Celebrating a New Chapter: The Sale of Moonstruck Restaurant in NJ

A New Era for Moonstruck Restaurant

In a significant development for local dining, Moonstruck Restaurant, located at 517 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, New Jersey, has officially changed hands as of April 29, 2025. The news comes amid swirling rumors regarding the restaurant's fate, and it turns out that loyal patrons have no reason to worry. Richard Santore, the Vice President of Bielat Santore Company, confirmed that despite the ownership change, the restaurant will retain its signature charm, cuisine, staff, service, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Moonstruck, which originally opened its doors in 1995 as the Raspberry Café in Ocean Grove before moving to its current picturesque location in 2002. The restaurant is nestled across from Wesley Lake and boasts a striking Victorian-style building characterized by an abundance of windows and wraparound porches offering breathtaking views of the lake and ocean—making it a prime spot for enjoying splendid sunsets and, ideally, the occasional full moon.

Inside, Moonstruck features a bar and lounge area on the first floor, where patrons can unwind with cocktails and appetizers. The second floor hosts the main dining room with an additional bar, and the third floor is primarily reserved for à la carte dining but can also accommodate private events.

The establishment has now been purchased by a group of real estate investors with an impressive track record in the restaurant business. The new ownership comes with the assurance of a robust management team committed to enhancing the ongoing success of Moonstruck by prolonging operating hours and making it more accessible to the community. Not only are all existing staff members retained, but the original owners will be present during the transition period to ensure a smooth handover of operations.

Moonstruck’s new proprietors already run other successful ventures, including the Beacon 70 Restaurant and the Marina at Beacon 70 in brick, Ocean County, New Jersey. Their background and experience promise great things for the future of Moonstruck.

As the restaurant embarks on this new chapter, visitors can look forward to experiencing all that they love about Moonstruck with some potential upgrades on the horizon. The restaurant is still the perfect venue for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering, and patrons can remain on the lookout for that enchanting full moon overhead. With its well-established legacy and the fresh initiatives brought by the new ownership, Moonstruck continues to symbolize a dining experience that is both memorable and exceptional. Visit soon to witness the transformation and enjoy a delightful meal at one of New Jersey Shore’s premier dining locations.