Cape May isn’t all just pretty beaches and Victorian architecture—Cape May restaurants are also worth the trek down the Parkway to Exit 0. Sure, you’ve heard about the romantic gourmet restaurants at many Cape May hotels, but there are plenty of family-friendly spots that fit the bill for great food and atmosphere, too. From fresh seafood at The Lobster House to 15 types of pancakes at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House to the historic Blue Pig Tavern, they appeal to even the youngest (and fussiest) palates. Scroll down for our picks, and if you’re planning a full-on vacay, check out our guide to family-friendly Cape May hotels too. (featured photo credit: istock/aimintang)
Cape May Restaurants For Families
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 traditional Mexican fare, Big Wave Burritos offers smoothies and acai bowls for a kid-pleasing treat.
605 Lafayette Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
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
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 Boulevard, Cape May, NJ 08204
Hemingway’s
Hemingway’s is the spot for modern American cuisine, featuring steaks, fresh, locally sourced seafood, and seasonal menu options. 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
Hot Dog Tommy’s
When you’re in the mood for 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
Mario’s of Cape May
Bring your appetite to this authentic Italian restaurant, with plenty of kid favorites on the menu, 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
The Blue Pig Tavern
Named after a gambling parlor located in Congress Hall during the mid-1800s, The Blue Pig Tavern is one of the most popular restaurants in Cape May. 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
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
The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar
Since 1976, this family-owned restaurant has been a landmark, renowned 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, which have been on the menu for over 40 years.
19 Jackson Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant
Indulge in some Ugly Mug Fries topped with a creamy lump crab sauce, or try the Fried Cape May Crab Cakes, the chef’s signature recipe. The Ugly Mug is right in Washington Street Mall, so it’s an easy stop while perusing all of the Cape May shops.
426 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
Uncle Bill’s Pancake House
This family-friendly spot serves breakfast all day, including waffles, French toast, fabulous omelets, farm-fresh eggs, and meats. But what fans really come for are the 15 types of pancakes, from the classics to yummy flavors like M&Ms and peanut butter.
261 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
Viggiano’s on Sunset
You’ll feel right at home with authentic Italian cuisine in a family-style dining atmosphere. With crowd 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
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