40 Best Restaurants in Cape May, New Jersey – Best Places to Eat
Cape May, New Jersey, is not only renowned for its breathtaking beaches and charming Victorian architecture but also for its vibrant culinary scene.
As a visitor looking for an authentic culinary experience that combines vibrant flavors, rich history, and warm hospitality can be challenging. With a wide array of dining options to choose from, ranging from Italian, Mexican, and Japanese to seafood and African cuisine, Cape May offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
In this article, we will explore the 40 best restaurants in Cape May, including top-notch Italian, Mexican, seafood, and African establishments, ensuring that your taste buds are tantalized throughout your visit.
40 Best Restaurants in Cape May, New Jersey (2024)
1. Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant
One of the best places to eat in Cape May is Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant. The Inn has 5 inviting dining rooms overlooking the sea on the front porch.
Their menu is comprised of delicious and freshly prepared meals, including the King Crab Cake, Salmon Napoleon, Rak of Lamb, and the Ocean’s Exotic. Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant’s signature dish is their South African Lobster Tail. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines from Cape May Winery & Vineyard in addition to being a “BYO” venue.
Address | 1301 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-9090
2. 410 Bank Street Restaurant
Established in 1984, 410 Bank Street restaurant is a culinary destination known for its innovative American cuisine with a Southern twist.
Located in Carpenter’s Square Mall, this restaurant combines locally sourced ingredients with creative culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and intriguing. Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience. If you’re looking for where to eat in Cape May, NJ, then head to 410 Bank Street.
Address | 410 Bank St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-2127
3. Ebbitt Room
With its sophisticated ambiance and refined cuisine, the Ebbitt Room is one of the best places to eat in Cape May for food enthusiasts.
Located within the Virginia Hotel, this award-winning restaurant showcases farm-to-table dining at its finest, offering a menu that emphasizes locally grown produce and sustainably sourced ingredients. As one of the best restaurants in Cape May, the restaurant has an enticing menu list with an exclusive wine list.
Address | 25 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-5700
4. Oceanview Restaurant
The Oceanview Restaurant is one of the several popular dining establishments in Cape Ma, NJ, owned by two local restaurateurs, Nick Margarites and Ted Margarites.
This family-owned restaurant is famous for its exquisite setting, warm hospitality, oversized portion and delicious cuisine. So if you’re looking for where to have breakfast and launch in Cape May, head to the Oceanview Restaurant.’
Address | 235 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-3772
5. George’s Place
Established in 1968, George’s Place is a beloved restaurant and a convenient breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot in Cape May. The restaurant combines warm hospitality with Greek-inspired cuisine.
The establishment offers flavorful moussaka to tender souvlaki. They also offer a taste of Greece in the heart of Cape May.
Address | 315 Ocean Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 600-2941
6. Louisa’s Cafe
Established in 1980, Louisa’s Cafe has been dishing out incredibly fresh and delicious seafood. The tiny-but-iconic eatery offers a rich menu that comprises fish caught from the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, plus vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
They offer expertly seasoned dishes that are prepared from fresh, first-rate ingredients. Although their menu changes often, you’ll surely have a great dining experience.
Address | 104 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-5882
7. Black Duck on Sunset
Housed in a quaint Victorian house, the Black Duck on Sunset Restaurant is famous for its creative American cuisine.
The menu includes fresh local seafood, a wide variety of appetizers, char-grilled steaks, slow-roasted honey-glazed duck, and more, ending with desserts that include a whiskey bread pudding. They also offer an extensive wine list. This cozy restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience.
Address | 1 Sunset Blvd, West Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 898-0100
8. Oyster Bay Restaurant
The Oyster Bay Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for seafood and steak. The restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with daily specials freshly prepared by experienced chefs and friendly, attentive service.
The restaurant focuses on New American cuisine, serving Angus beef and fresh local seafood.
Address | 615 Lafayette St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-2111
9. Blue Pig Tavern
Blue Pig Tavern is one of the best restaurants in Cape May, New Jersey. Located in Congress Hal, the Blue Pig Tavern is famous for hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites.
