I can't believe we just went here for the first time in all the years we've spent in cape may/ wildwood area, and we've been missing out! Food was delicious and can't beat BYO. Most of the restaurants around here are priced similar, so if you're going to pay for it, it should be great and this was great. Place is small so make sure you call ahead. Seating is tight so expect to be back to back with other diners. Red snapper and ahi tuna were very good. Desserts sounded amazing but we were too full. Well definately be back! read more

This place is a solid 3 star restaurant, but tonight the staff reduced it to 2. My wife and I had dinner this evening and the food was good overall. The issue we have is with the staff. There was a large table near us with a few very well behaved children. After they left, I overheard their server making fun of their last table, questioning why anyone would take kids there, in a very obnoxious way. You're in cape may, one of the most family friendly towns and beach in NJ and you have a kids menu. How dare you. My wife and I, who own a house here, will go elsewhere next time. read more

Dined at Freda's Cafe last night with a large group and the meal was spectacular. We had 18 for dinner in this quaint little cafe, and the service was as good as the food. Our server, Catherine, was incredibly adept at keeping the food coming so we all actually ate together, and each and every person in our group was blown away by the meal. Of special note from me - the Pork Medallions with lobster was the best dish I have had all year - anywhere! I saw a review here that kind of trashed the place for its 'grandma's wallpaper' decor and something about the servers jokes?? Someone should have told them they were in Cape May! And to compare this cafe' to the culinary delights of Philly - well that really says it all....I guess Freda's should have had cheese steak sandwiches with cheese wiz! read more

Small place, so plan on a wait, even with reservations. Still, we arrived at 7:55pm for an 8pm reservation, and only waited about 15-20 minutes. No worries, we browsed in some of the stores. The interior is a bit dated, but it is cute in a down-home kind of way. At least it is bright and cheerful, with a large front window and high ceilings. Not a place for a romantic, quiet dinner- you are inches from other tables- but not a problem for a family dinner. Excellent service and very good food. Four of us had several dishes, so I got to sample a bunch of items. Great baked Brie and goat cheese appetizers. Excellent crab cakes. My tuna was very good. I'd go "excellent", but the dish was a overly salty. I like salty food, but even for me, it was a bit much. The only thing that turned me off is that you need to go outside to use the rest room, which is down the alley. Fine in nice weather, but weird, none the less. I am definitely surprised by the one and two star reviews. After dining at the Washington Inn, Peter Shields, and Freda's all in the same four day period, I would definitely say that Freda's was the best of the three, food wise. (Peter Shields clearly wins on ambiance.) All were about the same price, too. I highly recommend! read more

Freda's Cafe offered a great dining experience. For me that needs to include two main things: excellent and creative food and quality service. My partner and I experienced both last night. The Cafe is quaint and quirky in terms of decor. If you need a cookie-cutter decor which is polished and looks like every other restaurant then go elsewhere. If, on the other hand, it is delicious food you seek then make reservations now. We eat early; our reservation at this BYOB cafe was for 5 pm. We were seated and cared for by a well spoken and attentive food server. She knew the menu and was not shy about helping us navigate the sumptuous menu. Do NOT skip dessert. read more

Absolutely delicious, from start to finish. Baked Brie, Fried Oysters, Beef and Crab Wellington, Rack of Lamb, Praline Crunch Cake, and Bread Pudding. Everything was perfect. read more

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We have passed Freda's on countless occasions assuming it was an ordinary coffee shop. But when looking for something different from our usual haunts (Tisha's and Louisa's), we decided to give Freda's a try. Looking at other Yelp reviews, we knew we needed a reservation, so we booked an early 5:30 table. It is a tiny space inside, and as the evening went on, the room was pretty tight and loud. But the entrees were amazing. My crab cake was fresh and flavorful, and my husband's seared salmon was equally good. Our only suggestion would be in offering a simple vinaigrette for the salads that accompany the meal. The ginger/sesame dressing was pretty pronounced. A lighter touch would be nice. All in all, we loved our Freda's evening. It's clear the staff is devoted to excellence. read more

Freda's Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Cape May, New Jersey

Freda's Cafe is my favorite spot in Cape May. Me and my girlfriend Elizabeth ate lunch here today. The french fries that come with the Kobe burger are to die for Be sure to get some of Carols sweet desserts as well!! read more

Freda's Cafe - Kobe burger and fries - Cafes Near Me - Cape May, New Jersey

The reviews were good but we were disappointed. Tried the New England clam chowder, crab sandwich and portabella sandwich. Very large portions. read more

