy and learning to local families

“Their support made a real difference for our players and their families,” says Michael Tempora, Little League coach and board

“Kiwanis members will tell you their greatest strength is the community itself. Asbury Park residents, business owners, and families play a vital role and anyone can get involved.”

member. These are just the visible programs. Throughout the year, club members show up quietly handing out holiday toys, stocking food pantries, helping with community days, sponsoring library programs, and supporting local families wherever they can. In the 2024–2025 service year alone, 27 members participated in 22 service projects, with 24 members volunteering multiple times. Together with the help of countless community volunteers they brought hope and joy to hundreds of children.

A COMMUNITY EFFORT: HOW YOU CAN BE PART OF THE IMPACT

Though the club’s work is extensive, Kiwanis members will tell you their greatest strength is the community itself. Asbury Park residents, business owners, and families play a vital role and anyone can get involved, whether they have one hour to give or one day a year.

Here’s how you can help make a difference:

• Become a Kiwanis member and join service projects that directly support children

• Buy an Eat Here Now coupon book a small purchase that creates enormous impact

• Volunteer at a single event, like a toy drive or pantry shift no membership required

• Partner as a business, offering coupons or sponsorships

• Make a donation, knowing 100% stays in Asbury Park to help kids.

THE FUTURE BUILT ON GENEROSITY, POWERED BY COMMUNITY

As the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park looks ahead, its focus remains clear. Deepen its impact, grow its membership, and continue creating opportunities for the children who need them most. And that future is bright because it’s powered by a community that believes in showing up. The club’s history reflects this truth. It was established locally around 1921, helped launch what eventually became part of the Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County, and after being re-chartered in 2020, it has grown each year in size, reach, and heart. Today, its members describe themselves simply: “Asbury Park’s volunteer-led service club dedicated to supporting our community’s children.” When people support Eat Here Now, share their time, or join the club, they make that mission possible. In Asbury Park, lifting up a child, lifts up the entire community.

LOVIN’ Asbury Park

HERE'S WHY WE LOVE THE BEST SMALL BEACH TOWN IN THE COUNTRY

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA SMITH

There’s so much to love in Asbury Park. There are so many shops, restaurants and venues to embrace. The town, which once inspired Bruce Springsteen’s mournful “My City of Ruins” has come a long way from a generation ago when the Boss was moved to write his ode to the once proud shore destination.

However, Asbury Park, which was named best small beach town by Travel & Leisure in 2025, is beyond back and we love it. One can only wonder what Springsteen would write about a bustling city that’s in its glory days run with restaurant row on Cookman Avenue, cool concert halls and charming shops.

Here’s our valentine to Asbury Park. Our hearts go out to the following...

THE HISTORICAL HALL

The 3,600 capacity Convention Hall in so many ways is the heart of Asbury Park. The Kinks, Van Halen and Iron Maiden were among the iconic acts that played Convention Hall during the ‘80s. However, nothing tops Springsteen’s charity Christmas shows with the Max Weinberg 7 during the aughts. There were a number of magic moments such as the holiday songs, such as “Blue Christmas” and “Jingle Bells.” And Springsteen brought the house down with “Kitty’s Back” in December of 2000.

A nod also goes to the Paramount Theatre. Lou Reed’s gig in April of 2008 is unforgettable.  Reed was heavy on the Velvet Underground with versions of “Sweet Jane,” “I’m Set Free,” “I’m Sticking With You” and “Pale Blue Eyes.” Convention Hall, 1300 Ocean Avenue,  https:// apboardwalk.com/conventionhall/

STOP IN FOR SOME DELICIOUS VINYL AND SOME LAUGHS

The vinyl and the vibes are the reason to check out Unwind Records and Comics. The relatively new shop attracted us courtesy of its entertaining Instagram and TikTok videos, which feature the Chloe Fallon and Alina De Palma. Their bits are amusing but part of the gig at a record shop is advising customers and Alina knocked it out of the park recommending Wednesday’s ‘Bleeds,” which is the best album of 2025. Well done! That’s particularly so with the social media clips. “We’ve had people come in they said we’ve seen you on

Instagram and TikTok so it’s getting people in the store, which is what it’s all about,” Manager Chloe Fallon said.

