Iconic Ocean City Boardwalk Treats You Can’t Miss
No trip to Ocean City, NJ is complete without indulging in the legendary flavors of the boardwalk. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or the whole summer, the sweet and savory boardwalk staples make every visit extra special. From gooey slices of pizza to creamy frozen custard and hand-tossed caramel popcorn, here are the must-try boardwalk treats that keep visitors coming back year after year.
1. Manco & Manco Pizza – A Slice of Boardwalk History
📍 Locations: 9th Street & Boardwalk, 8th Street & Boardwalk, 12th Street & Boardwalk
🍕 Must-Try: Classic Cheese Pizza
No food is more synonymous with the Ocean City Boardwalk than a fresh, hot slice from Manco & Manco Pizza. Since 1956, this legendary pizzeria has been serving up its famous thin-crust pies with a perfectly balanced cheese-to-sauce ratio. The secret? A signature swirl of sauce on top of the cheese, creating a distinct taste you won’t find anywhere else.
Why It’s Iconic:
- A crunchy-yet-chewy crust with just the right amount of char.
- A secret sauce recipe that fans swear by.
- A long-standing OCNJ tradition for generations of families.
Pro Tip: Grab a whole pie to share, or if you’re just passing through, a single slice will still hit the spot!
2. Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard – The Original Creamy Treat
📍 Locations: 6th Street & Boardwalk, 8th Street & Boardwalk, 9th Street & Boardwalk
🍦 Must-Try: Vanilla-Orange Twist Cone
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a creamy, refreshing custard from Kohr Bros. Established in 1919, Kohr Bros. is one of the original creators of frozen custard, which has a richer, smoother texture than traditional ice cream due to extra egg yolks and less air.
Why It’s Iconic:
- A silky texture that’s creamier than regular ice cream.
- The classic vanilla-orange twist is a fan favorite.
- Over 100 years of history, making it one of the oldest frozen custard shops in America.
Pro Tip: Want to mix it up? Try their chocolate-vanilla twist or top it off with sprinkles for a nostalgic boardwalk treat.
3. Johnson’s Popcorn – Sweet & Salty Perfection
📍 Location: 6th Street & Boardwalk
🍿 Must-Try: Original Caramel Corn (Get a bucket to take home!)
Since 1940, the mouthwatering scent of caramelized popcorn has been drifting down the boardwalk from Johnson’s Popcorn. Their famous hand-tossed caramel corn is made fresh in copper kettles and mixed by hand to ensure every piece is coated in rich, buttery caramel.
Why It’s Iconic:
- Hand-tossed in small batches for the perfect crunch.
- Served in refillable buckets – a classic OCNJ souvenir.
- A perfect mix of sweet and salty, making it totally addictive.
Pro Tip: Take a bucket home with you, but keep it sealed—moisture from the ocean air can make the popcorn sticky fast!
4. Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy & Fudge – A Jersey Shore Classic
📍 Location: 9th Street & Boardwalk
🍬 Must-Try: Peanut Butter Salt Water Taffy & Chocolate Walnut Fudge
Salt water taffy and the Jersey Shore go hand in hand, and Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy is the oldest business on the boardwalk, dating back to 1898. With dozens of flavors and the perfect chewy texture, this treat is a nostalgic bite of the shore. If you’re more into chocolate, their house-made fudge is just as famous.
Why It’s Iconic:
- 125+ years of history, making it an OCNJ landmark.
- Over 40 flavors of salt water taffy.
- Handmade fudge that’s rich, creamy, and melts in your mouth.
Pro Tip: Want a fun experience? Watch the taffy being pulled and packaged through the shop’s glass windows!
5. The Original Fudge Kitchen – Homemade, Creamy, & Perfectly Sweet
📍 Locations: 9th Street & Boardwalk, 11th Street & Boardwalk
🍫 Must-Try: Classic Chocolate & Vanilla Fudge
If you have a sweet tooth, The Original Fudge Kitchen is a must-visit. Since 1970, they’ve been making hand-whipped fudge that’s ultra-smooth and packed with flavor. Unlike other fudges that can be dense or grainy, Fudge Kitchen’s secret recipe results in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist.
Why It’s Iconic:
- Hand-whipped daily for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Available in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and peanut butter.
- Great gift idea—they even ship fudge nationwide!
Pro Tip: Can’t decide? Try a variety box to sample multiple flavors.
Final Thoughts
Ocean City’s boardwalk is a foodie’s paradise, and these classic treats are a must for any visitor. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into a cheesy Manco & Manco slice, cooling off with a Kohr Bros. custard, or filling a bucket with Johnson’s Popcorn, these flavors capture the essence of summer at the Jersey Shore.
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Why is Ocean City, New Jersey the perfect getaway for your family?
Ocean City, New Jersey is the ideal destination for your family due to its charming and family-friendly atmosphere. With its pristine beaches, bustling boardwalk, and array of exciting activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the sandy shores, take a bike ride along the scenic paths, or indulge in some delicious saltwater taffy, Ocean City has it all. The town is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its community events, live entertainment, and delicious dining options. From mini-golf and amusement parks to water sports and shopping, Ocean City offers endless opportunities for creating unforgettable family memories. So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready for a fun-filled and relaxing getaway in Ocean City, New Jersey!
Visit oceancityvacation.com to learn more about the island and make the most out of your vacation!