The Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company is a beloved seafood destination nestled on the scenic beaches of Harvey Cedars, New Jersey. Known for its fresh, locally sourced shellfish and a menu that celebrates the bounty of the Atlantic, the company has cultivated a reputation for quality, flavor, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re a longtime seafood enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the menu offers an enticing array of options that showcase both traditional favorites and innovative dishes crafted with care.
What truly sets the Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company apart is its commitment to freshness and sustainability. Every item on the menu reflects the company’s dedication to sourcing shellfish directly from local waters, ensuring that each bite bursts with natural flavor.
The menu balances classic offerings like clams and oysters with creative preparations, inviting diners to explore the nuances of coastal cuisine.
Dining here isn’t just about the food; it’s an experience. The warm, coastal ambiance complements the menu’s rich flavors, making every visit memorable.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, the Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company menu promises a culinary journey that honors the sea and delights the palate.
Fresh Shellfish Selections
The heart of the Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company menu lies in its extensive selection of fresh shellfish. Each option is chosen for peak freshness and quality, reflecting the company’s close ties with local fishermen and sustainable harvesting practices.
Diners can expect a variety of shellfish that highlights the region’s maritime heritage.
From plump clams to briny oysters, the shellfish offerings are as diverse as they are delicious. The menu features options prepared raw, steamed, or grilled, allowing guests to enjoy the natural flavors or indulge in expertly crafted sauces and seasonings.
The freshness is palpable in every bite, with a texture and taste that transport diners straight to the coast.
Seasonal availability guides the selection, ensuring that only the best shellfish makes it to the table. This emphasis on seasonality means the menu evolves throughout the year, offering new and exciting choices with each visit.
The company’s dedication to quality control guarantees that every shellfish dish meets their high standards.
Popular Shellfish Varieties
- Little Neck Clams – Tender and sweet, perfect for steaming or raw on the half shell.
- Blue Point Oysters – Known for their crisp, briny flavor with a slightly sweet finish.
- Sea Scallops – Large and succulent, ideal for grilling or pan-searing.
- Jumbo Shrimp – Sourced locally, often served chilled or lightly sautéed.
“The freshness of the shellfish here is unmatched – you can taste the ocean in every bite.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Appetizers
The appetizer section of the menu offers a variety of starters designed to tease the palate and complement the main courses. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the freshness of the seafood while incorporating bold flavors and textures.
Whether you prefer a light bite or something more indulgent, the appetizers set the tone for the meal. They range from classic steamed clams to inventive dishes like crab-stuffed mushrooms and oysters Rockefeller.
This variety ensures there is something to satisfy every craving.
The appetizers are also a great way to sample multiple shellfish varieties in one sitting. Many guests enjoy pairing them with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Featured Starters
- Steamed Clams – Served with garlic butter and fresh herbs.
- Oysters Rockefeller – Baked oysters topped with spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms – Filled with succulent crab meat and seasoned to perfection.
- Calamari Fritti – Lightly battered and fried, served with a tangy marinara sauce.
| Appetizer | Main Ingredients | Recommended Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Clams | Clams, garlic, butter, parsley | Chardonnay |
| Oysters Rockefeller | Oysters, spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs | Sauvignon Blanc |
| Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms | Crab meat, mushrooms, herbs | Pinot Grigio |
| Calamari Fritti | Squid, flour, spices | Light Lager |
Hearty Soups and Chowders
Soups and chowders form a comforting and essential part of the Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company menu. These dishes provide warmth and depth, showcasing the rich flavors of the sea with hearty ingredients and traditional recipes.
The menu features classic New England-style clam chowder, prepared with fresh clams, potatoes, and cream. This creamy chowder is beloved for its velvety texture and authentic taste.
For those seeking a lighter option, the company also offers a clear broth seafood soup brimming with shrimp, scallops, and vegetables.
Each soup is made in-house daily, using only the freshest ingredients. The recipes have been refined over time, marrying tradition with a touch of modern culinary flair.
These dishes are perfect for starting your meal or enjoying on their own during cooler months.
Signature Soups
- New England Clam Chowder – Creamy and rich with tender clams and potatoes.
- Seafood Bisque – A smooth, tomato-based bisque with lobster and shrimp.
- Clear Seafood Soup – A broth-style soup featuring seasonal shellfish and fresh vegetables.
“The clam chowder here is a must-try — it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.”
Entree Highlights
The main course offerings at Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company are designed to satisfy both seafood purists and adventurous diners. The entrees feature generous portions of shellfish prepared with a variety of cooking methods, from grilling to baking to frying.
Every dish is crafted to emphasize the natural flavors of the seafood while incorporating complementary sides and sauces. The menu includes crowd favorites like lobster rolls and fried clam platters, as well as gourmet options like grilled scallops with herb butter.
Guests can customize their meals with different preparation styles or add-ons, allowing for a personalized dining experience. The entrees reflect the company’s commitment to quality and freshness, ensuring every plate is a celebration of the sea.