The charming eatery combines traditional American comfort food with a modern twist. With its rustic ambiance and farm-to-table philosophy, the restaurant offers a delightful dining experience.
Address | 200 Congress Pl, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-8422
10. Good Earth Organic Eatery
Good Earth Organic Eatery is one of the best Italian restaurants in Cape May, New Jersey. This family-owned eating spot serves exclusively organic food that is homemade, tasty, and healthy.
The restaurant’s homemade breads are made using an all-natural sourdough starter. They also utilize seasonal fruits and vegetables from local organic farmers.
And they serve locally caught fresh fish to support local fishermen. So if you need where to eat organic foods in Cape May, Good Earth Organic Eatery is the place to go.
Address | 600 Park Blvd, West Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 898-6161
11. Beach Plum Farm Kitchen
Not only is visiting the Beach Plum Farm one of the best things to do in Cape May, but it is also home to one of the best restaurants near historic downtown offering farm-to-table fare for breakfast and lunch.
The Farm kitchen features an ever-changing menu based on what’s fresh in the fields that morning. Their meals are also served at a picnic table surrounded by greenery and sun.
Address | 140 Stevens St, West Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 459-0121
12. Tisha’s Fine Dining
Located in Washington street mall, Tisha’s Fine Dining is a beloved restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine. The restaurant captivates visitors with its warm atmosphere and favorable dishes.
Serving New American fare, the restaurant offers something for even the most sophisticated of palates for both lunch and dinner. From classic pasta dishes to authentic Italian specialties, Tisha’s offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Cape May.
Address | 322 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-9119
13. The Lobster House
Your visit to Cape May would not be complete without savoring fresh seafood in one of the best seafood restaurants in Cape May, The Lobster House.
With its scenic waterfront location, this iconic restaurant serves up an array of seafood delights, including lobster, crab, and succulent oysters. Providing a varied and extensive menu, the Lobster House serves only the freshest seafood available, with much of it coming from its own commercial boat fleet.
Address | 906 Schellengers Landing Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-8296
14. Fins Bar & Grille
Fins Bar & Grille is one of the best places to eat seafood in Cape May. This contemporary restaurant is famous for its creative seafood and cocktail choices.
It also offers an exquisite vivid blue exterior and a sleek, water-themed dining area. Popular dishes at Fins include the Shrimp and Crab Penne, the Local Day Boat Scallops, and the Lobster Cobb Salad.
Address | 142 Decatur St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-3449
15. Jardin at the Hugh
Jardin at the Hugh is one of the best restaurants in Cape May, NJ. This eco-friendly eatery specializes in serving French-inspired cuisine.
The restaurant also offers charming and comfortable dinner-party seating. Their fixed menu is comprised of local and organic food ingredients.
Address | 653 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 435-5458
16. The Rusty Nail
Located just steps away from the beach, The Rusty Nail is a laid-back eatery with a beachy vibe. They have a rich menu comprising of chili, chowder, quesadillas, burgers and wraps at lunch; all that plus stuffed flounder, chicken Parm and the like at dinner. They also have specialty cocktails, wine, beer and Monday pig roasts in summer.
Address | 205 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-0017
17. Washington Inn
Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, the Washington Inn, is an elegant restaurant that serves European and American-inspired cuisine.
With several gluten-free options and one vegan option, along with the most extensive wine list in Cape May, this restaurant is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Address | 801 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-5697
18. Iccara Italian Bistro
Located in the heart of Cape May, Iccara Italian Bistro is a beautiful Italian restaurant offering Sicilian flavors in its seafood and steak choices.
The restaurant offers fresh, unique flavors of Italy in a charming, welcoming atmosphere. If you’re a food enthusiast, you’ll surely enjoy your dining experience at this restaurant.
Address | 315 Ocean St #4, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-0200
19. Hemingway’s Steaks & Seafood Restaurant
The award-winning Hemingway’s is one of the best restaurants in Cape May, featuring locally sourced fresh seafood and delicious steaks.
