The Deauville Inn Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Strathmere, NJ
201 Willard Rd
Strathmere, NJ
The Deauville Inn: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: American/Seafood
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Well-executed, artfully presented, prepared with local, farm-to-table produce, with a commitment to wild caught seafood.
Service: Friendly, attentive, though during peak times apt to be slower.
Ambiance/Decor: 1920s & 30s nostalgic with contemporary rustic, upscale touches with scenic waterfront and sunset views.
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 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: Families, couples, seafood lovers, sunset chasers, upscale casual dinersFamilies, couples, seafood lovers, sunset chasers, upscale casual diners
Not Recommended For: Budget-conscious diners, traditional fine dining purists
Recommended dishes: When available, The Seafood Tower; The Whole Roasted Fish Chef's Selection; and The Slow Roasted Prime Rib Loin.
Liquor: Full Service, multiple bars
The Deauville Inn blends historic charm with elevated coastal cuisine, offering scenic waterfront dining, farm-to-table fare, and a family-friendly atmosphere that sets it apart from other Jersey Shore restaurants.
🏛️ History & Ownership
The Deauville Inn, once known as The Whelan Inn, has roots dating back to the early 1900s and even faced scrutiny during Prohibition for alleged gambling and alcohol violations. In 2019, Tim Fox and Robyn Kjar, lifelong South Jersey residents, purchased the property and revitalized it with a vision to honor its legacy while elevating the dining experience. Their goal: transform the Deauville into a destination restaurant that celebrates local seafood, community, and coastal elegance.
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
The Deauville Inn specializes in American coastal cuisine, with a strong emphasis on wild-caught seafood and farm-to-table ingredients. The menu features artfully presented dishes using locally sourced produce, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and freshness. Signature offerings include:
- Raw bar selections
- Crab cakes
- Lobster rolls
- Seasonal specials like pan-seared scallops and grilled swordfish
Preparation is refined yet approachable, with a focus on clean flavors and elegant plating. While not explicitly labeled organic, the sourcing philosophy leans toward natural and local.
👨🍳 The Culinary Team
The culinary team is focused on creating a fine dining experience and a flair for coastal sophistication. The emphasis on presentation, local sourcing, and seafood mastery points to a kitchen with a modern American sensibility.
🌅 Ambiance & Décor
The Deauville Inn offers a nostalgic 1920s–30s vibe blended with contemporary rustic elegance. Highlights include:
- Scenic waterfront views and sunset-facing outdoor patios
- Indoor and outdoor seating with ample spacing
- Décor that mixes weathered wood, nautical accents, and upscale touches
- Moderate to high noise levels during peak hours
- Casual dress code with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere
- Background music that complements the coastal setting
The ambiance is ideal for romantic dinners, family outings, and celebratory gatherings.
🤝 Service
The Staff are friendly and welcoming. While service is generally attentive and knowledgeable, peak times may result in slower pacing due to the youthful staff. Overall, the team is enthusiastic and accommodating, enhancing the laid-back luxury experience.
🍷 Other Features & Policies
- Bar Service: Full bar with craft cocktails, wine, and beer; happy hour on the patio is popular
- Child-Friendly: Yes — kids’ menu available and family-friendly atmosphere
- Recommended For: Families, couples, seafood lovers, sunset chasers, upscale casual diners
- Not Recommended For: Budget-conscious diners, traditional fine dining purists
- Parking: On-site parking available
- Dress Code: Casual
- Holiday Hours: Open on Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter
🔧 Areas for Improvement
- Service can be inconsistent during busy periods
- Limited options for non-seafood eaters
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
- Historic charm fused with modern coastal luxury
- Sunset views and waterfront dining that feel immersive and serene
- Commitment to local sourcing and wild-caught seafood
- Family-friendly vibe without sacrificing sophistication
For travelers and locals seeking a memorable Jersey Shore dining experience, the Deauville Inn delivers with style, substance, and scenic beauty. Whether you're sipping cocktails at sunset or savoring fresh scallops, it's a place where history meets hospitality
Updated October 2025
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