Popular Main Courses
- Lobster Roll – Chunks of fresh lobster tossed in light mayo, served on a toasted bun.
- Fried Clam Platter – Crispy, golden clams served with fries and tartar sauce.
- Grilled Sea Scallops – Served with garlic herb butter and seasonal vegetables.
- Shrimp Scampi – Sautéed shrimp in a garlic lemon butter sauce over linguine.
| Entree | Cooking Method | Typical Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Lobster Roll | Cold or Warm | Coleslaw, chips |
| Fried Clam Platter | Deep-fried | French fries, tartar sauce |
| Grilled Sea Scallops | Grilled | Seasonal vegetables, rice |
| Shrimp Scampi | Sautéed | Pasta, garlic bread |
Vegetarian and Non-Shellfish Options
While Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company specializes in shellfish, the menu thoughtfully includes vegetarian and non-shellfish dishes to accommodate diverse tastes and dietary preferences. These options ensure that every guest can find something satisfying and delicious.
The vegetarian dishes emphasize fresh, seasonal produce and robust flavors. Salads, grilled vegetable platters, and pasta dishes are prepared with the same care and quality as the seafood items.
Non-shellfish options often include fish or chicken, providing lighter alternatives for those who prefer them.
These dishes are not afterthoughts but integral parts of the menu, crafted to stand alongside the shellfish selections. The company’s commitment to culinary excellence extends to all offerings, making the dining experience inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
Notable Non-Shellfish Dishes
- Grilled Vegetable Platter – Seasonal vegetables charred and seasoned with herbs.
- Pasta Primavera – Linguine with a medley of fresh vegetables in a light olive oil sauce.
- Blackened Mahi-Mahi – A flavorful fish entree served with rice and vegetables.
- Garden Salad – Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and house vinaigrette.
“Inclusivity in dining is key — offering diverse options ensures everyone leaves satisfied.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
To round out the meal, the dessert menu at Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company offers a selection of indulgent treats that provide a sweet finish. These desserts are crafted to balance richness with lightness, perfect after a flavorful seafood feast.
The dessert offerings include classic favorites like key lime pie and homemade cheesecake, alongside seasonal specialties that change throughout the year. Each dessert is made fresh daily, using high-quality ingredients to preserve texture and flavor.
Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these sweets complement the savory dishes beautifully. The dessert menu reflects the same attention to detail and passion for quality found throughout the rest of the dining experience.
Popular Desserts
- Key Lime Pie – Tart and creamy with a graham cracker crust.
- New York Cheesecake – Rich and smooth, served with fresh berries.
- Chocolate Mousse – Light and airy with a deep chocolate flavor.
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp – Warm fruit topped with a crunchy oat crumble.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Recommended Beverage |
|---|---|---|
| Key Lime Pie | Lime, condensed milk, graham crust | Riesling |
| New York Cheesecake | Cream cheese, sugar, eggs | Port Wine |
| Chocolate Mousse | Chocolate, cream, eggs | Espresso |
| Seasonal Fruit Crisp | Fresh fruit, oats, brown sugar | Chardonnay |
Beverage Pairings and Specials
The beverage menu at Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company offers carefully curated selections designed to enhance the flavors of the dishes. From crisp white wines to local craft beers, the drinks complement the menu’s seafood focus perfectly.
Wine is a standout, with an emphasis on varietals known to pair well with shellfish, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. The company also offers a range of cocktails featuring fresh ingredients and coastal-inspired flavors, ideal for relaxing by the shore.
Seasonal beverage specials highlight local breweries and wineries, giving guests a taste of the region’s finest. Non-alcoholic options include house-made lemonades and iced teas, crafted to refresh and cleanse the palate.
Recommended Pairings
- Sauvignon Blanc – Bright acidity pairs well with oysters and clams.
- Chardonnay – Buttery notes complement rich seafood dishes like scallops.
- Local Craft Beers – Light ales and lagers refresh alongside fried items.
- Signature Cocktails – Fresh herbs and citrus create balanced, flavorful drinks.
“A well-chosen beverage can elevate a meal from good to exceptional.” – Sommelier, Harvey Cedars
Conclusion
The menu at Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company offers a compelling celebration of coastal cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced shellfish paired with thoughtfully crafted dishes. Each section of the menu—from appetizers to desserts—reflects a commitment to quality, seasonality, and flavor, making every meal a memorable experience.
This dedication to excellence, combined with a warm, inviting ambiance, ensures that guests always leave satisfied and eager to return. The diverse offerings accommodate a wide range of tastes, making it a versatile destination for seafood lovers and those seeking alternatives alike.
Whether indulging in a classic lobster roll or savoring a light vegetable platter, diners can trust that each plate is prepared with care and passion.
Exploring the Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company menu is more than just enjoying a meal; it’s an immersion into the rich culinary traditions of the New Jersey shore, thoughtfully reimagined for today’s discerning palate.
For anyone looking to experience the freshest shellfish and exceptional coastal flavors, this menu is a standout choice that delivers both quality and delight.
