Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Tavern

Historic Smithville (Galloway/Absecon), NJ

Quick & Easy Bite Before Exploring Historic Smithville
Fred & Ethel’s Lantern Light Tavern is nestled on one side of Historic Smithville among the adorable shoppes. Inside the main entrance, is a wooden U-shaped bar with tables situated near the windows and around the bar and a doorway that leads into the larger main dining room and an outdoor patio dining area.

The Husband and I stopped in for a quick bite on a late Saturday afternoon. Surprisingly, the restaurant wasn’t too busy, despite the beautiful weather. A pleasant hostess greeted us immediately and sat us in a wide booth.

I believe our entire visit from the time we entered the building until we left was about 20 minutes, give or take. Our server was absolutely terrific and attentive in taking our orders and delivering our foods in a timely manner.

Instead of my usual lunch order, I opted for the buffalo chicken wontons with blue cheese dressing & mini vegetable spring rolls with a side of tasty mandarin orange-ginger dipping sauce – both served piping hot & delicious; the husband scarfed down his burger patty (with a lettuce bun – no gluten free options to replace the brioche bun) and a seasoned baked potato.

As old as the building is, it offers a comfortable and relaxed setting. The prices were reasonable for what we ordered (although I can’t compare them to dinner entrees). Next time I’ll have to try some of their specialty drinks.

The only minor issue is not having enough gluten free options like many restaurants are starting to offer (at least buns for the burgers or wraps for the sandwiches), but there are ways around it. It was more so for the Husband to enjoy his meal completely (which I assure you he did regardless).

All in all, I would definitely recommend this quaint little place to anyone venturing out to Historic Smithville for a little taste of history before heading off to do some shopping.