When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Deck
Why The Deck is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Deck, located in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, offers an inviting spot that combines great food, friendly service, and a stunning atmosphere, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends. Guests often highlight the exceptional view from the upstairs deck, which provides a beautiful backdrop for any gathering, whether casual or special. This ambiance perfectly complements the menu’s offerings, praised for their quality and taste. It’s a place where the atmosphere elevates the dining experience beyond just the food. The Deck’s appeal is enhanced by its attentive and polite staff, creating a welcoming environment where visitors feel comfortable and well cared for. The restaurant’s excellent pricing adds to its attractiveness, allowing groups to enjoy a satisfying meal without overspending. Its location is perfect for an end-of-day retreat after visiting New York City, accessible via ferry, making it both a convenient and scenic destination. Whether celebrating with family, enjoying a date night, or catching up with old friends, The Deck offers a harmonious balance of delicious cuisine, excellent service, and unforgettable views, solidifying its reputation as a favorite local dining destination.
Here's what people think of The Deck
As of recent, The Deck holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1117 reviews.
Reviews from patrons reveal a consistently positive experience at The Deck, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews. Many visitors rave about the superior food quality, describing dishes as outstanding and showcasing the restaurant’s culinary strengths. The service is frequently noted as attentive and polite, contributing to the comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The panoramic views from the upper deck are repeatedly praised, often described as unbeatable, which enhances the restaurant’s charm and makes it a unique setting for social gatherings. Several reviewers mention the accommodating nature of the staff, even with larger groups, and appreciate the reasonable pricing. On the other hand, negative comments appear minimal but some unspecified critiques in online forums mention occasional wait times or busy periods, typical challenges for popular venues that can impact immediate seating or service speed. Overall, positive feedback greatly outweighs the negatives, affirming The Deck as a go-to spot for memorable dining experiences marked by good food, great views, and a friendly environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ambrelee Taylor
The Deck is THE Columbia River glow-up spot—sun on your face, cocktail in your hand, and vibes so good you’ll swear you’re on vacation. We came, we sipped, we conquered the menu—and let me tell you, the vibes were as crisp as that Columbia River breeze. The staff knows how to keep the good times flowing, and the whole experience screams “you deserve this.” Pro tip: snag an outdoor seat, order a margarita (or two, we don’t judge), and live your main character fantasy while the boats drift by. This place? Chef’s kiss. 💋🍹🌅
Joel Jespersen
Hands down a great spot on the river. The food was amazing. Drake took great care of us , we had a fun conversation with him throughout the evening. Next time we are in Portland we will be back.
Captain Awesome
What an excellent place to finish the work week. The service is on point. Thank you Drake! The drinks are absolutely delicious and the food is equally delicious. So nice to unwind after a busy week. I plan on trying almost everything on the menu. It's that good. We had the watermelon margaritas and some appetizers. Perfectly perfect.
Kent Lewis
The food is tasty, but the new menu is much pricier than before. Wonderful staff and a world class view make it a noteworthy stop.
Jade Rodriquez
Perfect place for lunch or dinner in the sunny weather. They are located right on the water, so the view is awesome. Our waitress Laura was great! She was friendly, she took our other in a timely manner, and the food was fantastic!! It's outdoor seating that's covered, so you get the fresh air and sunshine without getting too hot from the direct sunlight. However, if you like the direct sunlight, they also have seating without the cover with umbrellas. The restaurant was very clean and they played music (not too loud). I will definitely be adding The Deck to my fave list when they are open for business.
How to reach The Deck
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Website: None
Why The Deck may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Deck with your friends?
Gathering friends or family at The Deck offers a unique combination of stunning ambiance, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal meetup spot. Located in a vibrant area with beautiful views—especially impressive sunsets and landmarks like Diamond Head—The Deck delivers a memorable experience that blends casual comfort with a touch of elegance. Its rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over a thousand reviews reflects consistent customer satisfaction, particularly praising the friendly and attentive service that makes groups feel valued and well cared for. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, The Deck balances quality food and drinks with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection among friends. Its environment is neither overly formal nor pretentious but instead offers a down-to-earth vibe where everyone can feel at ease. The venue’s thoughtful layout allows for both intimate conversations and lively group interactions, making it a flexible space for various social dynamics. Overall, The Deck stands out as a perfect place to create lasting memories with your group while enjoying great views and tasty fare.
