Larkin’s Enters New Chapter After 75 Years of Family Ownership in Wildwood
After 75 years as a family-owned restaurant, Larkin’s is officially beginning a new chapter.
The Larkin family announced that ownership of the longtime establishment will transfer to new owners, marking the close of a remarkable era that began in 1950.
The transition follows the wishes of Joseph “Jay” Larkin and his wife Kathleen and comes after Kathleen’s passing earlier this year.
Larkin’s was founded by Joseph and Marian Larkin, who built more than just a restaurant. From the very beginning, they created a place rooted in comfort, connection, and familiarity.
Over the decades, Larkin’s became a staple for generations of families, serving as a gathering place for everyday meals, celebrations, and lifelong memories.
After Joseph Larkin passed away, Marian carried the restaurant forward with strength and devotion. She became the heart of Larkin’s, known for her warmth and for treating customers like family. Her dedication ensured that the restaurant’s welcoming spirit never wavered, even as times changed.
When Marian passed, their son Joseph “Jay” Larkin took over the family business. For Jay, Larkin’s was not simply a restaurant. It was his life’s passion.
He often spoke of it with pride, viewing the restaurant as both a responsibility and a reflection of who he was. Jay worked tirelessly to preserve its reputation, honor his parents’ legacy, and maintain the relationships that defined Larkin’s for generations.
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Following Jay’s passing, his wife Kathleen stepped in to continue the tradition. With unwavering commitment, she kept Larkin’s thriving while honoring its history and values. Under her leadership, the restaurant remained a familiar and welcoming place for the community she cared so deeply about.
Now, with Kathleen’s passing, the family has shared that the time has come for Larkin’s to move forward under new ownership.
While this transition closes a chapter for the Larkin family, they emphasize that the legacy built over 75 years will always remain.
The family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the customers, employees, friends, and community members who supported Larkin’s through multiple generations.
As new owners take the reins, Larkin’s story continues, grounded in a history of family, dedication, and lasting community connection.
Realtor Maria Anastasia Bruno from Cabrera Coastal Real Estate announced on Facebook the sale by saying, “Congratulations to the Larkins family on the sale of their legacy restaurant, and best of luck to the new owners. I am thrilled to report they are going to re-open as Larkins, hopefully by the summer. It was an honor to represent the Larkins family, a true Wildwood institution.”
Larkin’s may be entering a new chapter, but the memories and legacy created by Joseph, Marian, Jay, and Kathleen will forever remain part of its story.
We want to wish Larkin’s the best of luck in their future!