V24 N2

THE INSIDE GUIDE TO COOL CAPE MAY • FEBRUARY 18, 2026 • VOLUME 24, NUMBER 2

Exit Zero

Inferno!

The 1878 Disaster That Transformed Cape May

Ramblings From The Editor

What’s in this issue... and occasionally some other observations about life and the universe

I

imagine that when most visitors (and

maybe even many locals, too) stroll

through the streets of Cape May and

admire the fabulous collection of

Victorian homes (apparently second

only to San Francisco in its scale) that they

are unaware of the fiery inspiration behind

much of this architecture.

There’s a reason why a lot of the

Victorian gems that comprise Cape May’s

famed Historic District date from the late

1870s and early 1880s. It’s because the

Great Fire of 1878 razed nearly 40 acres of

downtown in what I hope will always be the

worst fire in this city’s history.

In the aftermath of the fire, Cape May

obviously rebuilt — but to a much smaller

scale. The huge hotels that were destroyed

in the fire — such the Atlantic, Columbia

House and Ocean House — were replaced

by much smaller buildings. And more

ornate buildings, too. The 1880s and 1890s

were the era of gingerbread trim, turrets

and the Queen Anne style, which featured

wraparound porches and ornate details.

The Emlen Physick Estate was also built in

this post-fire renaissance, when Cape May

pivoted to a more boutique architectural

style and size.

Only one hotel was rebuilt to anything

like the same scale as before, and that was

Congress Hall — except they made the wise

decision to use brick rather than wood. Can’t

really blame them. Interesting note: The

hotel was originally painted sage green —

the famous yellow didn’t appear until 1884.

As I ramble away, you’ll notice that

Exit Zero (like Cape May back then) has

undergone a transformation. (Thankfully,

our change wasn’t necessitated by a huge

inferno.) Instead, I decided that it was

time to introduce more storytelling, and to

change up the covers visually.

Most of the covers will use photography,

but occasionally we will incorporate some

AI-produced images. Since there weren’t any

photographers or artists covering the Great

Fire of 1878, we used AI to produce this

cover. (For those interested in such things,

this image took around six hours and about

200 iterations before we were happy with it.)

There are a lot of interesting stories

intertwined with this gorgeous little island.

Some of them are rooted in the past, but I

won’t be giving you a history lesson every

week. Some of our cover stories will be

firmly rooted in the here and now (watch for

Cape May’s Coldest Beer in the spring!).

I hope you like this new look. If you

don’t, the beauty of old-fashioned print is

that you don’t get to leave a nasty comment.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the

³ passing of Frank Scott, a man who

moved through the circles of Cape May with

gentleness and grace, and usually with a

smile on his face.

Frank shot photographs for Exit Zero

when Aleksey Moryakov wasn’t available,

but he was best known as a community

volunteer, lending his time and enthusiasm

to a host of non-profits in town. Rest in

peace, Frank.

The Blue Pig

Returns

A beloved Cape May tradition returns. Join us as the

Blue Pig Tavern reopens its doors, welcoming guests

once again to gather over seasonal favorites, locally

inspired dishes, and timeless hospitality.

RESERVE YOUR SEATS

Reopening Thursday, February 12

CAPERESORTS.COM/BLUEPIGTAVERN

Page 2 EXIT ZERO February 18, 2026 February 18, 2026 EXIT ZERO Page 3

KITCHEN

Sun-Thu 11:30-9

& Fri-Sat 11:30-10

HAPPY HOUR

Mon-Sat 3-6pm

DirecTV NFL Ticket

All Day Sunday

Open Daily from 11:30am

3729 Bayshore Road, North Cape May

609-889-7000 • 5WestPub.com

Adored by

Visitors...

Loved by

Locals!

Open Fri, Sat & Sun 7am-2

-2pm

Beach & Grant 609-884-3772

ABOUT EXIT ZERO

We were launched on to the streets of Cape

May on July 3, 2003 by former London and

New York magazine editor Jack Wright.

Every Wednesday, EXIT ZERO magazine is

delivered to nearly 300 establishments in

the area. Get a jump on it early by reading

online every Tuesday morning!

Editor & Publisher

Jack Wright

jack@exitzero.com

Digital Manager

Kayla Jordan

kayla@exitzero.com

Photographer

Aleksey Moryakov

info@alekseyphotography.com

For more information, give us a call at

609-241-2326

Or write to us at info@exitzero.com

Visit us online at exitzero.com

ADVERTISE WITH US!

We are funded entirely through advertising,

so please support the advertisers in these

pages! If you’re interested in becoming

an advertiser, we offer very affordable

packages. Give us a holler on 609-241-2326

or info@exitzero.com.

CLIPART CONTEST!

In every issue, we hide a little EXIT ZERO

logo in an ad. Can you find it? Enter by filling

out the form at exitzero.com/clipart.

Entries must be sent by February 27. Winner

gets a $25 electronic gift card for our online

store! The winner’s name will be posted on

our Facebook page each Wednesday. Here’s

the exact size of the image!

Our Front Pages Through The Years

And Finally...

We’ve been covering

the happenings

and shenanigans

around Cape May

since 2003, and

we’ve packed in

around two billion

photograps in that

time. Okay, slight

exaggeration, but

it’s a lot! Our cover

from February 19,

2009 featured a

night of celebrations

in Congress Hall

to mark the 400th

anniversary of Cape

May’s discovery, by

Henry Hudson.

If you’re looking for Exit Zero Filling Station, we are no longer in the restaurant business — it

closed permanently on September 20, 2025. If you’re looking for our cool EZ merchandise and

artwork, that IS still available, online at exitzero.store. Hopefully, we’ll be back at some point

with a new brick-and-mortar store. Until then, it’s online only.

A Cape May

Classic

OPEN DAILY FOR INSIDE AND OUTSIDE DINING

All Your Favorite Mug Dishes!

426 WASHINGTON STREET • 609-884-3459 Follow us on Facebook

OPEN DAILY + YEAR-ROUND

INDOOR & OUTDOOR SEATING

400 WASHINGTON STREET • 609-770-8559

live music

FEB 12 - STAY ACOUTSIQUE @ 9PM

FEB 13 - MATT ADAMS @ 10PM

FEB 14 - DJ DENNY OH @ 10PM

FEB 15 - MARC STORACE @ 9PM


The Inferno That Changed Everything

A stereoscopic image shot by Gilbert and Bacon shows the aftermath of the 1878 fire. This wasteland was occupied by the old Congress Hall.

LIVE

MUSIC

Thu 6-8

Fri & Sat 7-10

Sundays

Open Mic 6-9

A Cape May Tradition

Family Owned & Argued Over Since 1976

Celebrating 50 Years!

FEBRUARY HOURS

• Thu: Dinner only 3:30pm-8pm

• Fri-Sat: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, 8am-10pm

• Sun: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, 8am-9pm

• Mon: Breakfast & lunch, 8am-2:30pm

19 Jackson Street, Cape May

609-884-5970 madbatter.com

Globally Inspired Comfort Food

& Expertly Crafted Cocktails

OPEN Tue-Sat @ 4

106 DECATUR STREET, CAPE MAY

609-888-6095 capemaycricketclub.com

The fire began in the Ocean House, now the site of the Star Inn and Carpenter’s Square Mall.

COVER STORY JACK WRIGHT

Some time around seven o’clock on

the morning of November 9, 1878,

workmen on the roof of the Stockton

Hotel saw smoke coming from the

Ocean House on Perry Street, across

from Congress Hall. Soon after, Colonel

Henry Sawyer, owner of the nearby

Chalfonte Hotel and Cape May’s most celebrated

Civil War hero, raised the alarm.

Within an hour, church bells were

ringing all over town to alert the people, but

Cape May never stood a chance: its entire

fire-fighting apparatus consisted of a single

hand engine, 1,500 feet of rubber hose,

three chemical units (which mixed water,

baking soda and acid to produce foam) and

a hook-and-ladder truck.