What activities can you enjoy at The Deck that make it great for groups?
The Deck offers multiple activities that cater to group enjoyment, blending leisure and culinary experiences seamlessly. First, the highlight for many visitors is the dining experience. The menu at The Deck features a range of tasty dishes that appeal to diverse palates, with everything from fresh seafood to hearty mains and flavorful sides. Sharing plates or ordering individually, groups can experience a shared culinary journey, which is always a great bonding experience. Beyond dining, The Deck provides an inviting social atmosphere with spacious seating that encourages mingling and relaxed conversations. Many visitors note the friendly, attentive service that enhances group interactions by attending to special requests and ensuring smooth service flow. For those who enjoy watching sunsets or taking in scenic views, The Deck’s vantage points are exceptional, making it not just a place to eat but a place to savor beautiful moments together. Whether your group is there for a lively chat over drinks or a more relaxed meal, The Deck supports both effortlessly. The welcoming ambiance combined with quality food and drinks creates a natural environment for groups to unwind, celebrate, and connect.
Why is The Deck’s atmosphere perfect for hosting a meetup with friends or family?
At The Deck, the atmosphere plays a critical role in making it a favored spot for meetups. What sets this venue apart is its ability to balance casual comfort with a touch of sophistication — it’s neither too noisy nor too formal, striking the perfect tone for all types of gatherings. Guests often highlight the warm and hospitable service staff who contribute greatly to the friendly vibe, making visitors feel not like customers but like welcomed guests. The location offers fantastic views, including panoramic sunset vistas and iconic natural landmarks, creating a relaxing, almost celebratory backdrop that enhances group experiences. The outdoor deck area is particularly popular, allowing friends or families to gather in a fresh air setting that promotes easy conversation and connection. The restaurant’s interior design promotes openness without compromising intimacy, featuring thoughtfully spaced tables that provide enough privacy for smaller gatherings while still supporting a lively communal feeling. Overall, The Deck’s atmosphere encourages guests to linger comfortably, laugh freely, and enjoy quality time together, which is exactly what a group meetup should feel like.
How does The Deck accommodate different group sizes and needs effectively?
One of The Deck’s key advantages for hosting meetups is its versatility in accommodating various group sizes and preferences. Whether it’s a small group of four friends or a larger family gathering of a dozen or more, the seating arrangements can easily be adapted to suit the occasion. Tables can be joined or spaced apart to provide the right balance of intimacy or collective energy. The staff are experienced in managing group dynamics and can assist with reservations to ensure that your group has the best seating possible, especially during busy hours or special occasions. The menu offers a variety of sharable options and individual meals, giving flexibility for different tastes and dietary considerations within a group. Additionally, the atmosphere supports diverse activities—whether your group wants to focus on dining, catch a sunset view, or engage in lively conversation over drinks. This flexibility ensures that everyone in the group can enjoy the visit fully without feeling constrained by the venue’s layout or service style. The Deck’s blend of adaptable space, welcoming service, and comprehensive menu options makes it especially suited for hosting successful and enjoyable social gatherings.
What food and drink options at The Deck appeal to groups looking for variety?
The Deck’s food and beverage offerings are well-loved for their quality and range, making them a strong draw for groups who want variety and flavor in their meetup dining experience. The menu features carefully curated dishes that balance local favorites and broader crowd-pleasers, allowing groups with diverse tastes to find something enjoyable. From fresh, tasty appetizers to satisfying mains, the food is crafted to be flavorful yet accessible. The drink selection complements the food well, including reasonably priced cocktails, wines, and beers that cater to different preferences and occasions—from casual happy hour refreshments to celebratory toasts. Many reviews praise the balance between quality and value, showcasing the venue’s commitment to delivering satisfying meals without an exaggerated price tag. Group members can explore different dishes and drinks, encouraging shared plates and tasting sessions that foster conversational enjoyment. The presence of happy hour specials often adds to the appeal for groups looking to gather without excessive spending. This broad food and drink appeal positions The Deck as an excellent choice for meetups where variety and quality are both priorities.
