Issuu

Lili brings Mediterranean style to Asbury Park F O O D + B E V E R AG E

A N EW O CE AN FRO NT RESTAU RANT IS CH AN GIN G TH E VIBE IN A SBU RY PARK

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

Now more than ever, personalized advice matters

Zachariah Ivins Assistant Vice President Financial Advisor Senior Portfolio Advisor 732.528.2701 zachariah.ivins@ml.com

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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (MLPF&S) is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, and Member SIPC. MLPF&S is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. A Senior Portfolio Advisor can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis custom investment strategies, selecting from a wide range of Merrill model portfolios and third-party investment strategies. © 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. 7410498 Vault-BA11954 | MLWM-242-AD | 470944PM-0325 | 03/2025

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

September Brings Us The Final Wave of Summer September is the best month of the year for many Jersey Shore locals! The weather is perfect, not too hot and not too cold. The summer tourists have mostly gone back to their homes, and the locals get the beach and restaurants to ourselves. However, the Asbury Park scene still explodes with music and fantastic restaurants and clubs almost every night. The “Sea. Hear.Now” shows are always a fantastic event that brings thousands of people back to Asbury Park to enjoy the best two-day festival on the Jersey Shore. This year Sea.Hear.Now will be on Saturday September 19th and Sunday the 20th. All month long, the boardwalk is humming with music at almost every venue. From Robinson’s and McLoon's, the Wonder Bar, AP Rooftop, to Low Dive and Palmetto to Paradise at the Empress Hotel. And everywhere in between! And that's just on the Boardwalk! There are so many great places to enjoy great food and music along Cookman, Kingsley and Main Street. September we also celebrate “Style” and this town has no shortage of that! The newest place that brings the “Metatherian Style” to Asbury Park’s boardwalk is Lili’s Oceanfront Restaurant on the South end of the boardwalk. With their amazing menu and their upstairs lounge, Lili’s is the place to enjoy the finest food and cocktails in Asbury Park. Alan, the Owner, with years of experience in the restaurant business bring his Mediterranean style to our boardwalk. Thank you Alan! Another amazing person bringing her own style to the main drag of Asbury Park is Casey McDonald, Owner of Rebel Supply on Cookman Ave. Casey sets the bar that other stores can only hope to meet! Rebel Supply screams ASBURY PARK as you walk in the door, you feel the love and fun that is Asbury Park. Casey brings unique clothing and accessories to Cookman Avenue and does it like no other. A must-see store for sure! September is the month that brings us all together as a community. School opens, the rush or summer subsides, and the rhythm of life slows just a bit to feed our souls with the calm and loving thoughts of the coming winter months. We make plans to enjoy family and friends that were not available over the summer and life feels comfortable again. I wish all my friends and readers a peaceful September. Cheers, JIMI BONARO, PUBLISHER @ A S B U R Y PA R KC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Jimi Bonaro | jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Ed Condran | ed.condran@citylifestyle.com S E N I O R AC C O U N T E X E C U T I VE

Dina M. Fazio | dinamfazio@gmail.com AC C O U N T E X E C U T I VE

Lauren Bonsall | labonsall@gmail.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Ashley O'Neill | copybadass@gmail.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Jimi Bonaro | jimi.bonaro@citylifestyle.com AD M I N I ST R AT I VE AS S I STAN T

Debra Pascali-Bonaro debrapascalibonaro@gmail.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Conni Freestone

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Asbury Park City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Asbury Park area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Asbury Park City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Featured

Departments

The coolest shop

Lifestyle Letter

Rebel Supply Co. is an Asbury Park stable when it comes to scoring vintage memorabilia.