A train was dispatched from Camden,

90 miles away, with a steam engine and a

supply of hose, but by the time it arrived,

four hotels were ablaze. Fanned by a 35mph

wind from the west, the fire spread further

east, and soon the Columbia House hotel

was ablaze. By the day’s end, nearly 40 acres

of beachfront property had been destroyed.

The Cape May Wave reported that there

had been hope of saving Congress Hall

— “the strong probability is that with a

moderate supply of water it would [have

survived], but for the unfortunate bursting

of the hose just as the engine had got fairly

started. Another section of hose was put in

place of the one injured. That also burst...

Finally, after some five sections of hose

had burst in the same way, the flames in

the meanwhile traveling with astonishing

rapidity under the roof on the ocean front,

Congress Hall was relinquished to its fate.”

Although Congress Hall’s owners might

not have agreed with the sentiment, the

Wave went on to say that “Congress Hall

as it burned presented a magnificent scene

from the beachfront, the flames pouring

out from its hundred windows, enveloping

balconies and verandas, leaping into the air

a hundred feet, and making a noise like the

thundering of a score of express trains over

a wooden bridge.”

The cause of the fire, which had come

just two weeks after an 84mph gale had

sheared off a huge chunk of Congress Hall’s

pier, was determined as arson. Samuel

Ludlam, proprietor of the Ocean House,

was charged and taken to trial, but was

found not guilty. (Remarkably, no lives were

lost.) The city council, though, was held

accountable by many for the quick spread

of the inferno.

“So highly inflammable a town as Cape

May ought to have been especially well

provided with engines and hose, but Cape

May appears to have been scarcely provided

at all and the inhabitants evidently were

utterly untrained in the duties of firemen,”

opined the Daily Times of Philadelphia. “For

any loss that they have suffered they will get

little sympathy, but they ought to learn from

this that if they expect capitalists to build

hotels in their town — and without hotels

there would be no town — they must make

some effort for their protection.”

Cape May’s fire chief, Edward Lansing,

admitted that the city was ill-equipped to

handle a blaze of this magnitude. He helpfully

added that his request earlier that

year for funds to purchase new equipment

had been denied by city council because

of budget constraints. (Not surprisingly,

council readily approved the funding for

new equipment at its next meeting.)

The Evening Telegraph of Philadelphia

offered some hope to the city: “If those who

have the most positive interest in main-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

CAPE MAY ART

• Vintage artwork, stunning photography & beautiful watercolors

• Makes the perfect gift for a loved/liked one... or for yourself!

• All available at exitzero.store — use EZ26 code for 20% off


CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

taining the well-won reputation

of the place as a peculiarly

agreeable summer resort will go

to work with energy and intelligence

to repair the damage that

has been done, and to make it in

the matter of elegant and comfortable

accommodations, more

than ever worthy of the regards

of summer loiterers, it may turn

out that the fire of Saturday was

a blessing in disguise.”

The Philadelphia Times

added, “There is a silver lining

to every cloud, for as many of

the buildings destroyed were

old and dilapidated, neater and

more substantial modern structures

will raise upon their sites.”

Congress Hall’s future,

though, wasn’t looking too

assured in the aftermath. Two

weeks after the inferno, the

Wave reported that the hotel

would not be rebuilt.

In the same issue, the newspaper’s

editor clearly felt his

readers were in need of some

humor to relieve the mood of

foreboding and uncertainty that

was clinging to the town. Here

was how one of the newspaper’s

writers lampooned the raging

debate in town as to how Cape

May, and in particular its most

famous hotel, should rebuild:

“Congress Hall has been purchased

by immensely wealthy

people. Bonanza people. Who

intend to build, not for the

purpose of making money, but

for the sole purpose of benefitting

and pleasing others, as

such people invariably do. A

hotel is to be built capable of

accommodating all who can

pay a good price for very little.

It will be entirely fireproof,

especially against bed bugs and

cockroaches... It will be elevated

100 feet above the ground on

an immense turntable, which

will be made to revolve by a

powerful engine worked by an

imported organ grinder. The

building will be 900 feet wide

and 2,105 feet 0.75 inches long,

built on the telescopic plan,

so that it can be reduced or

enlarged as required. When

extended to its full size it will

shade the city in a hot sunny day

or protect it from the rain, thus

ensuring to us a climate that

even Atlantic City cannot find

fault with. As the hotel revolves,

each room will have a sea view.”

That’s some funny stuff!

It was widely assumed that

Cape May would rally around

a huge effort to rebuild and

modernize the resort in a

bold attempt to challenge the

ascension of Atlantic City, the

resort that had been created in

1854 by a group of Philadelphian

bankers who wanted a resort

closer to home, and which had

already usurped Cape May as

the state’s premier resort town.

But Cape May didn’t rebuild

to anything like the scale of the

hotels which had burned. Here’s

why: Major developments

in the town had fallen under

the control of a small group of

Philadelphia businessmen who

had remained loyal to Cape May

when many others had left for

Newport, Rhode Island, which

had become America’s playground

for millionaires.

The Philadelphian movers-and-shakers

who stayed

were keen to curb Cape May’s

growth, content for it to regress

to the state of a quiet seaside

resort where they could take

their summer rest, far from the

bustle of Philadelphia and the

boom town of Atlantic City.

Congress Hall was rebuilt,

with brick, but at less than half

the size of what came before

(and it was originally painted

sage green — yellow didn’t come

until 1884). The other major

hotels that were destroyed were

replaced by smaller private

homes, featuring ornate gingerbread

rim and turrets.

Many of these post-fire

properties formed the collection

of Victorian buildings that

allowed a historic preservation

expert to get the city named as

a National Historic Landmark

almost 100 years after the fire

broke out — but that’s a story

for another day.


2/12: Second Annual Galentine’s Day

At The Washington Inn & Wine Bar

2/12: Second Annual Galentine’s Day

At The Washington Inn & Wine Bar

The legendary, intimate hangout where locals

& guests mingle over domestic & imported

beers, fine wines & classic cocktails. Join us!

Reopening

Cape May Winery Crew

Carole, Sharon

• Draft Beer & Craft Cocktails

• Billiards & Live Entertainment

• Locally Made Dessert Pies

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS 3-6pm

MONDAY

1/2 PRICE APPETIZERS, $8 COSMO,

$2 OFF DRAFT BEER

in April

TUESDAY

1/2 PRICE PIZZA, $3 COORS LIGHT

& MILLER LITE BOTTLES, $8 MARGS

WEDNESDAY

for our

150 th season!

Amanda, Maria, Marli

Cape May Winery Crew again... safely seated at their table

ALL ENTREES 10% OFF

$6 PINOT NOIR, $2 OFF CRAFT BEER

THURSDAY

$2 OFF BURGERS, $10 LOADED FRIES, $8 OLD

FASHIONED, $8 POMEGRANATE MARTINI

FRIDAY

$10 AMERICANA PIZZA, $11 CHEESESTEAK, $15

DOMESTIC BUCKETS (5), $25 SELTZER BUCKETS (5)

SUNDAY: REVERSE HAPPY HOUR 11:30-3PM

$7 MIMOSA, $8 BLOODY MARY, $9 APEROL SPRITZ, $9

TRUFFLE POTATO WEDGES,

$10 CHICKEN AND WAFFLE SLIDERS

301 Howard Street, Cape May

609-884-8409 • chalfonte.com

Pam, Leslie, Anita

Barbara, Deidra, Mary, Pam, Theresa

thelocaltavernnj.com

1075 Bayshore Road, Villas


Around The Avenues And Alleyways Of Cool Cape May

Staff of The Cricket Club on Decatur Street


The Goods

The Event

Macedonia Baptist Church

(630 Lafayette Street)

continues its celebrations

of Black History Month

at the church on Sunday,

February 22. Following the

11am service, there will be

a soul food meal from 1:00-

2:30pm in the fellowship

hall, followed by a spiritual

program, led by Pastor Joe

Colvin, from 2:30-3:30pm.

For more activities, turn to

page 39.

