Ocean View Cape May restaurant menu with prices changes seasonally to feature local catches and fresh produce. This guide gives you the full breakdown of what to expect when dining at this waterfront spot in Cape May, New Jersey. You will find current pricing, popular dishes, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Located right on the water, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The menu focuses on seafood, but there are options for everyone. Whether you want a casual lunch or a special dinner, the prices reflect the quality of the ingredients and the location.
Ocean View Cape May Restaurant Menu With Prices
Let’s dive into the full menu. The restaurant updates its offerings based on what is fresh and in season. Below is a typical menu structure you can expect during peak summer months.
Appetizers And Starters
Start your meal with something light. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own before the main course.
- Steamed Little Neck Clams – $14.95. Served with drawn butter and lemon.
- Crispy Calamari – $12.50. Lightly battered and fried, with marinara and lemon aioli.
- Jumbo Lump Crab Cocktail – $18.00. Chilled crab meat with cocktail sauce.
- Oysters on the Half Shell – $3.50 each. Market price varies daily.
- Shrimp Cocktail – $15.00. Six large shrimp with house-made sauce.
- Fried Oysters – $14.00. Served with remoulade and pickled vegetables.
Salads And Soups
These are lighter options that still pack flavor. Many can be made into a full meal with added protein.
- House Salad – $8.00. Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad – $9.50. Romaine, parmesan, croutons, and classic dressing.
- Cobb Salad – $14.00. Bacon, egg, avocado, blue cheese, and grilled chicken.
- New England Clam Chowder – $7.00 cup, $9.00 bowl. Creamy and loaded with clams.
- Lobster Bisque – $9.00 cup, $12.00 bowl. Rich and smooth.
Main Courses
This is where the menu shines. Most entrees come with a choice of two sides, such as coleslaw, french fries, or seasonal vegetables.
- Pan-Seared Scallops – $28.00. Served with risotto and asparagus.
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon – $24.00. Lemon butter sauce and roasted potatoes.
- Lobster Tail – Market price, usually around $35.00. Broiled with garlic butter.
- Fried Shrimp Platter – $22.00. Golden fried shrimp with fries and slaw.
- Whole Fried Flounder – $26.00. Lightly battered and served with tartar sauce.
- Seafood Pasta – $25.00. Shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a white wine garlic sauce.
- Surf and Turf – $42.00. 8-ounce filet mignon with a lobster tail.
Land Lovers Options
Not everyone wants seafood. The menu includes several meat and poultry dishes.
- Grilled Chicken Breast – $18.00. Marinated and served with mashed potatoes.
- New York Strip Steak – $32.00. 12-ounce cut with a side of vegetables.
- Burger – $15.00. Half-pound angus beef with lettuce, tomato, and onion.
- Pork Chop – $24.00. Bone-in chop with apple chutney.
Kids Menu
Younger diners have their own options. Prices range from $8.00 to $12.00.
- Grilled Cheese with Fries
- Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
- Buttered Noodles
- Mini Cheeseburger
- Fish Sticks
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note. All desserts are made in-house.
- Key Lime Pie – $8.00
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $9.00
- New York Cheesecake – $8.50
- Ice Cream Sundae – $7.00
Beverages
Drink options include soft drinks, iced tea, coffee, and a full bar.
- Soda – $3.00
- Iced Tea – $3.00
- Coffee – $3.50
- Draft Beer – $6.00 to $8.00
- Wine by the Glass – $9.00 to $14.00
- Cocktails – $12.00 to $16.00
Seasonal Menu Changes
The menu shifts throughout the year. Spring and summer bring lighter dishes and more local fish. Fall and winter feature heartier options like stews and roasted meats.
In the summer, you will see more soft shell crabs and fresh tomatoes. Winter menus often include braised short ribs and root vegetables. The restaurant sources from local farms and fisheries when possible.
Prices may increase slightly during peak season due to demand. Always check the current menu board or ask your server for daily specials. These specials often represent the best value.
How To Get The Best Value
You can save money by visiting during lunch or early dinner hours. Lunch prices are generally lower than dinner prices. The lunch menu includes smaller portions and lighter fare.
Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM daily. During this time, appetizers are half off and drinks have discounts. This is a great way to sample several items without spending too much.