The restaurant features modern American cuisine with a variety of delectable culinary creations, including steaks and fresh, locally sourced seafood. There is something for everyone at Hemingway’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant.
Address | In The Grand Hotel, 1045 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-5611
20. Mayer’s Tavern
Mayer’s Tavern is one of the best restaurants in Cape May, known for its seafood, cocktails, and live music. If you want to enjoy tasty, classic food, the Mayer’s Tavern is where to go.
Their menu is comprised of Fried Local Calamari, Crab Fritters, and Broiled Oysters with Pimento Cheese. They also offer an extensive wine list.
Address | 894 3rd Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 435-5078
21. The YB
Established in 2011 and located along the Cape May beachfront, The YB (Younger Brother) is a boutique restaurant known for its American menu inspired by Asian and Mediterranean flavors.
The restaurant offers a unique menu of contemporary American cuisine complemented by seasonal refreshes to the dining experience.
Address | 314 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 898-2009
22. The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar
The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located inside the Carroll Villa Hotel, the restaurant is known for its creative American cuisine and extensive cocktail list. This lively restaurant offers something for everyone.
Address | 19 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-5970
23. Sapore Italiano
Housed within a restored Victorian-style house, Sapore Italiano is a fine dining, BYOB Italian restaurant located in West Cape May.
With its authentic Italian dishes and warm hospitality, this restaurant offers a true taste of the Mediterranean. Their menu is comprised of fresh flounder, tilapia, branzino, salmon, shrimp, calamari, mussels, and shrimp, as well as Jersey farm tomatoes, fresh tea and coffee, and homemade desserts made fresh daily.
Address | 416 S Broadway, West Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 600-1422
24. Lucky Bones Backwater Grille
Lucky Bones Backwater Grille is a casual, family-friendly American restaurant serving seafood and comfort fare.
The restaurant’s menu caters to all tastes. From juicy burgers to seafood specialties, this restaurant offers a laid-back dining experience in Cape May.
Address | 1200 NJ-109, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-2663
25. The Magnolia Room at the Chalfonte Hotel
The Magnolia Room at the Chalfonte Hotel is a sophisticated restaurant offering Southern-style cuisine made with family recipes by a third generation of women from the Dickerson family.
The Magnolia Room serves breakfast and dinner daily in season (May through September). During the summer season, the restaurant’s veranda provides an ideal setting for dinner. The breakfast buffet includes both a three-course prix fixe menu and a la carte choices. A supper buffet is offered on Sundays.
Address | 301 Howard St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-8409
26. Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is an oceanfront rooftop restaurant known for its seafood, pub grub, and rooftop bar.
The restaurant offers great local food menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the addition of specialty cocktails, local beer and fine wine. With unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean, the restaurant offers a perfect spot for outdoor live music.
Address | 1025 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-2779
27. Exit Zero Filling Station
Exit Zero Filling Station is a casual restaurant with a retro diner vibe & outdoor seating, prepping burgers, curries & cocktails. The restaurant also doubles as a publishing company and store.
Their meals are prepared using Indian and Thai curries, which makes them a local legend. You can also try their amazing burgers or the famous Hot Chick and Blackened Salmon sandwiches.
Address | 110 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 770-8479
28. Freda’s Cafe
Freda’s Cafe is a charming breakfast spot that serves up delicious morning fare. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, this cozy cafe is the perfect place to start your day in Cape May.
Address | 210 Ocean St # 1, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-7887
29. Mario’s Pizza & Italian Eatery
Looking for where to satisfy your pizza cravings? Look no further than Mario’s Pizza & Italian Eatery. This family-owned pizzeria serves up authentic New York-style pizza, along with a variety of Italian dishes, making it a go-to spot for a satisfying meal.
Address | 315 Ocean St Unit # 7, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-0085
30. PRIMAL By Mia
PRIMAL by Mia is a cozy oceanview restaurant that specializes in BBQ dishes, with a focus on steak & seafood. The family-owned restaurant offers a unique dining experience with contemporary American cuisine.
