There are so many wonderful places to travel to across the globe, but one place we love to return to time and time again is Cape May, NJ. In recent years, we've visited so frequently that it's become our home away from home. So when it came time to plan a Valentine's weekend getaway this year, we decided to head back to this beautiful shore point for three nights of fabulous food, beautiful houses, and dazzling beaches. Yes, it's cold as all get-out down here, but it has detracted from the experience one bit.
One of the things we love about Cape May is its great selection of restaurants. From BYO's to well-crafted bars - and even cozy coffee shops - you will not be lost for good eats. I intend to write about our Top Five Cape May restaurants soon, for those planning a Summer escape.
For now, I want to give a shout-out to those establishments that made this weekend special...
The Mad Batter on Jackson Street
The Mad Batter. You can't do Cape May without hitting The Batter for breakfast on Jackson Street. Spicy Bloody Mary's, to-die for waffles, and the best country breakfast in the area. This place is consistent in its quality, and the service is warm and accomdating.
Magic Brain Cybercafe. This coffee and pastry shop located in the Carpenter Street Mall on Perry Street across from Congress Hall was our savior over this cold weekend providing us with a warm respite and a great cup of coffee. The owner is very pleasant and super-friendly. Delicious cookies and pastries, and a great selection of coffee makes this a great place to drop by regardless of the season.
Valentine's Dinner at The Ebbitt Room
Cape May Peanut Butter Company. Five words: Peanut Butter Cup Hot Chocolate. Located on Carpenters Lane, this is the place to go if your looking for great tasting peanut butter, hot beverages, a variety of cookies and pastries, and a tasting of every kind of peanut butter imaginable. And, yes: the owner here is very sweet as well!
The Ebbitt Room. Our special occasion - and, frankly, any occasion restaurant - is located in The Virgina Hotel on Jackson Street. We booked reservations for Valentine's Day dinner months in advance. Farm-to-table (from their own farm!) fare includes Beach Plum Farm Deviled Eggs and a delicious Pork Chop, in addition to their unbelievably tender flash-fried calamari and local Oysters, is just some of the well-made food that made it into our bellies this weekend.
We will be bringing more of our perspective on Cape May, NJ over the coming months as we countdown to the Summer months at the seashore. Happy Travels...