What should I order at Washington Inn & Wine Bar?
Washington Inn & Wine Bar
Crab Cakes
Mentioned multiple times as huge, with no filler, and delicious. Highly praised for their size and quality, making them a standout appetizer or entree.
Burrata
Recommended frequently as an excellent starter, often served with prosciutto and many accompaniments, noted for being fresh and flavorful.
Short Rib
Repeatedly highlighted as excellent and a favorite choice, praised for being well-prepared and delicious.
Filet (Filet Mignon)
Described as perfectly cooked, tender enough to be cut with a butter knife, consistently enjoyed by diners.
Cioppino
Recommended multiple times for its quality and taste, regarded as a must-try seafood dish at the restaurant.
Bananas Foster
Dessert frequently mentioned as incredible and a perfect way to end the meal.
Steak Tartare
Praised as very well prepared and one of the best things eaten by customers.
Lamb Chops
Noted for being cooked perfectly and delicious, a favored entree choice.
Seafood Platter for Two
Includes oysters, shrimp, mussels, and ceviche; highly recommended for fresh and excellent seafood.
Escargot
Called the absolute best ever experienced by a reviewer, a unique and exceptional dish.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 4:30 to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 4:30 to 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 4:30 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 4:30 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 4:30 to 8:30 PM |
About Washington Inn & Wine Bar
Upscale American restaurant set in a Victorian plantation house with an extensive wine list & a bar.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fireplace
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Valet parking
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Bar
- Smoke-free
Frequently asked questions
What is Washington Inn & Wine Bar known for?
It is especially known for its crab cakes, which are one of the most mentioned dishes in reviews, along with short rib, sea bass, escargot, and bananas foster. Guests repeatedly call out the polished service and the historic, picturesque setting in Cape May, which makes the meal feel special for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations.
What dishes are most recommended at Washington Inn & Wine Bar?
Reviewers most often recommend the crab cakes, short rib, Mediterranean sea bass, escargot, and bananas foster. Specific praise also goes to the red snapper alla plancha, grilled Duroc pork chop, caviar, and even the sorbet desserts, with comments that the fish is perfectly prepared and the sauces are especially memorable.
What is the atmosphere like at Washington Inn & Wine Bar?
The vibe is elegant and inviting, with a gorgeous Victorian house setting, huge dining areas, a fireplace, and outdoor seating. It suits couples, groups, and special-occasion dinners, and reviewers say it feels warm and attentive rather than stuffy or overly formal.
Is Washington Inn & Wine Bar good value, and what is the price range?
The restaurant is priced at $$$, so it is in the upscale range, but reviewers still describe the value as strong because the food, drinks, and service feel worth the cost. One review specifically called the price performance excellent, and others mention that the experience is well beyond expectations for a special dinner in Cape May.
Do you need a reservation at Washington Inn & Wine Bar?
Yes, reservations are recommended and the venue accepts them, with one reviewer specifically saying to highly recommend reservations. That matters here because the restaurant is a popular special-occasion spot in Cape May, and guests also praise the bartenders and staff for making first-time visitors feel like regulars.
Is parking available at Washington Inn & Wine Bar?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid street parking, Valet parking is available.
Does Washington Inn & Wine Bar have vegetarian options?
Yes, Washington Inn & Wine Bar offers vegan options.
Is Washington Inn & Wine Bar kid-friendly?
Yes, Washington Inn & Wine Bar is good for kids.
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