This week we headed to one of Cape May’s most popular spots, The Rusty Nail, to continue our quest to honor the area’s top mixologists. “The Nail,” as it’s known by the locals, is famous for its surfer vibe with a laid-back feel, as well as its friendly faces that welcome patrons back time after time. As we walked up to The Nail’s outdoor bar, we were greeted by the smile of Chad Shagren, making him an easy pick for this week’s honor.
Originally from Cape May, Chad is quite the veteran at The Nail, with this summer being his eighth. Chad has been working at The Nail ever since its opening, loving the friendly staff and his repeat clientele.
While Chad spends his summers with his family and bartending at The Nail, he travels across the country to California during the off-season, where he also bartends as well as attends school. Chad has also filmed in multiple locations for Shark Week, obtaining the freelancing job through connections made while working on a dive boat.
When Chad isn’t whipping up cocktails at work, he enjoys the beach, boating, fishing, staying active, and sipping on his favorite Nail drink, Cape May Vice, on the other side of the bar.
Visit Chad and the rest of The Rusty Nail crew seven days a week. The Nail opens at 7:30 a.m. and features live music daily. Specials include the “all day every day” special of $3 Coors Light, Miller Lite and Yuengling, and $3 Corona Light bottles on Sundays.