Half Moon in Keansburg is a beloved dining destination that offers a unique blend of classic American fare and innovative coastal cuisine. Known for its inviting ambiance and exceptional service, the restaurant has carved out a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a celebratory night out, the Half Moon Keansburg menu provides an extensive variety of dishes designed to satisfy every palate. From fresh seafood selections to hearty sandwiches and flavorful appetizers, every item reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring options that range from light and healthy to indulgent and comforting. Seasonal ingredients are highlighted throughout, ensuring that guests experience the best flavors that each time of year has to offer.
Additionally, the drink selection complements the food perfectly, with a curated list of wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a burger aficionado, the Half Moon Keansburg menu promises a memorable dining experience.
Exploring the menu reveals a dedication to culinary excellence and an inviting atmosphere that encourages diners to relax and savor every bite. The restaurant’s location near the waterfront adds an extra layer of charm, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the Jersey Shore.
With a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes and attentive hospitality, Half Moon Keansburg continues to be a standout choice for food lovers in the area.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section of the Half Moon Keansburg menu sets the tone for the meal, offering a range of flavorful bites that awaken the palate. These starters are crafted to be shared or enjoyed individually, catering to both small and larger groups.
Each dish highlights fresh ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for building anticipation for the courses ahead.
Popular choices include crispy calamari served with a zesty marinara dipping sauce and the classic buffalo wings, which are tossed in a house-made spicy sauce. For those seeking something lighter, the half moon’s signature shrimp cocktail features plump, chilled shrimp paired with a tangy cocktail sauce.
Popular Starters
- Crispy Calamari – Lightly breaded and fried, served with marinara and lemon wedges
- Buffalo Wings – Tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, served with celery and blue cheese dip
- Shrimp Cocktail – Chilled shrimp with a classic cocktail sauce
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Filled with a blend of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs
“The appetizers at Half Moon are a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, setting an inviting stage for the rest of your meal.”
These starters are thoughtfully prepared to balance texture and taste, offering both crunchy and creamy elements. The use of fresh seafood in many dishes reflects the restaurant’s coastal location, while vegetarian-friendly options ensure everyone can find something delicious.
Whether you’re sharing plates or enjoying a starter on your own, these dishes provide an excellent introduction to the culinary style of Half Moon Keansburg.
Seafood Specialties
As a coastal eatery, Half Moon Keansburg shines with its diverse seafood offerings. These dishes emphasize freshness and seasonality, often incorporating locally sourced fish and shellfish.
The seafood specialties range from traditional preparations to innovative dishes that showcase the chefs’ creativity.
Highlights include the pan-seared scallops served with a citrus beurre blanc and the classic New England clam chowder, a creamy, hearty soup that comforts and delights. For those looking for something more substantial, the lobster roll is a must-try, packed with tender lobster meat and lightly dressed in a savory mayo blend.
Signature Seafood Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Pan-Seared Scallops | Fresh scallops with citrus beurre blanc and seasonal vegetables | $28 |
| New England Clam Chowder | Creamy chowder with clams, potatoes, and herbs | $9 (cup) / $14 (bowl) |
| Lobster Roll | Chilled lobster meat in buttered roll, served with fries | $24 |
Freshness is the cornerstone of every seafood dish at Half Moon Keansburg. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures that each plate is cooked to perfection, balancing rich flavors with clean, bright notes.
Many seafood dishes come paired with house-made sauces that elevate the natural taste of the fish without overpowering it.
Seasonal changes influence the seafood menu, allowing diners to experience the best of what the ocean has to offer year-round. This dynamic approach keeps the menu exciting and invites repeat visits to discover new favorites.
Whether you prefer shellfish, flaky white fish, or rich, buttery lobster, the seafood selection promises a satisfying and memorable meal.
Entrees and Main Courses
The entree section offers a wide array of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From hearty steaks to inventive vegetarian plates, the main courses are designed to be both filling and flavorful.
The focus remains on quality ingredients and balanced preparation.
Meat lovers will appreciate the grilled ribeye steak, cooked to order and served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. Meanwhile, the vegetarian risotto features seasonal vegetables and creamy Arborio rice, providing a rich and satisfying option without meat.
