Port Marina Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Cape May, NJ
Port Marina
954 Ocean Dr.
Cape May, NJ
Located across the harbor from the historic U.S. Coast Guard Base, Port Marina offers a modern waterfront dining experience with farm-to-table flair, seasonal cocktails, and panoramic harbor views.
🏛️ History & Vision
Port Marina re-emerged in 2024 under the vision of owners Ross and Lauren Hammer and the Zest Restaurant Group, artfully fusing modern luxury with coastal charm. Their comprehensive renovation created a multi-level dining destination dedicated to seasonal cuisine and panoramic harbor views.
🍣 Food & Culinary Style
Port Marina, in partnership with The Zest Restaurant Group, champions a true field-to-fork philosophy. They specialize in seafood, sushi, and farm-fresh meats, all sourced directly from The Zest Group's own fishing fleet and cattle ranch.
The menu is designed for tapas-style sharing, emphasizing organic ingredients and seasonal preparation. Their cattle are raised free of hormones and antibiotics.
Signature dishes include the Lobster Crunchy Roll, Captain Fred Roll, and Port Special Roll, each showcasing vibrant flavors and premium ingredients
👨🍳 The Chef
Executive Chef David C. Murray brings over 25 years of culinary expertise to Port Marina Restaurant, following a notable tenure at Cape May's famed Lobster House. He now leads the culinary program with a focus on upscale American cuisine, showcasing his mastery of fresh, local seafood.
Chef Murray is renowned throughout Cape May for refining classic shore dishes with a sophisticated touch.
🌅 Ambiance
Port Marina features sleek dark-wood interiors, elegant upstairs dining, and a spacious outdoor deck with panoramic harbor views. The vibe is modern coastal, with low noise levels, comfortable table spacing, and live music enhancing the experience. Outdoor dining is first-come, first-serve, perfect for sunset meals
🤝 Service
The wait staff are consistently friendly and attentive, including standout bartenders. While service can occasionally be slow during peak hours, the team is welcoming and knowledgeable.
🧩 Other Details
- Alcohol/bar service: Full bar with seasonal cocktails and curated wines
- Child-friendly: Yes, especially on the outdoor deck
- Recommended for: Couples, families, special occasions
- Not recommended for: Large groups without reservations
- Parking: On-site and nearby options
- Dress code: Casual to upscale casual
- Holiday hours: Open on Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day
🔧 Needs Improvement
Service speed during busy hours
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
Port Marina stands out for its multi-level dining, locally sourced seafood and meats, and seasonal drink program. The harborfront setting and renovated ambiance make it a top-tier Cape May destination.
Updated October 2025
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