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We’re happy to announce several media outlets recently covered summer happenings at Harry’s including our updated menu and new executive chef, Jim Maugeri.
What did they have to say about our award-winning Cape May restaurant and bar?
Changing Hands: New Developments in Cape May’s Dining Scene
The Hirsh Family, who owned and operated The Montreal since 1966, sold the property, and with it the beloved rooftop bar and the restaurant, Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille, to Madison Resorts, a locally owned hospitality company headed by property operations veteran Dan Alicea in late 2021.
“My wife was born and raised in Cape May County, now operating a piece of its history is a childhood dream coming true for both of us. We are humbled and honored by the Hirsch family for putting their trust in Madison Resorts; we are committed to delivering exceptional guest service and ensuring we hold the community first in our heart,” says Alicea.
Longtime customers can rest assured that Madison Resorts plans to honor all our favorite traditions—an increase of live music, stunning views, and ice-cold cocktails—while elevating the menu under the helm of Executive Chef Jim Maugeri, who previously ran Zagat-rated restaurants in Bordentown and Lambertville. Harry’s is open already, and guests can expect daily breakfasts as well as exciting specials like the Seafood Martini for Two, —fresh and locally sourced seafood packed into a 44-ounce martini glass. All we have to say is “yum.”
Down the Shore: What’s New at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille in Cape May
Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille introduces new Executive Chef Jim Maugeri, who debuts a new menu just in time for the height of summer shore season. Maugeri brings 25 years of culinary experience that started when he was a teenager and he has worked his way up through culinary and hospitality programs his entire life. He has been an Executive Chef since 2007, leading kitchens, developing menus, analyzing demographics to see our price points and cuisine, and developing life-long relationships in and out the kitchens and dining rooms along the East Coast.
When asked about the new menu and inspiration, Chef said, “The menu is a combination of my passion for seafood, local sourcing and Harry’s beach favorites. I wanted to add depth to our seafood offerings and provide a balance of land items, gluten-free and vegetarian dishes too. My goal was to bring the menu up to a new level, while having elevated dishes alongside accessible crowd-pleasers. There’s a great mix of sandwiches, burgers and handhelds, starters and more elaborate entrees. But my passion in the kitchen is in working with seafood. I love working with all different types of fish including swordfish, seabass, halibut, shrimp, etc. and pairing them with fresh herbs, gastriques and complex pan pickups. Seafood offers a plethora of opportunities and lets me get creative. Plus, watch for our culinary team to shine with weekly specials that really let us get creative.”
Best Bars in Cape May to Grab a Drink
You’ll be glad you made it to Cape May if you’re looking for some great bar experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic date, a family get-together, or a celebration, there is a bar to suit your needs. From Mayer’s Tavern to The Mad Batter Restaurant and Bar, you’re sure to find a place that suits your mood. In addition to these options, Cape May is home to several unique restaurants and bars that will keep you entertained.
Harry’s offers seafood and sandwiches, a waterfront eatery with a rooftop bar, and live music. The informal ambiance lends itself to a relaxed atmosphere. Harry’s is located right off the boardwalk at the end of Main Street in the center of Cape May. The waterfront restaurant is also known for its award-winning beer selection.
Executive Chef Jim Maugeri Joins Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille
Maugeri grew up in Lacey Twp. NJ started working in LBI at age 16, washing dishes at Raimondo’s in Surf City. He attended Brick Vocational Technical School for two years in the culinary arts program. After graduating high school, he attended Johnson and Wales University from 2000 to 2002. While attending Johnson and Wales, he was employed at Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.
When asked about the new menu and inspiration, Chef said, “The menu combines his passion for seafood, local sourcing, and Harry’s beach favorites. He also wanted to add depth to our seafood offerings and provide a balance of land items, gluten-free and vegetarian dishes too.”
The goal is to bring a new level of culinary dishes to the restaurant while having elevated dishes alongside accessible crowd-pleasers. There’s a great mix of sandwiches, burgers, handhelds, starters, and more elaborate entrees…So, look for a plethora of seafood options and weekly specials that let us get creative.
There you have it. This summer at Harry’s, we’re excited to offer new menu items, a refreshed live entertainment schedule, excellent service, and – of course – beautiful ocean views from our rooftop patio.
Best of Cape May
Last year, Harry’s swept the Best of Cape May competition, receiving top honors in seven categories including Best Appetizers, Best Cocktails, Best View, and more. This year, we hope to do the same. That’s why we’re so happy to have new executive chef Jim Maugeri on board. Look out for the survey, published by capemay.com and please vote for our Cape May restaurant and bar in 2022.