City Scene

Business Monthly

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

Sea.Hear. Now returns in impressive fashion

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

Fashion Forward ARTS + CULTURE

Local’s Choice ARTS + CULTURE

Our Town FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

The Strokes, Mumford and Suns and Chaka Khan are among those slated for Sea.Hear.Now

Asbury goes Mediterranean

Lili Oceanfront Restaurant is changing the culinary dynamic in Asbury

On the Cover There's a new kid in town. Alan Dakhlallah has brought a touch of the Mediterranean with Lili Oceanfront Restaurant. Go for the charm, the vibe and for some of the finest cuisine in Asbury Park. Photography: Conni Freestone

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

JIMI BONARO

DEBRA PASCALI-BONARO

LISA RANNO

JIMI BONARO

1: Shopping at Asbury's Rebel Supply 2: Stringbean with Danny Clinch at Low Dive, Monday 7/13/2026 3: Stringbean Playing the blues, Mondays at Low Dive 4: Full Moon over North Beach Pavilion 5: Summer Morning Yoga, Always the best way to start a day! 6: 6th Ave Beach Yoga with Phil & Arthur. Wonderful mornings start with love and Yoga! 7: You never know who you will meet on the boardwalk.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Zachariah Ivins, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management With nearly 20 years of experience in financial services, Zachariah operates a client-first practice structured like a private family office—offering investment management, estate and trust coordination, business succession strategies, and financial guidance tailored to your life. Whether you’re growing your wealth, protecting your legacy, or rebuilding after a transition, Zachariah provides clarity and confidence. Zachariah puts your interests first. Serving clients in Monmouth County, NJ, New York City, and much of the United States.

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Tara Coffman, New York Life Insurance Company As a wife and mother of two, protecting what matters most has always been priority. That commitment led me to a career in financial services, where for the past two years I have been helping individuals, families, and business owners build thoughtful strategies to safeguard their futures. At New York Life, I work closely with my clients to protect their families, homes, businesses, and financial well-being. I am committed to being a trusted resource.

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The Faded Line, Mike Spanarkel The Faded Line is operated by Mike Spanarkel. He is a local barber based out of Shrewsbury has been servicing all surrounding areas for the last 8 years. Get a haircut.

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SHOP LOCAL S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

Rebel Supply Co. is an Asbury Park stable when it comes to scoring vintage memorabilia and having a fun time

The Coolest

Bagging it at Rebel Supply

The seeds were planted for Rebel Supply Co. a generation ago when Casey McDonald visited Love Saves the Day. The iconic Greenwich Village vintage shop was famous for its kitcshy pop culture memorabilia. The unique store, which was featured in the 2015 film, “Desperately Seeking Susan,” was a tourist Mecca. “Love Saves the Day” was my biggest inspiration,” McDonald said. I loved going to St. Marks and hanging out there. That place was so much fun. I loved the vintage clothes. I loved all of the weirdness. I could spend hours there.”

Rebel Supply repping Asbury Park

The coolest items are at Rebel Supply

Shop in Town ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASEY MCDONALD

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

McDonald now spends hours at Rebel Supply Co. which is cut from the same cloth as Love Saves the Day, which defined New York City counterculture from 1966 to 2009. The charismatic McDonald can be found at Rebel Supply from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. “I love what I do,” McDonald said. “I’m fine being here. I’m always on the move in this store. We don’t have chairs. I’m either standing or leaning.”

Rebel Rebel put on your dress

The widowmaker!

“I love hearing the stories behind what is bought and sold. I get the details from the seller and I relay it to the buyer.” — CASEY MCDONALD

Rebel Supply Co., which opened during the autumn of 2015, is the place to find cool t-shirts, posters and vinyl. What’s most fun about the shop is finding the rarities McDonald scores and passes on to enthusiastic customers. “We just got this incredible haul from this guy from Philadelphia, who decided to get rid of all of his vintage shirts,” McDonald said. “He had this Fast Lane shirt that is navy and is a crop top that you would wear with bellbottoms during the ‘70s. It’s amazing.” Another recent gem McDonald picked up is a t-shirt from the late, lamented Neptune bar, The Sudsy Mug, which is now The Grand. “The Sudsy Mug was a great bar we loved to go to for $2 Millers. We love when shirts from places we love in come in.” Bruce Springsteen items sell quickly. “Everyone seems to want to buy a copy of Bruce’s “Greetings from Asbury Park” in Asbury Park,” McDonald said. “Anything Bruce sells. We realize he’s Lord and Savior of Asbury Park. People obsess so hard over Bruce. When they come to Asbury Park, It’s like coming to Mecca. We have our own Bruce line here. We’re a shop that always has Bruce, Bon Jovi and Gaslight Anthem memorabilia. The tourists love that stuff. That’s great for us. I just love the mix of customers and what they want to pick up.” The process is part of the fun for Mcdonald. She loves connecting with buyers and sellers. “I love hearing the stories behind what is bought and sold,” McDonald said. “I get the details from the seller and I relay it to the buyer. Let’s say I sell a 1988 REO Speedwagon poster to someone. I just enjoy telling the story behind it. I’m a big fan of fandom. I’m a nerd who loves geeking out with the stuff in our store. When we get these posters from the ‘80s, it’s just so cool.” Unlike some other vintage shops, Rebel’s items are priced to sell. “We believe what we have here should be affordable and fun,” McDonald said. “We don’t get snobby about any of this. We don’t take ourselves too seriously. This is a store for everyone.” The clientele ranges from teenagers to celebrities. “Let’s not kid ourselves,” McDonald said. “Kids have disposable cash and they come in here and it’s cool.” CONTINUED >

