The Blue Pig Tavern, Cape May, NJ:
A Restaurant Review

Blue Pig Tavern
Congress Hall Hotel
215 Beach Ave. (bet. Congress & Perry streets)
Cape May, NJ

The Blue Pig Tavern: Restaurant Highlights

Fare: New American Tavern

Price: Expensive

Food Quality: Serves a well-executed menu using local, farm-to-table fresh produce, herbs, and eggs from their own Cape May Beach Plum Farm

Service: Friendly, attentive, though less so during the summer peak season.

Ambiance/Decor: 1800's historic, colonial vibe, especially cozy in the colder winter months with the warmth and glow from their large wood burning fireplace

Overall Rating: 2 Stars

Note: Four-star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to 4 stars = Best in Class

Noise Level: Moderate -High

Dress: casual

Recommended For: Couples, families, brunch-goers, history buffs

Not Recommended For: Those seeking ultra-modern or avant-garde cuisine

Recommended dishes: When available, The Beef Tenderloin with Potato Purée, Caramelized Shallots, Beach Plum Farm Carrots, Port Wine Demi Glace, The Crab & Clam Pasta with Garganelli, Light Citrus Butter, English Peas, Calabrian Chiles; and The Braised Beef Short Rib with Aged Cheddar Polenta, Fire Roasted Vegetables, Port Wine Demi.

Liquor: Full bar service

The Blue Pig Tavern blends historic charm with farm-to-table excellence, offering rustic elegance, seasonal menus, and family-friendly service in the heart of Congress Hall. It's ideal for couples, families, and brunch lovers.

🐖 History & Ownership

Nestled within the iconic Congress Hall Hotel, the Blue Pig Tavern traces its roots back to the 1700s when Elias Hughes operated Cape May’s first tavern for whalers. Its name honors a 19th-century gambling parlor once housed in Congress Hall. Today, it's part of the Cape Resorts family, which champions historic preservation, community hospitality, and sustainable dining.

🍽️ Food & Culinary Style

The Blue Pig Tavern serves classic American fare with a modern twist. Their menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from their own Beach Plum Farm, located just two miles away. Expect:

Farm-to-table freshness: Eggs, herbs, and produce from their farm
Signature dishes: Blueberry pancakes, crab cakes, and the blueberry caipirinha cocktail
Preparation style: Nostalgic yet refined, with a focus on simple, wholesome flavors
Quality: Consistently praised for its hearty breakfasts, elevated comfort food, and affordable pricing

👨‍🍳 The Chef

Executive Chef John Zaitoun leads the kitchen with a commitment to locally sourced ingredients and seasonal innovation.

🌿 Ambiance & Décor

The Blue Pig Tavern offers a rustic, colonial-inspired atmosphere with:

Décor: Cozy fireplaces, wood-paneled walls, and vintage touches
Vibe: Casual elegance with a romantic, family-friendly feel
Seating: Spacious indoor dining and a secluded outdoor patio for warmer monthsr
Noise level: Moderate, with relaxed background music
Views: Sunset-lit patio and glimpses of Congress Hall’s historic grounds

🤝 Service & Hospitality

The staff at the Blue Pig Tavern is welcoming and knowledgeable. Whether dining indoors or on the patio, the experience is marked by warmth and consistency.