Just steps from the bustling Wildwood Boardwalk, visitors can find an array of delicious dining options to fuel up for a day of rides and amusements. Within walking distance of the beach, these five restaurants offer quick bites, hearty meals, and sweet treats for families and couples alike.
Concord Cafe
A fixture on the Wildwood boardwalk since the 1950s, Concord Cafe is a classic Jersey Shore diner known for its retro vibes, hearty portions, and seasonal hours. The cash-only eatery is popular with tourists and locals alike and serves up no-frills diner fare like juicy burgers, golden fries, and old-fashioned milkshakes whipped up from scratch.
With its checkerboard floors, chrome accents, and red vinyl booths, Concord Cafe is a step back to vintage seaside dining. Generations of families have flocked to the friendly cafe for stick-to-your-ribs breakfast plates, hot off-the-griddle sandwiches, and fresh fried seafood. Whether you grab a seat at the wraparound counter or slide into a vinyl booth, Concord Cafe offers a taste of nostalgia by the shore from March through October each year.
Concord Cafe has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. It’s considered a Jersey Shore staple.
Curley’s Fries
A favorite stop along the Wildwood Boardwalk for over 65 years, Curley’s Fries serves up piping hot, crispy french fries and onion rings that hit the spot after a long day at the beach. Located on the bustling boardwalk since 1956, the Curley family has owned this Jersey Shore institution for generations.
Their simple menu focuses on doing just a few items well – fries available plain or loaded, onion rings, fried Oreos, and lemonade or shakes to drink. Orders are prepared fresh when placed and served in their iconic grease-stained white paper trays. Enjoy your hearty portion of Curley’s signature crispy fries seasoned with just the right amount of salt while breathing in the smell of the ocean air.
For families and boardwalk lovers, no trip to Wildwood is complete without grabbing a tray of these famous fries at this classic boardwalk eatery.
Duffer’s
Serving up sweet treats and smiles since 1984, Duffer’s is a beloved Wildwood boardwalk institution for ice cream lovers of all ages. Located on the bustling boards near the carnival rides, this neon-lit parlor dishes homemade soft serve, milkshakes, sundaes, and banana splits all summer.
With a nostalgic 1950s soda shop vibe, Duffer’s offers a walk back in time with its pink and teal decor, jukebox tunes, and photo-covered walls. Kids beg parents for a cone while teens flock here for late-night scoops after beach bonfires. The signature “Duffer’s Delight” features 12 scoops of ice cream with all the toppings, a challenge for even the most devoted ice cream fanatic.
From classic chocolate and vanilla cones to indulge sundaes smothered in hot fudge, Duffer’s sweet, chilled treats hit the spot on hot summer days and nights on the Wildwood boards.
The Jellyfish Cafe
Known for its quirky decor and laidback vibe, The Jellyfish Cafe has been a beloved breakfast and lunch spot in Wildwood since 1989. Located just off the boardwalk, this casual cafe serves up huge portions of morning favorites like fluffy pancakes, loaded omelets, specialty french toast, deli sandwiches, salads, and soups for lunch.
Its name and ocean-themed decor pay homage to the jellyfish often floating along the Jersey Shore coastline. The interior features artsy jellyfish sculptures, underwater murals, and tables made from old surfboards. Guests relax amid the funky, beachy decor while enjoying classic comfort foods prepared fresh.
Whether you stop by for a pre-beach breakfast or a quick lunch break between riding waves, The Jellyfish Cafe’s chill atmosphere and tasty food make it a must-visit in Wildwood.
Crab and Seafood Shack
For the freshest seafood in Wildwood, head to Crab & Seafood Shack. This unpretentious counter-service eatery located a block from the beach has served casual coastal cuisine since 2015. Specializing in crab legs, shrimp, clam strips, fish sandwiches, and more, they dish out generous portions of crispy, flaky goodness at great prices. Standouts include plump crab cakes, golden fried shrimp, and their signature boil bags filled with shellfish, corn, and potatoes.
Order at the counter, grab some napkins and malt vinegar and enjoy feasting on your catch seated at one of the picnic tables. With its no-frills vibe, easygoing staff, and focus on food, Crab & Seafood Shack is the perfect place to unwind and savor the flavors of the sea after a long day soaked in sun and saltwater.
No trip to the Jersey Shore is complete without indulging in Crab & Seafood Shack’s hearty seafood classics.