By KENNY WALTER
Staff Writer
OCEANPORT — The latest amenity at Monmouth Park opened just prior to the Fourth of July.
On July 2, the Blu Grotto Restaurant, an Italian steakhouse specializing in modern and classic adaptations of regional Italian favorites, handmade pastas, fresh seafood and prime steak, opened on the grounds of Monmouth Park.
“Blu Grotto continues our commitment to building an expansive entertainment destination at one of New Jersey’s most recognizable landmarks, Monmouth Park,” said Dennis Drazin, advisor to Darby Development LLC, operators of the racetrack. “This new restaurant offers a unique dining experience as it offers views of the iconic picnic area and the top of the homestretch.”
The restaurant features an all-glass conservatory dining room, three large decks and a large, open-air beer garden.
Among some of the featured menu offerings from Chef James Corona are bistecca fiorentina [Italian-style T-bone steak], Jersey scallops and Skuna Bay salmon. A full slate of raw bar offerings joins a long list of appetizers, salads, soup and an antipasto misto.
A Batali and Bouley alumnus, Corona has extensive experience in the culinary industry including roles as executive chef at Doris & Ed’s in Highlands and most recently at Bocca Restaurant in New York City.
His work has earned numerous accolades including the James Beard Foundation Award of Excellence, New Jersey Monthly Magazine – Best of Best Seafood and Gourmet Magazine’s America’s Top Tables.
“It’s been a wonderful experience bringing this new restaurant and menu to fruition,” said Thomas Barone, who will oversee operations. “With an intimate bar, a completely unique beverage program, one-of-a-kind dining room and spacious patios, Blu Grotto has something for everyone, while providing unparalleled ambience and spectacular food.”
The restaurant, which has its own entrance from Port Au Peck Avenue, will be open six days a week. The hours are 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4-10 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information, visit http://www.blugrottonj.com or call 732-571-7900.
Monmouth Park’s other development plans — including an indoor water park, hotel and other amenities — are tied to the additional revenues projected from sports betting, which is currently in litigation.
It has been estimated that $1 billion would be wagered each year at Monmouth Park if sports betting were legalized. That could net $75 million in annual revenue for the racetrack, which is Oceanport’s largest taxpayer.
