Bee’s Knees

A little slice of speakeasy has come to Cape May, with this Prohibition-style bar and eatery

WHERE IS IT? In the Marquis de Lafayette Hotel on Cape May’s beautiful beachfront.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because you love sipping expertly crafted cocktails and snacking on tantalizing tapas in a cool little hideaway — that’s why!

The Bee’s Knees, labeled Cape May’s worst-kept secret, is the town’s first speakeasy-style bar. The ambience is inspired by that infamous time when America outlawed the production, distribution and sale of alcohol.

The name is a nod to a famous cocktail from the time, made from gin, lemon juice and honey. The phrase also means something that’s generally excellent, which is apt.

Perch yourself on the classy leather bar stools, or get cozy in the tufted banquettes and settle in for a memorable Cape May evening.

The Bee’s Knees was opened in the summer of 2024 by the Monge family, who also operate the adjacent Barefoot Bar (a great spot, by the way, for outdoor drinks!) and the beloved Bella Vida Café in West Cape May.

Bee’s Knees stays open through the holiday season every year. In fact, last December was so busy, they called it Santa’s Best-Kept Secret!

INSIDER TIP Watch for live music, trivia, and other fun events. Private events also available! Follow them on Instagram @beesknees.capemay.