Super cute cafe alert! The Local Market & Kitchen, just over the LBI causeway in Ship Bottom, is a beach foodie’s dream, offering an extensive menu of healthy, fresh (and okay, some serious #treatyoself splurge-worthy) dishes and drinks with everything local top of mind. Think locally sourced and locally loved coffee creations, mouth-watering sandwiches and decadent desserts, with wellness shots and kombucha teas added into the mix. We’re all about a little balance, right?! This place is the perfect combination of a market and a kitchen, bringing you a blend of pre-packaged goods and fresh meals to satisfy any craving. The Local Market & Kitchen is open every day, year-round, from 7AM to 7PM, making it a must-stop for locals and LBI visitors alike.

Enjoy locally sourced food at The Local Market & Kitchen:

The vibe inside The Local Market & Kitchen is casual, beachy, rustic and modern all at once. The white subway tile and reclaimed wood give it a fun farmhouse look and the vintage touches and twists like the Airstream camped out front add a major laid back beach town feel. The expansive menu makes it a great spot for coffee, lunch with the fam, or to pop in and snag some goodies for home.

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With various nitro cold brews (hello, Hawaiian Macadamia nut) and specialty latte flavors like S’mores, Mexican Churro, Coconut Cream, and Cookie, this place is a slice of coffee heaven. Baked goods range from cookies and muffins to biscotti and Nutella pop tarts. Did we mention this place is strawless? Major win for the environment too. ?

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Over at the lunch counter, you can choose from fresh fish options, wraps and hot or cold sandwiches like the Muffaletta (olive & giardiniera salad, mortadella, salami, ham, and provolone on Sicilian sesame bread), the Fried Green BLT (fried green tomato, arugula, bacon, and chipotle ranch on whole grain bread) or The Local Po’ Boy (fresh local clam strips, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeno tartar on a brioche hot dog bun – HIGHLY recommend). Or, you can go with a tried and true favorite like Grilled Cheese or Chicken Parm. The refrigerated section is stocked with options too. And how’s this for different? Try a Walking Taco – house-made chili, scallions, sour cream, and Colby jack cheese served in a bag of Fritos.

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After you’ve grabbed a sammy and hit up the bakery counter (we spy freshly baked pies), check out the indoor market section for tons of grab and go items like spices, milk, even energy shots like Ginger and Turmeric.

What to know before you go

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Be prepared for some company on busy summer weekends as people flock to LBI, but it’s an atmosphere that’s enjoyable enough, you won’t mind any wait at all. Plus, there’s so much to look at and tempt your taste buds to pass the time! When it’s time to sit down, the market offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Outside, fresh flowers surround you and the sea breeze floats your way as you enjoy your bite or sip in the sunshine. During the chilly winter months, there are gorgeous space heaters to keep you warm. The Local Market & Kitchen also houses a grab and go location on the mainland, located at 980 E. Bay Ave in Manahawkin.

For more information, visit The Local Market & Kitchen on their website and Instagram.

The Local Market & Kitchen
604 Central Avenue
Ship Bottom, NJ 08008
(609) 342-0061

Psst! We love sharing your adventures around New Jersey. Don’t forget to hashtag #NJMOM and tag @njmom and your little cuties could be featured in our next photo round-up.