Il Giardino Sul Mare, nestled in Forked River, NJ, is a gem that has captivated diners with its authentic Italian fare and warm service. Customers rave about the spacious menu, featuring a delightful mix of traditional dishes. Chloe Anderson describes her visit as “fantastic,” highlighting the delectable variety and exceptional service, while Roger Gully praises the ambiance and the satisfying portions that ensure no one leaves hungry.
The restaurant's new management has received accolades for maintaining the high standards set by their predecessors. Kerri Dautorio’s review reflects the culinary excellence, specifically noting the perfectly cooked steak and the standout blue cheese dressing, considered the best in years. For those seeking a romantic evening, Kurt Bremer’s experience showcases the enchanting atmosphere enhanced by live piano music, making it an ideal spot for couples.
Even last-minute reservations for special occasions, like Mother's Day, are handled with grace. Cat Consten’s delightful account emphasizes the warm hospitality and the freshness of the dishes, which left her family, especially her 83-year-old mother, utterly impressed. This restaurant is not just a place to eat; it’s a culinary experience that keeps locals coming back for more.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fireplace
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Has live music
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Upmarket
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Il Giardino Sul Mare
Chloe Anderson
Jun 28,2025
Fantastic experience :) loved all the food we got so many different things ! It was as delicious! Our waiter was phenomenal as well, very good food highly recommend.
Roger Gully
Jun 19,2025
The food, ambiance and service are all great! You never go away hungry. The menu is wide offering a variety of food. The new management is as good as the previous one. We have never been disappointed with this restaurant.... Food is prompt and the entertainment is wonderful.
Kerri Dautorio
May 23,2025
Excellent service. Food was 5 star. Steak was cooked to perfection. If you go give the blue cheese dressing a go, best we have had in years. Hats off to the new owners. Wishing them all the best !
Kurt Bremer
May 19,2025
My wife and I had an excellent evening here. Food was outstanding. My wife had the artichoke appetizer and I had the calamari. And we both had veal entrees that were delicious with melt in your mouth veal. With a talented piano player the atmosphere was very pleasant. With an attentive owner and a personable waitstaff it was a wonderful evening. We will certainly be back.
Cat Consten
May 17,2025
My bestie recommended them so, I called at the 11th hour to get a Mother's Day reservation since my family suddenly decided they want lunch instead of dinner. Tracey was SUPER accommodating and got us a lovely table on the porch. We were greeted by a friendly (owner?) man and Tracey was our server! She was wonderful. The food was amazing! I've never seen my little 83 yr old mother eat so much, EVER! She's still raving about it says that it was one of the best meals she's had in ages. The food was super fresh and delicious. Will go back!
Charinne Contouris
May 9,2025
Some of the best Italian food I've had in a long time. We ordered tonight after having no power for 24 hours. I was definitely impressed with our choice. Lamb was superb and the chicken melted in my mouth it was so tender.
Michael Smith
Apr 18,2025
Came here tonight, haven’t been for a year or so. We did see previous reviews after the new owners, but must add this to let everyone know the food and service were great. Gadiel was great as our waiter and our entrees were terrific. We will be back soon, thanks for a great meal.
Amanda Abrams
Mar 22,2025
This wonderful hidden gem never disappoints. The drinks, food and service are top notch. My husband and I have never had a bad meal here and they give you enormous portions that make for a great leftovers the next day. They also don’t rush you and take the time to make sure that you’re enjoying your dining experience. Always a treat having dinner here!
Reviews For Il Giardino Sul Mare