Boardwalk Bites
Nothing says summer at the Jersey Shore quite like a stroll down the Ocean City Boardwalk. From the rides and family traditions to the sweet treats that keep visitors coming back year after year, the boardwalk is packed with iconic stops that have become part of so many family vacations. This month, Grub Club is taking a slight twist as we explore some of Ocean City’s must-try boardwalk bites. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for your annual shore trip, these are a few places that deserve a spot on your summer bucket list.
When people think of the Ocean City Boardwalk, Kohr Bros. is often one of the first places that comes to mind. Famous for its frozen custard, it has been a summertime staple for generations. For many families, stopping for a cone after an evening on the rides is simply part of the tradition. Growing up, my go-to order was always vanilla with rainbow sprinkles after spending the night on the rides. Even now, that first bite instantly brings back memories of summer vacations, late-night boardwalk walks, and family time. Sometimes the classics really are the best, and Kohr Bros. continues to prove why it has remained a favorite for so many years.
Just a short walk away is George’s Candies. While many visitors know it for its homemade fudge, candies, chocolates, and nostalgic toy shop, it also serves homemade hard ice cream with fun, creative flavors. Walking through the doors feels like stepping back in time, with shelves lined with old-fashioned candy and sweet treats that remind many people of childhood. It’s one of those places where you can browse for a souvenir, grab dessert, and leave with something that makes the trip memorable. Whether you’re picking up a box of fudge to bring home or enjoying a scoop before continuing your walk, George’s has something for every sweet tooth.
Although Mister Softee is one of the newer additions to the Ocean City Boardwalk, the brand itself has been a longtime favorite for many families. It’s hard not to smile when you hear the familiar music playing as you walk down the boards. Conveniently located next to Gillian’s Island Water Park, it’s an easy stop after spending the day cooling off in the water or enjoying nearby attractions. My favorite order has always been a simple vanilla cone dipped in chocolate. There’s nothing fancy about it, but that’s exactly why I love it. It’s nostalgic, delicious and one of those treats that never seems to go out of style.
Shriver’s is another iconic Ocean City destination that’s known well beyond the boardwalk. Famous for its saltwater taffy, homemade candies and eye-catching window displays, it’s a place nearly everyone recognizes. While the candy often gets most of the attention, don’t overlook the gelato. It’s smooth, creamy, and refreshing, making it a great option on a hot summer afternoon. Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or simply looking for something different than traditional ice cream, the gelato offers another reason to stop inside. Sometimes the hidden gems are found alongside the classics.
One of the newer boardwalk favorites, Scoops & Sweets by Kilwins has quickly earned a loyal following. Before you even reach the counter, the smell of freshly made waffle cones fills the shop, making it nearly impossible to walk past without stopping. If you ask me, ordering your ice cream in one of the chocolate-dipped waffle cones is the way to go. The extra layer of chocolate adds just enough sweetness while the fresh cone makes every scoop even better. Choosing a favorite flavor isn’t easy because I’ve yet to have one I didn’t enjoy. It’s one of those places where you’ll probably find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your cone.
When temperatures climb, Polish Water Ice is one of the most refreshing treats you’ll find on the boardwalk. Light, icy and packed with flavor, it’s a summertime tradition for locals and visitors alike. You can enjoy it the classic way, layer it with soft serve for the best of both worlds, or blend it into a creamy shake. There really isn’t a wrong choice. One of my favorite things about Polish Water Ice is how customizable it is. Everyone seems to have their own favorite combination, making each visit a little different. No matter how you order it, it’s the perfect way to cool off during a hot afternoon at the shore.
If you’re looking for something a little different, Aloha Soft Serve brings a tropical twist to the boardwalk. Best known for its refreshing Dole Whip, the shop also offers floats and creative desserts like ice cream tacos. The pineapple Dole Whip is one of those treats that instantly transports you somewhere tropical. It’s a refreshing change from traditional soft serve and a fun option for anyone looking to try something new while exploring the boardwalk.
One of the newest additions to the boardwalk’s dessert scene is Famous Cookie Creamery. Their build-your-own ice cream cookie sandwiches let you choose two freshly baked, gooey cookies and your favorite ice cream flavor to create a custom dessert that’s almost too good to eat. Almost. With so many cookie and ice cream combinations to choose from, every visit can be a little different. It’s a fun treat to share with family or friends, although I won’t blame you if you decide to keep the whole thing for yourself. The combination of warm cookies and ice cream makes it a standout addition to the boardwalk’s growing list of dessert destinations.
Of course, no trip to the Ocean City Boardwalk would be complete without pizza. That’s where Prep’s Pizzeria & Dairy Bar comes in. Located near Playland’s Castaway Cove, it’s the perfect place to grab lunch, dinner or a quick bite between rides. What could be more iconic than pizza followed by ice cream on the boardwalk? It’s a combination that has become part of the Ocean City experience for generations. Whether you’re sitting down with family after a busy afternoon or grabbing a slice before heading back to the beach, Prep’s offers one of those simple traditions that reminds you why summers at the shore are so special.
One of my favorite things about the Ocean City Boardwalk is that no two visits ever feel the same. Some days you’re there for the rides, other days you’re shopping, watching the sunset, or simply enjoying a walk by the ocean. No matter the reason, food somehow always becomes part of the experience. Maybe it’s sharing a cone with your family or grabbing water ice after a day on the beach. Those little moments are often the ones we remember most.
Whether you’re craving frozen custard, homemade ice cream, water ice, or gelato, the Ocean City Boardwalk truly offers something for everyone. While new businesses continue to join longtime favorites, each one adds its own flavor to the boardwalk experience. Sometimes the best part of a shore day isn’t just the beach or the rides — it’s the traditions, the laughter and the memories made, one sweet treat at a time.
