Complete overhaul intended to bring family restaurant into next era
CAPE MAY — A major renovation is under way at Carney’s Restaurant and Bar, the iconic eatery at 411 Beach Ave. in Cape May.
According to Sean Carney, the third-generation operator of the popular place, the goal is to modernize without losing the personality and energy that people associate with Carney’s.
“Customers can expect a refreshed Carney’s that feels familiar but elevated,” he said. “We’re opening up the space; improving flow; upgrading finishes, lighting and sound; and creating a more comfortable experience for dining during the day and entertainment at night.”
While there will certainly be many changes, things staying the same include the beach scene wall mural.
“The mural stays, the character stays and the feeling of Carney’s stays — we’re not trying to reinvent who we are; we’re refining it,” Carney said. “Longtime guests will recognize the space immediately, just cleaner, brighter and better designed for how people actually use it today.”
New bi-fold windows are a major part of how the owners are reconnecting Carney’s with the beachfront.
“When they’re open, the space fills with natural light and ocean air, creating an open-air dining experience that feels very true to Cape May, while still allowing us to close everything up comfortably when needed,” Carney said, noting that another new feature is a grand entrance with a 25-foot tower.
“It gives the building a stronger presence and a clear sense of arrival. It helps organize guest flow and makes the front of the building feel more welcoming and intentional, while still fitting within the character of the area,” Carney said. “Together, these elements modernize the experience and highlight Carney’s as a true beachfront destination without losing its history.”
The history is important. Marie Carney bought Sids in 1979 and opened Carney’s. Her children — Ree, Thomas, Patti and Joseph — took over for a while. Now Sean is the third-generation Carney family operator.
Carney called operating a family-run business “a responsibility and a privilege.”
“When a place has been part of people’s memories for generations, you don’t take decisions lightly. At the same time, being family-run allows us to think long-term instead of chasing trends. We’re invested not just in a business, but in a legacy,” he said.
It’s always been more than just a job, he said.
“It’s been part of daily life. You learn early what hard work looks like, how important community is and how much a local business can mean to a town,” Carney said. “That perspective shapes how we operate today: hands-on, personal and proud of where we come from.”
Work began the week after the West Cape May Community Christmas Parade, which brings thousands of people to the island.
Carney said “longevity” was behind the project.
“Carney’s has been part of Cape May for decades, and this renovation is about making sure it thrives for decades more,” he said. “Guest expectations have changed, codes and systems evolve and we want the building to match the quality of the experience we’ve always aimed to deliver.”
It’s been 30 years since the last major overhaul, when they cut the bar in half and added a dance floor.
If everything goes as planned, the eatery should be open March 13 in time for its annual Carney’s Cares Weekend Extravaganza.
The establishment’s motto is “Fun food & drink since 1979.” The menu features starters such as Guinness French Onion Soup and BBQ Short Rib Nachos, while popular sandwiches include Hot Hand Carved Roast Beef and Cali Chicken BLT. There also are salads and brick oven pizza.
Handcrafted cocktails such as the Cape May Mule and Honey Thyme Whiskey Sour are mixed to order, along with the Cape Cranberry Crush and Apple Cider Crush.
On tap are beers such as Allagash Belgian White, Kona Big Wave and Fiddlehead IPA, as well as Michelob Ultra and Stella Artois, red and white wines.
“Our classics continue to be customer favorites,” Carney said, adding that the new menu is “approachable, well-executed comfort food with a coastal influence.”
The beauty of Carney’s is that it falls somewhere between a restaurant with entertainment and a nightclub with food.
“It’s something in between — and that’s always been the magic. During the day and early evening, Carney’s is a restaurant and tavern where people come to eat, relax and enjoy the shore. At night, it naturally transitions into an entertainment-driven atmosphere with live music and energy. We don’t force one identity — we let the day dictate the vibe,” Carney said.
The entertainment is primarily live music, with a mix of local favorites and regional acts.
“We focus on music that fits the room — high-energy when appropriate, but still social and fun,” Carney said. “It’s entertainment you can enjoy whether you’re there for dinner, drinks or a late night out.”
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Cape May Star and Wave
