Discovering Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina: A Stone Harbor Gem
Nestled in the heart of Stone Harbor, New Jersey, at the recognizable address of 9631 3rd Ave, Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina stands as a vibrant and essential destination for locals and visitors alike. More than just an establishment serving drinks and food, Buckets embodies the quintessential relaxed, coastal New Jersey atmosphere, blending the spirit of a lively cantina with the laid-back charm of the shore. For those seeking an authentic, enjoyable dining and social experience near the Atlantic, this location offers a compelling proposition that goes beyond the ordinary.
The appeal of Buckets lies in its ability to capture the essence of seaside enjoyment. It’s a place where the transition from a sunny day on the beach to a relaxed evening gathering feels seamless. The energy is consistently welcoming, making it an ideal spot whether you are stopping in for a quick, refreshing beverage or settling in for a full meal with friends and family. The commitment to creating a memorable environment is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, positioning Buckets not just as a place to eat, but as a key part of the Stone Harbor experience.
Understanding what makes a location truly stand out requires looking beyond the menu and focusing on the overall vibe and dedication to quality service. Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina has successfully cultivated a reputation built on consistency, excellent hospitality, and an atmosphere that encourages lingering and conversation. It serves as a social hub where the community gathers, celebrates, and unwinds, all while enjoying the unique coastal setting that Stone Harbor provides.
Key Highlights of the Buckets Experience
When considering a visit to 9631 3rd Ave, several defining characteristics set Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina apart from other dining options in the area. These elements contribute significantly to its enduring popularity and strong local following:
The Signature Margarita Focus: As the name suggests, the bar places a significant emphasis on crafting exceptional margaritas. This dedication means patrons can expect a wide array of creative and classic preparations, utilizing quality ingredients to ensure every sip is refreshing and flavorful. This specialization elevates the simple cocktail experience into a core feature of the visit.
Vibrant Coastal Atmosphere: The physical space and the general ambiance successfully channel the spirit of the Jersey Shore. It’s designed to be lively yet comfortable, providing a perfect backdrop for casual socializing. The environment is conducive to both lively group outings and more intimate, relaxed gatherings, reflecting the diverse needs of its clientele.
Commitment to Approachable Dining: While the bar scene is prominent, the culinary offerings are designed to complement the social setting perfectly. The menu generally features items that pair well with their signature drinks, focusing on satisfying, well-executed dishes that appeal to a broad audience enjoying a casual meal near the water.
Prime Location for Accessibility: Situated centrally on 3rd Ave, the cantina benefits from excellent visibility and accessibility within Stone Harbor. This strategic positioning makes it an easy and convenient stop for those exploring the town or looking for a reliable gathering spot after enjoying local attractions.
More Than Just a Stopover
Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina is deeply integrated into the fabric of Stone Harbor life. It serves as a reliable anchor point where the energy of the shore town is palpable. The establishment understands that modern patrons seek authenticity and a place where they feel genuinely welcomed. This focus on genuine hospitality ensures that first-time visitors quickly feel like regulars.
The experience at 9631 3rd Ave is about more than just consuming food and drink; it’s about creating memories in a setting that celebrates the best aspects of coastal New Jersey living. Whether you are seeking the perfect handcrafted margarita to toast the sunset or a satisfying bite in a convivial setting, Buckets delivers a consistent and enjoyable experience. It remains a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local flavor and vibrant social scene of Stone Harbor.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Offerings
Alcohol
All you can eat
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Late-night food
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Planning
Accepts reservations
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Menus
Lunch & Dinner Menu
Tomato Salsa & ChipsUS$8.00
Guacamole & ChipsUS$13.00
NachosUS$13.00
Black Bean SoupUS$8.00
Red Chile WingsUS$12.00
Fried Chicken TendersUS$10.00
Tortilla SaladUS$13.00
Classic Caesar SaladUS$10.00
Al PastorUS$12.00
Tinga ChickenUS$12.00
FishUS$13.00
Classic AmericanUS$11.00
Pork CarnitasUS$12.00
Chicken & ChorizoUS$12.00
ShrimpUS$12.00
Cheese SteakUS$12.00
BurritoUS$13.00
Ranch Chicken WrapUS$12.00
French FriesUS$6.00
Sweet Potato FriesUS$6.00
Onion RingsUS$6.00
Fresh Corn SaladUS$6.00
Specials
Miller Lite DraftsUS$2.00
Modello DraftsUS$3.00
Cruzan Rum CocktailsUS$5.00
Classic Margaritas All DayUS$7.00
Taco of the DayUS$5.00
Miller Lite DraftsUS$2.00
Modello DraftsUS$3.00
Classic MargaritaUS$7.00
Well DrinksUS$7.00
Photos
Reviews Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina
Matthew Logan
16-12-2025
Buckets is a great spot to go to at dinner time after a long day at the beach. The Margaritas were pretty good! I ordered a Strawberry Margarita and it was delicious, I also ordered the nachos with my drinks, and you can easily share the dish with two people. The food was fresh, service was quick. Around sunset the restaurant can be a little crowded but otherwise its a great view.
