Business Buzz
For many towns along the Jersey Shore, landing one or two new businesses in a year is considered a major accomplishment. But the City of Somers Point has taken things up a notch.
The energy, momentum and excitement surrounding Somers Point’s business scene are nothing short of phenomenal. New restaurants, entertainment concepts, hospitality-driven projects and retail growth are transforming the city into one of the region’s most talked-about destinations.
The city already had a strong reputation for its iconic bars, waterfront dining, live entertainment and small-town shore charm. But now a new wave of investment and creativity is taking the market to another level.
One of the hottest openings creating tremendous buzz is Pablo, located at the former Mexiquila site at Maryland and Sunny avenues. The public response has been overwhelming. Customers are raving about the stunning, fully renovated décor, expanded outdoor dining area, vibrant atmosphere and elevated dining experience.
Pablo is operated by the highly respected Zest Restaurant Group, known for developing successful restaurant concepts throughout Cape May County. Their decision to invest in Somers Point speaks volumes about the city’s growing appeal and long-term potential.
Another exciting entertainment-driven business preparing to open is the anticipated Bay Ave Brewery project located at Bay and Maryland avenues. While the final branding details are still being completed, expectations are already extremely high. The brewery is expected to become a major year-round social gathering destination that complements neighboring establishments, including Pablo, Caroline’s by the Bay and the exciting new Somers Point Paddle Club.
The Somers Point Paddle Club is one of the most creative and talked-about concepts to hit the area in years. Developed by Scarborough Properties, this is the company’s third paddle club concept. The waterfront-style social and pool club includes two pools, two hot tubs/spas, private cabanas, restaurant and bar service and resort-style seating designed to create a luxury shore experience unlike anything else in the region.
The memberships have reportedly been received extremely well and many people believe the Paddle Club will elevate the entire bayfront district while creating additional energy for surrounding restaurants and businesses.
Another project that has people talking is the upcoming opening of Webster’s Tavern, located in the former Windjammer property on MacArthur Boulevard. Anticipation continues to build as the opening approaches.
Webster’s is expected to feature a large, island-style bar, 38 large-screen televisions and an atmosphere designed to blend a sports bar experience with a neighborhood tavern feel – almost a modern-day “Cheers-like” gathering place where everyone feels welcome.
The menu is expected to feature tavern-style food complemented by local craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, a wine-by-the-glass program, happy hour specials and a late-night menu. Simply put; people are anxiously waiting for the doors to officially open.
What makes all of this growth especially impressive is that these new establishments are being added to an already strong foundation of iconic Somers Point restaurants and nightlife destinations that have made the city one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular year-round communities.
Visitors continue to pour into Somers Point from surrounding shore towns, including Ocean City, Longport, Margate City, Ventnor City and well beyond.
The momentum is not limited to restaurants and nightlife. Retail growth is also making headlines.
ALDI recently opened and appears to be performing extremely well, adding another major retail draw to the city. Jersey Mike’s Subs has also been welcomed into the market. Future anticipated additions, including Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread, continue to fuel excitement and confidence in the city’s future growth.
The reality is simple: Somers Point has some of the strongest new business momentum anywhere along the Jersey Shore. The city has successfully combined waterfront lifestyle, entertainment, dining, nightlife, retail growth and year-round community energy into a formula that continues to attract investors and visitors alike.
If you have not visited Somers Point recently, now is the time. And don’t come just once – come back often and experience the exciting new businesses and the legendary establishments that continue to make Somers Point one of New Jersey’s most dynamic shore communities.
Remember to support local businesses, especially small businesses.
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
