Image via Flickr by Schezar

Visiting Wildwood, New Jersey? The resort city is known for its iconic boardwalk, where you’ll find dozens of one-of-a-kind shops and local businesses. Indeed, the best way to experience Wildwood is to dive into the shops and restaurants that you can only find here. Try these four restaurants in Wildwood, New Jersey, that offer outstanding and distinctive fare.

Giovanna’s Goodies

Giovanna’s Goodies is one of several eateries tucked along the Wildwood boardwalk. If you’ve got a big appetite, indulge in some incredible Spanish food at this location. The empanadas are one of the best items on the menu, and they’re also very affordable.

The atmosphere is what you’d expect from a shop on the boardwalk. You’ll order your food at the counter and then find a seat overlooking the beach. After dinner, any of the attractions on the boardwalk are worth checking out.

Curley’s Fries

Curley’s Fries is another unique shop on the boardwalk. This is a fast food spot where you can pick up standard boardwalk fare, such as funnel cakes and pizza. The lemonade is incredible, but you’ll really want to try the eatery’s signature fries. Pick up a cup of fries and get back to enjoying the wonderful attractions on the boardwalk.

Maui’s Dog House

A few blocks north of the boardwalk, you’ll find Maui’s Dog House, a colorful stand where you can eat some delicious comfort food. This is a casual spot, and the atmosphere is warm and fun thanks to the yellow tables and canvas top that provides covered seating. Maui’s Dog House is famous for its hot dogs, but its Salty Balls—potatoes cooked in a salt and spice brine—are also a popular dish. Note that Maui’s Dog House is a cash-only restaurant.

Maui’s Dog House is near Bill Henfey Park but is removed from some of the major attractions, such as Morey’s Piers. It’s within walking distance from Wildwood Beach, making the restaurant a wise choice if you want to step away from the boardwalk crowd while still indulging in local fare. Use Hotel Planner to find Wildwood hotels between Maui’s Dog House and the boardwalk to enjoy easy access to most of the popular destinations in the area.

Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grill

If you want a sit-down dining experience, go to Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grill. This surf-and-turf restaurant overlooks Mud Island, and you can find patio seating to watch the sunset over the water. This eatery is popular for its raw bar, which includes oysters, shrimp, crab, and more. If you’re up for some late-night fun after dinner, take a walk down West Rio Grande Avenue. There are dozens of bars along the way, and you’ll eventually hit the boardwalk if you keep heading down the street.

Wildwood has a unique culture all its own, and the food you’ll find here is a major part of that. Whether you’re walking the boardwalk or exploring the city away from its beaches, do yourself a favor. Eat at the places you can only find here. Try one of the restaurants above, and if you need other recommendations, just ask the locals where they like to eat.