10 Best Restaurants in Cape May NJ: Top Dining Spots for Every Palate

Cape May, New Jersey, is widely known for its charming coastal ambiance and rich culinary scene. As a food lover, I understand the importance of finding the best dining spots during your visit. Whether you’re into seafood, Italian cuisine, or farm-to-table dishes, this guide will help you uncover the best places to eat in this quaint seaside town.

I will introduce you to the 10 best restaurants in Cape May, ensuring your dining experiences are nothing short of exceptional. These recommendations will cater to various tastes and preferences, offering something for everyone. My aim is to make your stay in Cape May as memorable as possible, especially through its vibrant culinary offerings.

1) The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar

I recently visited The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar in Cape May, NJ. It’s a cozy spot with both indoor and outdoor seating. I loved dining on the front porch, especially with the historic setting of the Carroll Villa Hotel in the background. The atmosphere here feels warm and inviting.

Their breakfast is famous in the area. I enjoyed their hearty pancakes and omelets. Lunch was also delightful, with fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes. The menu has a good mix of American fare, plus options for different tastes.

Dinner at The Mad Batter was a treat with live music playing. It added a special touch to the meal. They have a vibrant bar scene, which is a great place to unwind. The restaurant also highlights local art, making every visit unique.

Rating: 4.2 (1692 reviews)
Location: 19 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-5970
Website: Visit Website

2) Lucky Bones Back Water Grille

I found Lucky Bones Back Water Grille to be a great place for families. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a casual meal. The menu features a variety of American dishes, with a strong emphasis on seafood.

The polished space adds a touch of elegance without feeling too fancy. I enjoyed the range of comfort foods available. From pizzas to seafood platters, there’s something for everyone.

Service here is quick and friendly. It’s easy to see why this place is a local favorite. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, Lucky Bones offers a satisfying dining experience.

Rating: 4.5 (3059 reviews)
Location: 1200 NJ-109, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-2663
Website: Visit Website

3) Fins Bar & Grille

Fins Bar & Grille is a vibrant and modern spot in Cape May. They specialize in seafood and cocktails. It’s a great place to go for a meal or just a drink. The restaurant offers outdoor dining, which is perfect on a nice day.

I enjoyed their fresh seafood dishes. They have regular live music that makes the atmosphere lively. Their happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm, Sunday to Friday, offers great deals. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.

The grill opens daily from 11 am until 1 am, making it a convenient choice for both lunch and late-night bites. I found their menu varied with options to suit different tastes. Whether you go for the food, drinks, or music, Fins Bar & Grille is a place to check out.

Rating: 4.3 (1238 reviews)
Location: 142 Decatur St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-3449
Website: Visit Website

4) Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls

When I first walked into Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls, I felt the excitement of trying real New England flavors right in Cape May. The restaurant’s story began with a group of friends who wanted to bring the delicious taste of Maine’s lobster rolls to the Jersey Shore. It opened its doors in May 2015, and since then, it has gained a loyal following.

The lobster rolls here are truly something special. They use tender lobster, a touch of mayo, lemon butter, and just the right amount of seasoning. The freshness of the seafood is evident with every bite. During my visit, I also tried the lobster grilled cheese, which is a fantastic option if you’re looking for something a bit different.

Quincy’s isn’t just about great food; it also offers a family-friendly environment. The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for dining with the whole family. They have multiple locations, but the one on Beach Avenue is especially convenient for beachgoers. I highly recommend stopping by for lunch if you’re in the area.

Rating: 4.4 (517 reviews)
Location: 709 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 600-3571
Website: Visit Website

5) Rusty Nail

I recently visited Rusty Nail, a lively hangout in Cape May known for its rustic bar and friendly atmosphere. The place has an inviting outdoor area with a fire pit and offers American eats and clever cocktails. It’s a spot where locals and tourists alike gather for good food and a relaxed vibe.

The indoor space flows seamlessly into an outdoor seating area, which includes a sand bar and shuffleboard. I enjoyed a delicious meal while taking in the live entertainment that Rusty Nail often features. It’s great for families too. Kids get their meals served on a souvenir Beach Shack Frisbee, making dining a fun experience for them.

I was there on a Tuesday and got to experience Chef Jimmy’s Smokin’ Pig Roast. It was a delightful BBQ with tasty sides like baked beans and coleslaw. The happy hour specials from Monday to Friday offer good deals on drinks and snacks. There’s also a generous military discount if you have a valid ID.

Rating: 4.1 (1712 reviews)
Location: 205 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-0017
Website: Visit Website

6) Cape May Fish Market

Cape May Fish Market is one of the best places for seafood in Cape May, NJ. The place has a warm, comfy vibe, making it perfect for casual dining. The staff is friendly, and the service is prompt, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

The menu offers a variety of delicious options. I tried their Oysters Rockefeller and was impressed with the fresh, local oysters. Another highlight was the Fish Market Bruschetta, which came with jumbo lump crab-meat and freshly diced avocados.

For those who enjoy sandwiches and burgers, there’s a good selection too. The Crab Cake Croissant was a standout for me, featuring homemade crab cake on a fluffy croissant. If you prefer something more traditional, their Classic Clams Casino is a must-try, made with whole clams and bacon.

Rating: 4.3 (1191 reviews)
Location: 408 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 770-3790
Website: Visit Website

7) Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille

Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is a must-visit spot in Cape May. I recently spent an evening there, and I was impressed. They have the only oceanfront rooftop bar in Cape May, which offers incredible views. It’s a fantastic place to relax with a drink and enjoy the sunset.

