Il Riccio Cape May: Exquisite Italian Dining Awaits

Situated in the charming heart of Cape May, Il Riccio Cape May invites diners into a refined yet approachable Italian dining experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. This exceptional restaurant specializes in authentic Italian cuisine elevated by fresh, locally sourced seafood and exquisite premium ingredients, promising an unforgettable culinary journey.

The menu at Il Riccio is a celebration of Italian flavors, carefully crafted to delight every palate. Begin your meal with tantalizing appetizers like the Florida Joe’s Stone Crab or the Polipo Grigliato—baby Spanish grilled octopus paired with spicy broccoli rabe and potatoes, offering a perfect balance of tender textures and vibrant, bold flavors. The Frittura Calamari e Gamberi Rossi di Mazara presents a crispy, golden medley of calamari and Mazara shrimp, lightly battered and accompanied by a zesty Meyer lemon, awakening the senses with its delicate crunch and fresh seafood essence.

For the main course, Il Riccio truly shines. The A5 Japanese Wagyu Beef Cacio & Pepe 24K Risotto is a masterpiece, marrying the luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef with the earthy richness of truffle cream and perfectly al dente risotto, a dish that commands both awe and admiration. Seafood lovers will be captivated by the Spaghetti allo Scoglio, featuring an abundance of fresh shellfish swimming in a vibrant San Marzano DOP tomato sauce that bursts with Mediterranean sunshine in every bite. Those seeking a comfort-meets-elegance dish will adore the Gnocchi Zucca, Pere e Gorgonzola—homemade potato gnocchi cloaked in a creamy butternut squash, gorgonzola cheese, and pear sauce, elegantly finished with a hint of truffle cream, creating a symphony of sweet, savory, and umami notes.

Dining at Il Riccio is more than a meal—it’s an intimate experience defined by warmth and meticulous hospitality. Guests consistently praise the attentive, personable service led by Biagio, who not only recommends the perfect dishes but also adds a lighthearted charm to the evening. The owner himself takes a hands-on approach, sharing the culinary story behind each creation, deepening the appreciation for every course served.

The atmosphere strikes a delightful balance: elegant without pretension, inviting yet special enough for that memorable date night or celebratory meal. The beautifully curated interior sets a warm, comfortable tone that enhances the overall enjoyment, making you feel truly valued from the moment you walk in.

Il Riccio Cape May stands out as a hidden gem in the bustling culinary scene, celebrated by locals and visitors alike for its impeccable flavors, heartfelt service, and passion for quality. Whether you’re savoring the delicate freshness of the Oyster Platter or indulging in the rich authenticity of Nonna’s Ragù pasta con Braciole, every bite tells a heartfelt story of Italian tradition and exceptional craftsmanship.

In short, Il Riccio is a must-visit dining destination in Cape May—a place where food is artfully prepared and warmly shared. It leaves an indelible mark on your palate and your heart, beckoning you back time and again for more extraordinary moments and flavors.

Contact Information:
311 Mansion St, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States
Phone: +1 609-554-3165

Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway

Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Ashley Legin

16/12/2025

My husband and I tried Il Riccio for the first time and wow- it’s our new Cape May favorite. The staff was attentive and extremely personable- Biegio made great food recommendations and made us laugh. The owner taught us about his culinary experience and the backstory behind the menu. All 3 courses were unforgettable- must try!

Maryann Lauletta

29/11/2025

We had a wonderful dinner with friends last night at Il Riccio. The owners/hosts were warm and welcoming. Our waiter, Biagio, was very attentive, and the food was outstanding!! We loved the Wagyu risotto, but honestly, every dish was perfect. There is not a bad selection on the menu.

Grace Liu

26/11/2025

No wonder this restaurant got highest rating in Cape May area, you should not miss it!! Of course make a reservation first, we tried to walk in but it’s fully booked. They gave very detailed and enthusiastic introduction to every dish and even recommend the order to enjoy the food most. Every dish is very delicious and special in some way. It was an unforgettable dining experience!

Isabel Romeo

21/11/2025

A Hidden Gem in Cape May Il Riccio is an absolute treasure in Cape May! From the moment you walk in, the warm welcome from the host sets the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and fine dining — relaxed enough to feel comfortable, but elegant enough for a special night out. The food is outstanding. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the presentation is top-notch — they even fillet our Dover fish tableside, which adds a wonderful touch of old-school hospitality. The homemade gnocchi is another highlight: light, pillowy, and clearly made with love ! (Sorry no picture, I was to exited to try them). To finish a variety of authentic Italian Desserts and gelato. Service was outstanding throughout the evening — attentive, friendly, and genuinely invested in making sure guests have a great time. Being BYOB is a nice bonus, too — we brought a favorite bottle of wine and it paired perfectly with the meal. If you’re looking for fresh seafood, authentic Italian touches, and a place where you feel like family, Il Riccio should be at the top of your list in Cape May.

Eleonora Larinese

02/11/2025

From the appetizer to the main course, everything at Il Riccio in Cape May, New Jersey was absolutely amazing. The food was delicious, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The attention and service were exceptional — truly the best dining experience I’ve ever had. Highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Cape May!

Felicia Veneri

30/10/2025

Had such a great date night experience here. I got the gnocchi which was probably the best i've had. My fiance got the wagyu risotto and it was delicious. You can tell the owner really cares about the food and the customer experience, and it really shows. Fresh ingredients, clean dining room, and attention to the little details made this restaurant somewhere we will definitely go back to again and again.

Emily Varnes

03/10/2025

If I could give 10 stars I would! Il Riccio provided an unforgettable experience for my husband and I. The restaurant is so beautiful and comfortable inside. The staff were so welcoming and attentive for the entire dinner. The owner checked in on us throughout as well and he was so helpful in explaining the dishes. And funny! We really enjoyed chatting with him. Most importantly though, the food was incredible. I will be dreaming about the risotto until I can have it again. All of our plates were empty after each course. Don’t forget to get dessert, it’s worth it! We cannot wait to visit again the next time we are in Cape May! Such a great experience.

Brenda Leonard

25/08/2025

What a fantastic meal! We ordered two appetizers and two desserts and shared an entree. Every dish was delicious and some were absolutely divine. Get the artichoke for sure. The waygu beef and risotto was well worth the price and easily enough to share.