45

Highest temperature this

week, peaking on Friday.

The daytime low will be

41, on Sunday.

Sunset time this Saturday,

February 21: 5:43pm.

Sunrise: 6:43am.

The Must-Have

You could buy the evil laundry detergents

from the big box stores... OR you could

shop local AND improve your all-around

laundry experience! How? Easy. Pop into

A Place on Earth (526 Washington Street),

one of Cape May’s quirkiest, coolest, bestsmelling

stores, and treat yourself (and

your clothes) to one of their all-natural

Laundry Soaps (with baking soda powerboost!).

Made with just a few simple

ingredients, and no harsh chemicals,

the soap comes unscented, or in five

lovely flavors (from Beach House to Salty

Mermaid). And often there are special

edition scents. The price is $21.99 and

yields about 30 loads. Bonus: For the next

few months, A Place on Earth is offering

discount refills in the recyclable container!

The Dish

The History

Rich, refined and comforting, the Braised

Short Rib at Hemingway’s is cooked low

and slow until it falls off your fork and

into your mouth (unless your dinner

companion steals a piece and it ends up

in their mouth). The short rib is plated

atop creamy potatoes and surrounded

by seasonal vegetables. Pearl onions and

smoky bacon lardons add depth and

balance, while a glossy cabernet demi

coats the meat. Hemingway’s, at the Grand

Hotel, is open for dinner Wednesday to

Sunday. Check hemingwayscapemay.com

for breakfast and lunch hours.

Once upon a time, there was a casino, the

Blue Pig, at the end of Perry Street, where

Uncle Bill’s Pancake House now sits.

Renowned gamblers from all over the country

would come to play high-stakes poker

at the Blue Pig. The name remains today —

the inspiration for Congress Hall’s restaurant.

And the building? It was moved to the

corner of Windsor and North and is now

a private residence (left). You can read this

and many more fascinating stories in The

First Resort, our beautiful coffee table history

book. It’s available from Tommy’s Folly,

Cape Atlantic Books and Whale’s Tale. Or

online at exitzero.store.

The Bottle

Elena Walch

Pinot Grigio, Italy

Well structured with mild

acidity and delicate scents of

apples and pears. Mineralsalty

richness and a crisp

acidity are distinctive on

the palate. It pairs best with

grilled fish, seafood pasta,

risotto, soft cheeses and

vegetable dishes. Available

from Collier’s Liquor Store

for $23.99.

NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER

FARM-TO-BOTTLE DISTILLERY

Tours · Cocktails · Live Music · Spirits · Gifts

Thu 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-8pm, Mon 4-8pm

Thursday, Feb 19: Open Mic hosted by Gordon Vincent 6-9pm

Friday, Feb 20: Tom & Sarah 6-9pm

Saturday, Feb 21: Nick S 6-9pm

Sunday, Feb 22: Camille Peruto 3-6pm

Mon, Feb 23:Team Trivia 6-8pm

916 Shunpike Road, North Cape May · 609-770-3381 · Nautispirits.com · @nautispirits


The Ultimate Food & Drink Guide

2/12: Second Annual Galentine’s Day At The Washington Inn & Wine Bar

“My doctor told me I had to stop throwing intimate dinners for four — unless there are three other people.” orson welles

CAPE MAY FISH MARKET

THE CRICKET CLUB

DELANEY’S

Located in the middle of the mall, it features a

raw bar, fish, meat and poultry entrées, plus a big

selection of salads, sandwiches and burgers. House

specialties include their famous crab cakes.

408 Washington Street, Cape May

609-770-3790 / capemayfishmarket.com

b H

When the Cricket Club opened in late 2022, at the site

of the former Merion Inn, it brought a new vibe to

the Cape May dining scene. Its menu explodes with a

kaleidoscopic range of flavors — the espresso-rubbed

pork chop is stellar. And the inventive cocktail game is

as good as any in the area — the nicely named 1998

Called has become a favorite.

106 Decatur Street, Cape May

609-888-6095 / capemaycricketclub.com

ub

As you’d expect of an Irish-inspired establishment,

this is the place to get Guinness and good pub

grub. The menu features a raw bar, a large

selection of salads, thin-crust pizza and, of course,

Celtic-flavored dishes, such as Shepherd’s Pie and

Irish Meatloaf. The cozy, dark-wood booths are

perfect for lingering and enjoying the craic.


609-770-8559 / delaneyscapemay.com

b H

Ray, Suzan Jillian Mezzo, Holly O’Donnell Dino, Regina Shawna Rockey, Denise Bannon

DOGTOOTH BAR & GRILL

THE EBBITT ROOM

EL PUEBLO TAQUERIA

From the family that launched MudHen Brewing

Company, Dogtooth offers a large menu of

American classics. The sandwich choices are

expansive and inventive, and there’s also a

flatbread selection. Stop in for happy hour to enjoy

food and drink specials along with live music. And

don’t forget to ask about their draft list.

100 East Taylor Avenue, Wildwood

609-522-8383 / dogtoothbar.com

ub

E. M. HEMINGWAY’S

Long regarded as one of the area’s best restaurants,

The Ebbitt Room is as good as its ever been, as

evidenced by Chef Jason Hanin recently being

named Chef of the Year by New Jersey Restaurant &

Hospitality Association. Eat on the porch, overlooking

beautiful, tree-lined Jackson Street, or take in the

buzzy vibe of the dining room and bar.


609-884-5700 / caperesorts.com/ebbittroom

u

FINS BAR & GRILLE

Welcome to an authentic, affordable Mexican

dining experience, prepared with only the freshest

ingredients and a whole lot of TLC. Owner Ruben

cut his teeth working at popular Cape May

restaurants, learning to cook from his late father

Oscar and mother Lucia, whose magic is still woven

into many of the dishes at El Pueblo.


609-600-3793 / elpueblotaqueria.com

ubH

FISH HOUSE

Sam Collins, Tiffany Lewis-Conover-Wentz, Jessica Gordo, Lisa Ferguson

Uncle Bill’s

Holly’s friends

Located in the beachfront Grand Hotel,

Hemingway’s offers fine seafood, prime beef

and excellent specials in a lavishly decorated

space that pays homage to the sea (that

giant marlin on the wall!). It’s a favorite spot

for families and, with six large-screen TVs,

it’s a prime venues for sports fans, too.

1045 Beach Avenue, Cape May

609-884-5611 / hemingwayscapemay.com

ubH

The maritime decor includes huge

fish tanks and a poured glass bartop.

Recently, a second bar was added, a good

thing given how busy it can be. Outside,

enjoy eating out under the canopy. The

menu offers classic comfort foods, plus a

huge salads selection and a raw bar.

142 Decatur Street, Cape May

609-884-3449 / finscapemay.com

b H U

This elevated seafood shack/beachside bar is

nestled amidst the beauty of Sunset Beach, with

views of the iconic Concrete Ship. It offers fresh

seafood, excellent sandwiches, homemade ice

cream and a wicked range of crafted cocktails. Tip:

It’s a spectacular breakfast spot!

502 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May

609-629-3654 / fishhousecapemay.com

ubH U

Reopening March 13!

5 WEST PUB

GEORGE’S PLACE

GRANA BYOB

This North Cape May hotspot is a gastropub from

Paul and Jen Negro, owners of Tisha’s and The

Local Tavern. The starters menu alone will have

you salivating, and there’s also a great selection of

brick oven pizza, as well as mains that include Twin

Grilled Pork Chop, Chicken Marsala and Crab Cakes.

Excellent food in a relaxed atmosphere.


609-889-7000 / 5westpub.com

ubH U

This local legend of a beachfront eatery,

established in 1968, serves up signature

breakfast items, mouthwatering lunches

and generous dinners all in a welcoming

and relaxed environment. George’s enjoyed

its moment in the limelight thanks to a visit

from Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives TV

show on the Food Network.