For a lighter main course, the grilled chicken breast with a lemon herb glaze is both healthy and delicious.
Featured Main Courses
- Grilled Ribeye Steak – 12 oz steak with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables
- Vegetarian Risotto – Creamy Arborio rice with seasonal vegetables and Parmesan
- Grilled Chicken Breast – Served with lemon herb glaze and sautéed greens
- Penne Primavera – Pasta tossed with fresh vegetables and light tomato sauce
Each entree is carefully plated to highlight both the visual and taste appeal. The kitchen balances rich, savory flavors with fresh herbs and spices, creating dishes that are satisfying without being overly heavy.
Portions are generous but well-proportioned, ensuring a fulfilling meal that leaves room for dessert.
Pairing suggestions are available for those interested in complementing their meal with wine or specialty cocktails. The restaurant’s knowledgeable staff can offer recommendations to enhance the dining experience, whether you prefer a bold red with steak or a crisp white with chicken or pasta.
Salads and Lighter Fare
The salad and lighter fare section caters to guests looking for fresh, nutritious options that don’t sacrifice flavor. These dishes emphasize crisp vegetables, vibrant dressings, and quality proteins for a balanced meal or appetizer.
The Half Moon salad is a standout, combining mixed greens, candied nuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled goat cheese with a balsamic vinaigrette. Another popular choice is the Caesar salad, made with freshly chopped romaine and topped with house-made croutons and Parmesan.
Popular Salads
- Half Moon Salad – Mixed greens, candied nuts, cranberries, goat cheese, balsamic vinaigrette
- Classic Caesar – Romaine, croutons, Parmesan, Caesar dressing
- Grilled Chicken Salad – Mixed greens topped with marinated grilled chicken and vegetables
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil
Salads at Half Moon Keansburg are crafted to be both refreshing and satisfying. Attention to ingredient quality is evident, with hand-picked greens and house-made dressings that elevate each dish.
Proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp can be added for extra substance, making salads a perfect choice for a lighter lunch or a healthy dinner.
“Our salads bring together freshness and flavor, proving that lighter meals can be just as indulgent as hearty ones.”
Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a meal that supports your wellness goals, the salad options deliver. They also serve as excellent starters for those intending to share a larger meal, offering a crisp, colorful contrast to richer dishes.
Sandwiches and Burgers
Half Moon Keansburg’s sandwiches and burgers are crafted with the same attention to quality and flavor as the rest of the menu. These items are perfect for a casual meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.
From juicy burgers to hearty sandwiches, there’s something for everyone.
The signature Half Moon burger features a blend of premium beef, cheddar cheese, and house-made sauce, served on a toasted brioche bun. For seafood lovers, the blackened fish sandwich offers a spicy, flavorful alternative, topped with fresh slaw and a tangy aioli.
Menu Highlights
| Item | Description | Price |
| Half Moon Burger | Beef patty, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, house sauce on brioche bun | $16 |
| Blackened Fish Sandwich | Spicy blackened fish with slaw and aioli on a toasted roll | $18 |
| Turkey Club | Roasted turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo on toasted bread | $15 |
| Veggie Wrap | Grilled vegetables, hummus, and greens in a whole wheat wrap | $14 |
The sandwich and burger selections balance hearty, satisfying flavors with fresh ingredients. They pair well with sides like hand-cut fries or a simple side salad, providing a complete meal experience.
The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures that buns are perfectly toasted and toppings are fresh, enhancing each bite.
These options are ideal for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, offering comfort food with a gourmet twist. Many guests return specifically for these crowd-pleasing dishes, which combine classic flavors with unique touches that make Half Moon Keansburg stand out.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal at Half Moon Keansburg is complete without exploring the dessert offerings. This section of the menu features indulgent sweets that provide a perfect ending to any dining experience.
Desserts range from rich chocolate creations to light, fruity options.
The chocolate lava cake is a highlight, served warm with a molten center and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing finish, the lemon sorbet offers a tangy contrast that cleanses the palate.
Seasonal pies and tarts rotate regularly, showcasing fresh, local fruits.
