The Best Dining Spots in Cape May, NJ

A dining guide to Cape May, NJ Restaurants

Strolling the streets of Cape May is a sensory treat, with the rich scent of the ocean mingling with the aromas drifting from local kitchens. Here, Victorian beauty frames every block, setting the stage for a dining scene built on history, hospitality, and coastal flavor. Visitors flock for sparklingly fresh seafood—think oysters, crabs and the daily catch straight from nearby docks.

The best restaurants make the most of Cape May’s seaside bounty and sense of place. From elegant inns to lively bistros, you’ll find menus that shine with local produce, fresh fish and classic comfort, all served with charm. Cape May’s dining reputation rests on more than just good food—it’s the experience, the setting, and a genuine love for great meals that keep people coming back year after year.

The Iconic Cape May Seafood Classic

Seafood has always played a starring role in Cape May’s local dining scene, anchoring the town’s culinary spirit. From just-off-the-boat shellfish to crowd-pleasing dockside feasts. The following standout spot is essential for anyone who wants to experience the true taste of Cape May’s shores.

The Lobster House: A Waterfront Tradition

The Lobster House is Cape May’s most recognizable name when it comes to classic seafood dining. For over four generations, this family-owned hallmark has welcomed diners looking for the full coastal experience. Its spot right on Cape May Harbor sets the scene from the start—expect sweeping water views, a salt-kissed breeze, and the sense of being right in the heart of a working fishing port.

A highlight for many is the chance to dine aboard the historic 130-foot schooner, the “Schooner American,” moored dockside and transformed into a floating cocktail lounge. Inside, the nautical-themed décor celebrates Cape May’s deep roots in the maritime industry. But it’s the seafood that shines:

  • Daily fresh catches arrive straight from the restaurant’s own commercial fishing fleet.
  • Signature dishes like broiled lobster tails, jumbo lump crab cakes, and piles of steamed clams capture the region’s best flavors.
  • No-frills takeout at the Dockside Café keeps things easy for families or beachgoers on the move.

The Lobster House’s approach is simple: serve exceptional seafood as fresh as possible in a setting that tells Cape May’s story.

Cape May's Fine Dining and Historic Gems

Beyond bustling raw bars and dockside eateries, Cape May’s fine dining scene unfolds inside some of the town’s most remarkable historic buildings. Here, the past and present blend seamlessly—each meal is an experience draped in timeless style and quiet luxury. Housed in lovingly restored Victorians or perched on the edge of the Atlantic, these restaurants offer more than just plates of food. They deliver atmosphere, expert hospitality, local ingredients, and wine programs that rival big-city standards. It’s a chance to slow down, savor, and soak in the stories behind every stone and shingle.

Washington Inn: Sophisticated American Fare

Tucked into a grand 1846 plantation-style home, the Washington Inn sets the gold standard for classic elegance in Cape May. Candlelit tables stretch under soaring ceilings. Tall windows and fresh blooms create an air that’s both inviting and refined. Run by the Craig family for more than four decades, this restaurant has earned a loyal following for its curated approach to American cuisine.

The kitchen shines with dishes like perfectly seared scallops, prime steaks, and house-made pastas. Locally sourced seafood and regional produce ground the menu in Cape May’s seasonal abundance, reflecting the chef’s commitment to freshness.

A few things set the Washington Inn apart:

  • Award-winning wine cellar with an expertly assembled list spanning 500+ bottles.
  • Attentive, knowledgeable staff that makes every guest feel special.
  • Private dining rooms ideal for celebrations or a romantic night out.

Reservations are almost always required, especially during peak summer. Dinner here isn’t rushed—it’s a full evening, marked by flawless service and memorable bites.

Peter Shields Inn: Oceanfront Elegance

Few dining experiences match the serenity of Peter Shields Inn, a majestic Georgian Revival mansion also serving as a charming seaside inn. You’ll find it right along Beach Avenue, with white columns, rocking chairs, and panoramic ocean views just beyond the big wraparound porch. Picture an old-world summer estate—yet the menu proves completely up to date.
Inside, crisp white linens and fireplace warmth set the mood for a meal that pays tribute to the shore. Guests rave about dishes such as pan-seared duck breast, jumbo lump crab cakes, and the chef’s deft use of local asparagus and mushrooms.

