In addition to being the oldest beach resort in America, Cape May has a surprisingly diverse dining scene.
Some of the best restaurants in Cape May are hidden inside historic inns, many built before the Civil War, still serving food the way it used to be—local, fresh, and made to bring people together.
Whether you are here for a family beach week, a romantic retreat, or a weekend getaway, you will find restaurants that provide experiences and the kind of meals you’ll still be thinking about long after your trip ends.
1. ICCARA Bistro - Italian restaurant BOYB
Iccara Bistro brings the real Sicilian flavor to Cape May with a menu filled with authentic Italian dishes.
Owned by Vincenzo Sanzone, an true Italian who named the restaurant after the town he was born in, as a tribute to his grandmother.
Located just steps from Washington Street Mall, it’s known for homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and real hospitality.
It’s a BYOB spot, but they also offer a small selection of wine by the bottle if you prefer to choose on-site - California wines from Meadowcroft Winery.
We recommend bringing your own favorite Italian bottle to keep the full Sicilian vibe going .
Their early bird special from 4 to 5 PM—three courses for just $35, including soup or salad, entrée, and dessert. This special menu will help you get a feel for the kitchen if this is your first time. Easy, generous, and a good choice for a relaxing evening out.
- Signature Dishes: Lobster pasta with squid ink fettuccine, seafood scampi, Sicilian-style calamari
- Dining Style: Fine dining, Sicilian-inspired, BYOB
- Reservations: Recommended, especially in season (call for groups over 6)
- Atmosphere: Cozy, romantic, family-friendly
- Location: 315 Ocean Street, Cape May (inside Washington Commons)
- Hours: Daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Website: iccaracapemay.com
2. The Lobster House – Best seafood resturant since 1922
Once you cross the bridge when visiting Cape May, The Lobster House is probably the first thing you will notice.
Owned and operated by the same family since 1922, The Lobster House is the best seafood restaurant in Cape May as is situated right on the harbor, and has its own commercial fishing fleet. So, chances are, your seafood was caught that very morning by their fishing boats.
One of the standout features of The Lobster House is the majestic Schooner American, a 130-foot-long sailing ship that's been converted into a unique cocktail lounge.
Docked right next to the restaurant, it's the perfect spot to sip a drink and enjoy some appetizers while while observing the activity in the harbour.
- Signature Dishes: Clam Chowder Soup, Fresh scallops, Lobster tail, and Classic seafood platter
- Dining Style: Casual, family-friendly with take-out services, indoor seating, dockside dining, a raw bar.
- Reservations: Not accepted; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Atmosphere: Reflecting its working dockside location, nautical and busy.
- Location: 906 Schellengers Landing Rd, Cape May, NJ
- Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (raw bar and schooner open weather permitting)
- Website: thelobsterhouse.com
3. Good Earth Organic Eatery — Vegan & Organic restaurant
Tucked away just outside downtown Cape May, Good Earth Organic Eatery is a quiet spot where everything is made with intention. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, the restaurant focuses on organic, plant-based meals, many of which feature produce from local South Jersey farms.
Hands-down the cleanest, most intentional vegan/organic restaurants in Cape May.
The menu is small and changes with the seasons — think nourishing soups, hearty grain bowls, and fresh vegetable dishes that actually fill you up.
- Signature Dishes: House-made soups, lentil veggie stew, beet hummus plate, seasonal grain bowls
- Dining Style: Casual, farm-to-table, vegan and vegetarian-friendly
- Reservations: Walk-ins welcome; limited seating
- Atmosphere: Cozy, peaceful, earthy
- Location: 600 Park Blvd, West Cape May, NJ
- Hours: Check seasonal hours on their Instagram or Google listing
4. Rusty Nail - Best dog friendly restaurant
Locals call it “The Nail,” and it’s more than just a laid-back spot—it’s where flip-flops, families, and furry friends are all equally welcome.
Originally a hangout for former surfers, this right across from the beach is now a go-to for anyone craving good food, live music, and salt-in- the-air vibe.
What makes it special? First, dogs can lounge in the sandy fire pit area under string lights while you sip a drink.
They welcome pups with fresh water bowls and even a special dog menu with burgers and grilled chicken or ice cream.
The outdoor area is casual, laid-back, and feels more like a summer backyard gathering with your friends.
The people menu doesn’t disappoint either. Think beach-bar classics like fish tacos, local Beach Plumb Farm pulled pork, wings, and their much-loved crab cake sandwich.