The tandem have created and posted more than 20 videos. “We just did six yesterday,” Fallon said. “It’s been fun.”

Traffic during the winter has been good for one of the few shops open on the boardwalk. “It’s been good since the locals are figuring out we’re here,” Fallon said. “We’re doing fine even without the hustle and bustle of the summer season.”

Unwind Records and Comics,  https://www.instagram.com/ reels/DP9EcQMjoX8/

IF IT’S FRANK’S, THANKS!

The pork roll, egg and cheese is the best breakfast sandwich in Asbury Park. Frank’s ‘s corned beef is delicious. The staff tells it like it is. While picking up breakfast, change was not only given but a thumbs up to Southside Johnny. “He’s always a great guy,” the lady behind the counter said. They know their music and food at Frank’s.

Frank’s Asbury Park, 1406 Main Street, https://franksdelinj.com

THE PIE TO DIE FOR

Vic’s is an old school gem serving up some of the best thin crust style pizza in the Garden State. There’s nothing better than the anchovy pizza preceded by the chopped salad. Get right to the point. The wait staff is always busy.

Vic’s Bradley Beach, 60 Main Street, Bradley Beach,  https:// www.vicspizza.com

SWANKY, SOPHISTICATED AND SPECTACULAR

Since Tim McLoone opened his elegant establishment in 2008, it’s been the place to be for those looking for a terrific throwback

vibe with great live music and exceptional cuisine. You can’t go wrong with the spicy seafood risotto, with shrimp, clams and crab. The braised short ribs, the burrata rigatoni with sauteed shrimp and the. Add the beach view and it’s just the perfect way to spend the night as the sun sets over Asbury Park. What does McLoone like about his venue the most? “The diversity,” McLoone said. “You can people watch on the boardwalk and you will not be able to identify a demographic!”

McLoone’s Supper Club, 1200 Ocean Avenue,  https://www. timmcloonessupperclub.com

IT’S TIME TO TAKE A BREAK

The perfect way to relax is with a good massage and it doesn’t get any better than the experience provided by Diamond Peak Massage and Beauty.

“Every female in my bloodline does healthcare,” Diamond Peak Massage and Beauty owner Zilie Louis. “I don’t like blood. Massage works for me. It’s my destiny to help people. I want to make them feel better.”

Diamond Peak Massage and Beauty, 63 W Sylvania Ave, Neptune City, https://www.instagram.com/zilie_lmt/

YOU GOTTA HAVE INTERFAITH

The non-profit’s slogan ‘Neighbors helping neighbors” is what it’s all about. Interfaith Neighbors has constructed 55 affordable homes in Asbury Park and Neptune. Interfaith Neighors also helps with food insecurity and education. Hats off to the altruistic organization, which is making sure no one is left behind.

Interfaith Neighbors, 810 4th Avenue,  https://interfaith neighbors.org

THE GLASS IS HALF FULL AND NEVER CRACKED AT PRECISION GLASS SOLUTIONS

No one throws stones at Precision Glass Solutions. Tom Basile and company knock it out of the park when assembling shower doors. Precision Glass Solutions, 89 Route 35 North, Eatontown, https://www. precisionglassnj.com/contact-us/

A GOOD DESIGNER MAKES A GREAT DIFFERENCE

If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, Rocco Grasso is your man at Tinton Falls Kitchen Design. Grasso can help with the innovative and the basic.

Tinton Falls Kitchen Design, 4057 Asbury Avenue, https://tfkitchendesign.com

DON’T WALK THE PLANK WHEN YOU CAN SEE THE HOT TUB PIRATE

Aye! if you’re looking for a new hot tub or pool and would like the best deal and most options, trek to Neptune for anything related to aquatic backyard fun.

