Charlie’s Bar Somers Point: Wings, Herotinis & Shore Traditions
Rainy weekends at the Jersey Shore call for comfort food and good vibes. So we made our way to Charlie’s Bar, the Somers Point legend that’s been serving wings, drinks, and Shore traditions for nearly 80 years. This cash-only spot was packed when we walked in, but the hostess had us seated in minutes. Off to a good start!
And right by the counter, I spotted them, the Herotini cards from the Hero Campaign. A mocktail and a way to vote for your favorite? Hell yea for Herotini season!
A Family Tradition Since 1944
Charlie’s isn’t just another bar, it has been a Somers Point landmark since 1944, proudly owned and operated by the Thomas Family for four generations. Originally located across the street on New Jersey Avenue, the bar moved into its current building in 1953—a structure dating back to 1896 with a colorful past. Over the years, it’s been everything from a post office and ice cream parlor to a general store and market.
In its early days, Charlie’s ran a small taproom in the front, while the back housed shops and eateries like Gerety’s Market and Burger Hut. Even the old Suburban Trolley once ran right alongside the building. Behind it, an ice house and barn kept horses for the local ice truck.
The building has evolved with the times, porches enclosed, facades updated, and inside, a hidden WPA mural by local artist Charles Shane still waits behind the walls. What hasn’t changed is Charlie’s place at the heart of the community.
Today, Charlie’s Bar & Restaurant continues to blend its tavern roots with a family-friendly dining experience. I wouldn’t call Charlie’s a “hidden gem.” After nearly 80 years of history, the secret is out. But, it’s not just a restaurant, it’s a Somers Point tradition.
The Drink of Choice: The Herotini
I ordered Chris’s Caribbean Dream Herotini, and yes—it was worth the hype. Asked out very kind waitress, Kristi, if I could be a menace and film the bartender creating this beautiful drink. She smiled from ear to ear and said he would be down! The bartender, Matt Grant, wasted no time. He started with fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice from, the now-viral, manual iron juice press, then added pineapple juice, ginger ale, and grenadine. He walked us over to the garnish station where he got an orange slice and cherry stacked on a tooth pick. This gorgeous beverage had a lovely summer sunset color and tasted like the fruity delight of sandy beach vacations. Caribbean Dream indeed!
What We Ate
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
I had returned to the table with my videos and herotinis, yes, I absolutely got 2. Once I sat down Kristi set down my plate with a tall and messy buffalo chicken wrap. My body cannot take fried foods anymore, so I was relieved when I saw the wrap was made with grilled sauced chicken, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. One bite fills your mouth with bursting flavor and lots and lots of mess, in the best way. Flavorful, juicy, and saucy enough to need extra napkins. Be warned: the wrap gets soggy quick, but the flavor is worth it.
Famous Wings
My husband’s wings we placed down next. If there’s one thing to know about Charlie’s, it’s they don’t play when it comes to their world famous wings. Saucy, meaty, and perfectly cooked, they’re the star of the menu. I usually lean boneless, but here? The wings are non-negotiable.
Crabby Mac
Cheesy and loaded with lump crab—it was one of the best baked crab macs I’ve had in a while. Unfortunately, we did find a stray hair (ugh), but honestly, the dish itself was so good we’d still order it again. We understand, especially in a busy kitchen during the dinner rush at the shore, mistakes happen.
The Shore Experience
By the time we left, the rain had let up and the parking lot was jammed with hungry hopefuls waiting for their table. The couple of benches outside the bar were filled along with the cars circling the parking lot. That’s Charlie’s in the summer: chaotic, crowded, but always worth it.
Soon “local summer” will arrive—when the tourists head home, parking spots free up, and the Shore feels like ours again. I dream of the roomy beaches, boardwalk clearance, and more than 1 parking spot to choose from. Until then, I’ll raise a Herotini to one of Somers Point’s most enduring traditions.
Cheers to wings, mocktails, and 80 years of Charlie’s.
The final Sober Party Girl Score: 8 out of 10!
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