Sweet Favorites
- Chocolate Lava Cake – Warm cake with molten chocolate center, vanilla ice cream
- Lemon Sorbet – Light and tangy, perfect for a refreshing finish
- Seasonal Fruit Tart – Crisp pastry filled with custard and topped with fresh fruit
- Classic New York Cheesecake – Rich and creamy, served with berry compote
“Our desserts reflect the same dedication to quality and flavor as every other dish, making them a must-try.”
Each dessert is crafted to balance sweetness with texture and temperature, creating a satisfying conclusion to your meal. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that flavors are vibrant and authentic.
Whether you prefer chocolate, citrus, or creamy desserts, there’s a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings.
Pairing desserts with coffee or a dessert wine is highly recommended to enhance the flavors and provide a well-rounded finish. The dessert menu’s variety caters to different preferences, making it easy to find the perfect indulgence to cap off your dining experience.
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Half Moon Keansburg complements the food offerings with a thoughtful selection of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails. Drinks are carefully curated to pair well with the dishes and enhance the overall dining experience.
Signature cocktails include the Half Moon Mule, a refreshing blend of vodka, ginger beer, and lime, and the Shoreline Sunset, featuring rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine. The wine list offers both local and international selections, with reds, whites, and rosés to suit various palates.
Drink Selections
| Beverage | Description | Price |
| Half Moon Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime | $12 |
| Shoreline Sunset | Rum, pineapple juice, grenadine | $13 |
| Pinot Noir (glass) | Light-bodied red wine from California | $10 |
| Chardonnay (glass) | Crisp white wine with hints of apple and oak | $9 |
Cocktails are made with fresh ingredients and expert technique, ensuring balanced, flavorful drinks. The bar team is attentive and experienced, able to craft classic cocktails or suggest new favorites tailored to your tastes.
Local craft beers also rotate frequently, giving guests the chance to sample beers from nearby breweries.
The beverage offerings are designed to elevate the dining experience without overwhelming the food. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the drink menu provides a versatile and satisfying array of options.
Family and Group Dining Options
Half Moon Keansburg welcomes families and larger groups with a menu that offers flexibility and variety to satisfy diverse preferences. Group dining is supported with shareable platters and customizable menus to ensure everyone finds something they enjoy.
Options like the seafood platter include a mix of shrimp, clams, and fish, ideal for sharing among several guests. Family-style pasta dishes and large salads make it easy to feed multiple people without sacrificing quality.
The restaurant also offers private dining spaces for events and celebrations.
Group-Friendly Dishes
- Seafood Platter – Assortment of shrimp, clams, scallops, and fish for sharing
- Family Pasta – Large portion of penne or spaghetti with choice of sauce
- Sharing Salad Bowl – Large mixed greens with toppings and dressing on the side
- Appetizer Sampler – Selection of fried calamari, wings, and stuffed mushrooms
“Our group dining options make it easy to enjoy a communal meal without compromising on the quality or flavor that defines Half Moon.”
Hosting a family dinner or gathering with friends is made simple and enjoyable thanks to the thoughtfully curated group menu options. The staff is experienced in accommodating special requests and dietary restrictions, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for all guests.
This flexibility makes Half Moon Keansburg a preferred venue for celebrations and casual get-togethers alike.
By providing dishes that are easy to share and menus that cater to various tastes, the restaurant fosters a warm and inclusive atmosphere. This approach encourages guests to relax, connect, and savor the flavors of the Jersey Shore together.
Conclusion
The Half Moon Keansburg menu is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to delivering high-quality, flavorful dishes that celebrate the best of coastal and American cuisine. Its diverse offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and dining occasions, from casual lunches to special celebrations.
Each section of the menu reflects a dedication to fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and culinary creativity, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.
Whether indulging in the fresh seafood specialties, enjoying a perfectly grilled steak, or savoring one of the decadent desserts, diners can expect a consistently excellent experience. The beverage program complements the food beautifully, with expertly crafted cocktails and a well-rounded selection of wines and beers.
Family and group dining options further enhance the restaurant’s appeal, making it a versatile choice for all kinds of gatherings.
Dining at Half Moon Keansburg is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that combines delicious food, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere. For those seeking a memorable taste of the Jersey Shore, this restaurant’s menu offers an inviting and satisfying journey through flavors that delight and inspire.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Half Moon is a culinary destination worth exploring time and again.
