Fresh Seafood & Great Times

Patrons at the original Route 130 location stepped over broken clam shells while parking. Inside, the décor was simple but charming, with a bar of six stools, a few tables, and a take-out counter where clams and live crabs were sold by the hundreds.

As the business evolved, both the menu and dining space expanded. More tables and a fireplace were added, and king, snow, and Dungeness crab joined the menu, all while maintaining a focus on simple, consistently high-quality seafood.

When the restaurant moved to Verga, many elements of the original were thoughtfully recreated. Antiques were contributed by friends with the request that they never be sold, and the bar was shaped like a ship’s bow, preserving the character and charm guests had come to love.

Lunch features shrimp and fish tacos, crab cake sandwiches, shrimp bowls, and seafood or chicken wraps. The takeout counter is especially busy during the summer and holidays, with large shrimp trays being a popular choice in December.

Cap’n Cats continues to operate as a family-run tavern and restaurant, preserving its hands-on approach and longstanding commitment to quality and community.

Many employees start as teenagers and remain for decades, often working alongside siblings or parents. Their dedication and camaraderie create the welcoming, family-friendly environment that has become synonymous with Cap’n Cats.

Cap’n Cats focuses on quality: organic clams from Tuckerton, wild-caught shrimp from Texas, and fresh fish prepared daily. Signature dishes include New England and Manhattan clam chowders, seafood bisque, crab cakes, fried shrimp, broiled lobster tails, and daily specials like Cajun catfish.