Originally a seasonal paper-plate seafood joint, Urie’s Waterfront Restaurant quickly grew into a huge complex that has remained a Wildwood landmark for nearly sixty years.
The Urie family’s connection to the Wildwoods began like so many others. They vacationed on the island for years, but quickly acknowledge the potential for a successful summer business at the peak of the Wildwoods’ popularity. The three Urie brothers – George, Charles and Larry – were already in the food business, as owners and operators of Philadelphia seafood and catering business. Together, they decided to take a leap of faith, opening their little fish fry operation at a strategic location at the entrance to the Wildwoods, just off the George Redding Bridge.
In 1963, George Urie took sole control over the eatery, enlisting the help of his wife and eight children who were already well seasoned in the business. Finally, after about 40 years in the hospitality business, the Urie family decided it was time to make a change. Urie’s Fish Fry Restaurant was sold to a group of local businessmen who have maintained the Urie’s spirit but made a number of modern updates that have taken Urie’s to the next level. Recently voted “Best Water View Dining” by South Jersey Magazine, Urie’s continues in the casual family dining tradition of the original fish-fry.
Starting at 11:30 a.m. daily, the whole family can be swept away to the tropics at this affordable dining destination. Come by boat or car, Urie’s has plenty of dockage and parking to accommodate both. Take a seat on the ever-popular waterfront deck and indulge in all-you-can- eat crabs as you unwind. Pull up a seat at Urie’s outside Tiki Bar and Raw Bar and get lost in the sights and sounds of the shore. The deck hosts daily happy hour from 2 to 4 p.m. featuring half-priced apps and $2 draft beers. Sunday through Friday, stick around for live entertainment that rocks the deck from 6 to 9 p.m. Sit back and enjoy a Urie’s Rum Runner or a Voo Doo Bucket for two, and soak up this distinct island feel.
Dinner is served from 4 p.m. on Urie’s deck and in the air-conditioned dining rooms. Over its long history, Urie’s has fine-tuned its menu, now featuring several must-try items. Start your night off with classics such as Shrimp Cocktail, Crab Balls, or Ahi Tuna. The Catch of the Day is always fresh, and the Crab Cakes are homemade every time. For land-lovers, Uries’s offers everything from Chicken Francaise to Prime Rib and Baby Back Ribs.
Whatever your selection, be sure to save room for dessert. Their bread pudding is rumored to be the “best in town”. When you’re the early bird, you definitely catch the worm with Urie’s early dinner specials offered from 4-6 p.m.
With Kid’s meals priced reasonably and a massive arcade with a soft-serve ice cream bar attached, Urie’s is a win-win for both your wallet and your children. Every Wednesday, have your caricature drawn to document your Urie’s memories. A live magician dazzles diners with his tricks and illusions each Friday. Featuring fun for family and friends of all ages and interests, Urie’s Waterfront Restaurant has been a Wildwoods mainstay since 1956.
588 W Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood
(609) 522-4189, uries.net