ABOUT KLEIN'S
OUR FAMILY, OUR STORY
The Klein history in the fish industry began in 1924. Ollie Klein Sr., peddled fish from his truck through Asbury Park, Ocean Grove and the Neptune area. In 1928, he opened Klein’s Fresh Air Fish Market in a rented store along Fifth Avenue at the Old Captain Kidd’s Landing in Belmar. A few months later, he purchased property at 708 River Rd. and opened Klein’s Fish Market at its current location in 1929.
Two generations worked together after World War II and during the fifties. In the early sixties, young Ollie III spent summer vacations at the market learning the seafood business first hand.
With the passing of Ollie Sr. in 1972, Jack and Ollie Jr. kept the family operation thriving. Young Ollie III, who loved the restaurant business, became the General Manager of a prominent local seafood restaurant. Working closely with his Uncle Jack and Dad, Ollie III researched new areas to obtain the finest and freshest fish. They established a new network of purchasing seafood from all over the world.
In the spring of 1990, after the loss of Jack Klein, Ollie III returned home to the market. A kitchen was installed and a Take-Out menu with cooked items was developed. Each year dockside dining grew and additions to both the restaurant and menu were innovated. In 2004 a liquor license was added and the following year a Tiki Bar. Now, Klein’s Fish Market and Waterside Café has expanded with Klein’s Riverfront Bar & Grille which features a new specialty menu.
Recently, Ollie Klein Jr. passed after a short illness at the age of 93. However, the business is well positioned for the future as Ollie III, and his wife Michele are assisted by nephew Tod Vitalis; and daughters Elizabeth Love and Jacqueline Leon with the fifth generation already in training. Today with your patronage we’re able to Celebrate our 94rd Anniversary.
Thank You,
The Klein Family
Retail Fish Market
Our open air Fish Market is family owned and operated since 1929. Klein’s Fish Market offers the finest selection of high quality local and worldwide seafood.
Our fish market is happy to provide party platters of fresh seafood for your next celebration including shrimp platters, oysters, clams and so much more.
Waterside Café
Enjoy our Waterside Café where you can dine outdoors, watch the boats drive by and watch the sunset every night. Guaranteed fresh and deliciously prepared seafood delights await you daily. You’ll also enjoy Klein’s “land lover” dinners, made with the same attention to quality and great taste.
Well-known for its fresh seafood selections, plus its authentic sauces and pasta dishes, Klein’s also serves delicious chicken and steak dishes, plentiful salads, and homemade soups. There is something for everyone at Klein’s; you really can’t go wrong here.
Tiki Bar
Where every day feels like you’re on vacation! Relax, sit back and come join us for Happy Hour. Visit Klein’s Tiki Bar, it’s the perfect atmosphere to unwind, listen to live music and to enjoy daily specials.