Gianmarco, BS '96, and Gilda S. Martuscelli, BS '98
Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & MarinaChesapeake City, Maryland
Dinner with a View
Gianmarco Martuscelli, BS '96, and Gilda S. Martuscelli, BS '98, have welcomed boaters and diners alike at the Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina since 1996. The upscale restaurant, which was opened in collaboration with Gianmarco’s father, Giuseppe, offers everything from sushi to crab cakes and brick-oven pizzas. The picturesque location also serves as a popular wedding venue, overlooking dazzling waterfront views of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal.
“Being the cornerstone of a community where everyone gathers or comes together for their special occasions and celebrates is so rewarding,” Gianmarco says.
The Martuscellis partnered with a local chef to introduce sushi to their menu, like the Flaming Chesapeake roll, filled with a crab stick and cream cheese, tempura fried and topped with crabmeat, jalapeños, spicy mayo, eel sauce and sriracha.
Philly sports royalty, including Brandon Graham, Cole Hamels, John Kruk and Charlie Manuel, have dined at the Chesapeake Inn.
The Martuscellis received a key to Chesapeake City to celebrate 25 years in business in 2021.
Can’t-miss menu items?
Crab cakes, Penne Santa Maria, sushi, brick-oven pizzas.
Best part about being a business owner?
Every day is a new day and adventure. Being the cornerstone of a community where everyone gathers or comes together for their special occasions and celebrates is so rewarding.
Inspiration for going into the food biz?
I [Gianmarco] grew up working in my parents’ Italian restaurant, La Casa Pasta in Newark, Delaware, working the line and expo as a teenager.
How has your SJU education impacted you as an entrepreneur?
It gave me the foundation for where I am today. The skills and knowledge I gained in college, including critical thinking, problem-solving and communication — as well as being the social chair of my fraternity — were invaluable in helping me run a successful restaurant.
St. Joe’s exposed me to different cultures, cuisines and perspectives that influenced me when we created our restaurant's menus and ambiance. Overall, it was an amazing experience, which played a key role in shaping my approach to entrepreneurship and food service.
Unknown or fun fact about your restaurant?
Jimmy Buffett docked his boat here for two nights in 2021 and many other celebrities over the years have been in and frequented our Chesapeake City location.
Most memorable restaurateur moment/experience?
Being presented with the key to the town of Chesapeake City for 25 years in business and being named the Delaware Restaurant Chairman in 2023.
Gianmarco and Gilda behind the bar at Klondike Kate’s, one of their other restaurants.
Twin jumbo lump crab cakes.
A view of the marina lit up for a party.
Some of the Chesapeake Inn’s sushi selections.
How would you describe your restaurant to someone who has never been there before?
The Chesapeake Inn is a place for everyone. My wife and I have transformed the Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina into one of the top wedding venues near Delaware and a popular waterfront dining destination on the Eastern Shore in Chesapeake City, Maryland. For over 28 years, this venue has been the go-to location for creating unforgettable experiences, whether you're at our lower deck – a hotspot for live entertainment and casual fare — or in our dining room, which is ideal for special occasions and private events. Our marina offers 60 slips for boats to dock next to the deck for a quick bite or an overnight stay.
Favorite guest you’ve served?
Jimmy Buffett, Brandon Graham, Cole Hamels, John Kruk, Charlie Manuel and Jim Belushi.
SJU professor or class that had the most impact on your career trajectory?
Anything related to food marketing was incredibly impactful in my career. Being able to incorporate real-life experiences was the key.
If you could make an SJU-themed meal or dish, what would you serve?
The Muddy Duck was the popular bar back in the day we all frequented. I guess a duck dish!
Secret to a great meal?
Made from scratch using fresh ingredients.
Follow Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina on Social:
