Cape May restaurants for families
Enjoy fresh seafood and an ocean breeze at the Lobster House. Photo Credit: @the_lobster_house
The Lobster House
Grab a table in the outdoor dining area, and the kids will get a kick out of the 130-foot schooner that doubles as the restaurant’s cocktail lounge. Though the Lobster House is known for its fresher-than-fresh seafood, the menu also includes plenty of less adventurous meals for landlubbers.
On Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-8296
Hot Dog Tommy’s
When want a sure-fire crowd-pleaser, you can’t go wrong with this landmark hot dog stand that serves classic dogs along with loads of signature faves like the Junk Yard Dog and the Messy Bessy Dog. Gluten-free and vegan options are available too.
319 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-8388
Big Wave Burritos
Surf’s up at this casual eatery, great for a quick bite on Taco Tuesday or any day of the week. In addition to burritos, quesadillas, and other Mexican fare, Big Wave Burritos serves smoothies for a healthy but delicious treat.
605 Lafayette Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 898-8646
Viggiano’s on Sunset
You’ll feel right at home with authentic Italian cuisine in a family-style dining atmosphere. With crowd-pleasing favorites like homemade meatballs, marinara, and chicken parm, Viggiano’s is a win-win for kids and their parents (don’t forget a bottle of vino for BYOB).
109 Sunset Avenue, West Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 435-5026
Find the quintessential Jersey Shore breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House. Photo Credit: @unclebillspancakehouse
Uncle Bill’s Pancake House
Breakfast is served all day at this family-friendly spot, with over 15 types of pancakes ranging from the classics to yummy flavors like M&M and peanut butter.
261 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-7199
Mario’s of Cape May
Bring your appetite to this authentic Italian restaurant with plenty of kid faves, including spaghetti and meatballs, mozzarella sticks, and, of course, lots of pizza. Top off your meal with homemade cannoli.
315 Ocean Street, Unit #7, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-0085
The Blue Pig Tavern
Named after a gambling parlor sited in Congress Hall in the mid-1800s, The Blue Pig Tavern is one of the most popular Cape May restaurants. And for good reason, you can eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, with yummy specialties like stuffed French toast, deviled eggs, tavern mac and cheese, crab sandwiches, and freshly caught fish.
200 Congress Place, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-8422
The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar
Since 1976, this family-owned restaurant is a landmark, known to families for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner all year round. Located inside the Carroll Villa Hotel, you can dine on the front porch, in the skylit dining room, or on the garden terrace. Order the moist and rich Harry’s Oatmeal Pancakes, a delicious variation on the buttermilk versions, and on the menu for over 40 years.
19 Jackson Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-5970
Cape May restaurants like the Cape May Fish Market are a must-try. Photo Credit: istock/aimintang
Cape May Fish Market
Of course, no shore place would be worth its salt without a fish restaurant, and Cape May Fish Market fits the bill. Try the Bacon Scallop Roll, Crab Cake Grilled Cheese, and Crab-Meat Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp, and for landlubbers, you can’t go wrong with a burger, chicken, and salad.
408 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 770-3790
Hemingway’s
Hemingway’s is the spot for modern American food featuring steaks, fresh, locally sourced seafood, and seasonal food choices. Kids will be happy with their own menu offering all their faves, including Gooey Mac and Cheese, and adults will love the lively atmosphere, specialty cocktails, and delicious upscale offerings like Seared Cape May Scallops.
In The Grand Hotel at 1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-5611
Exit Zero Filling Station
Indian and Thai curries, burgers, or their famous Hot Chick and Blackened Salmon sandwiches are worth the trip down the parkway to exit zero. You won’t want to miss dining at their Airstream or Chevy Truck tables.
110 Sunset Blvd., Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 770-8479
Let us know about your favorite Cape May restaurants in New Jersey—and any fun memories you have!
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