Santorini

If you’ve ever wanted to be whisked away to a Mediterranean island without leaving the Jersey Shore, Santorini is your destination. Located at the “gateway” to the island on Rio Grande Avenue, this culinary gem has completely transformed the space once known as Backfin Blues into a vibrant, turquoise-and-terracotta sanctuary. Since opening its doors in April 2021, owner Florian Furxhiu and Chef Armando Gjana have brought a sophisticated yet incredibly warm vision of Greek and Mediterranean dining to Wildwood.

Features & Ambiance

The Vibe: The first thing you’ll notice is the light. The dining room is airy and seaside-chic, but the real star is the roof deck. It’s one of the best spots in town to enjoy the coastal breeze while sipping a glass of wine. The atmosphere is upscale enough for a rehearsal dinner but welcoming enough for a casual night out after a day on the beach.

The Menu: Santorini doesn’t just do “bar food”—they do “soul food” from the Mediterranean. Reviewers rave about the Shrimp Santorini, swimming in a sauce so good you’ll want extra bread for dipping. Other standouts include the flambéed Saganaki cheese (served tableside with ouzo), the six-hour braised Lamb Shank, and their signature Crab Gnocchi. For dessert, the house-made Crème Brûlée Pie is a legendary way to end the meal.

History

The building at 517 W Rio Grande Ave has a long history in Wildwood, but Santorini represents its most stylish chapter yet. Owner Florian Furxhiu, who also owns Tacodelphia in Philadelphia, saw the potential in the formerly “squat” building and gave it a complete “brightening facelift.” Drawing on Greek, Italian, and Albanian influences from his own heritage, Florian and his team created a menu that fills a unique gap in the local dining scene, moving beyond standard Italian-American fare into authentic Mediterranean territory.

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