609-884-6088 / kararestaurantgroup.com

b H

Chef Carl Messick (who cut his teeth

at the Ebbitt Room and Peter Shields)

transformed what was once Godmother’s

into an overnight sensation in Cape May. His

menu showcases exquisite dishes featuring

seasonal and sustainable ingredients. The

four-course Tasting Menu is always a great

choice, if you’re feeling indulgent.

413 S. Broadway, Cape May

609-849-9255 / granabyob.com

b

BEACH & PERRY, CAPE MAY

February 18, 2026 EXIT ZERO Page 17


2/13: Opening Day Of The Season At Ocean View Family Restaurant

“One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” luciano pavarotti

THE LOBSTER HOUSE

THE LOCAL TAVERN

LUCKY BONES

Fish market, restaurant, raw bar, take-out, coffee

shop... The Lobster House has it all, at a lovely

dockside setting. Drinks on the Schooner American

before dinner is a must-do experience, or at the

inside cocktail bar, which is everything a

classic bar should be!

Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May

609-884-8296

thelobsterhouse.com

ubH U

Brought to you by the owners of Tisha’s and 5 West,

this newly reimagined hangout in Villas features

a beautifully designed bar, comfort food from

people who really know how to do it, billiards, live

entertainment, and a laidback vibe that makes you

feel right at home. It’s called The Local Tavern for a

good reason. (But non-locals are very welcome, too!)

1075 Bayshore Road, Villas

609-741-8945 / thelocaltavernnj.com

ubH

A place that manages to regularly hit it out the

park for both visitors AND locals. The bar scene is

buzzy, and the food is excellent — from thincrust

pizza to classic Americana dishes,

and one of the best pork chops around.

The draft list is superb.

1200 Route 109, Cape May

609-884-BONE

luckybonesgrill.com

ubH

MAD BATTER

MARIO’S PIZZA

MAYER’S TAVERN

When it opened in 1976, it inspired a Cape

May restaurant revolution. Yes, if you’re paying

attention, you’ll know it’s 50 years old this year! The

food is always creative, the bar is buzzy, and the

breakfasts and brunches are hard to beat — hence

the lines. The Open Mic night also makes the Batter

one of the best places to enjoy live music.


609-884-5970 / madbatter.com

H

Mario’s has won Best Pizza in the annual Cape May.

com awards pretty much every year. This is a classic

pizzeria and a great place to take the family for a

crowd-pleasing lunch or dinner. Enjoy homemade

specialties and secret sauces, from classic pizza (using

homemade dough daily) to paninis, garlic knots plus

pasta dishes and wings.

Washington Commons

609-884-0085 / mariosofcapemay.com

ubH U

From its start in the 1940s as a family-run

tavern/inn to the 1980s-era rowdy dive bar that

achieved infamy, Mayer’s has always occupied a

special place in the community. In 2016, fatherand-daughter

Keith and Alex Laudeman renovated

and created a buzzy eatery that’s become an

instant classic.

894 3rd Avenue, Cape May

mayerstavern.com

ubH U

Owners Nick and Meg Margarites and the Dream Team at Ocean View.

MUDHEN BREWING CO.

OCEAN 7

OCEAN VIEW

This Wildwood fave is the closest the

area has to a German biergarten. On

the inside, it’s a rocking joint yearround.

Sip on beers, many of them

brewed inhouse, and enjoy casual

fare, including a BBQ smokehouse

menu, burgers and groovy salads.

127 W. Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood

609-846-7918 / mudhenbrew.com

ubH U

When the Inn of Cape May came under

new ownership in 2022, much of the

focus was on renovating/rebranding the

restaurant. The result was Ocean 7, featuring

a modern American menu enjoyed in

a breezy beachfront setting. Start (or end)

your evening with a cocktail on The Porch.

7 Ocean Street, Cape May

609-884-5555 / innofcapemay.com

b U

The family-friendly diner that every town needs.

Bonus points? As the name

suggests, its location is special.

Enjoy a large menu with classic

diner food, oversized portions

and reasonable pricing.

Beach and Grant, Cape May

609-884-3772

oceanviewrestaurant.com

ubH U

Open Thu-Sun @ 5pm

3-Course Winter Prix Fixe $48 Thu & Sun

New menu each week - check our

social every Monday

Regular menu also available

OYSTER BAY

PETER SHIELDS INN

PIER HOUSE

Eat in the lovely, airy dining room or in the

adjoining bar area with a fun vibe, where you’re

liable to meet many of Cape May’s business

owners and movers-and-shakers. There’s also a

daily bar menu at this downtown favorite, along

with a popular happy hour, great martinis and

classic, generous dishes.

615 Lafayette Street, Cape May

609-884-2111 / oysterbayrestaurant.com

ubH

The Georgian Revival mansion is magnificent and the

modern American menu matches. Indulge yourself in

one of the inviting dining rooms or overlooking the

ocean on the porch. Bonus: Peter Shields is no longer

BYOB and has a full list of wine, cocktails and beers!


609-884-9090 / petershieldsinn.com

H

This elegant-but-cozy restaurant in La Mer

Beachfront Resort offers a welcoming ambiance,

serving modern American fare with innovative

twists and inspired recipes, just steps from the

beach. The airy bar area, flooded with light and

boasting views of the dunes, is a great place for a

pre-dinner cocktail.


609-898-2244 / capemaylamer.com

ubH

Grana BYOB is the dream of executive chef/

owner Carl Messick. This 68-seat restaurant

features a seasonally changing menu, using

fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Fine Dining | Reservations via Resy app or by phone

413 South Broadway, Cape May | 609-849-9255 | granabyob.com



“Spaghetti can be eaten most successfully if you inhale it like a vacuum cleaner.” sophia loren

POPPI’S

PORT MARINA

QUINCY’S LOBSTER ROLLS

Enjoy old-world recipes (from owner Brendan

Sciarra’s grandfather, aka Poppi) in a relaxed atmosphere

with rustic charm. This Wildwood eatery

is perfect for an intimate evening or small family

gathering. And they have a lot more than just pizza,

offering a nice range of sandwiches plus mains

such as Short Rib Ragu and Veal Chop Marsala.

4709 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood

609-600-3964 / poppisbrickoven.com

ubH

The Zest group transformed Harbor

View into a chic waterfront experience.

The deck is the place to indulge in

cocktails and feast on a menu that

includes sushi. Inside, get in the mood

with a tipple at the downstairs bar

then head upstairs for a culinary treat.

954 Ocean Drive, Cape May

609-884-5444 / portcapemay.com

ubH U

Quincy’s began after a group of friends

from the Philadelphia area vacationed one

summer in Maine. They decided to bring

a little taste of New England to the Shore,

and Cape May was their first location. Indulge

in classic lobster rolls, lobster salads,

crab rolls and other quick-bite favorites.

320 Washington & 709 Beach, Cape May

609-305-4379 / quincysoriginal.com

b H U

SAPORE ITALIANO

TACO CABALLITO TEQUILERIA

TISHA’S

Sapore is located in a magnificent Victorian

mansion a couple blocks from the beach, and the

food does it justice. Excellent Italian dishes and a

lovely family-style ambience. Dine in one of the

intimate rooms or on the leafy outdoor patio.

Either way, you are in for a treat.

416 South Broadway, West Cape May

609-600-1422

saporeitalianorestaurant.com

ubH

This two-story, vibrant beachfront restaurant offers

authentic Mexican dishes and handcrafted margaritas

made with artisanal tequilas in a environment that

just exudes fun and style in equal measure. Eating on

the second-floor porch is a real treat.


609-884-4800

tacocaballitotequileria.com

b H

A local favorite for 30 years and still going strong,

Tisha’s first won acclaim when it was located on

the promenade. These days it’s bang in the center

of Washington Street Mall. What hasn’t changed?

Chef-owner Paul Negro still serves ridiculously

good food for lunch and dinner. Check out sister

restaurants, 5 West Pub and The Local Tavern, too.


609-884-9119 / tishasfinedining.com

b U

THE UGLY MUG

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE

VIGGIANO’S ON SUNSET

A long time ago, when cars still rumbled up and

down Washington Street and you could snag a

room by the beach for $10 per night, one thing was

the same as it is today — the Mug was packing

in people looking for good food and good drinks.