Hot Tub Pirate, 615 State Rte 35 N, Neptune City, https://hottubpirate.com/pages/contact-us

THIS

IS WHERE YOU MAKE THE CUT

If you’re looking for a cool cut, your barber awaits in Shrewsbury. Mike Spanarkel is a wizard with scissors.

The Faded Line, 1026 Broad St., Shrewsbury, https:// www.thefadedline.net

PHOTO FUN

The photos by Danny Clinch, which hang in the Transparent Clinch Gallery are unique and compelling. The shots of Bruce Sprintgsteen, Eddie Vedder, Johnny Cash, Tupac Shakur and Willie Nelson, among many other icons are on display at the Gallery. The

“Every female in my bloodline does healthcare. Massage works for me. It's my destiny to help people. I want to make them feel better.”

– Zillie Louis

photos from the world renowned Clinch attract music fans from around the world to Asbury Park.

The Transparent Clinch is atypical. It’s not just about the visuals but the sound of Asbury Park. There’s a little stage and some instruments housed in a corner. Transparent often hosts small concerts featuring local bands.

The Transparent Clinch Gallery, 210 Fifth Ave., https://www.transparentclinchgallery.com

THE HOUSE THAT BRUCE BUILT

There’s a reason folks make the pilgrimage to the Stone Pony. The historic club has hosted folks ranging from Southside to the Boss and beyond.

The Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue, www. stonepony.com

AN UNDER THE RADAR GEM

The Wonder Bar doesn’t get the press the Pony receives but it’s an amazing venue in its own right.

The Wonder Bar, Ocean Avenue, www.wonderbar.com

FUN IN THE SUN AND IN THE OFFSEASON

Let’s not forget our amazing boardwalk and beach, which is a huge reason Asbury Park was honored as the best small beach town in the country.

ASBURY PARK

What makes Asbury Park so special is that there is no beach town or place quite like the unique, diverse, inclusive city on the Atlantic Ocean. Asbury Park offers a variety of amazing restaurants, music venues and shops. There's always something to do and that's not so just during the summer. The offseason is bustling as well. The town has morphed perhaps more than any other city in America over the last generation. What's great is that the city is continuing to evolve.

Looking

for Love

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ANGELICA NIEDERMEYER

Couples who have found each other and where to look for love in Asbury Park

Cupid’s arrow has struck a myriad of folks in Asbury Park. Three local couples share their favorite love stories and their favorite date night on a Monday night at the rustic-chic Lola’s European Cafe, the gelato bar was packed to the brim. Shannon O’Hara and Matthew Gomes, who have been together for two years, are hanging out. After growing up in North Jersey, but having family in Monmouth County, O’Hara knew of the renowned area on the shore.

“I came down here a lot,” O’Hara said. “My parents always took us to concerts at The [Stone] Pony, but [moving to Asbury Park] was never an option until Covid.” Following her time living in Switzerland, O’Hara’s job went remote. That was her opportunity to move to Travel and Leisure’s 2025 Best Small Beach Town in the U.S., Asbury Park.

“It was more of the quality of life,” O’Hara emphasized on her reasoning behind her move. “I still wanted a town that was very urban and had lots of culture, walkability, great art, and proximity to the beach. I also had a dog, so needing a yard was huge.”

So, O’Hara and her bernadoodle, who loves the dog beach and the boardwalk, met Gomes. He grew up in Ocean Township and easily transitioned to Asbury Park from the parallel town of music and culture, Red Bank, NJ.

“I moved here because of her, so I was moving back to the area where I grew up,” Gomes said. The couple met on the dating app, Hinge, and had their first date at the charming and jazz-filled Homesick.

“I had you pick,” Gomes said. “We were going to go to Black Swan, but Black Swan had trivia night or something going on and we were like it’s too crowded, it’s too loud.”

“It was a good first date,” O’Hara recalled

“It was a great first date,” Gomes said. “We talked until we were basically the last ones in the restaurant. [I] walked her home. [We] had our first kiss in front of her house.”