Make the most of your evening with:

  • Seasonal tasting menus that showcase the best local ingredients.
  • Creative preparations balancing French and American influences.
  • An extensive wine program with by-the-glass and pairing options.
  • Outdoor porch seating perfect for sunset dinners or brunch with a salty breeze.

Dress up a little—Peter Shields is where Cape May does special occasions. If you want the magic of a historic mansion meal with the ocean as your backdrop, this is your address.

Maison Bleue Bistro: French-Inspired Cuisine

Maison Bleue Bistro brings a dash of Parisian spirit to the heart of Cape May, tucked inside a sophisticated Victorian on busy Beach Avenue. This charming spot draws food lovers for its intimate mood, blue-and-white décor, and a menu that brings out the best of French country cooking.
The kitchen specializes in rustic classics—think coq au vin, steak frites, and rich onion soup—prepared with real precision and a respect for tradition. Details matter here: artisan breads, delicate sauces, and locally sourced seafood and produce play starring roles.

A few highlights for diners:

  • Impeccable charcuterie boards with house-made terrines and pâtés.
  • A changing roster of French wines and creative cocktails.
  • Friendly staff happy to translate the daily chalkboard specials.

With its warm lighting, exposed brick walls, and carefully-crafted plates, Maison Bleue makes every meal feel like a special outing. It’s an ideal choice for a romantic dinner, a cozy brunch, or simply an escape into the slower rhythms of classic French dining—right in the heart of Cape May.

Casual Favorites With Local Flavor

Cape May has a style all its own, and it shines brightest in its welcoming, laid-back restaurants. These are the spots where sandy feet are never out of place, families feel right at home, and you’re just as likely to run into a local as a first-time visitor. What sets them apart? Creative menus rooted in local ingredients, warm service, and a vibe that strikes the perfect balance between classic and casual. When you want a taste of Cape May’s heart—beyond white tablecloths and special occasions—these tried-and-true favorite restaurants always deliver.

The Mad Batter: The Iconic Breakfast Spot

The Mad Batter is more than just a breakfast place—it’s a Cape May institution. Walk down historic Jackson Street in the morning and you’ll spot the buzz as diners gather on the sunny porch. Inside, stained glass windows and eclectic artwork set the mood for a meal built around creative, satisfying plates.
What keeps fans coming back year after year?

  • Legendary breakfasts: Fluffy pancakes, creative omelets, and lemon-ricotta hotcakes are just the beginning.
  • Fresh-squeezed juices and locally roasted coffee.
  • Breezy outdoor seating that lets you soak up the energy of downtown Cape May.

The Mad Batter takes pride in house-made baked goods, so don’t skip the muffins or pastries. The menu offers something for everyone—classic bacon and eggs, inventive specials, and vegan or gluten-free options. By midday, it’s just as good for lunch (think crab cakes or a fresh garden salad), but there’s no doubt breakfast is the real star here.

George’s Place: Greek-Inspired Comfort Food

For a meal that’s both comforting and full of character, George’s Place, serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to Beach Avenue. This friendly, family-run spot is known for portions that satisfy, service that feels personal, and a menu where Greek classics rub shoulders with American favorites.
Standouts at George’s Place include:

  • Spanakopita and gyros made with skill and authenticity.
  • Breakfast platters with feta, olives, and fresh veggies.
  • Crisp salads, grilled fish, and a standout baklava finish.

Diners love the cozy, cheerful dining room and the fast-moving breakfast line, but the atmosphere always feels unrushed. If you’re hunting for friendly service, big flavors, and the warmth of a true local business, George’s Place delivers on every count. Don’t miss the house tzatziki—locals swear it’s the best in town.

Blue Pig Tavern: Classic Cape May Experience

Step into the Blue Pig Tavern and you’ll feel the pull of Cape May’s history right away. Housed inside historic Congress Hall, this tavern draws both hotel guests and locals looking for that quintessential American tavern feel—cozy, relaxed, and always bustling.
A few things set the Blue Pig Tavern apart:

  • All-day menu that covers everything from hearty breakfasts to local seafood dinners.
  • Signature burgers and the crowd-favorite pot roast made with local beef.
  • Seasonal specials built on produce picked right at Beach Plum Farm.

The space itself oozes charm, with brick fireplaces and vintage photos lining the walls. Out on the porch, you can dine under striped awnings while horse carriages roll by. Service is quick and genuinely friendly, reinforcing the welcoming spirit Cape May is known for.

