Pompeo’s, now under same management as Little Nicky's, to open 2024 season with traditional Easter Weekend buffet

Change is in the wind up on the north end.

No, we’re not talking about the planned start of North Wildwood’s Boardwalk renovation project - that’s set to begin after the 2024 summer season.

At the end of this month, Pompeo’s, an institution at 17th Street for over four decades, will reopen under new management, which is aiming to blend traditional aspects of the restaurant’s presentation with some out-side-the-box ideas.

“I want to let everyone know that Pompeo’s is coming back, better than ever,” said proprietor Elaina Galdo-Pagan, who has taken the reins alongside her husband, Hawk Pagan. “We’re starting with the beloved Easter Weekend buffet, then we have a number of exciting plans for the upcoming season.”

Easter Weekend Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, a full-service buffet event, is set for Saturday, March 30 and Easter Sunday, March 31. Additional details will be released soon, but those looking to make early reservations can do so by calling or texting 267-838-1354.

After that, according to Galdo-Pagan, the restaurant will reopen at the end of April for breakfast (8 am - 2 pm) on the weekends. Closer to Memorial Day, it will serve up breakfast and dinner (5 - 9 pm), eventually moving to a daily schedule for the summer season.

A new kitchen staff will oversee changes to the dinner menu, planned to include the addition of several fresh seafood options and select all-you-can-eat crab nights.

For the first time, Pompeo’s will also offer menu items from Little Nicky’s Pizza, located next door. The Galdo/Pagan family has operated the pizzeria over the past four summers. Both properties were purchased by Elaina’s father, John Galdo, in 2020. 

Little Nicky’s and Pompeo’s were owned and operated by the Klug family from 1978 until they retired and sold the businesses after the 2018 season. Rich Merlino leased Pompeo’s from 2020 to 2023,

“We’re excited to move into this new era and all the possibilities to come,” said Galdo-Pagan. “Pompeo’s holds such a special place for so many, with its long history of serving families on the Boardwalk. That’s something we intend to honor and build onto.

“Our tradition continues to grow as we operate both Little Nicky’s and Pompeo’s, keeping and expanding on the connection between these two popular businesses.”