About Us
PJ's Family Restaurant:
A Legacy of
Family, Flavor, and Cape Cod Tradition
After a distinguished military career, John Reeves knew it was time for a new chapter - one that would bring his wife Dorothy back to her hometown of Provincetown. In 1971, with the support of Dorothy's brother Elmer Silva, John made a bold move: he relocated his family from Texas to Cape Cod and purchased a small restaurant. That restaurant, PJ's Dari-Burger, soon became a Wellfleet staple, known for its friendly atmosphere and classic Cape fare.
From day one, PJ's was built on a simple philosophy: serve fresh, high-quality local ingredients at a great value for families. The original menu offered beloved favorites like fried clams, hot dogs, burgers, homemade clam chowder, onion rings, and, of course, soft serve ice cream. Over time PJ's evolved to meet the tastes of its growing community. By 1993, the menu expanded to feature lobsters, steamed clams and mussels, broiled and grilled seafood, hearty salads, and homemade soups including the much-loved Portuguese Kale Soup. Today PJ's continues to delight customers with house made specialties like fried chicken, crab cakes, stuffed clams, and ever-changing seafood specials. With so many options, picking a favorite has never been easy!
As the restaurant flourished, so did the family. John could be found in the kitchen alongside his son Don, and Dorothy and her daughters-in-law, Marcia and Denise worked tirelessly up front, ensuring every guest felt at home. Over the years sons, daughters, nieces, nephews and countless loyal employees became part of the PJ's Family. For multiple generations, it's been a summer rite of passage before heading off to college or launching careers.
Today PJ's Family Restuarant continues to thrive under the leadership of its third generation. John's Grandson Brian leading the kitchen with skill and dedication, while his wife Wendy - who first joined PJ's as her first job - ensures everything runs smoothly upfront. Despite the passing years, PJ's remains true to its roots: a place where families gather for fresh, locally sourced food.
Many still ask, "What does PJ's stand for?" While it was originally named by the previous owners, the Reeves family has its own heartfelt answer: PJ's means "Pa Johns Family Restaurant". As the grandkids called him Pa John, the name honors the man who started it all and the family values that continue to guide it today.
Whether you are craving a buttery lobster roll, golden fried clams, or a creamy soft serve on a hot summer day, PJ's is more than just a meal - it's a tradition. Come for the seafood, stay for the ice cream, and leave with memories that last long after summer ends! Come and experience the flavors and warmth that have made PJ's a Cape Cod treasure for 3 generations! We look forward to serving you, and your family for years to come!