Whether you’re digging into pancakes at sunrise or sharing fish tacos with friends at night, the Blue Pig Tavern feels like the soul of downtown Cape May—a place where good food and good company always go hand in hand.

Cape May's Trendy and Modern Eateries

Cape May’s dining scene isn’t just about classic shore fare and historic inns. A wave of fresh, modern eateries is turning the town into a magnet for food lovers chasing bold flavors, sustainable sourcing, and creative spaces. These restaurants push the envelope, blending Cape May’s regional traditions with current culinary trends. Think farm-to-table dining straight from local fields, rooftop spots serving up sunsets and live music, and chic BYOBs where chefs take risks with global flavors. Here’s where old world charm meets a new culinary pulse.

Beach Plum Farm Kitchen: Farm-to-Table Freshness

Beach Plum Farm Kitchen stands at the forefront of Cape May’s farm-to-table movement. Tucked amid acres of working farmland, this rustic yet stylish eatery lets guests enjoy their meals just steps from where the ingredients are grown. It’s the real deal: eggs, vegetables, herbs, and even heritage pork all come from right outside the kitchen door.
What to expect:

  • Ultra-fresh plates built around what’s perfectly ripe: fluffy omelets with foraged mushrooms, house-made sausage, and vibrant salads that change with the season
  • Weekend dinners that celebrate the harvest, with thoughtful wine pairings (yes, it’s BYOB)
  • Breakfasts and brunches on a flower-filled patio when the weather is right

Meals here feel special, but never fussy. The surroundings encourage you to slow down, breathe in the country air, and remember that good food starts with honest ingredients. The farm stand and market, open to the public, let you bring that freshness home.

Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille: Rooftop Views and Live Music

Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille has a lock on the Cape May nightlife scene. Right on the beach, with a rooftop deck that offers sweeping ocean views, it’s equal parts restaurant, music venue, and cocktail bar. Dinner at Harry’s is as much about the scene as the food—but don’t underestimate the kitchen.
Here’s why Harry’s draws a crowd:

  • Wide-ranging menu that keeps everyone happy: raw bar towers, lobster BLTs, burgers, and fresh-caught fish tacos
  • Rooftop lounge with one of the best Atlantic views in town—perfect for sunset sips
  • Nightly live music in summer, making it a go-to spot for groups and celebrations

The vibe is easygoing, with a staff that knows how to keep things fun yet efficient. Harry’s is ideal for casual lunches with a view or lively evenings when live bands and a breeze off the water set the perfect mood.

Primal BYOB: Contemporary Cuisine

Primal BYOB puts a modern spin on Cape May dining with its focus on creative, global-inspired plates and relaxed, stylish décor. The open kitchen signals a chef-driven restaurant with a serious passion for fresh technique.
What sets Primal apart:

  • Seasonal, globally inspired menu that’s always changing—think wood-fired meats, inventive small plates, and smart vegetarian options
  • BYOB policy lets you showcase your favorite wine with dinner, making the experience more personal and affordable
  • Chic atmosphere balances urban cool with Cape May’s trademark hospitality

The team at Primal takes pride in working with nearby farms and fisheries, so every bite tastes fresh and thoughtfully sourced. Service is warm but never overbearing, making it a favorite among younger crowds and anyone looking to try something outside the usual shore classics.

These restaurants help redefine what it means to eat out in Cape May—where you can taste the future while staying rooted in local tradition.

Other Top Cape May Dining Spots Not To Be Missed

410 Bank Street Restaurant 

410 Bank St is a hidden gem in Cape May’s charming downtown, offering an intimate, romantic vibe perfect for date nights or special occasions. Housed in a quaint Victorian building, diners are about to experience an attractive tropical setting with a charming walkway that takes you under cover of overhanging of wisteria vines towards the restored 1840 Victorian carriage house with spinning fans and trimmed dining rooms. They serve a well-executed, inspirational menu shines with a fusion of Louisiana French, Caribbean and Asian culinary and smoking techniques, prepared with fresh local produce and locally caught seafood.

Ebbitt Room Restaurant 

Nestled within the historic Virginia Hotel, a Victorian gem dating to 1879, The Ebbitt Room stands as a premier destination for fine dining and romance in Cape May. They offer curated menu rooted in seasonal, organic ingredients. Beyond the plate, The Ebbitt Room boasts a sophisticated bar and fireplace lounge, ideal for savoring artisanal cocktails or post-dinner drinks. In warmer months, the ambiance shifts to breezy al fresco dining on the porch or garden patio.