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Greetings from Rebel Supply

Casey McDonald hanging out at Rebel Supply Co.

“I'm a big fan of fandom. I'm a nerd who loves geeking out with the stuff in our store.” — CASEY MCDONALD

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

Actress Patricia Arquette, singer-songwriter Jakob Dylan and Jessica Springsteen, Bruce Springsteen’s daughter, have purchased items at Rebel Supply Co. “Patricia Arquette was incredibly nice,” McDonald said. “We shipped a bunch of things to her house in Los Angeles. Jakob Dylan stood out immediately. It was like, ‘Who is this guy?” He came in wearing a cowboy hat and he has the bluest eyeballs. I have so much fun with guys like him to children. I’m the luckiest girl in the world.” McDonald, 48, who is from West Chester, New York, has worked in retail since she was a teenager. McDonald was living and working in Brooklyn but moved to Asbury Park when her then husband accepted a gig in Ocean County. She immediately embraced the area, where she raised two children, who are now 17 and 18. “I love Asbury Park,” McDonald said. “There really is no place like it here. It’s a destination that’s between two great, big cities (New York and Philadelphia.) You have it all here. You want a bagel, you go to International Bagel in Belmar. You want pizza. You go to Talulla’s, which is the best pizza in Asbury Park and they’re such a great neighbor.” McDonald spends more time at Tallualas and on Cookman Avenue than on the Asbury Park beach since she’s always at Rebel Supply Co. “I’ve been at the beach three times this year,” McDonald said. “I’m fine with that. I love the fact that I have a yard. I go home and hang out there with my dogs in my cute suburban neighborhood.” McDonald is amazed at how much Asbury Park has morphed over the last decade. “Asbury Park is constantly changing,” McDonald said. “It never sits still for too long. Every year it’s different. It’s constantly reinventing itself, which is exciting. More and more people are living here full-time. That’s good for us since we’re busier in the non-summer seasons and it’s good for Asbury Park. There is no other place that I’d rather be than Asbury Park.”

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ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

APPLE CIDER

sangria A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

eplenish Refills INGREDIENTS: • • • • • •

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

Replenish What Matters.

NOTE:

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Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

Refillery & Low-Waste Grocery Store Shoppes Inside the Arcade, 658 Cookman Avenue replenishrefills_nj

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ARTICLE BY STACY LEACH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Wear Colors That Truly

LOVE YOU A quick guide to finding flattering shades for life. KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE Your undertone doesn’t change with the seasons. Check your wrist veins: blue means cool, green means warm, and unclear may be neutral. Cool tones love jewel colors; warm tones glow in earthy, rich shades.

CONSIDER CONTRAST Do you have high contrast between your hair, skin, and eyes (like dark hair and light skin)? High contrast looks great in bold, clear colors. Low contrast (like blonde hair and fair skin)? Softer, blended tones often suit you best.

THE WHITE VS. CREAM TEST Hold a white and ivory shirt near your face. If white flatters, you're likely cool-toned. If ivory glows against your skin, you're likely warm-toned. This quick test reveals your undertone with ease.

BUILD AROUND YOUR “WOW” COLORS Once you identify a few colors that make you look and feel amazing, use those as the base of your palette. These are your power colors—build your wardrobe and makeup around them!