The bar inside has TVs for keeping sports fans happy without killing the beachy atmosphere.
Live music is performed at The Nail almost every day during the summer. Early in the day, DJs spin chill beach vibes (Tony Steff from 1:30–4:30 PM most weekdays), then in the evenings singer-songwriters and bands.
This summer, Special Events feature “Smoking’ Tuesdays”. From Memorial Day until October is weekly pig roast, live music by Chef Jimmy's crew, local BBQ, corn on the cob, baked beans, cold beer, all in the sandpit at 5 PM.
In case you needed more proof that this is the best dog-friendly restaurant in Cape May, they hold an entertaining costume contest called the "Doggie Pageant" on September 13th.
• Signature Dishes: Crab cake sandwich, mahi mahi tacos, peel-and-eat shrimp and Beach Clam Farm pulled pork.
• Dining Style: Casual, surf-style, beach bar
• Reservations: Walk-ins welcome; outdoor seating is first-come, first-served
• Atmosphere: Chill, pet-friendly, live music, fire pits, beachside
• Location: 205 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ
• Hours: Open daily, usually from 8 AM – 10 PM (check for seasonal updates)
• Website: rustynailcapemay.com
5. Fish House - Casual restaurant at Sunset Beach
If you’re looking for the kind of dinner where you can eat with your feet in the sand and watch the sky turn gold, this is it.
Tucked right along Sunset Beach, Fish House is one of the few places in Cape May where you can actually see the sun sink into the bay while enjoying a casual meal and amazing drinks.
It’s new, locally run, and already a favorite for beachgoers who want to stay for the flag-lowering ceremony—or just unwind after a long day at the Jersey Shore.
This simple tradition has been happening every evening for over 40 years, organized by the same local family who runs the shops and the Fish House.
Just before sunset, a veteran’s casket flag is lowered while Taps plays in the background, honoring their memory. It’s simple, respectful, and honestly… kind of moving.
The menu? Expect some easygoing beach classics: local fish tacos, fresh-shucked oysters, crab cake sandwiches, and refreshing cold cocktails. You’ll also find homemade ice cream if you’ve got room, a solid wine list, and a view that does half the talking.
This place isn’t fancy, and that’s the point. You’re here for the breeze, the view, the sunset, and the kind of food that just makes sense by the water.
- Signature Dishes: Fish tacos, crab cake sandwich, shrimp cocktail
- Dining Style: Casual, beach bar-style, order-at-the-counter
- Reservations: Walk-ins only; sunset hours can get busy
- Atmosphere: Laid-back, family-friendly, unbeatable view
- Location: 502 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ (at Sunset Beach)
- Hours: Varies seasonally — usually open for lunch through sunset
- Website: https://www.fishhousecapemay.com/
6. The Mad Batter - Best breakfast restaurant
It wasn’t easy to pick just one. Cape May has more than a few top breakfast spots. But The Mad Batter still comes out on top.
Tucked inside the Carroll Villa Hotel (built in 1882), The Mad Batter has been waking up Cape May mornings since the 1976. Locals love it, visitors remember it, and yes — there’s usually a wait. But it’s worth it.
The menu leans into creative, satisfying plates: think orange almond French toast, crab cake eggs Benedict, or a stack of pecan-topped waffles that basically count as dessert.
You’ll also find solid vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus a full bar if you’re in the mood for a brunch cocktail - mimosas for you and fresh-squeezed orange juice for your kids.
Even the coffee gets compliments—strong, smooth, and locally roasted.
They also serve lunch and dinner with live music most evenings, but breakfast is where The Mad Batter really earns its name.
- Signature Dishes: Crab cake eggs Benedict, orange almond French toast, pecan waffles
- Dining Style: Sit-down breakfast/brunch with full service
- Reservations: Walk-ins only for breakfast; come early or expect a short wait
- Atmosphere: Bright, artsy, friendly — great porch seating
- Location: 19 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ (inside the Carroll Villa Hotel)
- Hours: Daily 8 AM – 3 PM (brunch hours may vary by season)
- Website: madbatter.com
7. Taco Caballito Tequileria - Best mexican restaurants
If you’re walking along Beach Avenue and craving Mexican food with a side of ocean breeze, Taco Caballito is the spot.
Locals and tourists alike love it not just for the tacos—but for the energy. Taco Caballito is vibrant and one of the rare spots in Cape May with an upstairs porch, where you can watch the ocean.
