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Best of Metromix Jersey Shore 2011Bar

After poring though stacks upon stacks of user submissions for this category, something both interesting and profound became apparent to us. Weighing in on the markedly over-reaching designation of "Best Bar," our users preferred to keep to simple standard, letting substance triumph over style and area classics trump trendy nightclubs.

We couldn't be more stoked about the following eight nominees, which share the common bond of combining top-notch staff, patrons and spirits into a reputation that transcends flashy pretense and a run-of the-mill "night at the bar" into an unforgettable experience that's nothing short of magic.

Here are top-voted Jersey Shore "best bar" nominees, now finish the job and help us choose the winner.

Kelly's Tavern

Route 35 South

Neptune City, NJ 07753

Don't be fooled. While Kelly's is THE Jersey Shore St. Paddy's drinking destination, this iconic Garden State Irish pub delivers a top notch beer and liquor selection, killer grub and a dynamite party atmosphere 365 days a year.

Nominees

Boathouse Bar and Grill

1309 Main St.

Belmar, NJ 07719

With an inviting outdoor patio that feels like your best friend's backyard, as well as two bars, an easygoing staff and a friendly, nautical-inspired atmosphere, the Boathouse has room for everyone to enjoy a few drinks and a great night out.

Brickwall Tavern and Dining Room

522 Cookman Ave.

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

You can debate it all you want: We say the lifeblood of Asbury Park's renaissance starts and ends with this Cookman Avenue gem, a local hub amid a city in flux where the good times never cease and newcomers are always welcomed with a smile.

Connolly Station

711 Main St.

Belmar, NJ 07719

The Belmar "pub" has made a tradition of offering its patrons a one-of-a-kind night out that combines live music and live spirits. You don't have to look fancy to have fun at this Jersey Shore watering-hole supreme.

The Downtown

10 W. Front St.

Red Bank, NJ 07701

Inside this renovated Red Bank institution lies a chic and spacious pub with two floors of seemingly boundless after-hours action. Hosting live music seven nights a week, the Downtown is the place to see and be seen. Who needs the beach anyway?

Johnny Mac House of Spirits

208 Main Street

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

In only a few short months, this hip little AP neighborhood bar has transformed from the new kid on the block to one of the Shore's most popular any-hour drinking spots. One step inside, and it's easy to see why.

Klee's Bar and Grill

101 Boulevard

Seaside Heights, NJ 08751

An Irish oasis amid Seaside's swarming nightclub scene, Klee's serves up a good-time local vibe and patrons you'll want to call friends for the long haul.

Leggett's

217 First Ave.

Manasquan, NJ 08736

A mere stone's throw from Manasquan Beach, Leggett's -- Metromix's "Best Sports Bar" winner in 2010 -- is a haven for anyone looking for a prime spot to enjoy dinner, drinks, the game, the beach and just about anything else you can pack into a night out.

The Lake House

601 Main St.

Allenhurst, NJ 07711

Nightly entertainment, more drink specials than you can shake a stick at and a heavily collegiate after-dark crowd make it easy to see why the Lake House has become one of Coastal Monmouth's most popular party spots.