This spring, New Jersey-based Mystic Lobster Roll Company will open its 33rd location at 3115 Pacific Avenue, previously home to Krispy Krunchy Chicken (and for many years before that, Center City Video Outlet).
Owners Philip & Renee Tretola opened the first Mystic-branded location at their marketplace in Ship Bottom, Long Beach Island in 2020. An overnight sensation, its success has spurred an expansion to nearly three dozen restaurants in four states, in just four years’ time.
“It’s been an incredible ride so far, but we feel like we’re just getting started,” said Philip Tretola. “This one is extra special to me because Wildwood is so near and dear to my heart. When this opportunity arose, I couldn’t wait to take it.”
Tretola, 52, born and raised in North Jersey, noted that his family has been vacationing in Wildwood since 1974.
“It’s like coming home again,” he explained. “I have so many incredible memories made in Wildwood over the years. I learned to swim in the pool at the Pan American [Hotel]. To be able to bring our business to town is a dream come true.”
This is shaping up to be quite the year for the Tretolas, who began franchising Mystic restaurants in 2021 (since expanding at a rate of 7 to 10 new stores each year). In addition to Wildwood, they will be opening locations in Egg Harbor Township, Key West, Florida and Las Vegas (yes - VEGAS!) in the coming weeks.
The catalyst of this growth, of course, is Mystic’s “MAINE Event” - its signature lobster rolls.