Tucked away inside Harbor Pines Golf Club in Egg Harbor Township, The Roost is much more than a golf course restaurant. Open to the public, this welcoming neighborhood spot has become a destination for delicious food, handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, live entertainment, and community events throughout the week.

From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted with friendly smiles and a bright, inviting atmosphere. Large windows overlook the beautifully manicured Harbor Pines Golf Course, while televisions throughout the dining room keep guests up to date on the latest sporting events. Digital displays also highlight the restaurant’s packed calendar of trivia nights, Sip & Paint events, live music, and seasonal celebrations.

“We have events almost every night,” said General Manager Ara Daglian.

Daglian’s vision is for The Roost to be more than just a restaurant. He wants it to be a gathering place where friends, families, golfers, and neighbors can come together.

“Families can come and have something to do,” Daglian said. “It really becomes a destination.”

That community-first mindset is evident throughout the restaurant. Whether you’re stopping in after a round of golf, meeting friends for dinner, or bringing the kids for a family event, there’s always something happening.

While the menu isn’t overwhelming, it’s thoughtfully curated with something to satisfy nearly every craving. Guests can choose from hearty handhelds, flavorful flatbreads, fresh salads, and satisfying dinner entrées, while the extensive drink menu features craft beers, wines, specialty cocktails, and an impressive selection of alcohol-free beverages.

As a mocktail enthusiast, I couldn’t leave without trying a few of their nonalcoholic creations. My favorite was The Mule, a refreshing blend featuring spicy ginger beer with plenty of zing. The Roost also offers nonalcoholic beers and premium zero-proof spirits, making it easy for everyone to enjoy a handcrafted drink while drinking responsibly.

Not long after our drinks arrived, the kitchen delivered our lunch.

We ordered the Crab Cake Sandwich and The Roost Burger, upgrading our sides to sweet potato fries, and I can confidently say that upgrade was worth every penny. Crispy on the outside and perfectly seasoned, they were impossible to stop eating.

The Crab Cake Sandwich was exactly what you hoped for. It was packed with crab rather than filler and topped with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, and onion. Meanwhile, The Roost Burger was stacked high with melty cheese, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and a massive onion ring that made every bite unforgettable. It was the perfect post-golf meal for my husband after spending the afternoon on the driving range.

Before leaving, we grabbed an order of the Cheesesteak Egg Rolls to take home. One bite was enough to convince me I’ll definitely be back for those again.

What impressed me most wasn’t just the food, but it was The Roost’s commitment to bringing the Egg Harbor Township community together.

Throughout the year, the restaurant hosts themed events, live entertainment, trivia nights, Sip & Paint classes, and seasonal celebrations for all ages. The Jersey Shore Beach Boys are playing on Aug. 1.

“We are offering VIP experiences,” Daglian said. “People want to be treated like royalty, and that’s what we do here.”

It’s easy to see that creating memorable experiences is just as important as serving great food.

Connected to the restaurant is Harbor Pines’ elegant banquet facility, making The Club an ideal venue for weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, corporate events, birthday parties, and other special celebrations.

The spacious ballroom features sparkling chandeliers, a full-service bar, and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light. I’ve had the pleasure of attending several events here over the years, and each one has been beautifully executed.

Whether you’re planning your next celebration, looking for a fun trivia night, or simply searching for a great restaurant in Egg Harbor Township with excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere, The Roost at Harbor Pines deserves a visit.

After seeing everything they have planned in the coming weeks, I already know we’ll be back. If you’re searching for that perfect neighborhood spot where everyone feels like a regular, The Roost just might become your new favorite destination.

Holly Martin has been immersed in the media world since 2012, building a dynamic and versatile career that spans nearly every corner of the industry. She has also hosted as a DJ and created the blog SNJ Sober Party Girl. She enjoys sharing stories that inspire connection and community.