PRO TIP You don’t have to follow rules perfectly. Your color palette is a guide, not a limit. Mix, match, and most importantly— wear what makes you feel beautiful.

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Sea.Hear.Now returns in impressive fashion

Sea.Hear.Now on the beach

The Strokes, Mumford and Suns and Chaka Khan are among the recording artists who will perform at Sea.Hear.Now

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANNY CLINCH

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Sea.Hear.Now on the beach

Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam and The Killers have played the beach in Asbury Park at Sea.Hear.Now. It’s hard to beat the Boss. However, the curators of the annual September music, arts and surf festival have put together a weekend, slated for September 18 and 19, with arguably the greatest collection of overall talent since Sea.Hear. Now.Hear.Now debuted in 2018. CONTINUED >

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Kim Gordon will perform at Sea.Hear.Now

Bruce Springsteen performing at Sea.Hear.Now

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ARTS + CU LT U RE

The Strokes, who have been rock royalty since the release of 2001’s “Is This It,” which is one of the greatest debut albums of all-time, will headline September 19. Mumford and Sons, which has been remarkably consistent since the release of its acclaimed debut, 2009’s “Sigh No More” will close the show September 18. Sea.Hear.Now has had its share of top tier closers. However, the entire lineup is jaw-dropping this time around. Those looking for alt-rock icons will love the iconic Pixies and the legendary Kim Gordon. Reggae fans will enjoy Ziggy Marley and Shaggy. Old school R&B soul is covered by the incompable Chaka Khan. The throwback to the ‘80s features The Bangles’ Susannah Hoffs and Men at Work. The Australian band features one original member, Colin Hay, who is backed by a group of Cuban musicians. The latest version of Men at Work is tremendous and stole the show from Toto at the Hard Rock in Atlantic City last summer. The Offspring will bring the punk rock. ‘90s pop rock is represented by the

“The curators of the annual September music, arts and surf festival have Mumford and Sons will headline Sea.Hear.Now

Goo Goo Dolls, Moby and the All-American Rejects. Contemporaty pop arrives in the form of the playful Fitz and the Tantrums. Jarod Clemons is the local hero hitting the stage. Flipturn is among the wave of emerging bands set to perform at Sea.Hear.Now. “Every year we try to be very diverse but to stay in a certain pocket,” Sea.Hear.Now co-producer Danny Clinch said. “We’re excited about what we have played for this year. Mumford and Sons have been on our radar since we saw them in Seaside Park on the “Gentlemen of the Road” tour. Clinch is referring to the English folk-rock band’s jaunt in 2015. “That show was on the beach,” Clinch said. It was a great curation.” That experience helped inspire Clinch and co-producer Tim Donnelly to create Sea.Hear.Now. “We’ve made our own thing,” Clinch said. “When we do this we try to add some punk rock, some reggae and more. If you want to catch some legacy acts, parents can come out and see Chaka Khan and Men at Work. The kids can show their parents Flipturn. We try to have something for everyone.” The Strokes, who are touring behind their latest album, “Reality Awaits,” have always favored festivals. The band, which grabbed the baton as the great New York City based band from the likes of the Velvet Underground and Sonic Youth, impressed during a recent 90-minute show in Maryland. Clinch, a renowned rock photographer, has a long history with the Strokes. “I had gotten an assignment from Spin Magazine to photograph the Strokes when they played a little club in Baltimore (in 2001),” Clinch said. “They were playing this little bar with the Kings of Leon opening. My partner with Sea.Hear.Now, Tim Donnelly, came with me and we became friendly with Kings of Leon. It’s been great watching the Strokes over the years and now they’re coming to Asbury Park.”

put together a weekend, with arguably the greatest collection of overall talent since Sea. Hear.Now.Hear.Now debuted in 2018.”