Grana BYOB

Anchored by a locally celebrated chef, Grana BYOB offers a thoughtfully crafted "Modern American" menu that combines creativity with culinary precision.  Guests can choose from à la carte offerings or indulge in a curated Chef’s Tasting Prix Fixe Four-Course Menu.

Port (Port House)

One of Cape May's best waterfront restaurants, highlighting its unbeatable views, craft cocktails, and locally inspired sharing menu, offering modern, refined seafood fare, sushi, shared plates, and cocktails. Its updated multi-level deck and chic ambiance rank it as a top casual-luxe dining experience. Whether youâre seeking a scenic harbor lunch, upscale dinner, or vibrant cocktail hour by the water, Port delivers a standout elevated coastal dining experience.

Sea Salt

Nestled inside the Ocean Club Hotel on Beach Avenue, delivers an elegant yet approachable beach chic dining experience with sweeping ocean views The ambiance strikes the perfect balance—smart casual but comfortable—with large windows and a breezy patio that bring Atlantic charm indoors. The menu showcases contemporary American cuisine anchored by fresh, locally sourced seafood and seasonal produce. Overall, SeaSalt is ideal for those seeking a refined beachfront dinner with creative dishes in a stylish setting—perfect for a memorable Cape May evening.

Secondo

Secondo is a favorite among those seeking a fresh alternative to Cape May's traditional dining scene, Secondo delivers a stylish, laid-back experience with an urban vibe and waterfront views. In the warmer months, guests can enjoy outdoor dining on the covered patio, which overlooks the harbor. The patio's standout feature is a long, rectangular fire pit that adds ambiance and warmth to the waterfront setting. The menu leans Mediterranean, with a focus on Italian and Greek-inspired seafood dishes.

Vintage BYOB

Vintage BYOB is an upscale, open-air restaurant nestled within the picturesque gardens of the historic Emlen Physick Estate. Known for its charming and intimate outdoor setting, Vintage offers a thoughtfully crafted and inspiring menu. While the dining experience is entirely outdoors, guests can enjoy their meals year-round in a climate-controlled, weatherproof tent, ensuring comfort in any season. The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, bringing vibrant flavors and refined presentations to the table. Dining at Vintage feels specialâfrom the string-lit garden ambiance to the elegantly set tables draped in dark linen, complete with candlelight, linen napkins, and fine china.

Tips for Dining Out in Cape May

Eating out in Cape May is an experience worth planning for, especially if you want to enjoy the best meals and settings the town offers. A few insider tips can save you from long waits, help you take advantage of local traditions, and keep your taste buds happy whether you’re here in high summer or the cozy off-season. Below, you'll find practical ways to make the most of Cape May’s unique dining scene.

Seasonal Menus and Local Ingredient Sourcing

You’ll notice menu descriptions touting where the tomatoes, scallops, or herbs come from. Cape May takes pride in farm-to-table eating, with chefs working closely with regional farms and fisheries.

Maximize your meal with these seasonal tips:

  • Order daily specials and catch-of-the-day items. Restaurants like The Lobster House and Ebbitt Room highlight what’s peak-fresh and in season.
  • Taste local produce from Beach Plum Farm and area growers featured on menus at the Blue Pig Tavern, SeaSalt, and Beach Plum Farm Kitchen.
  • Summer menus shine with Jersey tomatoes, corn, and berries. Winter menus lean into root veggies, hearty greens, and slow-cooked seafood chowders.
  • Ask your server about the story behind the dish—chances are it’s tied to a local fisherman or farmer.
  • Check for rotating tasting menus and chef collaborations, especially during harvest festivals and special weekends.
  • Cape May’s food scene thrives on freshness and creativity, so if something on the menu is marked local or seasonal, it’s worth a try.

Step outside your usual routine and give yourself time to explore. Sample raw oysters, toast with a local wine, or settle in for brunch on a wraparound porch. Each meal connects you to Cape May’s story and its bold sense of place.

Taste for yourself why this seaside town keeps food lovers coming back. Your next unforgettable meal is here—don’t miss the chance to savor Cape May’s unique flavor.