An important component of the building and commercial boom that has swept the Wildwoods in recent years is a “restaurant renaissance” that continues to bear fruit (along with Linguine Saganaki, Pan seared Branzino, etc).
Local sentiment points toward MudHen Brewing Co.’s landmark opening in 2018 as the trend’s kickstarter, the combination brewery/restaurant and other Sciarra Restaurant Group concepts transforming their swath of Downtown Wildwood into a destination district.
In the half-decade since, an unprecedented number of diverse eateries have popped up all over the island, from smaller, family-owned operations to high-end culinary “experiences” piloted by well-known restaurateurs.
Two of the leaders of Wildwood’s fine-dining emergence, Santorini and SOL, both opened in 2021. Interestingly, they now operate under the same banner.
Early this morning, Santorini announced that SOL has been rebranded as Venezia (4801 Pacific Avenue) and will reopen as its sister restaurant.
“Venezia,” of course, is the Italian name for Venice, the timeless City of Canals in northeastern Italy. As such, the “Italian BYOB” theme has replaced SOL’s “Latin Fusion”-inspired menu and ambiance. The new menu, like that of Santorini, features a robust selection of Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on pasta, chicken/veal and seafood specialties. View the menu HERE. Venezia will offer indoor dining and al fresco (outdoor) options. The restaurant will open tomorrow with an official Grand Opening set for Thursday, May 11. Everyday hours will be 4 pm - 10 pm.
Santorini, located at 517 W. Rio Grande along Wildwood’s main entrance boulevard, is also open 4 pm - 10 pm daily. The restaurant is entering its third summer, since real estate agent and entrepreneur Florian Furxhiu took over the former Backfin Blues Bar & Grill in 2021. Furxhiu is perhaps best known as the owner of Tacodelphia, a popular taqueria in Center City Philadelphia. Santorini, themed after the Greek island of the same name, has earned glowing reviews for its menu, service and commitment to atmospheric authenticity. As one Google reviewer summed it up: “The food is delicious, portion size is generous & presentation was very attractive. The linens, music, decor & lighting make the experience feel very authentic. “We were served by the owner Florian who was extremely personable. In a town full of pizza, fast food & quick eats, this is a nice change of pace.”
“Venezia,” of course, is the Italian name for Venice, the timeless City of Canals in northeastern Italy. As such, the “Italian BYOB” theme has replaced SOL’s “Latin Fusion”-inspired menu and ambiance. The new menu, like that of Santorini, features a robust selection of Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on pasta, chicken/veal and seafood specialties. View the menu HERE. Venezia will offer indoor dining and al fresco (outdoor) options. The restaurant will open tomorrow with an official Grand Opening set for Thursday, May 11. Everyday hours will be 4 pm - 10 pm.
Santorini, located at 517 W. Rio Grande along Wildwood’s main entrance boulevard, is also open 4 pm - 10 pm daily. The restaurant is entering its third summer, since real estate agent and entrepreneur Florian Furxhiu took over the former Backfin Blues Bar & Grill in 2021. Furxhiu is perhaps best known as the owner of Tacodelphia, a popular taqueria in Center City Philadelphia. Santorini, themed after the Greek island of the same name, has earned glowing reviews for its menu, service and commitment to atmospheric authenticity. As one Google reviewer summed it up: “The food is delicious, portion size is generous & presentation was very attractive. The linens, music, decor & lighting make the experience feel very authentic. “We were served by the owner Florian who was extremely personable. In a town full of pizza, fast food & quick eats, this is a nice change of pace.”
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