Dishing Up Joy on LBI

Author John Walters once said, “The only thing better than talking about food is eating it.” Katherine Lioudis, founder of the popular Instagram account @lbi.eats has been shining a spotlight on the foods that set LBI apart as both a popular coastal destination and a hub for foodies. What began as a “fun, little account,” as Lioudis remarks, has grown to over thirteen thousand followers and counting and has “been a fun way to integrate into the [LBI] community.” With roots that run deep on the island along with a shared passion for food among her family and friends, Lioudis believes food is more than just eating but a “love language and a way to form connections.”

Though the account was created in 2018, it remained private for several years, with only about twenty followers consisting of Lioudis’ close friends who enjoyed a glimpse into life on LBI. During COVID, Lioudis realized the opportunity in going public with the account as a way to support struggling restaurants at the time and showcase not only the incredible food options on the island but also the overall vibe of this special sandbar at the shore. “People love the island,” Lioudis explains, “and they love the community and they want to share and be a part of it and so people have clung to [LBI Eats] for that reason.” Lioudis is quick to share that she neither posts consistently nor has a team or professional equipment, but that hasn’t hindered the growth of the account. “People love being a part of [life] down here, especially when they’re not here but can still see what’s happening and see the food.” Utilizing skills from her fulltime marketing job, Lioudis is able to blend her talent for digital and media marketing with her passion for all things LBI.

Lioudis continues to strive for positivity through her posts and recommendations and enjoys showcasing the variety of eats available on Long Beach Island. Posts and stories highlight a mix of restaurants, from well-known establishments and favorites to smaller businesses who may lack in social content to new restaurants looking to create buzz. Each summer begins with creating a list of places to visit during the season and a plan to get to as many as possible. Lioudis welcomes businesses to contact her and says, “If you reach out to me, I definitely try to put it higher on the list; sometimes that doesn’t happen, but it is one way to be on my radar.”

While a variety of foods and restaurants are highlighted, Lioudis is careful not to offer specific reviews or critiques. “I’ve definitely had meals that haven’t been great, but my not-great experience may be someone’s else great experience… I just try to show as much as I can and let [people] make that decision for themselves.” Lioudis’ family and friends enjoy perks that come with the job and have been “trained” to avoid eating until food photos are taken; they have even perfected the “oyster spin,” where they turn their plate a certain way for the best photo op. Some visits are planned ahead of time while others give in to spontaneity and answer the call for what Lioudis may be in the mood for on a particular day. For the most part, Lioudis’ visits to restaurants are unannounced and she’s able to enjoy a meal incognito, but there are times when she’s recognized or will call ahead and give a heads up when she’ll be visiting. Over the years, she’s established relationships with many restauranteurs and notes a special connection with a particular dining spot in Beach Haven. “I’m at Parker’s Garage a lot; they’ve always been very good to me…my dog’s name is Parker after [it].” Last summer found Lioudis collaborating with The Gables to showcase both the unique menu selections as well as the fact that for the first time, rooms became available to stay on restaurant property. This summer has a partnership of a different kind; Lioudis has a new column in Bay Magazine where she’ll be writing more of an extended version of what is currently on LBI Eats, including shopping and experiences that reach beyond food.

Lioudis enjoys the interaction with fellow LBI enthusiasts and finds joy from people reaching out for recommendations. When it comes to top places to send those looking for a great meal, it’s difficult to narrow down the list, but a few standouts include classic pizza from Bay Village Pizza; crab cakes from any of the Tide Table Group restaurants; sandwiches from Lighthouse Deli and lobster rolls from Pearl Street Market; ice cream at Skipper Dipper; and The Arlington for burgers and wings. As for breakfast, Mustache Bill’s, Dockside Diner, and Uncle Will’s top the list for quintessential morning spots on the island. Close-to-home spots include Daddy-O’s and Barrel Surf Café which are both regular stops. “I’m right by Barrel Surf Café; it’s been a nice little addition, and the smoothies are so good,” Lioudis remarks.

Beyond food, she enjoys frequenting many shops around the island including 506 Boutique and The Mermaid Room, as well as yearly climbs to the top of Old Barney. She also doesn’t shy away from venturing off island to sample the local fare. Lioudis is proud of what she’s built and the connections she’s forged. “That’s the whole reason I keep the account going—I love being able to share and continue highlighting these places and building community connections.” Famed chef Curtis Stone once observed, “Food is meant to be shared and enjoyed together. It brings people closer and creates lasting memories.” Katherine Lioudis is doing just that for the LBI community and beyond. “I feel so much love for the island so it’s nice to be a person who is able to give that love back to the community.”

About Katherine Lioudis,: You can keep up on her latest food adventures by following her Instagram. You can also look out for her new column in Bay Magazine.

About the writer: Brielle Bleeker has been vacationing on LBI since childhood and is happy to continue the tradition with her husband and children. As a freelance writer, Brielle has published articles related to books, travel, food, and wellness. She counts down all year long to summertime on the sandbar.