Maynard’s Cafe

If you want to experience the last standing piece of Margate’s legendary “Barbary Coast” era, you head to Maynard’s Cafe. While the surrounding Amherst Avenue has transformed into a strip of upscale condos and high-end eateries, Maynard’s remains the unpretentious, high-energy heart of the neighborhood. This is the quintessential Jersey Shore “dive bar” in the best possible way—a place where the drinks are served in plastic cups, the staff treats you like family, and the vibe is perpetually set to “summer party.”

The history of Maynard’s is as rich as its famous chili. Originally opened in the early 1900s by Philadelphia bantamweight boxer Billy Maynard, the building started as a simple shack with boards over sand floors. It was purchased in 1966 by “Big Al” Troiano (owner of the legendary Gables nightclub) and has remained in the Troiano family for three generations. Today, under the leadership of Stephen and Stephanie Troiano, it stands as a cherished anomaly—a local institution that refuses to throw in the towel to developers.

Features & Highlights

The crown jewel of Maynard’s is the Starlite Garden, a massive open-air outdoor patio and bar. In the summer months, this is the premier spot in Margate for Live Music, hosting local bands and acoustic acts from Wednesday through Sunday. When the sun goes down, DJs keep the energy high for a crowd that spans generations.

The menu is a masterclass in bar comfort food. While they serve everything from breakfast to late-night snacks, the Maynard Burger (topped with grilled Taylor Pork Roll and American cheese) is a mandatory South Jersey rite of passage. Other fan favorites include their Housemade Chili, Maryland-style fries loaded with jumbo lump crab, and reliable daily specials like Wednesday’s Yuengs & Wings.

Inside, you’ll find a classic tavern atmosphere complete with pool tables and a heavy sports influence—it is a prime destination for Philadelphia sports fans during any playoff run. Whether you’re stopping in for a $2 taco on Monday or a legendary Sunday brunch, Maynard’s provides a raw, authentic Shore experience that you just can’t manufacture.

Details can change — check the site or socials for the latest menus, hours, and events.