Another tip is to share a main course. Portions are generous, and many dishes come with two sides. Splitting an entree and adding a salad or appetizer can feed two people for under $40.
Dining Experience And Atmosphere
The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor deck offers direct views of the ocean. You can watch boats come and go while you eat.
Indoor seating is cozy with large windows. The decor is nautical but not overdone. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu.
Reservations are recommended during summer weekends. Walk-ins are accepted but may have a wait. The restaurant gets busy, especially around sunset.
What To Wear
The dress code is casual. Shorts and t-shirts are fine during the day. Evenings are slightly more polished, but jeans and a nice top work well. No need for formal wear.
Parking And Location
The restaurant is located on Beach Avenue. There is a small parking lot, but it fills up fast. Street parking is available nearby. You can also walk from most hotels in Cape May.
If you are staying in the historic district, it is a 10-minute walk. Biking is also popular. The restaurant has a bike rack out front.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ocean View Cape May restaurant have a gluten-free menu?
Yes. They offer gluten-free options for many dishes. Ask your server for the gluten-free menu. Items like grilled fish, salads, and steamed vegetables are safe choices.
Can I make a reservation for a large group?
Yes, groups of 8 or more can call ahead. The restaurant can accommodate parties up to 20 people. For larger groups, they may suggest a private dining area.
Is there a kids menu at the Ocean View Cape May restaurant?
Yes. The kids menu includes classic options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese. Prices range from $8 to $12. Children under 5 eat free with a paying adult.
What is the price range for dinner at the Ocean View Cape May restaurant?
Dinner entrees range from $18 to $42. Appetizers are $8 to $18. Desserts are around $8. A full meal for one person with a drink typically costs $40 to $60.
Does the restaurant offer takeout or delivery?
Yes, takeout is available. You can call in your order or place it at the counter. Delivery is not offered directly, but third-party services may be available.
Tips For First-Time Visitors
Arrive early if you want a table with a view. The best seats go fast. Aim for 5 PM if you are dining in the evening.
Check the weather before you go. Outdoor seating is lovely but can be windy. Bring a light jacket even in summer.
Do not skip the daily specials. The chef often features unique dishes not on the regular menu. These specials highlight the freshest ingredients available.
If you are unsure what to order, ask your server. They know the menu well and can recommend based on your preferences. Most servers have tried everything on the menu.
Consider ordering a seafood tower if you are with a group. It includes oysters, clams, shrimp, and crab. The price is around $75 and serves 2 to 3 people.
Comparing To Other Cape May Restaurants
Ocean View Cape May is mid-range in pricing. Some upscale spots charge $50 or more for a main course. Others are more casual and cost less.
The value here comes from the quality of the food and the view. You pay a little more for the oceanfront location, but the experience is worth it.
For a cheaper option, try the Lobster House down the street. It has a raw bar and takeout counter. But it does not have the same direct ocean view.
If you want a romantic dinner, Ocean View is a solid choice. The sunset views are stunning. The noise level is moderate, making conversation easy.
Final Thoughts On The Menu And Pricing
The Ocean View Cape May restaurant menu with prices offers something for everyone. Seafood lovers will find plenty of options. Meat eaters and kids are also covered.
Prices are fair for the quality and location. You can dine well for under $30 per person if you stick to lunch or appetizers. A full dinner with drinks will run closer to $50 or $60.
Plan ahead by checking the menu online before you go. This helps you decide what to order and budget accordingly. The restaurant updates its website regularly.
Do not forget to save room for dessert. The key lime pie is a customer favorite. It is tangy, sweet, and the perfect end to a seafood meal.
Overall, this restaurant is a must-visit when in Cape May. The combination of fresh food, ocean views, and reasonable prices makes it a top choice. Whether you are a local or a tourist, you will enjoy the experience.
Remember that the menu changes with the seasons. What you see in July may not be available in December. But the quality remains consistent year-round.
Book your table early, especially during holidays and summer weekends. Walk-ins are welcome but may face a wait. Plan accordingly to make the most of your meal.
We hope this guide helps you navigate the Ocean View Cape May restaurant menu with prices. Enjoy your meal and the beautiful views.