Inside, you’ll enjoy a classic pub atmosphere.

Outside, it’s a great spot for people watching.


609-884-3459 / uglymug.bar

b H

A Cape May institution (in a good way!) You can sit

outside with ocean and beach views, and dine with

your dog if the weather is nice. Fun fact: The circular

building was originally

a cocktail bar for

Congress Hall!

Beach and Perry,

Cape May

609-884-7199

ubH U

A family-friendly Italian restaurant, from the same

owners who ran the popular Conshocken Viggiano’s

for a quarter century. Expect classic Italian food

done right from Chef Mark and a welcome as

hearty as the pasta dishes, which you will almost

certainly want to share. And that is exactly as the

Viggianos intended it!

109 Sunset Boulevard, West Cape May

609-435-5026 / viggianosbyob.com

ubH

VINTAGE

WASHINGTON INN & WINE BAR

WESTSIDE MARKET

Set on the charming grounds of the Emlen Physick

Estate, this restaurant has become a firm favorite

for its innovative take on classic dishes. While

Vintage is outdoors, there’s a weatherproof,

climate-controlled tent where you can comfortably

enjoy your meal even if Mother Nature is in a

cranky mood. Bonus: The menu is 95% gluten-free!


609-224-6064 / vintagebyob.com

ubH U

Superb gourmet food on glorious, tree-lined

Washington Street. Established in 1978 by the Craig

family (Cape May Winery, Lucky

Bones), the Inn is still a must-visit,

from the sought-after bar seats to the

amazing wine list, featuring nearly

1,500 labels.


609-884-5697 / washingtoninn.com

ubH

Breakfast, lunch, deli counter, butcher, groceries,

baked goods... Westside has it all. In summer, grab

sandwiches to bring to the beach

or steaks to grill for dinner. Yearround,

it’s a great place to stock up

your pantry or enjoy takeout.

517 Broadway, Cape May

609-884-3061

westsidemarketwestcapemay.

com

u H


2/13: Opening Day Of The Season At Ocean View Family Restaurant

1/16: Opening Of “Black Legacy of

Historic Cape May” At Carroll Gallery

Flying Fish Studio

We are proud to serve as your trusted

wholesale screenprinter for 36 years.

Contact us today!

David, Tracey

Bill, Linda

“Black Legacy of Historic Cape May: Unexpected History” opened January 16.

Patricia, Chris

Cape May firefighters

Serving Dinner Wed-Sat from 4:30pm

closed february 16-26

Macedonia Baptist Choir performed at the exhibit opening.

Cape May’s Full-Service Jeweler

Custom Designs, Watch Batteries & Repairs

322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May

609-884-9119 TISHASFINEDINING.COM

510 CARPENTERS LANE l 609-854-4489

Shop online at trinketscapemay.com

The exhibit, at the Carroll Gallery (Physick Estate), will run through April 12.

609-884-2760

www.theflyingfishstudio.com

megan@theflyingfishstudio.com


Around The Frozen Tundras Of Very, Very Cool Cape May

Around The Frozen Tundras Of Very, Very Cool Cape May

Tom and Shelly at Sunset Beach

Ilona, Kostja, Koko (who looks freezing) also at Sunset Beach

The Concrete Ship, which some folks actually walked out to, which is never, ever a good idea, right?



The Answer Lady

Wise answers to life’s perplexing questions

Celebrating Whitney’s 40th birthday party at Fins... Alicia, Whitney, Trisha, Casey

The Answer Lady invites inquiries

from gentle readers on all manner

of relationship quandaries, matters

of the heart and ethics. If you’d

like to send a query, write to info@

exitzero.us. Or just sit back, enjoy a cup of

coffee and contemplate the wisdom herein.

Dear Answer Lady

My daughter and I are working on the

guest list for her wedding. The venue holds

100. Our dilemma is that if we invite 100

and only 80 or 90 respond, those are seats

we could extend to others. So should we

send out more than 100 invitations? Secondly,

is it appropriate to invite singletons

and not offer a plus-one option? —

Etiquette Challenged

Dear Challenged

The Answer Lady knows a bride who

invited 110 when the cap was 100. Guess

what? She got 110 RSVPs saying yes! She

had to call people and disinvite them. At

the top of the list were singletons, many of

whom were offended. If you have a significant

other but no ring, is the relationship

any less credible? We suggest you, the bride

and the fiancé have a nice brunch at the

Blue Pig and go through that list with a fine

toothcomb.

Dear Answer Lady

My husband and I want to rent a house

in Cape May for three weeks in August.

Do we use Airbnb or a realtor? My other

concern is that I was looking forward to

our family time — we have two children,

10 and 12, and they still like hanging with

us. But my mother-in-law wants to horn

her way into the three weeks. When I suggested

she come for one week, she offered

to pay for the rental. “That way, it won’t

look like I’m a freeloader” was her comment.

As far as I’m concerned, this ruins

the vacation. She will criticize everything

I do, every day, just as she always does. My

husband is no help. She dotes on him and

the kids adore her, because she gives them

anything they ask for. Help. — Outnumbered

Dear Outnumbered

Girl, you are swimming upstream and it

is not going to put you in a good light. There

have always been mothers-in-law who are a

thorn in every wife’s side. Turn a deaf ear to

the criticism. Accept the generosity of the

summer house. Plan activities outside the

house that she may not want to participate

in. As to Airbnb? Not a fan. Realtors are

accountable and present. Imagine the toilet

backs up and the owner is in the Amazons

on a nature walk. Check this issue of Exit

Zero where you will find DeSatnick, Coastline,

Jersey Cape and Coldwell Banker

among other realtors.

February is National Cherry Month!

House-Made

Cherry & Almond Italian Biscotti

Perfect with coffee, fine teas, Vin Santo,

red wines, or as a late-night treat!

Available at...

516 Carpenters Lane

304 Washington Street

on the

Exit 0 Pepper Blend

All shops open Thursdays through Mondays from 10am to 5pm


2/8: Animal Outreach Fundraiser At Fins For Social Sunday

Betsy, Sam

Wendy, Mark

Steve, Leana Heater, Shawn Mike Gibbens

YOU CAN OWN YOUR OWN HOME

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

Proudly Offering Up to

$ 30K

Grant Assistance Through the 2026 First Time Homebuyer Dream Program

Expert Mortgage Guidance • Can I Afford It? • Mortgage Options

The Tools to Home Ownership • Homebuyer Dream Program Grants

Any offer of credit is subject to credit approval.

Call Our Team Today!

(609) 463-5210

R

NMLS #410428

sturdyonline.com

R


2/8: Animal Outreach Fundraiser At Fins For Social Sunday


Charity, Patrick Sue and Tom Carroll Kevin, Jane

Aurora, Ken Mary Ann, Barbara Marie, Steve

The team from Cape Resorts Realty unwind at the Brown Room

MARKET & KITCHEN

OPEN WEEKENDS

Explore our Market, savor tastes from our Kitchen, and join

our Harvest Dinner Series for evenings of flavors with friends

and friends-to-be.

LOCATED AT BEACH PLUM FARM

140 STEVENS STREET, WEST CAPE MAY

BeachPlumFarmCapeMay.com

VIEW FARM HOURS


2/8: Animal Outreach Fundraiser

At Fins For Social Sunday

Animal Outreach crew

Robert Panaccio, VMD

Robert Moffatt, VMD

Nancy Reilly, VMD

Patricia J. Link, DVM

Lisa Hammett, DVM

Nour Hussaein, DVM

Karina, Scot

694 Petticoat Creek Lane, Cape May

609-884-1729 • capemayvet.com

hours by appointment

Dora, George


Tabernacle

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Please join us at

Tabernacle United Methodist Church,

720 Seashore Road

Saturday, February 21 from 10am-1:30pm

for Community Resource Day 2026

Connect with approximately 95 local

organizations dedicated to supporting those

in need throughout our community.