The food? Solid. Big portions, true Mexican flavours, but fresh—not overly greasy or heavy like some spots can be.
The crispy fish tacos, birria quesadillas, carne asada fries, street corn (elote), and loaded nachos are crowd favorites, and they don’t skimp on the fillings.
They’ve got a full tequila bar—over 70 different varieties, many from small artisan distilleries, and their cocktails are strong—in the best way.
Indeed, your margarita glass comes with a rim option ranging from sugar, salt, chipotle salt, lemon sugar, chipotle sugar, or Tajín. Perfectly customisable and just a little extra flavor with every sip.
If you are looking for something more fun, try the hibiscus mojito or the spicy pineapple margarita.
It gets busy in season, but the vibe’s relaxed—great for families, date nights, or for a post-beach snack. Staff are quick, friendly, and used to the summer rush.
Live music isn’t an everyday thing at Taco Caballito, but during peak summer weekends, you’ll often catch local bands or acoustic sets playing.
It adds just enough energy without being too loud—more beach bar than party scene.
Check their Instagram for updates if live tunes are part of your plan.
• Signature Dishes: fish tacos, birria, elote, strong margaritas
• Dining Style: beach-casual, colorful, loud in a good way
• Reservations: No reservations; first-come, first-served
• Atmosphere: Lively, colorful, ocean breeze vibes
• Location: 429 Beach Ave
• Hours: Usually open lunch to late (check depending on season)
• Website: tacocaballito.com
Best fine dining restaurants for dinner in Cape May
Picking just one spot for the best dinner in Cape May isn’t easy—and honestly, it wouldn’t be fair. So, we chose three of the most popular fine dining establishments in the town: Washington Inn, The Ebbitt Room at The Virginia Hotel, and Peter Shields Inn.
Every one of them has a unique charm, history, and idea of what a memorable night out must be like.
Whether you’re celebrating something or just in the mood for candlelight and good wine, these three are where locals send people when they ask, “Where should we go for a really nice dinner?”
8. Washington Inn – Dining in a historic Cape May estate
Housed in a charming 1840s plantation-style home, the setting feels like you’ve stepped into someone’s elegant (and very well-staffed) historic estate as a guest at a really nice dinner party.
Since the 1940s, it has been family-run and exhibits all the appropriate traits: friendly service, a seasonal menu, and on-site wine cellar with more than 500 bottles.
Dishes are classic American with upscale twists—duck, lamb, scallops, filet mignon—beautifully plated, and made with locally sourced ingredients.
There’s also a bar and a lounge area if you just want small plates and a glass of wine.
Locals visit Washington Inn for anniversaries and some tourists return for the ambience.
• Signature Dishes: Pan-Seared Scallops, Braised Short Rib, Pistachio-Crusted Halibut, Duck Two Ways
• Dining Style: Upscale, refined, classic American
• Reservations: Highly recommended year-round (OpenTable or call ahead)
• Atmosphere: Elegant but welcoming, white tablecloths, candlelight
• Location: 801 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ
• Hours: Dinner from 5 PM (seasonal variations)
• Website: washingtoninn.com
9. The Ebbitt Room – Farm-to-table dining
The Ebbitt Room, one of Cape May’s most elegant dinner venues, feels right from the start in The Virginia Hotel.
The lighting is soft, even during early seatings (5pm), and the service is calm and attentive.
The food is always beautifully plated and deeply seasonal. A lot of what’s on the menu comes straight from Beach Plum Farm, just a few miles away, where much of their produce, herbs, and even eggs are sourced fresh each day.
You can taste the difference—clean, fresh, and full of life.
The menu changes depending on what the farm delivers, but there are always a few standouts. If you’re into seafood, the scallops are a solid pick. They also do duck really well—crispy skin, rich flavors that melts in your mouth.
If you like to start with oysters and champagne, the raw bar is a solid choice.
Some evenings, especially on weekends, there’s live piano in the dining room.
In the summer time they also have a garden patio. It is peaceful, green, and gives you just enough breeze to remind you you’re by the ocean.
There is a private dining room with seats for up to ten people if you are celebrating something—a birthday, an anniversary, or even just dinner with extended family. Particularly in season, we would advise phoning well ahead to book quickly.
And the front porch is ideal for a drink and something light. There’s usually a cocktail server in the evenings, and they offer a few appetizers if you’re not in the mood for a full dinner.
