Highlands, New Jersey

About

A Jersey Shore tradition on Sandy Hook Bay since 1966.

Our Story

The Inlet Café is a second-generation family owned and operated restaurant. It is now owned by siblings Douglas Lentz and Robin Lentz-Sundstrom.

The Inlet Café was open in 1966 by our parents. Its original name was “The Lobster Pot”. The name “Inlet Café” was chosen because back in 1966, there was talk of building an inlet into Sandy Hook, across from the restaurant. The Inlet Café begar as a local tavern with a small clam bar and four outdoor tables. The original building was destroyed in 1975 by a catastrophic fire that started in a neighboring hotel. The Inlet Cafe was quickly rebuilt and expanded into its present day form.

We maintain extremely high standards for the products we purchase and strive to provide the freshest and best products available.

Now back again, for the 2026 season, under original ownership! We cannot wait to see you!

1966 Established on the Jersey Shore
Bayfront Outdoor dining on Sandy Hook Bay
Highlands A local stop for shore visitors and neighbors

Then & Now

From the Lobster Pot to the Inlet Cafe.

A family story shaped by the Highlands waterfront, rebuilt and renewed across generations.

The original Lobster Pot restaurant on the Highlands waterfront
The original Lobster Pot
The present-day entrance and signs at the Inlet Cafe
The Inlet Cafe today
Founder of the Inlet Cafe
Our founder
Historic color photograph of the Lobster Pot exterior
A Highlands gathering place
Inlet Cafe outdoor deck overlooking Sandy Hook Bay
Celebrating 60 years on the waterfront

What We Do Best

Fresh seafood, bay views, and waterfront hospitality.

Raw Bar

Oysters, lobster, shrimp, and seasonal seafood served with a shore-town point of view.

Bay Views

A relaxed waterfront setting with fresh air and Sandy Hook Bay as the backdrop.

Easy To Reach

Call ahead for current information before making the trip to Highlands.