New Jersey - The Hungry Nomad

Brunch at the Mad Batter (Cape May, USA)

On the latest trip to Cape May (see Foodie’s Guide to Cape May) we had lunch at the recommended Mad Batter. The restaurant is located in one of the charming, quaint and cozy victorian houses on Jackson street which is also home to the Carroll Villa Hotel. We went after the brunch rush with the restaurant half empty. Yet our server seemed rushed and rude. Her attitude however, did not ruin our meal which started off with the one of the tastiest bloody marys I’ve had to date, it was followed by several rounds of lime margaritas. Our meal consisted of the lobster egg benedict, hamburger served with a slice of camembert cheese and fries, blackened fish sandwich, and crab meat omelet. The lobster benedict was really delicious with generous pieces of fresh lobster topped with hollandaise sauce on two pieces of english muffin. The only complaint at the table was the blackened fish which was too dry and flavorless. Ending the meal with bellies full, we all left feeling quite satisfied. Overall, a great brunch spot if you can get past the service.

A Foodie’s Guide to Cape May (Cape May, New Jersey)

I’ll admit my experience and knowledge about New Jersey was very limited prior to moving to Philadelphia. It mostly involved landing in Newark airport and heading straight to New York trying to dodge Tony Soprano and other New Jersey cliches like MTV’s Jersey Shore and Bravo’s Housewives of New Jersey. I had no idea that the Jersey Shore would be so alluring and would break all those stereotypes I’d build over the years in my mind (thanks to cable tv).

Adapting to the culture in Philadelphia, we make it a point to frequent the ‘Shore’ on occasion when we need to get out of town for a quick getaway. And it may come as no surprise that our destination on the Jersey Shore is none other than Cape May: the oldest beachside resort in the country and the southernmost point in New Jersey. Cape May has stood the test of time, breaking all Jersey stereotypes and making it through stormy weather (of most recent, hurricane Sandy). This historic seaside resort was settled by wealthy Philadelphia families in the 18th century leading to the Victorian architecture which the town is known for.

Sleep: There are many beautiful Victorian bed and breakfasts to choose from including the Virginia Hotel but if in the mood for complete indulgence the Congress Hall is the hotel of choice. The hotel is set across the street from the beach offering beach cabanas, a pool, yoga classes and stunning views of the sea (not to mention great dining).

Eat: Amongst the many wonderful restaurants where lobster and seafood are a plenty a few stand out. For a fine dining experience, the Ebbit Room at the Virginia Hotel should not be missed. Other less expensive and delicious choices are Louisa’s Cafe, Tisha’s Cape May and George’s Place. For a good brunch served alongside a perfect Bloody Mary, the Mad Batter restaurant is our go to place.

Sweets: After lunch a stroll through Washington Street is the perfect way to work off the calories unless you have a sweet tooth like me which means you may be in trouble. Each trip is never complete without a trip to the saltwater taffy haven at James Candy Company where you can choose from a range of flavors and pay by scale. Just a few minutes away is the Cape May Popcorn factory where the smell will lure you in before the brilliant yellow and green colored building attracts you visually. In the summertime, crowds will line up to get their hands on some tasty frozen custard from Kohr’s Brothers. My favorite is the vanilla/orange creamsicle blend. It’s not to be missed. Just off Washington street lies the cutest and tiniest chocolate shop I’ve ever seen. Louisa’s Chocolate Bar is not to be missed if you like gourmet chocolate treats.