Absolutely wonderful experience. First time in a restaurant in over 3 months, albeit outdoor dining. The wait staff went out of their way to make sure everyone felt most welcome. Amanda was outstanding!! It was her first night back to work in 3 months. Everything was timed perfectly. No one felt rushed. We started with the soup special...it was to die for! Creamy crab soup. We then had the burrata with artichokes and cherry tomatoes. Was outstanding. Our entrees were the crab cakes and chicken over homemade raviolis. I wouldn't change a thing about any of it. I would definitely recommend this restaurant who wants a great meal in an extremely friendly environment. They definitely hit a home run with us!! read more

come to cape May and go Freda's . Although it tasted good and ordered the Halibut special. One piece of lobster which was tough and all scallops over the halibut. Dessert was brought but we were never asked if we wanted coffee. Why? That is not there procedure. Really? Didn't realize you had to o ask for coffee. Thought that was the Waite staff job. So sorry it didn't meet expectations! read more

Had a wonderful lunch at Freda's Cafe. The decor is so pretty and comfy. Wait staff was friendly and helpful. Food was over-the-top delicious. Started with the two soups if the day--cream of asparagus with crab meat and the 3 bean with broccoli rabe and rice. Entrees were grilled chicken sandwich with cranberry and orange glaze and a topping of spicy slaw and fresh greens on a chiabata roll. Other enter was their ultimate Mac and cheese served piping hot in a ramekin. Just like grandmom used to make....and kids raised on the blue and yellow box wouldn't touch! Too full for dessert! We can't wait to go back for dinner! read more

Freda's Cafe - The delightful Freda's cafe - Cafes Near Me - Cape May, New Jersey

It doesn't seem like a place people eat very often (my friend and I were the only two people eating at 1 on a Saturday), but our food was delicious. I had their special, which was an arugula salad topped with seared scallops, avocado, roasted root veggies, drunken goat cheese, and a raspberry balsamic dressing. Fantastic lunch without just being burgers or pizza. read more

Freda's Cafe - Arugula salad with seared scallops, avocado, roasted root veggies, drunken goat cheese, and raspberry balsamic. - Cafes Near Me - Cape May, New Jersey

I was recommended this restaurant- so I was even more disappointed when the service was awful. I had to wait 20 minutes for a water. When the waitress finally came over to us we had a conversation about the salad that came with our meal-we never got our salad ... my husbands meal was wrong and then they crossed out the cost of his meal and put the price of the meal they gave him... read more

This was our second time here since 2016, and both times were easily the best meal of not only our trip but quite possibly the entire year. The dining room is cozy, the service attentive, and the food both appealing to the eye and palate. We both dined on the beef wellington, which was cooked to perfection with a light fluffy pastry wrap and crabmeat topping. For dessert, we shared a peach blueberry cobbler with homemade ice cream. We were informed all the desserts were homemade. No doubt. Again, highly recommend. Our server was delightful, and overall this was a fantastic dining experience. read more

Had dinner last night. It was a pleasant dinner at this byob. The service was pleasant but the seating is very tight. I mean, in your business tight. The highlight dish was the crab cakes- outstanding. The salads were a bit limp and the app was - meh. Pleasant, but not earning a return visit. read more

After reading reviews about Freda's my husband and I decided to try it out. Boy were they off the mark. My husband ordered a BBQ pulled pork sandwich that came on a hard baguette with slices of pork tenderloin covered with barbecue sauce. I had the burger pocket that sounded delicious on the menu but was extremely messy and rather bland. The decor and atmosphere was tacky and uncomfortable. It looked like a doctors office/grandmother's house/discount portrait store/dive want to be. The wall paper, pictures on the wall and potted plants where so overwhelming it was hard to relax. I would not go here again on our next visit to cape may. read more

Fredas Cafe is definitely one of the best restaurants in Cape May (and that is saying lot!). If you're looking for great food in a relaxed and charming atmosphere, then make sure you try Fredas next time you're in Cape May. EVERYTHING is great, but I especially like the Crab Cakes (best in the world) and the Beef Wellington. BYO restaurant, just steps away from the Cape May's finest B&B, The Queen Victoria. During the winter Monday is "Buy 1 Get 1", so you'll see me there most Mondays. read more

My husband and I first went here with Cape May Food Tours while we were on vacation and after trying their crab focaccia decided that we had to come back. We were not disappointed in the least bit. My husband ordered their signature crab cake sandwich and I ordered the crab baguette melt. I could not decide which item I loved more. Each one was crafted to perfection with the freshest ingredients. After visiting a few other restaurants in Cape May, Freda's has the best food! Converted from the town's old post-office, I also love the charming, quirky ambiance its the floral pattern walls, wooden paneling, and Victorian-inspired decor. We will definitely be coming back on our next trip to Cape May. read more

Totally enjoyed our dinner! Small place with interesting, sophisticated and creative menu choices. Everyone in our party of 13 liked their menus choices. BYOB! read more

