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Best of Metromix Jersey Shore 2011Italian restaurant

After the debacle known as seasons 1-3 of MTV's supposed Garden State-inspired reality series, we figured our area's rich and culturally vibrant Italian heritage could use a heaping helping of positive recognition. Here are our picks for best Italian restaurants, courtesy of the real Jersey Shore.

Jimmy's Italian Restaurant

1405 Asbury Ave.

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Heralded as the “Best Italian Restaurant Around”, Jimmy’s Italian Restaurant has maintained an excellent reputation since its opening in 1982.

Nominees

Ama Ristorante Tuscana

42 First avenue

Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

Ama offers a true Tuscan dining experience in a warm intimate setting. Named after the renowned village in the Tuscan region of Italy, Ama combines "old country" peasant foodwith the masterful touches from chef/owner Pat Trama who is known for his commitment to excellence. This renowned chef is creating a neighborhood restaurant that is about great food.

Bay Avenue Trattoria

122 Bay Ave.

Highlands, NJ 07732

Forget about using your frequent flyer miles to get a taste of Italy -- instead, just head to the Bay Avenue Trattoria in the Highlands. Succulent offerings range from sandwiches and salads to pasta and seafood, plus homemade desserts. Bring a bottle of wine (or two) and enjoy a fine Italian meal without leaving Eastern Standard Time.

Brando's Citi Cucina

162 Main St.

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

The reviews say it all ...

Il Giardinello

1232 Route 166

Toms River, NJ

For more than 18 years, Ill Giardinello has been providing Ocean County with award-winning Italian cuisine in a family owned, family operated setting

Sirena Ristorante

27 Ocean Ave.

Long Branch, NJ 07740

Located along Long Branch's oceanfront Pier Village, Sirena Ristorante has been serving upscale Italian cuisine complemented by a scenic view for more than six years.

Stella Marina

800 Ocean Ave.

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Italian specialties and beautiful views in Asbury Park

Villa Vittoria

2700 Hooper Ave

Brick , NJ 08723

Second-to-none service and phenomenal food and presentation make this Zagat-rated restaurant a step above almost any other Italian dining experience in Ocean County.

Jimmy's Italian Restaurant

1405 Asbury Ave.

Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Heralded as the “Best Italian Restaurant Around”, Jimmy’s Italian Restaurant has maintained an excellent reputation since its opening in 1982. NY Channel 2 News awarded Jimmy’s Italian Restaurant the "Best Italian Restaurant " in the metropolitan area and recognized for a "squeaky clean kitchen."