Clinch is compelled to give credit when it comes to Sea.Hear.Now since it’s a massive undertaking. “It’s important to mention that it’s a group effort with Tim Donnelly and Tim Sweetwood from C3, who runs the show and HM Wollman,” Clinch said. “We’re all music fans collaborating and trying to bring something different to the table.” The aforementioned Fitz and the Tantrums are looking forward to Sea.Hear.Now. The playful band is one of those rock stories of an act that took years to break even though they were dubbed an overnight sensation when the band hit the pop stratosphere with the infectious smash “HandClap” a decade ago. “Having a hit song is amazing,” vocalist-keyboardist Michael “Fitz” Fitzpatrick said while calling from Los Angeles. “You know I spent a good 12 years before this band broke. I wasn’t able to get arrested for music. Nobody cared. Nobody listened to anything CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

Hozier performing at Sea.Hear.Now

I ever did so the moment when your song goes that wide and that many people know you, well, it’s an incredible moment. But with it also comes a lot of pressure because then that’s the bar that everybody wants you to hit.” Fitzpatrick laughed when the discussion turned to recording artists, who refuse to play their hits live. When Beck made his debut in a Philadelphia club in 1994, most fans only knew his initial single, “Loser,” which the emerging star refused to play. After Beck left the stage the Philly crowd booed him. “To the people that get resentful and don’t wanna play their hit songs for people, I think they’re idiots and selfish because those fans made you,” Fitzpatrick said. “Don’t be so pious as to not play the one song you know everybody came to hear. It’s so ridiculous. I’ll never forget going to Coachella and seeing Gotye play and when his big hit was about to be played, he was so annoyed. ‘Here’s the one song (“Somebody That I Used to Know”) you all

LOCA L’S CH OICE | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Sea.Hear.Now

came to see and hear,’ (Gotye said). In my mind, I was like, ‘Screw this guy. That’s ridiculous!’ You should be grateful for this opportunity and maybe that’s because I had to grind so hard and I didn’t even start to have success in the music business until I was 38-years old so I will never do that.” Expect a fun set from Fitz and the Tantrums and a good time outside of music at Sea.Hear.Now. Such world renowned surfers as Sam Hammer, Cam Richards and Audrey Iglay will navigate the Asbury Park waves. And Clinch is all about giving back. The Transparent Clinch Gallery will represent at Sea.Hear.Now with a pop-up gallery. The art tent is a staple at the festival and will feature art created by recording artists that will benefit local organizations. Dave Grohl created and auctioned off handdrawn art that raised over $14,000 for charity. Public Enemy’s Chuck D. and Flavor Flav donated PE surfboards. Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder and Lenny Kravitz have donated pieces. “We showcase the art in the pop up gallery and sell it and donate to local charities,” Clinch said. “It’s all about giving back to the community, which has been so supportive.” For more information: https://www.seahearnowfestival.com

Fitz and the Tantrums will perform at Sea.Hear.Now

“Every year we try to be very diverse but to stay in a certain pocket. We're excited about what we have played for this year.” S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

Morgan Stanley Morgan Stanley is proud to congratulate The Atlantic Coastal Group Named one of Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams Being named to Forbes’ 2026 Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams list is a testament to your experience, focus, and dedication to your clients’ financial future. Thank you for the work you do each day and for carrying forward the standard of excellence at our firm.

The Atlantic Coastal Group at Morgan Stanley Bob Hart Executive Director Financial Advisor Senior Portfolio Manager 732-974-5008 Bob.Hart@morganstanley.com

Thomas Tonkovich Senior Vice President Financial Advisor Portfolio Manager 732-974-5009 Thomas.Tonkovich@morganstanley.com

2150 NJ Rt. 35, Suite 200 | Sea Girt, NJ 08750 928 N. Collier Blvd | Marco Island, FL 34145 340 Broadway, Suite 201 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 advisor.morganstanley.com/the-atlantic-coastal-group atlanticcoastalgroup@morganstanley.com

L-R: Top Row - Bob Hart, Financial Advisor (NJ); Thomas Tonkovich, Financial Advisor (NJ); David Caruso, Financial Advisor (FL); Regan DeLan cey, Financial Advisor (NY) Bottom Row - Andrew Lindenbaum, Registered Client Service Associate (NJ); Robert T. Hart, Client Service Associate (NJ); Myra Dominguez, S enior Client Service Associate (FL); Jenn Diaz, Client Service Associate (NJ) Source: Forbes.com (Awarded January 2026) 2026 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams. This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) for the period from 3/31/24-3/31/25. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one client’s experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. © 2026 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. 12/25

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21 Westra Street 60 Barberry Drive c o n tra ct I n t e r l a k e n Ocean Township

Beautifully maintained Colonial in the heart of Interlaken with 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and a private Guest House with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath all situated on a nice sized lot.

