Cape May Named A Runner-Up for Best Small Town Food Scene in America

As Cape May continues its milestone celebration—175 years as a city, 50 years as a National Historic Landmark, and 250 years of America—it is once again earning national attention for something it has always been known for: incredible food.

In the latest USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Cape May was named a runner-up for Best Small Town Food Scene in America, recognizing it among the top culinary destinations in the country.

The annual competition highlights small towns across the United States with standout dining cultures, from farm-to-table restaurants and local bakeries to vibrant fine dining and neighborhood cafés. Cape May’s recognition places it among the elite tier of culinary destinations nationwide.

A Food Scene Built on Place and Tradition

Cape May’s culinary identity is deeply tied to its coastal setting and historic charm. With restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and specialty food shops all within walking distance of the Atlantic Ocean, the town offers a uniquely immersive dining experience.

From elegant fine dining to casual breakfast spots and laid-back seafood shacks, Cape May’s food scene reflects both its heritage and its creativity—blending fresh local seafood, seasonal ingredients, and generations of hospitality.

National Recognition for a Local Experience

Cape May stands out because of its density of dining options and the quality of experiences packed into a walkable historic downtown. Visitors can spend a single day sampling everything from award-winning seafood to artisan pastries—all within blocks of Victorian streets and ocean views.

This recognition builds on Cape May’s growing list of national accolades, reinforcing its reputation not only as a historic seaside destination, but also as a serious culinary contender on the national stage.

A Celebration of Flavor and Legacy

As Cape May honors its legacy as a seaside resort, this recognition underscores an important truth: its story is still being written—one meal, one restaurant, and one visitor experience at a time.

From sunrise breakfasts to sunset dinners by the sea, Cape May continues to prove that great small towns don’t just offer history and beauty—they serve unforgettable flavor as well.