I have traveled around the world for work and vacations and I have to admit, Fredas is one of my favorite restaurants. I look fwd to coming here every year on our family vacation. The food and service has never disappointed. In August, my wife and I ate here once again. I LOVE how the chef pairs seafood with fruit sauces ... in this case, halibut with a peach sauce. When I first started coming to Freda's, I thought, "this doesn't sound like it'll work - fish & fruit." But it does! I even tried to find the recipe to make this dish at home but mine cannot compare. The appetizers are top notch and I always ask if they have the pound cake/pralines with vanilla ice cream for desert so I can save room. We usually bring a bottle of wine from a local vineyard as Freda's is BYOB. We have had some great conversations with the various employees and love them (almost) as much as the food. I recommended Freda's to a couple we met August at the Cape May Distillery (awesome) and they texted us to say it was their new fave (along with Louisa's). read more

I Rated this three because our entrées were really good. Our crab/spinach Wonton appetizer was just OK and it had the smell of stale oil when served. The waitress graciously took my salad back because it was supposed to be in oil based dressing but it was just soy sauce over baby lettuce. I had olive oil and vinegar that I put on myself when served a fresh salad. The bread was nothing special at all. My husband's lamb chops were amazing and my pasta with scallops was amazing. The food took forever to arrive. We were there for over two hours and left without having coffee or dessert because we couldn't stand sitting there anymore. I actually got up to find our waitress to get the bill so that we could leave. It appeared that the whole restaurant was complaining about being delayed. I don't want to waste my whole vacation trying to have dinner at Freda's. The restaurant is described as classy, I would describe the interior as very tight and in need of new classy decorations. Something tells me it was beyond our waitresses ability to get the food out of the kitchen but she never indicated any reason why we were there forever. She did apologize. I will not go back my time is too valuable and there are many good restaurants in this area read more

Worst meal I've had in Cape May. I read the reviews and was super excited to dine here. I looked at the menu and nothing really made sense. I went with my gut and just ordered the baked Brie as my dinner. I should have REALLY listened to my gut and gone somewhere else. read more

Just ate here last night and had a great experience. The linguini with scallops and mushrooms was delicious as was the filet mignon au poivre. The praline dessert was a perfect ending. The fact that it's byob is a great perk since it's a bit pricey, especially the specials. Atmosphere is cozy, very small inside. A bit too dark for my taste, I could barely read the menu and I fine even wear glasses. I would definitely go again. read more

Stopped here on a whim for lunch while walking the shops. Had the chicken salad sandwich on a croissant and my girlfriend had the seared salmon wrap that was a special. Everything was fresh and tasted great. Our waiter was super friendly and we loved the atmosphere. I'm glad we walked towards the beach, otherwise we might have missed out on Freda's! read more

Went to Freda's for an 8:00 dinner reservation. The seating there is very cramped. Not a lot of room for the waitress to even get around the table. I was elbow to elbow with the table next to me. Also i felt we were being a littke rushed. Probably because they had no shortage of people waiting to eat. I got the crab cakes, they were good as were the mashed potatoes. But we're they $35 good? Maybe of it was a more comfortable atmosphere. read more

My girlfriend and I made a 7:30 reservation for a Wednesday night... the restaurant was packed but we were seated immediately... the staff was very friendly and attentive... the food was amazing... I had the crabcakes with mashed potatoes and a mango sauce, my girlfriend had the stuffed chicken en grote... very happy with both dishes and we had the bread pudding for dessert which was very, very good... all in all a great experience. read more

We arrived early for our reservation, then stood outside for 30 minutes while we waited. I understood, and was eager to try it due to all the wonderful reviews. Our food was great, nice waitress, very accommodating. The food arrived at a nice pace, and we did not feel rushed. This is the kicker.......as soon as our waitress dropped the check, we paid while finishing the wine in our glasses. Another waitress came over and asked us to leave since we were done, as she had a table waiting outside! I was annoyed, and explained we would have been well on our way had we not waited outside for 30 minutes. Not sure if I'd return, as I felt it was incredibly rude of the server to approach us. read more

Although we were in a hurry with limited time to catch the ghost tour trolley tour, we popped in w/o a reservation. While all 5 meals were spectacular, my salmon w crabmeat was a triumph! Wonderful (quick) experience. read more

First and last time we will go to this restaurant. Food was great, service was good and prices were reasonable. We arrived at 6:00 for a 6:00 pm reservation for two to a nearly empty room (Labor Day Monday) and were seated in the worst spot in he room. It was a table for two in the rear, half in the by service hallway, with all the kitchen noise and server traffic. Many other tables set for two were available. At least three by the front window. When we asked the hostess for a different table, she refused saying those tables could seat four (even though they were set for two) and needed to be kept open in case drop-in's came without reservations. We made the same request of out server and was advised of the same thing. To me, this restaurant places a higher value on the customers they might have at the expense of the customers they do have. I don't patronize that kind of establishment. As it turns out, another couple for two were seated by the window after we were refused and most of the other tables set for two were still empty when we left. Everyone understands a proprietor needs to maximize their investment. What I don't understand is a policy that provides the worst accommodation for a customer following the rules. read more

