gastronomic guide: cape may, nj
If you like to eat, and I mean really eat great food, Cape May is just for you! They have stellar restaurants for foodies, families, brunch goers, coffee connoisseurs…I mean, there truly is an option for everyone. And if you like live music, almost every spot has musical entertainment, pretty much all summer long. But this guide holds MY favorites broken down into dinner, breakfast & coffee (and the list of places I want to try soon!).
dinner!
the ebbitt room
This is high up on my favorite restaurants of all time (probably top 3). Cocktails never miss. The atmosphere is amazing (inside, outside, patio). THE BREAD. We always get their deviled eggs and oysters. 10/10. The mains are so fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Never had a bad meal, and we go back every. single. year. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but to me, everything about the Ebbitt Room makes it worth it. Can’t say enough great things!
link to my instagram review last summer! also a staple for us
taco caballito
Yummy tacos at the beach? Yes please! Always included in our trip is Taco Caballito. Great drinks, great views from their porch, and tacos 10/10. Pricing is great too, so also a good option for families!
fish house
ust opened last year in 2025, I went for lunch & hopefully will go back again this year for dinner! Views are great
breakfast!
can’t start a beach day without breakfast!
bagel time cafe
I LOVE A BAGEL. And if you are craving one in Cape May, head to Bagel Time. Depending on the time of day, there is definitely a crowd. But it’s a small town, local feel, and dependable bagels never miss. Don’t miss out on their fresh OJ either, 10/10.
mad batter
Cape May classic in my opinion. They have all the classic breakfast staples you could ask for. Perfect for families, or some pre-shopping fuel before you hit Washington Mall. Expect a wait, it’s a classic for a reason.
Mcglades on the pier
Right on the beach. They also have classic breakfast options, with a little quieter feel. We happened onto McGlade’s last summer, and now will always be in our rolodex for breakie.
bella vida cafe
Slightly off the beaten path is Bella Vida Cafe. But personally, I like that vibe. We found this place on our first time visiting, and it’s homey. Latin-inspired and delicious.
blue pig tavern
If you are on a bachelorette trip, Father’s Day, or birthday, and looking for a more elevated brunch experience, try Blue Pig Tavern. Their cinnamon bun skillet. to. die. for. Definitely on the pricier/nicer side for breakfast, but that cinnamon bun skillet is something you cannot miss out on.
coffee!
magic brain cafe
The coziest coffee shop with the coolest name and logo. Their coffee is great, and perfect to sip while you stroll down Washington Mall.
the buoy
Opened in 2022, their first location is off Beach Ave. Great coffee, great matcha, and this location has room to sit inside. They recently opened a location near Washington Mall, so I am looking forward to checking that out this summer!
and finally, places I’d like to try soon! 410 Bank Street, Big Wave Burrito, Beach Plum Farm (for one of their dinners), Mayer’s Tavern (this just popped up on my feed and I am intrigued), and Peter Shields Inn (went here for Mother’s Day brunch one year, would love to try it for dinner!).