For a full list of participating organizations visit

capemaycommunityoutreach.com

Saturday, February 28 from 10am-12pm

for Kids & Play Family Discovery Day

with Rutgers Southern Regional CCR&R

Families are invited to meet local childcare

providers, explore program options, and

learn about home-based childcare options.

Enjoy story time, snacks and giveaways.

SPONSORED BY

DIAMOND: The Arc of Cape May County,

Exit Zero, Brookdale Senior Living, Tabernacle

UMM, Delaware River and Bay Authority,

South Jersey AIDS Alliance, Cape May Astro,

Knights of Columbus - Stella Maris Council #3546

PLATINUM: Options for Her

GOLD: The Branches Outreach, Family Promise,

Acenda, Cape Assist, Knights of Columbus - St

Mary’s Council #6202, Lower Township Chamber

of Commerce, Tabernacle Wednesday Men’s Prayer

Group

SILVER: Visiting Angels, Jersey Shore Federal

Credit Union

Tabernacle strives to bring in speakers on topics

of interest to the community. The entire Cape May

Community is invited to attend! There is no charge…

But donations are appreciated to help cover expenses.

For a complete list of upcoming community

events go to capemaycommunityoutreach.com

For additional info bistaksp@gmail.com



Harry, Dave, Ralph

Andrew, Asher, Amanda

Betsy, Jody, Cheryl

Ducks! If you are a regional birder

suffering from post-migration

depression, try conducting a duck

roundup. Ducks are colorful,

animate and vocal. Some gargle,

some snort, some whistle some squeal. It’s

not just “quack, quack, quack.”

Given freezing temperatures, any open

body of water will host puddle ducks — a

northern corner of Bunker Pond, Lake

Lily? Diving Ducks like Bufflehead can be

found in the back bays. Sea Ducks tend to

hang around rocky substrate. Try the Cape

May Canal jetties, the Concrete Ship and

Second Avenue Jetty.

At dawn, ducks will be flying in and

out of Delaware Bay. The dune crossover at

the end of Coral Avenue in Cape May Point

offers a fine vantage point. Check the jetties

for resting birds. The jetty at Barnegat

Light is celebrated for its wintering eiders

and Harlequin Ducks. Forsythe National

Wildlife Refuge (when roads are navigable)

makes a great day’s outing — the concentrated

waterfowl draw Bald and Golden

Eagles.

Bird Droppings

Dispatches from the nation’s birdwatching capital… by Seymore Thanu

If owls delight you, try an evening trip

to Jake’s Landing Road — providing the

road is ice free. Short-eared Owls patrol

the spartina grass just beyond the creek.

At dusk, Great-horned Owls come out to

perch in the dead cedars lining the marsh.

Short-eareds look like big, tawny moths

and are distinguished by their short tails.

Northern Harriers have long tails and

white rumps. At dusk, these competing

hunters often dog fight out over the marsh.

The Owl will be the higher, more nimble

bird.

Snowy Owls? Some turn up along the

Bayshore, but Stone Harbor Point is the

region’s Snowy Owl hotspot. Many are

nomadic — here today, elsewhere tomorrow.

This is not a particularly good year for

snowy owls in the Northeast but a few juvenile

owls reach New Jersey every winter.

Often, the owls hunt Black Ducks. Hardy

beyond measure, they winter farther north

than any other puddle duck. Some even

spend the winter in Newfoundland. Now,

that’s one tough duck.

But if your peregrinations do take you

to Stone Harbor, include a detour to nearby

Nummy Island and savor the Atlantic

Brant grazing on the roadside. These small

marine geese are a winter specialty. The

entire population settles in between Massachusetts

and the Carolinas, with New

Jersey hosting the bulk of them.

Resembling somewhat miniature Canada

Geese, the bird’s resonant call recalls

both a honk and a purr. Stand close and

you can feel as much as hear it.




2/6-2/7: Celebrating The Fourth Birthday Of Behr Brewing Company


DENNIS J. SPILKER

Manager/Funeral Director NJ Lic. No. 4038

KEVIN J. BEARE

Funeral Director NJ Lic. No. 3806

Dawn, Rob

George, Terri

Cherishing Life’s Moments

609-884-3793

spilkerfuneralhome.com

Shelley, Sandi, Cindy

Continuing a 90-Year Tradition of Serving

the Cape May and Lower Township Area

Loren, Becky Chris and Sarah Berger Mike, Jackie

Cape Harbor Shell

GASOLINE

Animal Outreach

of Cape May County

General, Cosmetic & Restorative

Dentistry for the Whole Family

• Crowns, Fillings etc

• Oral Surgery, Root Canals, Implants

• Invisalign

• Teeth Whitening — Kor, Opalescence

• Same-Day Emergencies

• Botox and Dermal Fillers

Bill, Jackie, Kimberly

DIESEL

PROPANE

TOWING

TIRE CHANGES

OIL CHANGES

Our mission is to provide shelter, care and love

for the unwanted, abused, and abandoned

animals of Cape May County. We are a no

kill organization. Our adoption program has

helped to greatly reduce the numbers of homeless

animals in our county.

Your generous donation will help provide love, shelter,

food, and medical services to helpless animals. All

contributions are tax-deductible, as allowed by law.

Call or message us online to schedule

your appointment with Dr Evan!

Dr Evan Cauterucci

MOST CARS REPAIRED SAME DAY!

aocmc.org/getinvolved

411 Park Boulevard, Cape May

609-884-5335 • capemaydental.com provider

Terry, Terri

Located At Exit 0 on the Garden State Parkway

609-898-0855 capeharborshell.com

600 Park Blvd, Unit 3, West Cape May

609-898-1738 | info@aocmc.org


The pandemic prompted many of us to

pick up hobbies like jigsaw puzzles,

sourdough, herb gardens or Tiger

King. I happily abandoned most, like

the labor-intensive homemade bagels,

as soon as the world reopened — but crochet

stuck. It keeps my hands busy, and, though

it’s frustrating to discover that I can’t count,

crocheting is somehow peaceful.

Crafts like crochet are good for your mental

health, distracting you from your troubles

as you use all of your senses. Repetitive

motions are mediative, allowing your brain

to relax, reducing stress and anxiety. Because

they help to create new neural pathways,

doctors suggest things like basket weaving

and painting as part of the recovery plan for

stroke and PTSD. In addition, crafting brings

people together, encouraging socialization in

workshops or while buying supplies.

Cape May offers outlets for this creativity.

For example, on February 21 from 10 to

11, the Nature Center of Cape May offers a

miniature birdhouse workshop using only

natural materials. This family-friendly event

is for children, and at least one adult must

Events Guide

TALES FROM A SHIPWRECK

DIVER

When: Thursday, February 19,

from 6pm

Where: Cape May City Library,

720 Franklin Street

Know This: Shipwreck diver Dan

Lieb resents a talk on the Bell

Holder wreck. Originally named

Ruth’s Barge, archived documents

and a detailed site plan created by

a team of scuba divers pointed to

the wreck’s real name and history.

How Much: Free

More Info: Registration is

requested and will open on Thursday,

February 5. To reserve, visit

the library online event calendar

at cmclibrary.org or call 609-463-

6350 x700.

EAT WHAT YOU GROW

When: Thursday, February 19,

from 6-8pm

Where: Rutgers Cooperative

Extension of CMC, 355 Courthouse

– South Dennis Road, Cape

May Court House.

The Activity Column

Catherine Dugan’s guide to getting out there and enjoying this island

Shipwreck diver Dan Lieb and writer/performer Gayle Stahlhuth

Know This: This program will

discuss growing cool season

crops, starting herbs and greens

from seed, the health benefits of

gardening and using herbs, as

well as prepping the pantry for the

gardening season.

How Much: $20

More Info: Call 609-465-5115,

ext. 3607 or email capemayag@

njaes.rutgers.edu.

