NEW JERSEY - Memorial Day weekend (May 24-26, 2025) is here, heralding the unofficial start of summer in the Garden State! For many New Jerseyans, especially those "down the Shore," this means firing up the grills, gathering with family and friends, and indulging in classic, delicious food. New Jersey's diverse culinary scene offers a perfect blend of traditional American cookout fare and unique regional specialties to make your holiday weekend memorable. From boardwalk bites to backyard barbecues, here’s a guide to the best Memorial Day eats in New Jersey.
Classic Jersey Cookout & BBQ Staples
No Memorial Day is complete without these grilled favorites, often with a distinct New Jersey flair:
- Hamburgers and hot Dogs (Jersey Style!): The quintessential American cookout duo. In New Jersey, consider grilling up classic franks or trying the state's own Italian Hot Dog—a deep-fried hot dog served in pizza bread with peppers, onions, and potatoes.
- Barbecue Favorites: Whether it's smoky ribs, juicy barbecued chicken, or tender pulled pork, BBQ is a Memorial Day mainstay. While New Jersey has unique BBQ spots rather than one singular "style," the focus is on flavor and outdoor enjoyment.
- Jersey Sweet Corn: New Jersey sweet corn grilled to perfection and slathered in butter is an absolute must if you can find early batches of the Garden State's bounty.
Garden State Sides & Salads
Complement your grilled mains with fresh and flavorful sides:
- Classic Picnic Salads: Potato salad, coleslaw, and pasta salad are essential to any Jersey cookout. They are often made with fresh, local ingredients when available.
- Tomato & Mozzarella Salad: A nod to New Jersey's strong Italian-American heritage and its famous summer tomatoes (though a bit early, vine-ripened varieties can be found). Drizzled with balsamic glaze and fresh basil, it’s a refreshing choice.
Shore Favorites & Seafood Delights
Being at the Jersey Shore for Memorial Day means seafood is often on the menu:
- Grilled or Steamed Seafood: To reflect the coastal bounty, think grilled shrimp skewers, steamed clams or mussels with garlic and white wine, or fresh grilled fish like flounder or striped bass classic! Crispy, salty fries, often served in a paper cup and generously doused with malt vinegar.
Iconic New Jersey Sandwiches
Beyond the grill, consider these NJ legends:
- Taylor Ham/Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese: While a breakfast icon, no accurate NJ food list is complete without it. This sandwich is a state treasure for a holiday brunch or a hearty start to a beach day.
- Classic NJ Italian Subs (Hoagies): A well-made sub is perfect for a beach picnic or a casual gathering. It is loaded with quality Italian meats, cheeses, and fresh toppings on a good roll.
Sweet Treats from the Garden State & Shore:
End Your Feast On A Sweet Note
- Fresh Fruit Desserts: Early summer brings delicious New Jersey strawberries, perfect for shortcakes or pies. Blueberries are also on the horizon.
- Boardwalk Delights: If you're near the coast, indulge in classic boardwalk treats like funnel cake, saltwater taffy, or homemade fudge.
Refreshing Beverages
- Local NJ Craft Beer & Wine: New Jersey's craft beverage scene is booming. Pick up local brews or a New Jersey wine to complement your meal.
- Classic Summer Drinks: Freshly squeezed lemonade and iced tea are crowd-pleasers.
Tips for a Delicious New Jersey Memorial Day
- Shop Local: Visit New Jersey's farm stands and local markets for the freshest produce and ingredients.
- Beach BBQ (if permitted): Check local regulations, but enjoying a barbecue on the beach is a quintessential Jersey Shore experience.
- Keep it Fresh: Emphasize the "Garden State" aspect by incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients.
This Memorial Day, embrace the flavors of New Jersey! From classic grilled fare and iconic state sandwiches to fresh seafood and boardwalk treats, the Garden State offers delicious options to celebrate the holiday and kick off the summer season in style. Enjoy the long weekend, honor the spirit of Memorial Day, and savor the unique culinary delights New Jersey has to offer.
