Exit Zero Site to Become Mediterrano By Santorini, Opening This Spring

Issue #586

January 25, 2026

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

❄️ Exit Zero Site to Become Mediterrano By Santorini, Opening This Spring

❄️ End of an Era: Wildwood’s Iconic FlowRider Surf Machine Taken Down

🏨Snowstorm Sparks Emergency Declaration, Travel Restrictions Across New Jersey

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Shop Local

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 January 25

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Exit Zero Site to Become Mediterrano By Santorini, Opening This Spring

Cape May is preparing to welcome a fresh addition to its culinary scene this spring with the arrival of Mediterrano By Santorini, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant set to open in the former Exit Zero location at 110 Sunset Boulevard. The concept promises to blend the bold flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Greek and Italian cuisine, bringing a new dimension to the town’s well-established dining traditions. The project is being led by restaurateur Florian Furxhiu, known locally for his successful Wildwood establishments, Santorini and Venezia. With Mediterrano, Furxhiu aims to introduce a distinct dining experience that draws inspiration from southern Europe while remaining uniquely tailored to Cape May’s relaxed, coastal character. Scheduled to open in late April or early May, the restaurant is undergoing a full renovation both inside and out. The building, once home to the casual and quirky Exit Zero Filling Station, is being transformed into a more refined space designed to evoke the essence of the Mediterranean. Plans for the exterior include a large patio featuring lush greenery, water features, and art reminiscent of Greek and Roman heritage—aiming to transport diners to the coastal towns of Europe. The restaurant is envisioned as elevated yet approachable—a step above casual dining without losing sight of its shore town setting. The goal is to strike a balance that feels upscale without being exclusive, offering both locals and visitors a new go-to spot for fresh, flavorful cuisine. As Cape May continues to evolve, Mediterrano By Santorini is poised to become a key part of the town’s next culinary chapter, blending international flair with local charm.

End of an Era: Wildwood’s Iconic FlowRider Surf Machine Taken Down

The Wildwood Boardwalk has officially said goodbye to one of its most iconic summer staples. On January 14, the FlowRider surf simulator was dismantled and removed from the former Splash Zone Waterpark site, signaling a significant moment in the transformation of the popular beachfront area. The FlowRider, a simulated wave machine that allowed guests to bodyboard or surf in place, had been a centerpiece of Splash Zone since its early days in the 2000s. It stood out as a rare attraction, with only three other FlowRider installations remaining in New Jersey today. Its removal comes several months after Splash Zone closed permanently at the end of the 2025 season. The waterpark, a fixture of summer vacations in Wildwood for 26 years, was beloved by locals and tourists alike for its slides, interactive water features, and convenient location directly on the boardwalk. The family behind Splash Zone’s operations explained that the decision to close was part of a long-term vision for the property’s future. Rather than continuing as a waterpark, the owners expressed interest in reimagining the site to bring new energy to Wildwood’s evolving tourism landscape. In preparation for redevelopment, a public auction in December sold off much of the park’s equipment. The FlowRider, due to its size and specialized nature, was among the first major features to be removed. While no formal redevelopment plans have been announced yet, the site’s transformation is underway. The removal of the FlowRider marks more than just a physical change—it symbolizes the end of an era and the start of a new chapter for the boardwalk.

 

Snowstorm Sparks Emergency Declaration, Travel Restrictions Across New Jersey

 New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has declared a state of emergency as a major snowstorm approaches the state. Commercial vehicle travel will be restricted on key highways starting early today, and transportation agencies are deploying thousands of snowplows and salt trucks. NJ Transit may adjust schedules based on conditions. The declaration allows for federal assistance and potential National Guard activation, but does not mandate that residents stay home. State offices may close or delay opening Monday, and courts will operate remotely.

Which historic site in Cape May was recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the top 10 beaches in the United States in 2008?

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 Answer to the January 24th Trivia Question

What natural phenomenon makes Cape May a prime location for monarch butterfly watchers each fall?
A) The town’s unique elevation and cooler climate
B) A concentration of milkweed farms in the area
C) Its position as a geographic funnel along the monarch migration route
D) Artificial lighting that attracts butterflies at night

Answer: C) Its position as a geographic funnel along the monarch migration route.

Cape May’s location at the southern tip of New Jersey causes migrating monarch butterflies to concentrate there in the fall before crossing the Delaware Bay, making it a renowned spot for monarch sightings.

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