Have you seen NJ FOOD GUY

If you live on the Jersey Shore, there’s a good chance you’ve seen a NJ FOOD GUY restaurant review.

NJ FOOD GUY is a Facebook page that was started in July 2023 and now hosts dozens of videos and restaurant reviews from NJ and beyond, with a focus on Ocean County.

Scott Mahnken the founder of NJ FOOD GUY is a Bayville resident a verified Food-O-Holic and a resident Foodie. Mahnken who’s always appreciated a good meal and the efforts of family owned and operated food establishments decided to go live with his pictures and videos. and food reviews a little over a year ago.

It all started with Espo’s Pizza, Dina’s Bistro, and Grits and Grace and has grown from there.

There seem to be no boundaries as NJ FOOD GUY’s posted videos from local hot dog stands, pizzerias, deli’s, diner’s, fast food, waterfront dining, fine dining, bars & taverns, and specialty joints.

A typical NJ FOOD GUY video is usually 2 minutes long and includes images of the establishment, staff, and food. In many videos’ Mahnken gets ownership involved as witnessed by the flour on their apron and the smiles on their faces.

The good news is you’ll only find positive reviews on NJ FOOD GUY and indeed he seems to be a regular at a few local establishments including Senza’s, Sandcastle, Shady Rest, and Freddies.

Most NJ FOOD GUY videos attract 2K – 8K views and his most popular post was a review from the Anchor Inn that received 26,000 views.

When asked why he started NJ FOOD GUY, Mahnken said it’s about showing appreciation, spreading the word about great food and great people, and most of all having fun. Mahnken stated, “Nothing is more rewarding than having a food establishment owner say hey, I just had a customer say they found me on NJ FOOD GUY.”

There are a few places that NJ FOOD GUY has on his wish list including Clemmy’s, Brooklyn Pizza, and Xina. His most recent posts were from MJ’s in Bayville and the now infamous Cheesesteak Louie’s in Seaside.

“I’ve always had a philanthropic side, and I’ve preached that to my kids. Giving makes our hearts grow. I’ve been asked about charging for my services, I’ve been offered free food, but that’s not my objective. I get a rush when I see the traffic to my videos grow. I get a warm feeling inside when the owners and managers welcome me with a big smile and open arms. That’s the biggest paycheck in the world.”

So, if you’re seeking to find that next great place to eat or if you have a favorite place that you’d like to recommend, go to NJ FOOD GUY and enjoy.