Shop Local at these Food Markets and Grocery Stores
Credit: The Local
There’s no better feeling than crossing over the Causeway Bridge and knowing you’re almost “home.” Whether you’ve rented a beach house for the week with friends, have a second home for the family or are enjoying proper beach time as a local, there’s something about getting to Long Beach Island that makes you want to, well, stay. And... you can! Thanks to these one-stop-shops that offer sandwiches, fresh produce, pantry items, prepared foods and more, you never have to leave the island. Here are the best food markets and grocery stores on Long Beach Island.
The Local
Ship Bottom
The Local is an incredibly charming artisanal market that serves all things… local. Pick up sandwiches, salads, wraps, pastries and coffees with ease, as well as locally-sourced pantry items, condiments, sauces and swag. Not-to-be-missed are homemade items like tuna and macaroni salad and BBQ pulled pork.
Country Corner Farm Market
Ship Bottom
As soon as you arrive on the island, you’re met by Country Corner Farm Market, a garden center, grocery, deli and bakery. Anything you need, you can get here; think ripe jersey tomatoes, fresh fruit and most of all, PIES. Whatever your vice is - from key lime and coconut cream to blueberry crumb and peach - these pies are by far the best on the island.
Anchor Produce Market
Surf City
Anchor Produce Market is the crown jewel in Surf City’s crown. The ever-reliable market and grocery store has tons of organic produce and the best Jersey corn you’ll find on the island. They also offer snacks, cold drinks and ice cream for a quick beach stop. Vegans take note, you can find plant-based patties here.
Mario’s Italian Market
Surf City
As the name would suggest, Mario’s Italian Market is the food market for Italian food aficionados. Their list of offerings goes something like this: fresh mozzarella, assorted cheeses, charcuterie, olive bar, freshly made pasta and veggie dishes, hoagies and sandwiches, full bakery and a line of their own sauces and side dishes. If you’re looking to cater a big party, Mario’s is the move.
Neptune Market
Harvey Cedars
The low-key ‘hood of Harvey Cedars may have fewer drinking and dining options, but it does have Neptune Market, a delightful grocer for all your needs. This little market is the perfect spot to pick up fresh produce, bread, cold cuts, salads, kitchen items and toiletries to stock up the fridge.
Pearl Street Market
Beach Haven
A quintessential grab-and-go, Pearl Street Market’s prepared food and cafe is equal parts, bakery, deli and butcher shop. There’s a dedicated cheese section to make your antipasto dreams come true, and a very special case devoted to snackable selections like homestyle mac and cheese, pan-fried onion dip and crab and artichoke spread. Add in freshly baked breads, cold drinks, and made-to-order sandwiches, and it’s easy to see why this is a Beach Haven favorite. Stock up for your beach day—or a sunset picnic—and you’ll be the hero of the group.
Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding the fam, or just trying to make the most of your beach day without a mainland grocery run, LBI’s markets have you covered. These neighborhood favorites bring together the best of convenience, quality, and local flavor so you can stay in vacation mode from your first coffee to your last nightcap. So go ahead, unpack the car, slip on your flip flops, and shop like a local—right here on the island.
