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restaurant that would serve the finest seafood available. Now, four generations of Dougherty’s later, the restaurant’s raw bar is still a local hot spot, and it continues to blend the classic oyster bar feel with the restaurant’s popular seafood dishes.
“Local” isn’t limited to vegetables, fruits, and seafood... it also applies to beer, wine, and spirits. Check your favorite winery to see what restaurants serve their great wines.
One of the best ways to sample exciting cuisines from talented chefs and trendy places that abound throughout New Jersey’s Southern Shore region is during local restaurant weeks. Atlantic City, Somers Point, the Wildwoods, Avalon/Stone Harbor, Ocean City, Sea Isle City and Cape May have designated weeks – and some- times more than one – to tempt the palette with prix fixe menu selections. Contact the local Chambers in each resort for the exact dates.
The Pier House at the LaMer Beach- front Resort is a culinary discovery in a resort known for exceptional restaurants, chefs, and menus. The beach-chic atmosphere in shades of blue and white creates the perfect palate for a bit – or whole lot – of indulgence with ocean waves just feet away. The culinary experts at the Pier House excel at an exquisite dining experience by using only the freshest ingredients including seafood direct from the Cape May fishing fleet plus fruits and vegetables grown at nearby local farms. Enjoy an artisan cocktail at the spacious bar – complemented by a spectacular ocean view. Oh, the extensive breakfast menu featuring eggs, omelets, avocado toast, fresh fruit and perhaps a mimosa is the perfect way to start your morning and the lunch selections are unrivaled, especially if you choose to make it a leisurely, sundrenched meal outside. 1317 Beach Ave., Cape May; 609- 884-9000; www.capemaylamer.com/dining
Hemingway’s at the Grand Hotel in Cape May. Chart a course for Hemingway’s, a favorite restaurant for visitors and locals alike, at the Grand Hotel on Beach Drive. Enjoy modern American cuisine with a variety of delectable culinary creations – steaks, fresh, locally sourced seafood including an early Sunset Dining menu and the popular Prime Rib Night on Wednesdays. The classically casual, never stuffy vibe at the Bar@Hemingway’s is the perfect place to relax and unwind with specialty cocktails, some with unique backstories like the Hemingway, a tribute to Ernest himself, and the Beast” named after one of Cape May’s famous sportfishing boats. Several photographs of the Beast
decorate the walls around the bar area. Hemingway’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; the Bar@Hemingway’s hosts happy hour. 1045 Beach Ave., Cape May; 609-884-5611; www.hemingwayscapemay.com
Formerly the Merion Inn and purchased by the Kulkowitz Family, owners of the Mad Batter restaurant and Carroll Villa Hotel, The Cricket Club is touted as Cape May’s newest concept in Contemporary American Flair. Located at 106 Decatur St. in Cape May opened with a complete refresh of the building decor, dining room, and a brand- new bar. Chef Jon Davies is back. Davies worked for the Kulkowitz family fifteen years ago and the former Merion Inn in his career. The menu features local ingredients paired with global flavors. Dishes include made-to-order Oyster Stew, Ahi Udon salad, Swordfish Tacos Al Pastor, Fried Tomatoes with Crabmeat gravy, Chorizo Scotch Egg, Shrimp, and Cauliflower Grits, Cape May Scallops with Mexican street corn salad; 609-888-6095; www.capemaycricketclub.com
The Charlesworth Restaurant and H o t e l is a charming, historical restaurant and hotel located on the Delaware Bay in Fortescue. This historical landmark was founded in 1924 and is located on the water with spacious decks to enjoy the bay view and
their legendary sunsets. For restaurant hours, make sure you call ahead. The Charlesworth Hotel also offers charming rooms to stay in that have spectacular views. 856-447-4928. www.charlesworthrestaurant.com
Head to Cumberland for some great seafood options. The Bait Box is a hidden gem near Greenwich in Hancock Harbor. They offer casual seafood along with beautiful views of the Cohansey River. 856- 455-2610, www.hancockharbor.com
Visit the Red Eyed Crab in Port Norris for fresh seafood dishes, salads, pork, and steak dishes too. 856-421-3438.
Recently, Gordon Ramsay opened Hell’s Kitchen on the East Coast, making this third restaurant in Atlantic City. Located in Caesar’s Casino. The dynamic and bustling kitchen is the centerpiece of the unique eatery, with mosaic tiles artfully framing the open space, allowing guests a view from every seat in the house. The menu includes Chef Ramsay’s signature classics like Beef Wellington. Drawing inspiration from the restaurant’s seaside locale, seasonal menu items will feature locally sourced, fresh ingredients and seafood delicacies. Another Gordon Ramsay signature is Sticky Toffee Pudding, you’ll need to save room for this delicious dessert. www.caesars.com G
Hemingway’s at the Grand Hotel
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