Why do visitors repeatedly recommend The Deck for special occasions and celebrations?
Visitors often emphasize The Deck as a top choice specifically for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations involving friends and family. The reasons are multifaceted: the stunning views create a naturally festive setting that enhances any milestone event. The service is frequently described as attentive and accommodating, with staff genuinely invested in making celebrations special, sometimes going the extra mile to personalize the experience. The balance of a lively yet comfortable atmosphere means groups can celebrate loudly or chat intimately, depending on their mood. Furthermore, the reasonable pricing for high-quality food and drinks means groups don’t have to worry about splurging excessively to enjoy a memorable night out. Reviews regularly mention how easy it is to relax and enjoy the occasion without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by formality. The Deck’s consistent ability to deliver all these elements together means it has earned a reputation as a reliable, appealing venue for meaningful social gatherings that leave everyone feeling happy and valued. This reputation alone drives repeat visits and enthusiastic recommendations.
How does The Deck compare to other venues in terms of location and ambiance for social gatherings?
Compared to many other dining and social venues, The Deck stands out particularly for its location and ambiance. Nestled in a lively area, it benefits from natural scenic beauty, including iconic sunsets and lush surroundings that are perfect for photos and shared memories. Many competing venues may offer either a great menu or a nice atmosphere, but The Deck consistently earns praise for delivering both in harmony. Its open deck area serves as an inviting space that feels spacious yet cozy, allowing groups the freedom to engage socially without feeling cramped. Unlike venues that feel overly commercial or sterile, The Deck maintains a relaxed, welcoming vibe enhanced by warm lighting, natural materials, and thoughtful design touches. The lively yet down-to-earth atmosphere is a feature that speaks to a wide variety of customers, ensuring that the venue remains accessible and popular for different types of social groups. Visitors looking for a mix of visual appeal, great service, and a comfortable setting often choose The Deck as their go-to meeting place, reinforcing its strong reputation in the local social scene.
What makes The Deck’s service exceptional for group meetups?
The Deck is repeatedly praised for its service quality, which is a crucial factor in making any group gathering successful. Staff are known for being friendly, attentive, and proactive in ensuring guests’ needs are met promptly and courteously. This includes managing special requests, helping with menu recommendations, and being attentive without being intrusive—an important balance that allows groups to enjoy their own time. The team’s professionalism shows especially during busy times, where they keep the energy smooth and positive despite the high volume of guests. Many reviewers highlight that the service contributes significantly to the overall experience, making it feel more personal than many larger or busier venues. For groups, this kind of service ensures that everyone feels taken care of and that logistical details—like seating arrangements and timely food service—are handled efficiently. Excellent service turns a simple meetup into a memorable event, and The Deck’s staff clearly understand how to cultivate this atmosphere for groups.
What additional features should groups know about before visiting The Deck?
Groups planning to visit The Deck can expect several thoughtful features designed to enhance their experience. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties or during peak times, to secure ideal seating with the best views. The venue’s layout includes both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing groups to choose based on weather and preference, which is particularly useful for social events that might span different times of the day. The Deck’s friendly policy around food preferences and dietary restrictions makes it a safe choice for groups with diverse needs, as the staff are prepared to accommodate special requests where possible. Pricing is generally considered reasonable, which is a plus for groups mindful of budget but still wanting a quality experience. Lastly, The Deck has a relaxed dress code that welcomes casual to smart attire, providing flexibility for groups organizing anything from casual get-togethers to semi-formal celebrations. Knowing these practicalities can help groups prepare better to enjoy everything The Deck has to offer fully.