Wonderful curb appeal on this rarely found 3 bedroom, 3 bath Bayberry Model in the desirable Rolling Meadows Community. 9 ft ceilings, hardwood floors, spacious 2nd floor loft, 2 car garage & lots more. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

ASBURY GOES

Mediterranean

ARTICLE BY ED CONDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNI FREESTONE

Lili Oceanfront Restaurant is changing the culinary style in Asbury

It doesn’t seem right to crack the pita shell of the Fatoush salad. The go to appetizer at the glorious Lili Oceanfront Restaurant, like much of the menu, is so aesthetically pleasing that a twinge of guilt arrives when altering the state of the culinary work of art. However, there is no remorse after the initial taste of the delicious Syrian garden salad with olive oil and tangy pomegranate molasses. It’s a great way to start a meal at a bistro, which is a breath of fresh air along the Asbury Park boardwalk. Lili, the stylish, multi-level Coastal Mediterranean restaurant is a welcome addition in the space, which was once occupied by Stella Marina. When many foodies think of the finest restaurants in Asbury Park, they conjure images of establishments on Cookman Avenue or Bangs Avenue. However, Lili is proving that fine cuisine and the oceanfront are not mutually exclusive. Lili, which opened in July, is already making waves among discerning arbiters of taste. The variety and quality of the menu is undeniable. The only issue is what to order since there are so many tantalizing choices. The hummus classic and the baba ghanouj are absolute must experiences. The former is a creamy mix of savory chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice and garlic topped with olive oil, herbs, spices and pine nuts. The latter is a terrific combination of creamy roasted eggplant, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice and garlic.

The fare is driven by a fusion of flavors that is fantastic thanks to owner Alan Dakhlallah. “I’m very excited to be in Asbury Park,” Dakhlallah said. “I want to make something special here. I want it to be something different.” Mission accomplished out of the gate. Asbury Park has plenty of bars, venues and Italian restaurants. However, true classic Mediterranean restaurants are in short supply. When Mediterranean bistros are bandied about, it’s of fresh and bright open spaces, preferably on the beach. Dakhlallah understands that as he has transformed the drab walls and space of Stella Marina into a sunny and lively culinary destination. “It was important for us to be at the beach,” Dakhlallah said. “One of the reasons we took Stella Marina is because of the view. It’s beautiful here. We have a rooftop at the boardwalk. This is an amazing place.” The goal for Dakhlallah is for diners to escape via food and due to all the location offers. “I want people to feel like they’re on vacation in a place like Turkey or Spain or Lebanon when they come here,” Dakhlallah said. “The place here was brown and dark when we got it. We’ve made it blue and white and put flowers and trees on the rooftop. You feel like you’re in the Mediterranean and you’re actually in New Jersey.” Dakhlallah, 41, is from Syria and grew up on Staten Island. “When I was a kid I said, ‘One day I’ll own a restaurant,” Karp said. CONTINUED >

O UR TOWN | FO O D + BEV E RAGE

“When I was a kid I said, 'One day I'll own a restaurant.”

The olive tree in the middle of Lili S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

