The Wharf, Wildwood’s favorite “Hideaway on the Waterway”, has established itself as the island’s preferred hotspot for the best in entertainment, affordable family dining, and of course, sunset views. This 2014 season, however, the Wharf is rolling out a menu revamp and specials for a new and improved dining experience sure to impress.
Key to the Wharf’s new take on their classic cuisine is Chef Blake Cady. Chef Blake is a welcome addition to the Wharf staff and brings with him a world of restaurant experience. He attended The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, where he received an Associates of Science degree in Culinary Arts. He also received a Bachelors degree in Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University and has since worked in virtually all positions in food service, from server to banquet captain.
Chef Blake has been living and working in the Cape May County area for seven years now, and was happy to participate in a careful re-evaluation of the Wharf’s menu prior to this summer season. “Our culinary team took each item and analyzed its overall appeal and made subtle changes to not only make the dish look more appetizing, but also to create harmonious flavors throughout the dish.”
Chef Blake was also responsible for a number of menu additions. The Crab and Shrimp Alla Vodka has already made a huge splash, featuring delicious sautéed Indonesian super lump crab meat in a classic vodka sauce tossed with pasta and topped with horseradish and stuffed-prosciutto wrapped gulf shrimp and topped with freshly grated parmesan. The Pan Seared Duck Dumplings with a sweet soy and shallot reduction are an excellent start to your Wharf meal. These fine dining-inspired dishes, hardwood flooring, and an elegant oak bar make for a memorable and comfortable dining experience in the Wharf’s recently renovated indoor dining space. Be sure to inquire about the all-new after-dinner martini menu now available only in the indoor dining room and bar.
Outside on the deck, “we have experimented with multiple burger combinations such as the Mac & Cheese burger, French onion burger, and a deconstructed guacamole burger,” explains Chef Blake.His must-have recommendation? “Our Sweet Inferno Shrimp! It’s our version of the popular ‘Bang Bang Shrimp’ appetizer, however, I firmly believe we have perfected it.” Overlooking Otten’s Harbor on the intercoastal waterway, the deck is home to unbeatably beautiful golden sunsets. The sounds of the best local bands including The Sindi Raymond Band, The Juliano Brothers, StellarMojo, and Bauer & Shea heat up the deck daily.
Don’t miss out on the Wharf’s 2014 weekday specials. Mondays, swing by the Raw Bar from 5 to 9 p.m. for half-price steamers, mussels, clams and oysters, or U-Peel shrimp. Taco Tuesdays feature half-price fish, shrimp, and pork tacos all evening long. On Wednesdays, the Wharf celebrates Pizza Day with personal pizzas for just $5 all day long. Finally, grab a fresh 8 oz. burger for just $5 on Thursday’s Burger Day. The Sunset Dinner Specials, offered nightly, have been totally remastered and offer an awesome discount on a three-course dining experience from 4-6 p.m.
Visit the Wharf by foot, bike, car, or boat for a cold cocktail or fine dish any time after 11 a.m. daily. Take a break from the beach with the Wharf’s all new $6.95 lunch specials. One of the island’s most extended, Happy Hour at the Wharf as it begins at 11 a.m. and lasts until 6 p.m. daily! Don’t just take it from us…the Wharf offers an unforgettable waterfront experience that you have to see to believe.
708 Burk Avenue, Wildwood
609-522-6336, www.thewharfnj.com
By Meg Kummer