Address | 406 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 408-1933
31. Viggiano’s on Sunset
Viggiano’s on Sunset is one of the best Italian restaurants in Cape May. The family-owned restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a family-styled dining atmosphere.
Their menu is designed to give you a choice; they offer two entrée sizes: piccolo is one individual portion, and grande serves two. Their salads, as well as our appetizers and desserts, are large enough to be shared.
Address | 109 Sunset Blvd, West Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 435-5026
32. La La Lobster
Looking for where to satisfy your seafood cravings? Head to the La La Lobster restaurant. The restaurant uses freshly caught lobster and shrimp on its menu to bring you an authentic taste of the sea. They also offer dine-in seating for their customers.
Address | 732 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 854-4215
33. Backstreet Simply Delicious
Owned by Chef Theresa Mc Glade, Backstreet Simply Delicious is a charming cafe that serves up fresh and flavorful dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
From wholesome salads to mouthwatering sandwiches, this cafe is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Address | 600 Park Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-7660
34. C-View Inn
Situated on the corner of Washington Street and Texas Avenue, the C-View Inn is one of the best places to eat in Cape May, New Jersey. The eating spot is famous for offering a taste of Cape May’s local flavor.
The restaurant is also popular for its seafood dishes and waterfront views. This iconic restaurant has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike for over a century.
Address | 1380 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-4712
35. Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls
Established in 2015, Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls specializes in providing a family-friendly dining experience, serving quality lobster rolls.
Their favorites include Lobster Grilled Cheese, Classic Lobster Rolls, Lobster Bisque, and No Carb options. The restaurant operates two branches in Cape May.
Address
- 709 Beach Ave Cape May, NJ
- 709 Beach Ave Cape May, NJ
Telephone
- (609) 600-3571
- (609) 305-4379
36. Taco Caballito Tequileria
Looking for where to have a taste of delicious Mexican cuisine? Look no further than Taco Caballito Tequileria. This beach-view Mexican restaurant offers a unique experience.
They also offer a beacon of eclectic Mexican food, unique handcrafted cocktails, and over 70 tequilas, many of them from small, artisan distilleries seldom seen outside of Mexico.
Address | 429 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-4800
37. Hot Dog Tommy’s
One of the best places to eat hot dogs in Cape May is the Hot Dog Tommy’s. This cheerful food shop serves hot dogs with classic & unique toppings, including vegan versions.
They offer the finest and freshest ingredients from the tiny gallery. Also, all of their hot dogs are certified gluten-free.
Address | 319 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-8388
38. Dry Dock Ice Cream Bar & Grill
Established in 2000, the Dry Cock Ice Cream Bar & Grill is one the best places to get freshly prepared ice cream in Cape May.
The restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh items, including sandwiches, hoagies, salads, soups and seafood platters. They also have a variety of vegetarian selections, including a veggie grill sandwich made with fresh ingredients.
Address | 1440 Texas Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 884-3434
39. Yozu Sushi
Yozu Shushi is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Cape May, NJ. The restaurant offers a wide variety of Japanese dishes, including Hibachi Steak, Chicken Teriyaki, Vegetable Tempura, Harumaki, Seafood Udon, California Roll, and Squid Sashimi.
Address | 3845 Bayshore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 898-8888
40. Cape May Peanut Butter Co
If you’re a peanut butter enthusiast, then you must visit the Cape May Peanut Companies. The establishment offers freshly prepared peanut butter. On your visit, you could have a taste of Butterscotch, Chocolate and Cappucino.
They also offer alternative nut/seed butter such as Almond, Cashew and Sunflower.
Address | 516 Carpenters Ln, Cape May, NJ 08204
Telephone | (609) 898-4444
Conclusion
Cape May, New Jersey, is a culinary paradise with a wide range of dining options to satisfy every palate. From the finest Italian restaurants and vibrant Mexican eateries to establishments that celebrate the diverse flavors of Africa, these 40 best restaurants in Cape May offer a remarkable culinary experience.
