618 In Freehold Is Among 'Most Romantic' Restaurants: Poll

FREEHOLD, NJ — The borough's many restaurants - from the historic American Hotel to Federici's - have long made it a dining destination in the area.

Now one restaurant, 618, is again getting special accolades for its romantic appeal.

618, located at 618 Park Ave., made the list of "The 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America" for 2023, according to diner reviews from OpenTable.

It was one of two restaurants in the state to rate the honor this year. The other was Chart House Restaurant in Weehawken.

"It really is an honor to get this award from OpenTable two years in a row," said Liz Borowski, who, with her husband Matthew Borowski, owns the restaurant. The family lives in Manalapan.

Valentine's Day is coming up, but the restaurant pays attention to romance all year long.

It offers an array of services for newlyweds, but also acknowledges long-lasting love.

"We love to share special occasions with our guests. One of our specialties is anniversaries where we give a couple complimentary glasses of champagne, rose-shaped napkins, and a card from 618 for the celebration upon arrival," she said.

This Valentine’s Day, the restaurant is offering its four-course dinner with wine pairing, Liz Borowski added.

"We have a violinist planned, white tablecloths, rose petals, chocolates by old Monmouth candies (Freehold) and romantic decor by Dream It Balloon (Manalapan) ready for our guests," she said.

According to OpenTable, the list this year was created analyzing over 13 million reviews.

618 celebrated its sixth anniversary on Nov. 1, 2022. There are plans for a new concept restaurant to open in Old Bridge at a future date, Liz Borowski said.

"We are happy to have successfully established that 'something different' type of atmosphere at 618 - an impeccable culinary experience in the heart of Monmouth County," according to comments on the restaurant's website by Matthew Borowski, speaking of his and Executive Chef Christopher Dutka's shared vision for the restaurant.

Liz Borowski said her husband took over the space, a former restaurant and nightclub Park 33, to create the more upscale vision.

But the underlying concept is always hospitality, she said: "We want to make people feel important."

What could be more romantic than that?

To learn more about 618, visit its Facebook site. Contact the restaurant at info@618nj.com or call 732-577-0001.