BWW Reviews: Captivating Views, Culinary Traditions in the New Jersey Atlantic Highlands

Signs of a rich, reassuring past abound in New Jersey's Atlantic Highlands. The area is home to Bahrs Famous Seafood Restaurant (founded in 1917), an establishment that prides itself on recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. And towering over the region is the Twin Lights lighthouse, which dates back to 1862 and has since been named a National Historic Site.

Yet-Hurricane Sandy or no Hurricane Sandy-the Highlands are also a region with a hopeful future. After the devastation caused by last year's storm, local businesses moved quickly to regroup and rebuild. Today, class trips once again flock to the Twin Lights, and visitors of all ages can once again enjoy the area's wooded landscape and splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean.

One great vantage point is the Mount Mitchell Scenic Overlook. The Overlook offers prime views both of nearby harbors and of the distant New York City Skyline. (Appropriately enough, Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial is located on the Mount Mitchell grounds.) Cyclists can also enjoy the scenery along the Shore Drive bike route.

As you drive (or bike) through the Highlands, you should be able to spot some of New Jersey's signature beaches. Sandy Hook-with its selection of ocean and bay swimming areas-is only a few minutes away. And you can continue to take in the marine atmosphere at waterside restaurants such as the Inlet Cafe and On the Deck Bar and Restaurant.

For many visitors, the area's must-visit dining establishment is Bahrs Landing. The restaurant itself is decorated with nautical trappings and cozy dark wood, and offers a wide array of menu items. Bahrs is famous for its Manhattan clam chowder, which uses a light yet flavorful tomato broth. A few other top-notch menu items are the succulent fried clam strips and the house lobster roll with homemade potato chips. Better than the nationally-renowned rolls from Luke's Lobster? Believe it or not, yes.

However, Bahrs was hit especially hard by Sandy. Co-owner Jay Cosgrove even put together a photo album documenting the devastation from the superstorm, and the restaurant's rapid recovery. For the summer months, Bahrs has even re-opened its smaller carry-out establishment, the adjacent Moby's. Many of the same menu items, same great quality, and perfect if you're pressed for time.

Bahrs is also a great spot for fans of mixed drinks and casual entertainment. If you're visiting late, be sure to sample signature cocktails such as "Stormy & Shipwreck" and "St. Bahr's Grog". And if it's a Friday or Saturday, feel free to participate in a Bahrs karaoke night.