The family that has owned a year-round Jersey Shore restaurant and bar for the past 21 years announced Friday the establishment has been sold.
But the tradition at the Fitzpatrick’s Crest Tavern in the Diamond Beach section of Lower Township, just a block south of Wildwood Crest, will carry on, the owners said.
“The rumors are finally true! After 21 wonderful years of serving this community, we are officially passing the torch,” according to a message posted on the restaurant’s social media page.
“We know there’s been some chatter that the property would be developed, but we’re happy to share we will not be choosing that path.”
The landmark tavern at 9600 Pacific Avenue will be sold to another local family, the Fitzpatrick’s said.
“The Crest Tavern is a landmark in our community and will continue on in the hands of another local family who cares deeply about our community as much as we do,” the owners said. “It is incredibly bittersweet to say goodbye, but we are excited to pass the torch and NOT give you more condos to stare at!”
The new owners were not named in the send off message.
The Fitzpatrick family’s last day of service will be Sunday.
The tavern will then close temporarily and reopen Friday under new ownership.
“The Fitzpatrick family is incredibly grateful for all of the years of support, memories, and friendship,” the owners said. “This has been more than just a business but a large part of our lives. We could go on forever, but we couldn’t have done it without you.”