Two years later, O’Hara and Gomes have their home. They spend their days biking around town and frequenting their neighborhood bar, R Bar. Valerie and Chris, enjoy hanging out at the groovy and romantic Lovesick on a chilly Friday night. The passionate pair chilled at the cozy wine bar. Chris and Valarie moved to Asbury Park from Morristown, NJ.

“IT WAS A GOOD FIRST DATE... IT WAS A GREAT FIRST DATE. WE TALKED UNTIL WE WERE BASICALLY THE LAST ONES IN THE RESTAURANT.

[I] WALKED HER HOME. [WE] HAD OUR FIRST KISS IN FRONT OF HER HOUSE.”

“I am all about the vibe,” Valerie said. “The disco balls and the lights, I love the Bee’s Mead. Every time, it’s my favorite. It’s delightful.” Chris sipped a classic Moscow mule and shared his reason for moving to our intimate seaside city.

“The beach.” Chris said and Valerie added, “I don’t live here, but I’m here because of him. I’m here almost all summer and every weekend.”

Chris explained music is why he stayed in Asbury Park. Their go-to date nights are Lovesick, Flavia’s, Kim Marie’s Eat n Drink Away, and anywhere they can go to see live music. “Going to Asbury Park Brewery and then ideally after we have had a couple beers, wandering into Rebel Supply [Co.],” Valerie shared her go-to day time date, in addition to the holiday bazaars. “It’s my favorite. So, that’s a big... I just always need to go. Always.” Last, but certainly not least, a visit to The Basement of Bond Street Bar on a Friday night featured such as bands Mischief Night, Dana Why, Sports on The Radio, and Lost Romance and a pair of musicians, Zachary Anzalone from Mischief Night and Kiersten Blue.

Born and raised in Freehold,  Anzalone, and Blue, from Wall, both now live in Asbury Park and have been dating for two years. “Well, we met at The Asbury Hotel, I was playing a show, “ Anzalone detailed. “It was great, she books [shows as an artist] there and I guess she had a great relationship with the venue. So, she popped up and played one

song. She called it a ‘celebrity shot’ and she played a song in the middle of everything.”

For more than a year after their first meeting, the two became really close friends in the same circle. Then, in a classic friends-to-lovers, their relationship evolved into something more. Now, their favorite date night spot in town is Rice, the BYOB Asian cuisine restaurant. Their secret to maintaining a relationship is understanding each other. “Communication is important,” Anzalone explained. “And keeping it fun too, like definitely keeping it fun and playful,” added Blue. As lovesick feelings fill the air, these couples can attest that Asbury Park is a unique place where you can fall in love with the city just as much as the people.

FEBRUARY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 5TH

Adam Doleac

House of Independents, 572 Cookman Avenue | 7:30 PM

The veteran country singer-songwriter will play the hits. Doleac, who has crafted songs for Darius Rucker and Kane Brown, is a tremendous writer.

FEBRUARY 13TH

Splintered Sunlight

Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue | 7:30 PM

If you're into the Dead, check out Splintered Sunlight, a veteran Grateful Dead cover act.

FEBRUARY 14TH

Vince Pastore and the Gangster Squad

Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Avenue | 7:30 PM

The Sopranos alum will bring the noise with his Gangster Squad. Part of the proceeds goes to veterans.

FEBRUARY 20TH

DJ Meredith Marks

Asbury Lanes, 209 4th Avenue | 7:00 PM

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star is on a ten-city tour as a DJ.

FEBRUARY 20TH

Asbury Park Music Awards

Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue | 7:30 PM

The Asbury Park Music Awards are finally back after a seven year-hiatus. The long standing tradition of celebrating original Asbury Park artists was certainly missed. Who knows what surprises are in store at the Pony?

FEBRUARY 26TH

Foxy Shazam

House of Independents, 572 Cookman Avenue | 6:30 PM

The old school rockers from Cincinnati are best experienced live. Frontman Eric Nally is adept at engaging the audience.

Want to be featured?

ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON

BY JANIE JONES

DIY VALENTINES

Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home

The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour.  Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.

1. Arts

Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.

2.Sweets

A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.

3.Sentiments

Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.

ARTS SWEETS SENTIMENTS