Restaurants in Cape May, New Jersey: 10 Unforgettable Dining Experiences

Cape May, New Jersey, is a picturesque coastal destination known for its charming Victorian architecture, pristine beaches, and delectable culinary scene. Whether you crave fresh seafood, upscale Italian fare, or casual American classics, Cape May has a restaurant to satisfy every palate. Here's a curated guide to 10 unforgettable dining experiences in this culinary haven:

1. The Lobster House: A Seafood Extravaganza

Ambiance: Upscale waterfront dining with panoramic ocean views

Cuisine: Seafood, American

Signature Dishes: Live Maine lobster, seafood towers, seafood platters

Price Range: $$$$

Highlights:

• Overlooking the Cape May Inlet, The Lobster House offers a breathtaking setting for memorable seafood meals.
• Majestic Maine lobsters and diverse seafood platters showcase the freshest catches of the day.
• The extensive wine list complements the seafood-focused menu.

2. Mad Batter: Culinary Creativity Redefined

Ambiance: Eclectic and whimsical, with a touch of steampunk

Cuisine: American, Eclectic

Signature Dishes: Short rib tacos, crab Rangoon, Ultimate Bloody Mary

Price Range: $$

Highlights:

• Mad Batter embraces culinary innovation, presenting a playful and eclectic menu.
• Creative dishes like short rib tacos and crab Rangoon delight diners with their unique flavors.
• The Ultimate Bloody Mary is a must-try, with over 100 ingredients.

3. The Blue Pig Tavern: Authentic Irish Pub Fare

Ambiance: Cozy and lively Irish pub atmosphere

Cuisine: Irish, American

Signature Dishes: Shepherd's pie, Guinness stew, fish and chips

Price Range: $

Highlights:

• The Blue Pig Tavern transports you to an authentic Irish pub experience in the heart of Cape May.
• Traditional dishes like shepherd's pie and Guinness stew are prepared with care.
• The selection of Irish whiskeys and craft beers adds to the ambiance.

4. Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille: Fine Dining by the Sea

Ambiance: Elegant and sophisticated waterfront dining

Cuisine: Seafood, American

Signature Dishes: Crab-stuffed flounder, seafood risotto, filet mignon

Price Range: $$$

Highlights:

• Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille offers stunning ocean views and an upscale dining experience.
• Freshly prepared seafood dishes, including crab-stuffed flounder and seafood risotto, are culinary masterpieces.
• The extensive wine list and impeccable service enhance the fine dining experience.

5. The Washington Inn: Historic Charm and Gourmet Delights

Ambiance: Historic inn with elegant dining rooms

Cuisine: American, Continental

Signature Dishes: Roasted rack of lamb, filet of beef Wellington, crab cakes

Price Range: $$$$

Highlights:

• The Washington Inn combines historic charm with contemporary culinary artistry.
• The menu features classic American and Continental dishes with a modern twist.
• The intimate dining rooms and professional service create a memorable setting.

6. Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant: Fine Dining with a View

Ambiance: Elegant Victorian mansion overlooking the ocean

Cuisine: Seafood, American

Signature Dishes: Pan-seared scallops, filet mignon, seafood towers

Price Range: $$$$

Highlights:

• Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience in a historic Victorian setting.
• Panoramic ocean views complement the exquisite seafood and American dishes.
• The impressive wine cellar and attentive service cater to discerning diners.

7. The Ebbitt Room: Upscale Modern American Cuisine

Ambiance: Refined and contemporary dining space

Cuisine: Modern American

Signature Dishes: Grilled octopus, pan-roasted scallops, beef short ribs

Price Range: $$$

Highlights:

• The Ebbitt Room elevates modern American cuisine to an art form.
• The menu showcases seasonal ingredients and culinary creativity.
• The vibrant cocktail program and knowledgeable staff provide an exceptional dining experience.

8. Fin Restaurant: Sustainable Seafood Degustation

Ambiance: Intimate and romantic fine dining atmosphere

Cuisine: Seafood, Degustation

Signature Dishes: Tasting menu featuring sustainable seafood dishes

Price Range: $$$$

Highlights:

• Fin Restaurant is a culinary destination for those seeking an unforgettable seafood degustation experience.
• The multi-course tasting menu showcases the freshest and most sustainable catches of the day.
• The elegant setting and impeccable service create a truly special dining occasion.

9. Tisha's Fine Dining: Modern Coastal Cuisine

Ambiance: Sophisticated and intimate dining room

Cuisine: Coastal American, Modern

Signature Dishes: Lobster carbonara, seared scallops, dry-aged steaks

Price Range: $$$

Highlights:

• Tisha's Fine Dining offers a modern take on coastal American cuisine.
• The menu features innovative dishes that highlight local seafood and artisanal ingredients.
• The curated wine list and attentive service enhance the dining experience.

10. The Wharf Southern Kitchen: Casual Southern Comfort Food

Ambiance: Laid-back and welcoming Southern-style dining

Cuisine: Southern

Signature Dishes: Fried chicken, gumbo, shrimp and grits

Price Range: $$

Highlights:

• The Wharf Southern Kitchen serves authentic Southern comfort food in a casual and cozy atmosphere.
• Fried chicken, gumbo, and shrimp and grits are among the menu favorites.
• The warm hospitality and live music add to the genuine Southern dining experience.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Restaurant in Cape May:

• Consider your budget: Cape May offers restaurants in a range of price points, from casual to fine dining.
• Explore cuisine options: Choose from a diverse selection of cuisines, including seafood, Italian, American, Irish, and more.
• Read reviews: Research restaurants online to gather insights from previous diners.
• Make reservations in advance: Especially during peak season, make reservations well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Tables:

Table 1: Restaurant Profiles

Table 2: Menu Highlights

Table 3: Budget Comparison

Table 4: Review Scores