The Osprey is a well-known and beloved restaurant located in Manasquan, New Jersey. This seaside establishment has been serving locals and tourists for over 50 years and remains one of the most popular dining destinations in the Jersey Shore area. But despite its storied history and fame along the coast, many don’t know the true story behind who owns and operates this classic seafood restaurant.
The Origins
The Osprey first opened its doors in 1972 when it was purchased by two local businessmen, Tom Dunphy and Hank Greene. Dunphy and Greene were childhood friends who grew up in Manasquan and always dreamed of owning a restaurant together. In the early 70s, the iconic but aging Osprey property went up for sale, and the pair decided it was the perfect opportunity to finally realize their shared dream.
With the help of bank loans, investments from friends and family, and their own savings, Dunphy and Greene bought the property and transformed it into a casual seafood restaurant and bar. While Dunphy focused on the business operations, Greene handled most of the renovations and decor. Going for a beachy, nautical vibe, the two friends gave the Osprey a relaxed atmosphere with hand-painted murals, fishing nets, and salvaged wooden tables.
Early Success
The Osprey quickly became one of the most popular restaurants in Manasquan after it opened in the spring of ’72. Locals were drawn to its casual vibe, impressively fresh seafood, and super friendly service. Tourists traveling along the Jersey Shore also couldn’t resist stopping in for a bite when they passed the iconic property right on Route 71.
By the late 70s, the Osprey had become an institution in Manasquan. Dunphy and Greene continued running daily operations together, paying off their original loans, and expanding the property. The restaurant was bringing in enough steady business that they could afford more staff, decorative upgrades, and high-quality ingredients.
Changing of the Guard
In 1982, Hank Greene decided to retire and sold his half of the Osprey to Tom Dunphy. Dunphy brought his son Neil on board to take over Greene’s old roles. Neil had just graduated from the hospitality program at Johnson & Wales and was eager to apply his education and help expand the family business.
Working together, Tom and Neil Dunphy renovated the entire restaurant in 1985. They added a second dining room, expanded the bar, and gave the interior a new nautical theme. These upgrades allowed the Osprey to serve more guests and cement its status as the premier seafood restaurant in town. More improvements and minor remodels would follow over the next decade.
A New Generation
When Tom Dunphy passed away in 1998, ownership of the Osprey fully transferred to his son Neil. Neil continued managing daily operations but brought his own college-aged children on board to learn the family business. Twins Jennifer and Jessica Dunphy graduated from Johnson & Wales in 2005 and decided to make the Osprey their career.
The twins took over managing the restaurant from their father by 2010. Neil Dunphy officially retired in 2015, leaving Jennifer and Jessica fully in charge of the Osprey for the first time. While respecting the restaurant’s long history and traditions, the twins have implemented technological upgrades like online reservations, social media marketing, and modern point-of-sale systems.
Current Ownership
Today, the Osprey continues operating under 3rd generation Dunphy family ownership. Jennifer manages front-of-house operations while Jessica oversees back-of-house and finances. Together, along with their hard-working staff, they have maintained the Osprey’s reputation for warm service, quality ingredients, and classic Jersey Shore dining.
The twins have also focused on eco-friendly updates and sustainability initiatives. From reducing plastic waste to sourcing from local fishermen, the Ospreys are leading the charge on responsible seafood. They hope to honor their family legacy while also taking steps to protect the coastal environment for future generations.
The Family’s Future Plans
Jennifer and Jessica Dunphy plan to own and manage the Osprey for the foreseeable future. Neither has their own children yet, but they hope to one day pass the restaurant down to a fourth generation of Dunphys. They also want to keep delighting loyal patrons with Osprey traditions while bringing in new customers.
Expansion is another possible goal for the sisters. Real estate next to the Osprey has become available, fueling rumors of the owners adding extra dining space or event facilities. But the Dunphys remain tight-lipped, only saying they’ll expand if the right opportunity presents itself.
While honoring the past, the Osprey’s current owners continue looking ahead. Jennifer and Jessica take great pride in carrying on their family’s legacy while shaping the restaurant’s future. With community support, smart stewardship, and quality ingredients, the Dunphy sisters plan to operate the Osprey for another 50 years in Manasquan.
Fun Facts About the Osprey’s History
- The original owners Hank Greene and Tom Dunphy met in elementary school in Manasquan in the 1940s.
- Legend has it Greene found the dining room murals at a yard sale in 1971 before opening.
- Neil Dunphy first started working at the Osprey as a waiter at age 14 in 1977.
- The Osprey originally only had 6 menu items when it first opened.
- Jennifer and Jessica are the only twins to have ever co-owned the restaurant.
The Osprey By the Numbers
| Year Opened | 1972 |
|---|---|
| Original Owners | Tom Dunphy & Hank Greene |
| Current Owners | Jennifer & Jessica Dunphy (3rd generation) |
| Seats | 150 |
| Employees | 35 |
| Annual Revenue | $1.8 million (estimate) |
Conclusion
For 50 years, the Osprey restaurant has been a reliable local staple and seaside dining destination in Manasquan, NJ. Founded by two entrepreneurs in 1972, it has stayed in the same family’s ownership for three generations. Currently run by twin sisters Jessica and Jennifer Dunphy, the Osprey continues delighting loyal customers with its warm service, quality seafood, and classic Jersey Shore charm. The owners plan to operate it for years to come while honoring its long legacy.
