Ice House Restaurant & Bar is known for its rooftop deck overlooking scenic Otten’s Harbor, creating a relaxing atmosphere in the middle of the sights and sounds of busy Wildwood. It’s become a top choice for Cape May County dwellers who wish to cool down after a hot summer day, and rightfully so, as our bartender of the week, Joe Doyle, keeps the cool drinks coming.
Now in his fourth summer bartending at Ice House, this job serves as a summer gig during Joe’s time off from his initial job as a communications professor at La Salle University. Joe shared that he wanted something to do while not in semester, and since he likes meeting new people, making cocktails and learning about different spirits, bartending has become the perfect side job.
Joe lives in Philadelphia most of the year and travels back and forth between there and his home in Wildwood. He told us that when he has some time off at the Jersey Shore, he enjoys the beach, playing basketball and visiting local establishments in Wildwood.
When we asked Joe what his favorite thing is about working at Ice House, he replied, “Working in the service industry. From a communications standpoint, it really keeps me sharp. Even if I have a bad day, I have to be friendly no matter what. It really builds character.”
Although we asked Joe to whip us up a Red Storm (pictured), he has his own drink favorites. His recommended cocktail to have in hand while taking in the beautiful harbor view is a boulvardier, composed of bourbon or whiskey, sweet vermouth and campari. He let us know that it’s not for the amateur drinker!
Visit Joe at Ice House during daily Happy Hour on the deck is until 6 p.m. Also on the deck, Ice House offers different food and drink specials throughout the week!