Our group of three had dinner at Freda's this evening with high expectations, based on the recommendations of YELP reviewers and the staff of our Cape May B&B. What a disappointment! We started with very nice appetizers - coconut encrusted scallops, mussels in a lovely cheese sauce, and fried oysters - all tasty and well done. An attentive server, good atmosphere, though the small room has too many tables to allow patrons or servers to navigate without 'excuse me's' and bumped chairs. We accepted our server's recommendation for the "catch of the day special", which was broiled fresh halibut filet with a lobster and mushroom sauce. The fish, nicely plated, was completely inedible. Soggy, mealy, grainy and tasteless, the filets seemed to be the result of multiple freeze and thaw cycles, or perhaps too many trips through the microwave. No elementary school cafeteria would serve such dreck. Our server asked if we were enjoying our meal. I explained that the fish was inedible and nowhere near fresh. He replied that he was sorry to hear that and left us. He later returned to ask if we wanted dessert, and did we want to take the completely uneaten halibut fillets home with us? I again explained that the fish was not just disappointing, but truly inedible. He again apologized for the fish, then brought us our bill for our $34.95 for each special. I dine out frequently. As Anthony Bourdain cautions - "never eat the special, particularly on the last day of the week", since that's how nearly toxic leftovers get dumped. That was exactly our mistake - one I seldom make. I also understand that any restaurant can have an off night - but the appetizers didn't come from a substitute chef. Freda's served us leftover recycled inedible fish and charged full price after ignoring two serious complaints. I paid to avoid a scene, but I will never dine here again. You would be well advised to eat elsewhere. read more

Service is really nice. I had the grilled cheese and my wife had the crab melt. Nothing really spectacular but not bad either. We had a side of fries too also unremarkable. read more

My husband, sister and I came to Freda's for dinner and we loved everything about it! The staff was very accommodating and professional and friendly. The food was excellent! We ordered the crab and spinach wontons, the spring rolls and seafood bisque and devoured them. For dinner we ordered the crab cakes and a special meal of halibut on pilaf with a small crab cake, and again we cleaned our plates. I would highly recommend this restaurant due to our wonderful experience. We are excited to come again. It is a small restaurant so make sure to make reservations so you can enjoy the delicious food. read more

I visit Cape May with my friends every fall. We always find pretty good food, however, Freda's Cafe beat out all others in freshness and taste. The meals were excellent. I had crab cakes over garlic mashed potatoes with a mango sauce and my friends had salmon stuffed with lobster and crab. Both were delicious. The only mistake we made was not knowing how much our meals were. The "extra" menu lacked prices, but we knew it would have been very pricey based on the regular menu. I do not know how this restaurant has $$ instead of $$$$ !!! It came out to over $60 per person with a main course and dessert (Beware that the desserts are $11 each!). Very expensive food, but we were NOT disappointed at all since the quality was fantastic. read more

Small place place but good food. My wife got the ultimate grilled cheese with spinach and tomato which was great. I got the steak sandwich which was good. Weird that you have to go out and around the corner to use the bathroom. read more

Boring place, nothing special. Lots of sandwiches on lunch menu - more bread/carb than needed. Small, old with ugly and dirty wallpaper restaurant room. The food was average served on melamine plates. No liquor license. read more

Excellent food and service. My family and I dined at Freda's for the first time and had a wonderful experience. We have been coming to Cape May for 15 years and somehow never eat at Freda's, we have been missing out! What a gem! Our waiter was very nice and professional. The baked brie was delicious. My father and fiancé enjoyed the swordfish filet (it was huge!) and had a great flavor combination. I loved the halibut special and my mom thought her entree was excellent. We will definitely be back! read more

Never had a disappointing experience. Small quiet cafe. Food is excellent. Price is within reason given the location. I spent just as much money at the ugly mug and the food here is so much better. Keep in mind its a limited menue and a byob but if you enjoy fresh well prepared food in an intimate setting you'll enjoy Freda's. A nice place for couples to enjoy a great meal. Service was excellent. Friendly staff. The crab cakes and fish tacos are outstanding. read more

Reservations are a must as this place is tiny. You actually have to step outside and go next-door to the deli (with a key) to use the restroom. The food and the service were very good. It was a little warm inside, but upon our request, the ceiling fan was turned on. read more

Took a young friend there for dinner to celebrate her getting invited into honor society. She doesn't eat fish! Fantastic fish menu and also several beef items, she chose the fillet and I followed suit. EXCELLENT!!!!! Will return!!! Gale W. , Island Heights, N.J. read more