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Not sure
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Seating type
Outdoor patio / terrace
Parking space
Not sure
Parking options
Free street parking
Kid-friendliness
Kid friendly, they provide a Kid's menu.
Wheelchair accessibility
Somewhat Wheelchair accessible, may be a bit tight.
Charlie Schiffer
03-12-2025
This is the best margarita I have had. Great west veiw for sunsets. The Nachos were great.
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Lawrence Dupkin
28-11-2025
Took a day trip to Stone Harbor, NJ to see Holdyn Barder w/special guest Michael James(album Good News). While we were there we stopped for Mexican food. I got the grilled Mahi Mahi burrito, which was stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, guac AND came with a side of fries. Everyone else had a different version of a taco salad. Two had chicken, one had ground beef. All had a mountain of guac, rice, beans, lettuce, pico de gallo and a huge crispy edible shell/bowl. Honestly it was so much food and delicious! If you’re in Stone Harbor, get to this place!
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
McAteer & Will Estates Keller Williams Real Estate
16-11-2025
Buckets Margarita Bar in Stone Harbor, NJ, is an absolute delight! From the moment you walk in, the laid-back beach vibe and friendly atmosphere make you feel right at home. The food here is truly exceptional – every dish we tried was packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, tasty tacos, or classic comfort food, Buckets has something for everyone.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Nachos, Guacamole
Victoria Beppler
10-05-2025
This place was super disappointing. To not have a margarita special for happy hour when margarita is in the restaurant name is criminal. No frozen margs which was also little disappointing but the drinks we did get were pretty good. Our food was pretty decent minus the queso. It was extremely bland and not worth the $12 for the small amount you get. We also received that with our food instead of as an app because they forgot about it and honestly I wish we would have passed on it. Our final bill was insanely expensive for what we got overall and I don’t think we’d ever go back.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
Jeff Falterbauer
01-04-2025
Loved my burrito and my wife loved her food too. Excellent margaritas. It’s expensive for Mexican food, but you’re at the beach so what do you expect. We are just happy to be able to get good Mexican food and drinks at the beach so this place is going to be a staple for us. We’ve been several times now with zero complaints
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Zachary Ells
02-03-2025
Absolutely phenomenal! This Mexican restaurant on the bay is an absolute gem — the kind of place you discover once and becomes a staple return spot. Great lunch break off the beach or early sandy happy hour. Stick around, the sunset views are breathtaking — golden skies melting into the water right from the deck.
Don’t skip the margaritas! Classic to spicy jalapeno, you really can’t go wrong.
The food is spectacular whether you are just grabbing chips and guac or settling down for a burrito, empanada, taco, or quesadilla. Great options for the kids too. Family-friendly, with warm, welcoming staff, easy for a family dinner after a beach day.
Truly a 10/10 experience.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
Elizabeth Smith
25-02-2025
The view of this really beautiful interesting new place for us to be on our first trip to Stone Harbor getting away for the day, we were treated so nice and we just smiled the entire time. The food was so tasty, the drinks were absolutely delicious, service was outstanding! Thanks so much for the relaxing start of our Day! ~ Liz & Tom
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Chicken Tacos
Kid-friendliness
They built a beautiful, fun, looking & enjoyable, water entertainment area that overlooks the outside area & you could see how much Kids were enjoying it.!
Kort Walsh (2 Pints Glass LLC)
13-01-2025
Best day ever! There was an awesome event today. Staff and food was incredible.
Perfect spot on the water. Great crowd.
A must when in the area.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Maddy
10-01-2025
Went here for lunch. Thought we would’ve had good food given the location we were at. We got a water and it tasted like the soda hose system from Coke wasn’t cleaned. The water tasted like a blend of all the other soda lines. We ordered the crispy Birria tacos and these came out as hard shell corn tortillas, wasn’t what we thought as “crispy”. Could’ve been me but looked like the taco shells were the Ortega ones you buy at ShopRite, also was served with white paper plates and plastic silverware… Birria was the toughest meat I ever had. I think it’s premade and they just heat and serve. Waiter was great! Restaurant definitely had a musty smell to it. Just bummed I had higher expectations for that place.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 1
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 2
Group size
3-4 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Reviews Buckets Margarita Bar Cantina