P.S. I worked here for a couple of years, and I can tell you firsthand—they’re serious about what they do. From the early morning farm deliveries to the spotless kitchen and the focus in the back of house, it’s one of the few places where the behind-the-scenes is just as solid as what you see on the plate.
- Signature Dishes: Pan-seared scallops, rotating duck entrée, raw bar selections
- Dining Style: Elegant, intimate, romantic, with a farm-to-table heart
- Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially Friday–Sunday
- Private Dining: Seats 10, perfect for family celebrations—book early
- Location: 25 Jackson St, Cape May (inside The Virginia Hotel)
- Hours: Dinner nightly from 5 PM
- Website: virginiahotel.com/dining
10. Peter Shields Inn – Ocean views & secret table
Peter Shields Inn is housed in a 1907 Georgian‐Revival mansion with white rocking chairs on a wraparound porch, from where you can hear waves crashing just across the street, and a dining room that feels timeless.
The food itself is consistently thoughtful and beautifully done. Expect rich sauces, seasonal pairings, and standout plates like lobster bisque, short-rib risotto, and pan-seared scallops.
The service matches the setting: warm, attentive, and never rushed. They know when to engage and when to let the moment breathe.
Part of what makes this place unique is its "secret table." Upstairs, there is a hidden two-top that seems tailor-made for intimate celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or even proposals.
On some weekends, a pianist plays in the background, often taking song requests. I’ve seen couples get their first dance song played.
IMPORTANT! In 2025, they finally have a full liquor license, so you can now enjoy cocktails and wines from their curated list. Still, if you would want to bring your own bottle, that is still possible with a corkage charge.
- Signature Dishes: Lobster bisque, crab‑stuffed artichokes, short‑rib risotto, seasonal scallops
- Dining Style: Fine dining, coastal American, romantic
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially if you want that upstairs table
- Atmosphere: Oceanfront, quietly romantic, candlelit, soft piano
- Location: 1301 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ
- Hours: Dinner from 5 PM (check website for seasonal schedule)
- Website: petershieldsinn.com
11. Beach Plum Farm – Family style & BYOB dinner
So we also added this as a unique experience and it is extra to our top just because we dont want you to miss.
If you’re ready for something totally different—but utterly Cape May—this is it.
Picture a long farm table under the stars, seasonal dishes passed around family-style, and conversations flowing with glasses of wine picked BYO. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a farm-grown, truly local dinner experience.
Since 2016, Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May has hosted its Harvest Dinner Series—multi-course, farm-to-table feasts served under the stars or inside a cozy hoop house, depending on weather .
Here’s why it makes the top dinner list:
• Everything’s local: Meat, herbs, vegetables—all grown right there at Beach Plum Farm’s 62 acres .
• Family-style setup: Communal tables encourage sharing food—and stories—with friends or new neighbors you haven’t met yet .
• Timed for magic: Summer farm suppers like the “Saltwater Sessions” even start with a raw bar on the lawn—local oysters, shrimp, wine—before the main plates show up under fairy lights .
• BYO policy: Bring your own wine (or beer), relax under the lights, and settle into a long, slow evening that feels like coming home.
• Ticketed events: Expect around $135–155 per person for a 4‑course family‑style dinner—guests must be 21+ .
It’s the kind of dinner nobody wants to miss—authentic, fresh, and rooted in the seasons. If you’re exploring best restaurants in Cape May for dinner and want something unforgettable, this farm dinner series should be at the top.
• Signature Experience: 4‑course family‑style farm dinner under the stars
• Dining Style: Casual yet elegant, communal farm‑to‑table
• Reservations: Tickets required in advance (via website/OpenTable)
• Atmosphere: Rustic, warm, candlelit—with fire‑pit vibes and starry skies
• Location: 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ
• Schedule: Seasonal — mid‑week farm dinners plus occasional BBQ and seafood nights
• Website: beachplumfarmcapemay.com
Final Thoughts
Cape May may be small, but its food scene punches way above its size. Whether you’re into elegant white tablecloth dinners, rustic farm suppers, or just want the best crab cake sandwich after a beach day—this town delivers.
What makes it special isn’t just the ingredients (though they’re often locally grown or caught that morning). It’s the care. The passion. The fact that so many of these restaurants are run by people who live here, know your name, and actually want you to come back.
So if you’re planning a visit, maybe book your dinner spots first. The beach will always be here—but those farm-to-table seats, sunset porches, and BYOB pasta nights? They fill up fast.
Cape May knows how to feed people well. Come hungry. Leave happy. And maybe already planning your next reservation.