CHARCUTERIE CLASS

When: Sunday, February 22,

2-4pm

Where: Cold Spring Brewery, 733

Seashore Road, Cape May

How Much: From $55

Know This: This Charcuterie

Workshop is co-hosted by Honey

& Willow Co. and Cape May Food

Tours. Come out and learn how to

make fancy cheese cuts and charcuterie

folds to make your own

beautiful boards every time.

More Info: Call 609-442-7898

SEED STARTING CLASSES

When: Tuesday, March 31, 6-8pm

Where: Rutgers Cooperative

accompany the child. The $15 fee includes all

materials. Register at njaudubon.org/event.

The Colorful Palette at 1640 Bayshore

Road in Villas offers serious art classes, like

figure drawing, and more casual Sip and

Paint events on Thursday evenings, where

you can relax with your favorite beverage

while learning a little about painting. All

materials are provided. This BYOB event is

for adults over 21. They also offer classes for

kids. Visit thecolorfulpalette.com for information.

At the Madd Potters’ Studio, they

offer a variety of classes and invite you to

“come get muddy with us” at their location at

the Cape May airport. Sign up for a series or

a single night. They also sell beautiful pieces

from experienced artists to inspire you. Visit

maddpotters.com for more information.

Enchanted Fiber in North Cape May

offers a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on the second

Wednesday of every month, where knitters

gather to create hats. The event is free, but

knitters are asked to purchase their supplies

through the store. See enchantedfiber.com

for information and a glimpse at the patterns.

Fiber Arts Yarn Shop (fiberartsyarnshop.

com) is an online retailer of yarn and other

knitting and crocheting supplies, including

hand-dyed Cape May Fiber products. Visit

Stitch by Stitch on Ocean Street for needlepoint

supplies. Beginners may want to shop

the Art Depot in Villas, sponsored by the

Center for Community Arts. Here you’ll find

gently used supplies so that you can dip your

toe in without a large investment. Visit centerforcommunityarts.org

for details.

Extension of CMC, 355 Courthouse

— South Dennis Road, Cape

May Court House.

Know This: Learn the basics

of seed starting, when to start

indoors, how to select equipment,

and seedling care. Also learn

about growing herbs for teas and

growing garden vegetables.

How Much: $15

More Info: Call 609-465-5115,

ext. 3607 or email capemayag@

njaes.rutgers.edu.

MARGARET’S DIARY DURING A

REVOLUTION

When: Wednesday, March 18 at

noon.

Where: Live at Cape May Lutheran

Church Hall, 509 Pittsburgh Avenue

and by Zoom.

How Much: Free

Know This: Hear the inspiring

story of Margaret Morris,

a Burlington, NJ widow with

four children, who kept copious

notes during the beginning of the

American Revolution. Written and

performed by Gayle Stahlhuth.

More Info: Email Classic AmericanTales@aol.com.


2/6-2/7: Celebrating The Fourth

Birthday Of Behr Brewing Company



TAI MENZ

Realtor Sales Associate

Direct 609-602-8061

TaiMenz@CoastlineRealty.com

Circle of Excellence 2017-2023

2022 Platinum Circle of Excellence

DEVELOPMENT/RENTAL INCOME POTENTIAL

Danny, Jean, Magenta

Frank, Joe, Jessica, Ashleigh, Joshua, Christal, Debbie

Zoned TB and R, Consists of 1 Triplex,

1 2 bed/1bath Single Family & 1 Lot. Asking $980,000

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005 ext 107

Subliminal Message

Charles, Chena

Behr and Steven Wilson

Steve, Chris

Zeth, Drew, Tayler, Jef


Holli Cappelli ABR, SRS


D 609-846-5376

O 609-884-5005

hollicappelli.com

hollicappelli@coastlinerealty.com

Circle of Excellence Bronze Level 2024-2025



Enrich Your Life... Adopt An Animal

Three cat-tastic felines from the Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center... call 609-465-8923

2 Fernwood Rd,

Townbank

Sold $1,100,000

Seller’s & Buyer’s Agent

Want to know

what your

home is worth?

Reach out to

me anytime!

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May, NJ

Marty, Judy, Jelly, Dennis

SANDY has been at the shelter for some

time, waiting for the right person to understand

her. She may seem grumpy, but life

hasn’t always been kind to her. Sandy was

found as a stray, sick and struggling with a

condition that made it hard for her to move

around. She needs a home where she can

feel safe and loved during her golden years.

MIDNIGHT is a petite, gentle girl in need

of a fresh start. She spent her first six years

of life with a loving family, but when they

recently fell on hard times, they had no

other option but to surrender her to the

shelter. Midnight does well with other cats,

dogs and children. She is up to date on all

vaccines, spayed, and house trained.

PECAN is a handsome young boy who is

not even a year old, yet has already overcome

a difficult start in life. Born into a

hoarding situation, he was one of many

cats who had never known comfort or stability

until being brought to the shelter.

Pecan will thrive in a patient home with a

warm bed and clean litter box.

BOB HARTMAN JR


Cell 609-780-4626

BobHartmanJr@CoastlineRealty.com

Contact me for all your sales

and rental needs!

Marie, Doc, Darlene, Vince

23 BEECHWOOD AVENUE, VILLAS

Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the

picturesque Bayside Village community with fenced back

yard and 30 x 24 detached garage. $559,000.

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005

Johan Mercado, Tiffany Haddish, Kim Aguado, Bill Fennimore




Enrich Your Life... Adopt An Animal

Three dog-tastic pooches from the Cape May County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center... call 609-465-8923

Coastal Cigar Crew

TATER is a French Bulldog mix who is a

bit shy at first. She enjoys going for walks

and has good leash skills. While she’ll

follow toys when they’re thrown, she isn’t

especially interested in playtime right now.

Tater is a sweet young girl looking for a

second chance and would thrive in a calm

home with older children where she can

settle in at her own pace.

BOLA is a beautiful, active three-year-old

whose owner was moving and couldn’t take

her, so she’s now at the shelter hoping for

a new beginning. Bola happily chases toys

(she’s still perfecting the return) and may

suddenly decide she’s a lap dog, hopping

onto the bench for attention. She’s learning

basic commands and sits when asked. Bola

needs a home that will keep her active.

SASHA is a one-and-a-half-year-old husky

mix who was found as a stray. She arrived

at the shelter very thin, but she’s gaining

weight steadily. Sasha is affectionate and

loves being with people. Her leash skills are

improving every day. Sasha would make a

wonderful companion for an active family

who will continue her training and give her

plenty of exercise!

Albert Hickman, Anthony Mosher, Bill Wheaton, Dianna Fernandez

The Kerbaugh family


Jersey Cape

Realty

SALES & RENTALS



PROPERTY PAGES

BUYING & SELLING

WITH INTEGRITY

& TRUST

Heijung Park-Colameco

Broker Salesperson

609-602-8641 (c)

OPEN HOUSE

Sat, Feb 21 • 12-3pm

317 Stites Ave, CM Point

Come take a tour at this

new “turn key” home.

I will be your guide!

Charles, Bonnie, Jon

Jersey Cape Realty, Inc.

Dolores Lanzalotti, Broker / Owner


609-884-5800 www.JerseyCapeRealty.com

Mike, Rich, Jim, Phil

Step into this enchanting cottage that is as deceptively

spacious as it is quaint. Boasting 1,530 sq

ft of airy interior living space, this home offers

plenty of room to breathe and settle in. The layout

features an effortless flow, leading you from the

sun-drenched living room directly into a bright,

open-concept eat-in kitchen, perfect for entertaining.

Nestled in the highly coveted Fow Tract, this

cozy two-bedroom, one-bathroom gem puts you

at the heart of everything. You are moments from

pristine beaches, boutique shopping, gourmet dining,

and the serene beauty of Wilbraham Park.

After a day in the sand, retreat to your private

screened-in porch to catch the evening salt

breezes. Situated in a superior, secluded setting,

this is more than just a house; it’s a lifestyle. Escape

to the Cape and start making memories that last a

lifetime! Asking Price: $1,299,000.