“I want people to feel like they're Mediterranean colors are soothing

on vacation in a place like

Well, Dakhlallah’s dream was realized in 2016 when he opened his first restaurant, “Laila Restaurant and Lounge,” in Staten Island. “Serena Bistro and Lounge “ followed in New York’s under the radar borough. “ “Laila Bayridge,” which opened in Brooklyn, is restaurant number three for Dakhlallah. “It’s been great being in this business,” Dakhlallah said. “I love it.” Dakhlallah still lives in Staten Island. “I love that Staten Island feels like a small town,” Dakhlallah said. “It’s a great place.” The first trip to Asbury Park was in 2024 for Dakhlallah. “I loved it here immediately,” Dakhlallah said. “I love the art, the beach, all of it. I love the vibe of this city. When Stella Marina opened, we bought it.” The views are tremendous. From the second floor party room and the roof, diners can gaze at the beach or the casino. The crystal chandeliers and red velvet curtains create a welcome old school effect. Lili is a stylish, comfortable bistro that looks fantastic. But Lili’s is about the food, which is tremendous. The Branzino is a can’t miss dish. It’s a European sea bass, broiled or fried, served with lemon, olive oil, asparagus, and rice pilaf. The Tunisian octopus is delectable. Broiled octopus is served over stewed carrots, potatoes and chickpeas in harissa tomato sauce. It rests in a fine bed of couscous. Diners are remiss if they don’t indulge in a kebab at a Mediterranean restaurant. Lili doesn’t disappoint. The Kufta kabab, served spicy or mild, features ground meat seasoned with Turkish spices served over pita, accompanied by fresh herbs, sumac onion, tomato salad, fries and garlic sauce. The saganaki, fried flaming cheese with figs and lemon honey is always fun. There’s a number of great pizza shops in the neighborhood but who else is serving falafel pizza? Yes, hummus works on pizza. The same goes for mussels.

O UR TOWN | FO O D + BEV E RAGE

Turkey or Spain or Lebanon when they come here.”

Lili's hummus

Beach front Mediterranean can't be beat

The Cozze Arragiattu, which features mussels in a spicy pizza sauce with mozzarella and grated pecorino is a winner. The spicy fig and prosciutto is a nice new spin on an old school pie. Mission figs, prosciutto, arugala, fresh mozzarella, basil and hot honey make for an exceptional amalgam. The pizzas and sandwiches are baked in a brick oven. The crabcake Mediterranean features crab, baby romaine, Jersey tomato, anchovies and dill aioli on a Brioche roll. Lili has the bases covered with the menu. As summer fades into the rearview, Dakhlallah has solid offseason plans. “I want to this to be a place to go even during winter,” Dakhlallah said. “A lot of places are closed on the Boardwalk during winter but I want this restaurant to be alive. I’m going to bring different themes, such as Christmas and Valentine’s to the restaurant. I want this to be a vibrant place. We’ve only be opened for a short time but so far, so good.”

The patio at Lili S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/AS BURY PA R K

SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 3 RD

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy The Vogel, 99 Monmouth St. | 7:30 PM Swing was briefly king a generation ago and the slick Big Bad Voodoo Daddy was right there riding the wave with such hits as "Go Daddy-O" and "You and Me and the Bottle Makes Three." Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will play the familiar at the Vogel. SE PT E M BE R 5T H

Social Distortion Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Avenue | 6:00 PM The old school Los Angeles punk rockers continue to endure. It's more more than 40-years since Social Distortion's debut, "Mommy's Little Monster" debuted and the venerable band continues to create and tour. The show is a great way to say goodbye to summer. SE PT E M BE R 9 T H

Asbury Park Rotary Club's Mini Golf Fundraiser Asbury Eighteen Mini-Golf at 1050 Ocean Ave | 6:00 PM The event will benefit the Asbury Park Rotary Club's many causes that include but are not limited to our donations to local food banks, as well as many monetary requests that come in on a monthly basis from area Non-Profits, schools, veterans and families in the area. The Rotary Club is appealing to all to support. For more information, bmullins@easternmonmouthpt.com SE PT E M BE R 2 5T H

The Beths Starland Ballroom, 570 Jernee Mill Rd, Sayreville | 7:00 PM The charming New Zealand pop-rock band is one of the best bands few people know, Catchy, clever tunes are the draw from this Down Under delight. SE PT E M BE R 2 6T H

Dramarama Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Avenue | 7:00 PM It's not just Trenton makes and the world takes. Wayne made Dramarama but the alt-rock band left the Garden State for Los Angeles in 1982. It worked out since LA's venerable radio station, KROQ-FM loved Dramarama's infectious“Anything, Anything (I’ll Give You…)" and that's how the band was launched. The group returns to the Wonder Bar with the familiar. SE PT E M BE R 2 7 T H

Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band PNC Bank Arts Center, Exit 117, Garden State Parkway, Holmdel | 7:00 PM How long can Ringo tour? The Beatle drummer is 86 but he's still going strong with his stellar band. Such favorites as "Yellow Submarine" and "I Get By With a Little Help From my Friends" are still delivered.

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