Beloved South Jersey Tavern Reopens After 26 Years Under New Ownership

While Cape May gets the most attention as one of the oldest Vacation Destinations in the United States, there is unique New Jersey history for the area just north of Cape Island.

For 100 years, the communities of North Cape May, The Villas, Fishing Creek, Town Bank, and Erma have been central to Lower Township. New Jersey's southernmost township has a long history as a fishing community.

Originally a vacation destination for Philadelphia's blue-collar workers, the Villas community is located just north of the Cape May-Lewis Ferry port. One of the locals' most popular restaurants has changed ownership this year, and after 26 years will have a new name.

Popular Restaurant On Bayshore Road Has New Name

Originally opened by Jim Kershaw in 1998, Jake’s Bar and Grill was a popular establishment within a ten-minute drive of the Cape May-Lewis Ferry.  The local vibes made this a go-to spot for many South Jersey residents over the decades.

But many South Jersey businesses were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020. Just like how The Deck in Wildwood has gone through ownership changes, Jake’s Bar and Grill has new ownership in 2025.

The new owners of the Villas establishment are also the proprietors of 5 West Pub and Tisha's in Cape May.  They have remodeled the building and reopened May 14th under a new name that represents the vibes of the building's history.

A new sign was installed in March, signalling the name change, and two months later, The Local Tavern has opened.  They have 12 beers on tap, with three Cape May County Craft Breweries on the tap list.

Speaking of Craft Breweries, did you know there are 11 Craft Microbrewers located in Cape May County? Here's everything you need to know about these small business owners and craft brewers in New Jersey's southernmost county: