The Wildwoods' culinary scene has grown exponentially over the past decade or so, with a diverse roster of restaurants and smaller eateries catering to an equally-increasing variety of tastes.
On Friday, we received word that the island will be losing some of its spice with the imminent closure of The Wild Burrito - a bold contributor to the island's foodie-friendly emergence.
"This post is written with great sadness," said owner Joe Carpenter, in an announcement made on the business' official Facebook page. "After 13 seasons on the island, The Wild Burrito will be closing its doors for good on Saturday, September 21."
Carpenter did not cite a precise reason for his decision to shutter, but made mention of the "challenging" climate that today's small businesses are faced with. He added his own PSA, imploring his customers to support local and family-owned operations.
[Read the full announcement HERE]
The Wild Burrito was born at 6300 New Jersey Avenue in Wildwood Crest in 2012.
A "one-stop-shop for vegan, gluten-free and classic Mexican cuisine," it's colorful, specialized menu was an instant hit with the locals. Vacationers, too, would soon discover the off-the-beaten-path location. Area media took note of signature items like the popular Avocado Fries, in addition to the bistro's wide selection of bowls and burritos.
For a brief time, Carpenter, a South Philadelphia native, operated a second shop in his hometown, at 2015 E. Moyamensing Avenue.
In 2017, The Wild Burrito moved to its current location at 4020 Ocean Avenue, taking over for what was previously The Purple Jalapeno (the building was best known as prior home to Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe).
The larger, more centralized digs allowed Carpenter to expand his operation with increased indoor and outdoor seating, and new menu creations. In late 2020, the southern side of the building was converted into The Boneless Bird, a chicken takeout service born out of the trends of the pandemic era.
The Wild Burrito will remain open daily until Monday, September 2. After that, it will operate on Fridays and Saturdays only, with Saturday, September 21 being its final day.
"I have many fond memories from my customers, employees and vendors," Carpenter said, in his statement. "Thank you to the countless customers that have been loyal since our days in the Crest. It has been a pleasure serving customers from the Wildwood area and from across the globe.
"One of my greatest joys was working with a diverse group of employees from all over the world. I've had many employees whose first job was here. It was fun to see young kids grow up to be wonderful young adults. Thank you to all of them."
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