Ocean Township, New Jersey, is a small town in Monmouth County not far from the shore. Nestled near the shore towns of Monmouth University, Asbury Park, and many other various destinations, the town is easily overlooked in one's travel down the shore. However, if you’re looking to titillate your taste buds, Ocean is definitely a place you must visit, as our food experience is like none other.
Rook
The Monmouth County sensation, Rook Coffee, was created and is still headquartered in Ocean Township. Ocean is home to two Rook stores and the original store, which is now its distribution center. Their coffee is a Monmouth County staple and is loved by many.
Broad Street Dough Co
Broad Street Dough Co is the best doughnut shop you’ve never heard of, unless you have of course, then it’s probably your favorite doughnut shop. There is no way for me to explain the goodness, so just check out this Buzzfeed article and try not to drool!
Blue Swan
The Blue Swan Diner, “the Swan,” “the dirty bird,” or whatever you choose to call it, this diner is an Ocean Township staple and for good reason. After Friday night football games this diner (open 24 hours on weekends) will be packed with high schoolers, and on a regular afternoon there will still be plenty of people occupying the seats. It’s the town diner (sorry Sunset Diner) and one of the best in the area.
Domesticated Dad
The Domesticated Dad is a relatively new place in Ocean and it has quickly become loved by all who choose to stop by or have it delivered. The staff is some of the friendliest I have ever encountered and the sandwich, wrap, or salad that you order will be accompanied by a great homemade drink and dessert. To top it all off, your brown bag will have a sticker personalized with your name on it. I encourage you to stop by, whether it be for a pork roll in the morning or a burger in the afternoon.
Luigi’s
This generically named pizza establishment is known locally for its square pizza, but according to these state pizza researchers it is the best Luigi’s in the state and has one of the best sausage pizzas in Jersey. Worth the stop for a slice or two for the road.
Brennan’s
Brennan’s Delicatessen is an Ocean Township resident favorite and Monmouth University students seem to love it as well. Between the wide variety of sandwiches, wraps and other food that they have there is nothing to not like about Brennan’s and every regular knows exactly which number sandwich they want when they walk in the door.
What About a Bagel
What About a Bagel, or Waab as it’s commonly known, is a great place to go for breakfast/lunch in Ocean. You can get a very good pork roll or one of their signature flagels that will always come with friendly service.
Igloo & Scoops
Igloo, which started in Ocean, has expanded very well and even has itself a food truck now. They are an Italian Ice and frozen yogurt place and getting some of their ices or yogurt is a definite boost to any summer or winter night. Scoops is just down the road and has some excellent hard ice cream, sundaes and milkshakes.
P.S. When at Scoops, try the Smurf ice cream. Just do it.
Hot Bagel Bakery
Highly touted by the Asbury Park Press, Hot Bagel Bakery is up early making all of their bagels and muffins nice and fresh. It's everything you’d want out of a great Jersey bagelry, and it is Kosher as well.
Danny’s Place
The hidden gem of Ocean Township, Danny’s is a small breakfast and early lunch establishment in the back of the Wannamassa section of town. If you weren’t looking for it, you’d probably never know it was there. The omelets are superb and the prices are incredibly reasonable. One of those mom and pop shop places that is loved by all who step foot inside. It has a homey feel and friendly staff as well.
