From Goodnight Irene’s to The Rook — A Fresh Start for a Wildwood Favorite

🏖️ A Stone’s Throw from the Sea Gypsy

The Rook is just a short stroll from our front door—practically next-door neighbors! Guests can swing by for dinner or drinks, enjoy the sea breeze along the way, and return home easily. It’s become one of our favorite nearby spots we’re eager to recommend.

History Reimagined

The building has deep roots in Wildwood culture. For 17 years, Goodnight Irene’s was a go-to for rotating craft beers, hearty pub fare, and live music in a comfy, welcoming space 97.3 ESPN+3Wildwood Video Archive+3PhillyVoice+3. The folks behind The Rook completely gutted and renovated the space—while preserving a few sentimental features—transforming it into a sleek, stylish venue that blends modern touches with coastal charm .

Patio, Live Music & Unique Layout

One exciting upgrade: for the first time, the upstairs of the building has been opened to the public. This upstairs patio offers sweeping views of Pacific Avenue and beyond—something no other Pacific Avenue restaurant currently offers Wildwood Video Archive. Outside, the patio has been refreshed with new pavers and even a stage in the rear—hinting at planned live music and events all summer long Wildwood Video Archive.

🌟 Food & Drinks: A Shore-Inspired Twist

The Rook brings a menu rooted in Philly-inspired favorites—think burgers, cheesesteaks, cutlet sandwiches, and standout cocktails—with a fresh coastal twist designed for Wildwood's vibrant scene Facebook+10PhillyVoice+10Wildwood Video Archive+10. While select signature dishes from their Philadelphia locations appear, expect more elevated, fork‑and‑knife options perfect for beachside evenings or weekend brunch. And yes—they’re offering brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, which is a new arrival in the neighborhood Wildwood Video Archive+1Wildwood Video Archive+1.

🕺 Live Music & Atmosphere

While Goodnight Irene’s was notable for trivia nights and an extensive tap list, The Rook plans to build on that legacy with a more refined yet still laid-back vibe, lively music nights, and events on their refreshed patio stage—ideal for summer evenings under the stars Facebook+9Wildwood Video Archive+9Wildwood Video Archive+9.

Why We’re Excited at the Sea Gypsy

• Proximity: Only a couple of minutes’ walk—ideal for our guests seeking delicious food and drinks without venturing far.

• Balanced Vibe: Perfect for beachgoers ready to lounge with a cocktail, or diners seeking elevated coastal fare.

• Year‑Round Option: Unlike seasonal spots, The Rook plans to open year-round, making it a great off-season destination for visitors and locals alike Wildwood Video Archive.

Sea Gypsy Guests—Here’s What to Expect

Feature	Details
Location	Just steps down Pacific Avenue from The Sea Gypsy
Atmosphere	Relaxed, modern, with a beachy coastal flair
Seating	Indoor dining, downstairs patio, and new upstairs patio with view
Live Music	Regularly planned on the outdoor stage
Menu Highlights	Philly‑meets‑shore specialties, brunch weekends, signature cocktails
Open Year-Round	Reliable option beyond peak summer months

A Farewell to Irene’s, a Greeting to The Rook

We know how much Goodnight Irene’s meant to our guests and to the Wildwood community—it was a place filled with memories, laughter, and neighborhood spirit Wildwood Video Archive+7The Sea Gypsy B&B+7Wildwood Video Archive+7Wildwood Video Archive+1Wildwood Video Archive+1PhillyVoice+1nj1015.com+1. Though it's bittersweet to say goodbye, we’re equally excited for The Rook Wildwood to breathe new life into this historic spot. Their vision honors the past while bringing something fresh to the Jersey Shore.

If you're staying with us at the Sea Gypsy, be sure to let us know—we’d love to guide you over for brunch, dinner, or a drink on The Rook's patio. Here’s to new beginnings and to another Wildwood chapter in one of our favorite historic corners.

Warm sea breezes and good company,

The Sea Gypsy Bed & Breakfast Team