Historic twisties tavern on the bay still waiting for a buyer

Historic Twisties Tavern on the Bay Still Waiting for a Buyer

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1 min read
February 9, 2026

Strathmere, NJ – One of South Jersey’s most storied waterfront landmarks is hitting the market. Twisties Tavern on the Bay, a beloved restaurant and bar with a 95-year legacy along the Strathmere waterfront, has been listed for $4,975,000, offering investors or restaurateurs a rare chance to own a piece of Jersey Shore history.

The property was listed for sale a year ago and is still awaiting a buyer.

Perched at 236 South Bayview Drive, the 3,500-square-foot establishment includes not just the business and property, but also all restaurant equipment, furnishings, a retail consumption liquor license, and even a second-floor private residence overlooking the bay. With its panoramic sunset views, mahogany bar dating back to 1929, and nostalgic nautical décor, Twisties remains one of the most recognizable and celebrated dining destinations between Ocean City and Sea Isle City.

The restaurant underwent a major renovation in 2010 that modernized the space while preserving its vintage charm. Its décor—complete with carved coconut heads, mounted fish, and maritime memorabilia—pays homage to its Prohibition-era roots. Local lore claims infamous gangster Al Capone once stopped by, a rumor that inspired the tavern’s now-iconic interior theme.

Inside, Twisties offers indoor seating for 98 guests and outdoor deck dining for 25 more, plus an additional lower terrace with capacity for 50. Patrons can arrive by car, bike, or boat, thanks to the property’s five boat slips, making it one of the few true dock-and-dine experiences on the Jersey coast. The tavern consistently ranks as the area’s top-rated restaurant and bar on Google, TripAdvisor, and Yelp—known as much for its seafood and handcrafted cocktails as for its postcard-worthy sunsets.

Iconic restaurant includes residence, license, and dock system

The property also includes a second-floor residence accessible via private entrance, featuring an open living area, a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large private deck with sweeping water views. The entire building is equipped with a modern fire suppression and alarm system, acoustic soundproofing, and ample parking for seven vehicles.

At $1,421 per square foot, the listing reflects both the tangible and intangible value of one of New Jersey’s most enduring coastal landmarks. The sale includes not only the fully equipped restaurant but also the floating dock system and most furnishings in the upstairs residence—making it a turnkey opportunity for the next owner to continue Twisties’ long-standing tradition of hospitality and history on the bay.

Key points:
• Twisties Tavern on the Bay, established 95 years ago, listed for $4.975 million in Strathmere, NJ.
• Sale includes real estate, liquor license, restaurant equipment, furnishings, and second-floor residence.
• Waterfront property offers panoramic bay views, five boat slips, and historic charm dating back to 1929.

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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