The Deauville Inn, Strathmere, NJ: A Restaurant Review
201 Willard Rd
Strathmere, NJ
The Deauville Inn: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: American/Seafood
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Well-executed, artfully presented, prepared with local, farm-to-table produce, with a commitment to wild caught seafood.
Service: Friendly, attentive, though during peak times apt to be slower.
Ambiance/Decor: 1920s & 30s nostalgic with contemporary rustic, upscale touches with scenic waterfront and sunset views.
Overall Rating: 2 1/2 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 star = poor to 4 stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Casual
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy a large family friendly restaurant complex with scenic waterfront and sunset views, and a good variety of well executed, fresh seafood dishes
Not Recommended For: "Old World" fine dining enthusiasts, or for budget minded diners who prefer a traditional menu served with huge portions.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Seafood Tower; The Whole Roasted Fish Chef's Selection; and The Slow Roasted Prime Rib Loin.
Liquor: Full Service, multiple bars
Nestled on the bay side of Corson’s Inlet, the Deauville Inn offers breathtaking waterfront views and unforgettable sunsets, setting the stage for what is quickly becoming one of the region’s premier dining and resort-themed destinations.
Blending casual elegance with the nostalgic charm of the 1920s and '30s, the Deauville Inn is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends or sip a specialty cocktail with your significant other during a romantic sunset. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach or relaxing by the water, the ambiance is unmatched.
Under the ownership of Strathmere resident Dr. Tim Fox and his partner Dr. Robyn Kjar, the Deauville Inn underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation that brought new life to this historic gem. Debuting in the summer of 2020, these improvements included major updates to the buildings, decor, and culinary offerings—even in the midst of the pandemic.
The renovation celebrates the Inn’s rich history, restoring elements from its storied past while also introducing upscale, modern touches. Originally a Prohibition-era speakeasy and illicit casino, the Deauville once hosted legendary entertainers like Eddie Cantor, Sophie Tucker, and Jimmy Durante.
Today, the Deauville can seat up to 450 guests across its diverse dining spaces: The Main Dining Room, The Sunset Deck/Outdoor Patio, The Sand Bar, The Pub, and The Lawn. Each area offers a unique atmosphere while delivering the same high standard of food and service.
Inside, the vibe is cozy and rustic with dark distressed wood floors, vintage tin ceilings, and a stone fireplace. “The Pub” features mahogany and stone accents, large-screen TVs, and is a go-to destination for Philly sports fans.
The outdoor patio—with its canopy, tented walls, and a new 40-foot bar—overlooks the bay and is equipped with overhead heating, allowing for comfortable, extended-season dining. During the summer, The Sand Bar serves up casual fare perfect for beachgoers, while The Lawn is available for weddings and private events.
Boaters can take advantage of the EZ Boat Docks, offering seasonal docking with a marina-like atmosphere.
The Deauville Inn’s seasonal menu focuses on fresh, local, farm-to-table ingredients and wild-caught seafood. You won’t find farm-raised options like tilapia here—instead, think expertly prepared scallops flown in from Boston and other sustainably sourced selections. The menu is rounded out with a wide array of meats, pastas, salads, sandwiches, and comforting classics.
The Main Dining Room highlights elevated dishes, while the outdoor patio and Sand Bar offer more casual, budget-friendly options. Families are welcome, and a kid’s menu is available.
Live music enhances the dining experience every Friday and Saturday evening.
The Deauville Inn is open year-round for dinner seven days a week and for lunch on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They also offer a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, with catering options available for those who prefer to celebrate at home.
(updated: October 2024)
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
