One of the most rewarding parts of serving on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association is the opportunity to connect with new member businesses and learn the stories behind them. When Northend Grill joined the SPBA, I wanted to reach out personally. I had heard so many great things about the food and the atmosphere, and it quickly became clear that this is a place built on community in every sense of the word.
Northend Grill, located at 718 Bay Avenue in Somers Point (where Bay Ave Sushi used to be), is owned by Angelo Di Bartolo and Jim House, two longtime locals whose careers were rooted in public service before they ever opened a restaurant. Angelo spent years as a teacher and guidance counselor in Ocean City, while Jim served as an Atlantic County Sheriff’s officer. After retiring from their previous professions, the two friends, who originally met while playing rugby, formed a partnership that blends Angelo’s breakfast and lunch expertise with Jim’s well-known barbecue and catering background.
That partnership is reflected in both the menu and the mission. From the beginning, Northend Grill set out to be a neighborhood restaurant that offers quality food at a price that makes sense. The goal is simple. This is a place people can visit regularly, not just for special occasions.
At the same time, Northend Grill has found creative ways to serve the community beyond its everyday menu. Special events have become an important part of the restaurant’s identity, offering something a little different while keeping the focus on value and accessibility.
Their upcoming Super Bowl barbecue event on Feb. 8 is a great example. Guests can stop in between 12-4 p.m., order takeout, or place catering orders for their Super Bowl gatherings. Signature ribs, brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue platters, and classic sides like mac and cheese, cornbread, slaw, collard greens, and Pork Island potato salad are all part of the offering. Orders must be placed by Feb. 7.
Northend Grill has also introduced monthly dinner events that show another side of the kitchen. Their Valentine’s Day dinner on Feb. 14 will feature a three-course prix fixe menu at $38 per person. Guests can choose between Caesar salad with grilled chicken or escarole soup, select from several classic Italian entrees, and finish with dessert. Soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included, and the restaurant is BYOB. The response to these dinners has been overwhelmingly positive, with February already filling quickly.
Catering and private events are another growing part of the business, and one that truly highlights their commitment to customers. All catering now comes directly out of Northend Grill, whether it is for family gatherings, office lunches, or community groups. The owners are also willing to open the restaurant outside of normal business hours when the occasion calls for it. They have done this for private parties, team breakfasts, and special gatherings, including hosting the Mainland High School soccer team. These events are handled with the same care as daily service, offering custom menus and comfortable buffet-style setups for groups of 30-40 people.
What sets Northend Grill apart, though, are the people behind it. This is a family-run operation, with children and relatives actively involved in the day-to-day work, and it shows in the warmth of the service and the pride they take in the space. Northend Grill is more than a restaurant. It is a place where Somers Point comes together, one table at a time. Call 609-788-4422, visit them on Facebook or order online at https://www.toasttab.com/local/order/northend-grill-718-bay-ave
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
