Business Buzz
I remember when I went to Stockton College, I read an interesting book called “Zero-sum Society.” The essence of the book is that in business, for every loser there is a winner; for every business that closes, another one opens in its place.
Unfortunately that doesn’t always happen, especially in today’s competitive retail and restaurant environment. But sometimes it does, as in the case of the former Tilton Inn Tavern and Grill.
Established in 1963 by Al and Mildred Ulrich, it was a beloved landmark location and popular establishment for 60 years, located at the corner of Tilton Road and Hingston Avenue in Egg Harbor Township. Al and Mildred operated the business in a “Cheers”-like atmosphere for 22 years. The children (Michele, Michael and Mark) ran it with the continued friendly theme for another 39 years until its closure in August 2023. The day it closed was sad for locals, employees and the many visitors who frequently stopped on their way to the shore.
Fortunately, this story is going to have a happy ending.
The new owners of 6823 Tilton Road, Egg Harbor Township (the former Tilton Inn), Jim and Mary Dooney, are not only changing the name of the 9,000-square-foot establishment; they are changing the entire theme.
The new name reflects Jim and Mary’s last name, Dooney, hence Dooney’s Pub and Restaurant. It will have a “Cheers”-like atmosphere too, but with an Irish accent.
Since Jim and Mary settled on the former Tilton Inn in August of 2024, they have worked non-stop renovating everything all the way down to the walls. There is a totally new kitchen, flooring, ceiling, lighting and seating, including the centrally located custom bar that is situated to encourage interaction with the guests. The new layout has been modernized to include an expansive indoor dining area with all-new custom seating, highlighted by the integration of numerous, high-definition TVs.
The entertainment beyond sports will feature regular live music highlighting local artists, and of course, Irish bands to create an energetic, community-focused ambiance that goes beyond the former establishment.
The culinary is going to focus on traditional Irish dishes such as Jim and Mary’s secret recipe for shepherd’s pie, along with chips and Irish nachos. They will also have American pub classics like their famous specialized wings, burgers and artisanal pizzas. Of course there is going to be much more to assure a total entertainment and food experience.
Jim and Mary are not newcomers to the restaurant business. They come to Egg Harbor Township with over 30 years experience building a reputation in the restaurant industry. The first Dooney’s opened in the summer of 2011 at 1361 Fairview Blvd., Delran. The other location is at 154 Route 73, Voorhees. They are a totally family-owned and operated business.
Stay tuned for the Dooney’s opening in February.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
