656 Ocean, an American bistro (named for their address) has a special story behind its existence. As owner Ralph Epstein recalls, there weren’t any kosher restaurants for a fine dinner in Central NJ when he was growing up, and those that did open soon disappeared from the kosher restaurant scene. Ralph’s father, a seasoned real estate developer and a long-time Jersey Shore resident actively involved in its Jewish community, purchased the property located just one block away from the ocean. After extensive renovations, the restaurant opened its doors in 2005, without owners’ initial intent to operate it. Soon, however, the idea was born to run it as a kosher establishment, a unique place to serve the local Jewish community and to be proud of it. 656 Ocean was conceived as a “different” restaurant – with white tabletops, a selection of quality dishes, a liquor bar, and superb service – which just happens to be kosher. Since its inception, 656 Ocean has been known to provide great taste and value to its customers (many of whom have become regulars), as well as to constantly improve their dining experience. Recently, they have done some major renovations, expanded the scotch selection, and added a smoker and many new menu items. The new contemporary black and white décor with extensive use of mirrors and subdued lighting instills the atmosphere of style and sophistication.