Their menu is filled with fresh local seafood and signature sandwiches. I tried the famous orange crush, and it lived up to its reputation. The variety of local beers and specialty cocktails is a big plus. It’s easy to see why Philadelphia Magazine named it one of the best places to drink outside on the Jersey shore.

The vibe at Harry’s is welcoming and laid-back. They have live music, which adds to the fun atmosphere. Being located next to the Montreal Beach Resort means there are great ocean views from almost every seat. It’s the perfect place for both locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy good food and company.

Rating: 4 (1433 reviews)
Location: 1025 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-2779
Website: Visit Website

8) The Pier House

I recently visited The Pier House in Cape May, and it was a memorable experience.

Nestled right by the ocean, this restaurant offers stunning views alongside a refined dining experience. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxed yet upscale meal, with both indoor and patio seating options.

The menu features upmarket Mediterranean dishes and fresh seafood.

I started with a delightful appetizer of grilled octopus, which was perfectly tender and flavorful.

For the main course, the pan-seared scallops were a standout. They cooked them to perfection and paired them with a delicious risotto.

During my visit, I enjoyed a refreshing cocktail on the patio, taking in the ocean breeze.

The service was attentive and friendly, making the overall experience even more enjoyable.

The Pier House is also an ideal spot for special occasions. They hold occasional holiday-themed events and BBQ weekends.

Rating: 4 (254 reviews)
Location: The Pier House, 1317 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 898-2244
Website: Visit Website

9) Ocean 7

I recently dined at Ocean 7 in Cape May, NJ, and it was an enjoyable experience.

The restaurant offers a contemporary twist on American classics, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are creatively prepared, delivering unique flavors that stand out.

The ambiance is inviting, with both indoor and al fresco seating available. Whether you prefer a cozy indoor meal or enjoying the fresh air outside, options are available.

The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service throughout my visit.

Ocean 7 serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with distinct hours for each. They also have a bar with daily happy hour specials.

The variety on the menu ensures there’s something for everyone, including a kids’ menu for younger diners.

Rating: 4.2 (105 reviews)
Location: 7 Ocean St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 884-5555
Website: Visit Website

10) Mermaids Restaurant

Mermaids Restaurant in Cape May is a charming spot for Mediterranean cuisine.

As soon as I walked in, the cozy and inviting atmosphere caught my eye. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home.

The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, each bursting with flavor.

I enjoyed the fresh seafood options, which were expertly prepared. The Mediterranean spices and herbs were perfectly balanced, making every bite a delight.

One of my favorite dishes was the grilled octopus. It was tender and seasoned to perfection. The sides, like the hummus and pita, were also top-notch and complemented the main dishes well.

Rating: 4 (386 reviews)
Location: 702 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Contact: (609) 305-5054

Dining Trends in Cape May

Cape May’s dining scene has seen noticeable shifts toward fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a focus on seafood. Farmers and fishermen play crucial roles in these trends.

Farm-to-Table Movement

Cape May has embraced the farm-to-table movement.

Many restaurants source their ingredients from local farms like Beach Plum Farm. This farm supplies fruits and vegetables to several top dining spots, making meals not only fresher but also supporting the local economy.

The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients is a big draw for visitors and locals alike.

You can stay at the farm and engage with the food preparation process firsthand. It’s an experience that adds a unique touch to your dining adventures.

Seafood Specialties

Seafood is a cornerstone of Cape May’s culinary offerings.

The restaurants here make the most of their coastal location, featuring dishes like lobster, clams, and local fish. Establishments such as The Ebbitt Room are acclaimed for their high-quality seafood options.

Freshness is a key factor, with many places sourcing directly from local fishermen. This not only ensures top-notch flavors but also supports the community.

From casual spots to fine dining, seafood specialties form an essential part of Cape May’s dining experience.

Historical Influence on Local Cuisine

Exploring the history of Cape May’s cuisine reveals how colonial and Victorian influences shaped what we enjoy today. From early settlers to Victorian-era traditions, each period left a lasting mark.

Colonial Era Dishes

In the colonial era, Cape May’s cuisine was heavily influenced by the early European settlers.

They brought with them recipes and ingredients from their homeland, incorporating them into the available local produce. Staples included corn, beans, and squash, often known as the “Three Sisters.”

Seafood was also a huge part of the diet, with fish, clams, and oysters being common.

Many colonial recipes still have a place in modern Cape May cuisine.

For instance, chowders and stews made from locally caught seafood are reminiscent of these early cooking methods.

Preserving food through smoking, salting, and pickling was essential, and these techniques are still honored in today’s culinary practices.

Victorian Influences

During the Victorian era, Cape May became a fashionable seaside resort. This period saw a shift towards more elaborate and refined dining experiences.

The Victorian influence introduced dishes that were rich and sophisticated, often emphasizing presentation as much as taste. Afternoon teas became popular, featuring delicate sandwiches, pastries, and cakes.

Many restaurants today strive to recreate the elegance of Victorian dining. The Ebbitt Room, for instance, reflects this grandeur with its award-winning menu and refined atmosphere.

Victorian-era cooking also brought in a variety of spices and exotic ingredients, expanding the local palate. Many fine dining establishments continue to draw inspiration from this opulent period. They blend historical recipes with modern culinary techniques to create impressive dining experiences.