Bocca Coal Fired Bistro in Margate popped up on the restaurant scene a few years ago but from the moment you walk in it feels like it must have always been there because it has that welcoming local bar feel. You walk in and choose bar or a semi-formal family friendly dining room.
Naturally, I chose the bar area. Situated on the north corner of the restaurant are a couple of booths, a nice L shaped bar mirrored by a few high-tops. In the back there is room for the DJ, live music and a few tables.
I had been to Bocca before and I keep coming back for a few reasons like, cold beer. I mean really, really cold beer. And what makes beer or even wine taste better? Happy hour and cold beer are complimented by killer food specials.
Then there is the music. A classic mix of DMB, Cars, Rolling Stones with some reggae beats in the mix was a pleasant surprise. That just added to the laid back bar scene.
I choose to sit at a high-top, for me it’s the quintessential blend of: I’m here to drink and I have enough class that I will compliment that with some food and conversation.
I’m always excited to hear the dinner specials, because they are bound to be delicious! On Sunday’s the specials are of the seafood variety and during lunch hours they seem to be consistent with tasty fulfilling twists on classic salads.
My choice for this adventure, scallop on the half shell on top of garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus. OMG, the scallops were perfect, the presentation was on point but, those mashed potatoes were heavenly, buttery, garlicy, happiness. My partner in crime for the evening devoured the surf and turf, scallops and filet. All around impressive.
So, let’s get to the cocktails. We started with Cosmo’s. Why? Because for $6 you can get a martini, I can’t pass up a deal like that. They were delicious, light pink, icy with a hint of sweetness. Then we parted ways and went for the Cabernet Sauvignon (clearly to pair with the filet) and the Chardonnay to pair with the scallops on the half shell. Again, you can’t beat the happy hour price, so this girl had a second glass of wine. Light, crisp and tad bit of minerality for the chardonnay. The Cabernet Sauvignon was just as good. As far as house wines go I was pleasantly surprised.
I’ve been to Bocca on a few occasions (well a few more than a few). The scene is perfect for a casual date night, girls night out, a Sunday Funday coming off the beach or a family dinner. The beer is always cold and they have a nice variety on tap and the food never disappoints. With Happy Hour from 11:30-6, what more does a Jersey Girl need?
Insider Info on Bocca in Margate:
- Happy Hour from 11:30 – 6
- You can celebrate at Bocca with make-own-pizza or painting parties
- The room to the far left with the pizza oven is perfect for family dining.
- The high tops in the bar are perfect for watching a game or chatting with friends.
The Details on Bocca in Margate:
Bocca is located at 7805 Ventnor Ave in Margate in Atlantic County, New Jersey
Bocca is open daily from 11:00 am to 1:00 am
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