Iconic Jersey Shore drive-in restaurant goes on the market

    Google image.

    Google image.

    A decades-old Jersey Shore drive-in restaurant and landmark is on the real estate market.

    The legendary Circus Drive-In on Route 35 in Wall in Monmouth County has been in business since 1954. During the warmer months, patrons dine in their cars window-side or under a big tent. 

    But those days might be over. 

    According to the listing broker, Gerard Norkus, a senior vice president at at Harold Wien Real Estate, LLC, the asking price for a long-term ground lease for the property is $200.000. The property is also available for sale at $2 million, he said, but the owner prefers not to sell.

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    Anyone seeking a ground lease can continue to operate the business or tear the structure down and redevelop the property, he added.

    The owners told APP.com that there’s more value for them by selling or leasing the property. 

    A listing on the real estate broker’s website dubs the 1.64-acre site in a highway business zone as “one of a kind” and located within a “premier retail corridor.”

    The establishment is known for its classic American fare and in particular, a soft shell crab sandwich. 

    Naturally family friendly, the Circus theme menu contains such dishes as the Lion Tamer, Daredevil, and the Cannonball. The business also hosted classic car nights.

    “The BEST lunch/dinner at the Circus! Soft shell crab sandwich, onions rings and a large vanilla coke,” Joan Suhl wrote on Jersey Shore Hurricane News’ Facebook page. “Can’t imagine driving down Route 35 and not seeing that happy clown face, not to mention all my awesome memories since 1963.”

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