Pic-A-Lilli Inn

If there is one culinary pilgrimage every South Jersey resident and visitor must make, it is to the Pic-A-Lilli Inn in Shamong. Located deep in the Pine Barrens, this legendary roadhouse has been family-owned and operated by the Russell family since 1927. It is not just a restaurant; it is a piece of local history that has successfully preserved its rustic, old-school charm for nearly a century.

Walking into the “Pic,” as locals affectionately call it, feels like stepping into a classic hunter’s lodge meets neighborhood tavern. The walls are adorned with taxidermy and local memorabilia, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with a mix of bikers, locals, and tourists.

Features & Highlights

Let’s get straight to the point: You are here for the Wings. The Pic-A-Lilli Inn is widely considered to have some of the best Buffalo wings in the entire state of New Jersey. They are famous for their unique, saucy preparation—served “swimming” in sauce ranging from Mild to the fiery “Suicide.” First-timers should order the “Smoker” sauce for a perfect balance of heat and flavor.

But the menu goes deeper than wings. The Crab Soup is a thick, hearty favorite, and their Scallops and Prime Rib specials draw crowds on the weekends.

For the drinker, the Pic offers a no-nonsense, high-quality bar experience. They have a solid rotating selection of craft beers on tap, often featuring local New Jersey breweries, alongside the domestic staples you expect in a roadhouse. Their cocktail game is surprisingly strong, with a focus on seasonal specials and a Fresh Squeezed Orange Crush that rivals anything you’d find at the shore. It is the perfect spot to grab a cold beer, get your hands messy with some wings, and soak in the authentic Pine Barrens vibe.