The Whale expansion for summer 2019

The Black Whale has always kind of been the Black Sheep of the family.

The “Nook” is as cozy as ever. Photo: Ryan Johnson

The history starts when Bob and Ginna opened Ship Bottom Shellfish. The franchise expanded when we opened Mud City in 1999. While Parker’s Garage has enjoyed the limelight the last few years, Old Causeway before it, and our newest venture, Bird & Betty’s will likely get a lot of attention this year, the Whale has maintained its “neighborhood bar” feel, kicking out fantastic craft drinks and fresh seafood under the radar.

It has a nice long season, a great atmosphere, loyal following and that Dirty Jersey burger…. And it kind of runs like clockwork.

The Jumbo Lump Crab Cake Sandwich. We may have made some changes, but we know you don’t fix what aint’ broke. Photo: Ryan Johnson.

Well, it’s time the Whale gets a little recognition. Maybe a second of the spotlight as we dive into the season? And what better time than now, when we’re announcing the new renovation and event space?

When we bought Romeo’s and opened the Whale in 2005, it was our first adventure into the world of beer and liquor. Before we knew it, we were three deep at the bar. Then came the events, movie premieres and after parties, which would involve us deeper in the community and lead to a 15-year relationship with Jetty. We’d outgrown the space and the purchase of the property next door allowed us to do a major addition over the winter.

We were able to expand the barroom and add five new high top tables. The dining room now reaches further west, with 10 additional tables. All together we now have seating for 78 additional people, which we are confident will cut down summer wait times.

Kurt’s still got the bar running as ever, just with a little more space. Photo: Ryan Johnson.

We’re also very excited to have live music during the week with Ryan Zimmerman on Tuesdays, Ty Mares on Wednesdays and Chris Fritz most Thursdays.

And as always, Dina will be steering the ship for the front of the house while Gonzo and Zach keep all those great tuna spring rolls, grilled tuna plates and Jumbalaya coming out of the galley. While Kurt will be splitting time between the Bird & Betty’s, he will make sure the taps keep flowing at the Whale with all of your favorite brews.

The Whale has a new event/party space upstairs for 45 people, perfect for smaller weddings, family reunions, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, baby/bridal showers, and surprise birthday parties. The space has a nice deck looking out on Beach Haven’s center street.

The extended dining room. Photo: Ryan Jonhson.

Recently, we announced that we are using RESY for our seating. We have the same policy as always - we accept reservations for any size party until 6pm but only for eight or more during peak hours, but now it will be a little more streamlined. You can also call for reservations at any time on our good ol’ landline 609.492.0025.

We’re very proud of what we have at the Whale and so far this season, our customers are telling us that the expansion “is just perfect.” In other words, it’s not too big. It still feels like the same Black Whale (just a little less congested around the hostess station.)

Our namesake. Courtesy New Jersey Maritime Museum.