New Jerseys Not So Bad: Mix Lounge & Food Bar

As part of my grand plan to convince the world (and myself) that living in New Jersey isn’t so bad, I am exploring restaurants, coffee shops, and other places that make the Garden State great. 

Located in the heart of Long Branch with creative cocktails and gourmet food, Mix Lounge & Food Bar makes liking in New Jersey not so bad. 

Mix Lounge & Food Bar opened in 2001 as a neighborhood pizzeria near the beach. Now, the lounge serves as a great place for drinking and dancing the night away. 

My bestie Emma and I mixed it up at Mix and shared a bag of fries (literally a bag) and fried rice balls that included chicken and cheese. Their menu offers larger items like specialty pizzas, tacos, sandwiches, mac & cheese, pasta, and other appetizers. 

I was the designated driver for the night, so I sipped on a pineapple martini which was sweet and delicious. Emma had an espresso martini, which is ranked one of the best in New Jersey according to the people sitting next to us at the bar. She also got some sort of blue drink. I’m not sure what was in it other than some sort of rum, blue curacao, blueberries, and lemon. 

While we were there, the music and vibes were immaculate. The DJ played Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, and the perfect amount of throwback songs that made me nostalgic, but not like I was at a middle school dance. 

The bar itself is open until 2 a.m. and the kitchen is open until 11 p.m. Happy Hour happens until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Sundays and all night on Mondays. Happy Hour includes $2 off all wine, beer, and spirits.