6 W CONGRESS STREET, CAPE MAY

Colleen, Janie, Amelia, Kim

Contact Jim McBride of Coldwell Banker Sold Needles at 609-408-3076.



2/6-2/7: Celebrating The Fourth Birthday Of Behr Brewing Company

The Movie Column

By arts columnist Tom Sims

Anne, Jan Rod and Brandy Scott Patrick, Joanne

Marty, Judy Jim, Denise The Rues

Happy Fat Tuesday… well, maybe a

day late but never a string of beads

short! In a city nearly as legendary as

Cape May, iconic New Orleans isn’t

just a movie backdrop — it’s usually

a main character with its own motives and

mood. Let’s check out the five highest-rated

films on Rotten Tomatoes that aren’t only set

in the Big Easy but use its culture, history,

and atmosphere to drive the stories.

5. Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans

(2009 — Tomatometer: 85%). Director

Werner Herzog intentionally moved this

story to New Orleans post-Katrina. A corrupt

cop (Nicolas Cage) goes deep into his

psychosis as the city struggles after disaster.

NOLA’s decadence mirrors the soul of our

anti-hero lead.

4. Girls Trip (2017 — Tomatometer: 92%).

Four legendary actors play friends who journey

to the Essence Music Festival in NOLA.

Their story captures the unique “anything

goes” core of Bourbon Street and the shared

joy of New Orleans’ love of all things festival.

It serves as a high-energy spotlight on a city

of renewal and friendship.

3. Down by Law (1986 — Tomatometer:

88%). Directed by Jim Jarmusch, this cult

classic captures a street level, poetic side of

New Orleans that tourists rarely see. It follows

three men who escape a jail and find

themselves lost in the labyrinthine Louisiana

bayous. The city’s noir quality emphasizes the

film’s deadpan, surreal energy.

2. The Princess and the Frog (2009 —

Tomatometer: 85%). In Disney’s love letter to

NOLA, the plot is inseparable from the city’s

identity, intertwining 1920s jazz culture, the

culinary dream of opening a restaurant on

the river, and the mystical shadows of Bayou

Voodoo. It’s a vibrant celebration of the city’s

resilience and flavor.

Before we get to #1, honorable mentions

go to Interview with the Vampire (1994,

64%), arguably the film that best captures

the Gothic soul of the city’s history; and 12

Years a Slave (2013, 95%), which tells a brutal,

essential part of the region’s history.

And now...

1. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951 —

Tomatometer: 98%). The most iconic New

Orleans film of all time. Based on the Tennessee

Williams play, the overbearing heat of the

French Quarter mirrors the growing tension

between Blanche (Vivien Leigh) and Stanley

(Marlon Brando). What some call the city’s

faded grandeur is central to Blanche’s devastating

arc.

So mix a Sazerac, dunk a beignet (in Café

Du Monde chicory coffee, of course), or feast

on a plate of jambalaya, and enjoy one or

more of these flicks. Did I miss a movie? Tell

me! Email flixyoumissed@gmail.com.


MARGARET KITTNER BETHEL


CAPE MAY COUNTY

ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

2023 REALTOR OF THE YEAR

7-Time Winner of the

2/7: Galentine’s Ladies Night At

MudHen Brewing Company

2/7: Galentine’s Ladies Night At MudHen Brewing Company

609-408-1012 MBethel@CoastlineRealty.com

VACATION RENTAL WITH HARBOR VIEWS

1534 Yacht Avenue, Unit 4, Cape May

2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Sleeps 6. Take in views of the harbor

from the porch, bedroom, or living room! Walking distance

to restaurants, short bike ride or drive to beach & shopping.

Jen, Madeline, Susie

Danielle, Holly, Shelby

Amy, Jen, Deere, Noelle

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May 609-884-5005

Pepa, Isabelle

Sara, Shannon, Roe, Angel

Emma, Julie, Shelby

Ronda, Jen, Sharon

Sloan, Sam, Jessi, Sierra

Coast Guard helicopter rescue swimmers... very cool!


Visit JerseyCapeRealty.com

Your source for Shore Real Estate

Your SHORE Experts

10 Folsom Ave, Townbank

5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths - $1,929,000

48 Spruce Ave, Villas

2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath - $439,000

569 New England Rd, Lower Township

4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths - $1,995,000

Under Contract

Custom Built with Water Views

Brand new contemporary near bay

featuring two primary suites, inground

pool and detached oversized

garage/cabana house.

Easy Coastal Living

Quaint residence offering spacious

living/kitchen areas, newer roof and

heat/AC, detached storage building/

workshop. Two blocks to bay.

Main Home Plus Barndominium

Exceptional estate artfully conceived

by former Ralph Lauren designer.

Converted guest quarters. Surrounded

by preserved lands.

Jersey Cape Realty ~ Your Cape May Connection

For Everything Real Estate

SALES • VACATION RENTALS • COMMERCIAL

INVESTMENT PROPERTY • NEW CONSTRUCTION

Real Estate is Local. So Are We.

933 Washington St, Cape May

9 Bedrooms, 5 Baths - $2,860,000

Historic Thomas Webster House

Masterpiece in the heart of town on

nearly 1/3 of an acre with landscaped

gardens, private parking. Use as single

or multi-family.

892 Weeks Landing Rd, Erma

5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths - $2,099,000

Thank You for

Attending our

Open House

Extravaganza &

Thank You Reception

309 S. Main St, Cape May Court House

Office/Professional Space - $649,900

317 Stites Ave, Cape May Point

5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths - $2,489,000

Designer Furnished and Ready

New construction just two blocks

to the beach! Features top-of-theline

appliances, two primary suites,

carport, and storage shed.

118 Shadeland Ave, Villas

3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - $599,000

No one understands a real estate market like the people who live and work

in it every day. At JCR, our agents aren’t just licensed – they’re local experts

who know the neighborhoods, the trends, the regulations, and stories behind

every street and sale. When you’re making one of life’s biggest decisions,

trust the team with real local insight.

Trust JCR – your local real estate experts.

Your Own Private Sanctuary

Farmhouse, barn and playhouse on a

double lot backing to golf course.

Luxurious pool, in-home movie

theater, finished basement.

Calling All Entrepreneurs

Move-in ready office space for

business professionals. Quality

furnishings included. Visible, center

town location with paved parking.

Stellar Renovation

Thoughtfully updated rancher within

easy walk to bay. Brand new kitchen

and bathrooms. Pretty yard, storage

shed.

Dolores Lanzalotti, Broker/Owner

739 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08204 Info@JerseyCapeRealty.com

www.JerseyCapeRealty.com 609-884-5800

Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

Closed Sundays in December

With our full-time professional Realtors & a fully dedicated rental team

609-884-5800


2/7: Galentine’s Ladies Night At MudHen Brewing Company

Megan, Stacey Tim and Kristen Jenkins Rich, Trish

Debbie, Sue John, Jen Trish, Heather



(609) 884-5005 • CoastlineRealty.com

For Sale

127 Third Avenue, West Cape May

The Merry Widow on historic Jackson

Street is a rare, top-floor remodeled condo

by a premier Cape May builder.

Overlooking the Washington Street Mall,

you are steps from the best shopping,

dining, and beaches.

The sun-drenched living area opens to a

private rooftop deck for ocean breezes and

sunset views. The interior features a

Highlights

1 Bedroom

1 Bathroom

Penthouse Unit

Beach Block

Asking:

$1,400,000

spa-like bathroom, in-unit laundry, and assigned parking.

A charming lower-level sitting room allows you to enjoy the

sounds of horse-drawn carriages passing by. Currently a

successful vacation rental ($4,200/peak week), this property

perfectly blends modern design with classic Cape May charm.

Ami Menz

Broker Associate

Listing

Agent

Cell: (609) 425-5756

Ami@CoastlineRealty.com

941 Columbia Avenue, Cape May

Carol Menz - Broker of Record/Owner

Your Way to Cape May

Starts with Coastline Realty

410+ Vacation Rentals

Cape May’s #1 Client Proven Choice

V24 N2

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