The Local Market & Kitchen
If you’re ever in Ship Bottom, NJ, and looking for a laid-back yet trendy spot to grab a bite, The Local Market & Kitchen is the place to be. Located at 604 Central Ave, this cozy restaurant offers a delicious mix of comfort food with a modern twist. Whether you're a local or just passing through, you’ll find something to love here, from the casual atmosphere to the mouthwatering menu items.
One of the standout dishes you’ll want to try is their Eggplant Stack – a deliciously crispy stack of eggplant served with a flavorful mix of ingredients that’s sure to hit the spot. If you're in the mood for something a little heartier, the Chicken Cutlet Caprese is a must-try. It’s a savory combination of crispy chicken, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic glaze. For something lighter, the Eggplant Caprese Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, featuring fresh, perfectly cooked eggplant paired with a tangy balsamic dressing. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a slice of their famous Crumb Cake, which is the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
The vibe at The Local Market & Kitchen is what really sets it apart. With a hipster, trendy feel and moderate noise, it’s perfect for a casual hangout with friends or family. The restaurant is also great for kids, and you can bring along your furry friends too – they welcome dogs! So whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or planning a relaxed meal with loved ones, you'll feel right at home.
Looking for something fun and different? Try the Walking Taco, a fun take on a classic dish that’s perfect for anyone craving something fresh and exciting. This place has something for everyone, making it the go-to spot in Ship Bottom. So next time you’re in the area, make sure to stop by The Local Market & Kitchen – where the food is great, the vibe is relaxed, and everyone is welcome!
Reviews
The food, trinkets, and coffee here are really good, with cold coffee being a specialty in these beach towns. I had my usual cappuccino, which was good but not amazing. This place is extremely busy in the morning; it's chaotic, but it works. There's a line where you order and pay for items, while the deli operates separately where you order, pay, and wait for your name to be called. The prices are high, with a sandwich and a wrap costing $30. Although the food is excellent, it is expensive, likely due to the need to balance costs during the quieter, colder seasons. The place is very cute with awesome trinkets everywhere, including bread, desserts, turkey jerky, latte candles, and a bucket of chips with various flavors. Overall, it's a bit pricey, and seating is first-come, first-serve with no waiters. There was a live musician, adding a nice touch to the atmosphere. The workers seemed happy and worked well as a team. I recommend it for a quick breakfast sandwich or a bite to eat.
My favorite place in LBI. It's so casual and cute. I love their specialty coffees. They have a wide array of items, sandwiches and bakery items. I can't wait to come back!
We love the local! Their lattes and baked goods are all must try's. My one qualm is that the layout is a bit challenging as it can be hard to tell where lines start and end. Definitely try the churro latte!
The layout of this location is poorly designed. I wanted to really like it and thought the issues I noticed on my first and second visits were just one-offs. However, the problems persist. The menus are not easily accessible, making it difficult to find information on food options, breakfast sandwiches, and the best ways to order coffee (and then pick it up) The owners seem to have focused heavily on the visual appeal of the place, which is charming, but they've neglected the practical aspects that make for a seamless customer experience. A few changes could make a big difference. For example, ensuring menus are prominently displayed and easy to read would save customers from unnecessary confusion and delays. Adding clear signage to indicate where different food items, like breakfast sandwiches, can be found, and how to best navigate the ordering process, would also be a huge improvement. It's clear that the staff is doing their best with what they have--they are efficient, friendly, and clearly well-trained. However, their efforts are undermined by the current layout and lack of information. By investing a bit of time and thought into making these changes, the owners could greatly enhance the customer experience, transforming this charming spot into a truly five star must try place...p
I completely love this place. They have the best matcha that I have ever had. The crafted lattes are unique and the cold brew is always so fresh and match their flavor profile. We have also tried their breakfast sandwiches that are always fresh and good. The outdoor seating is convenient and the staff is always happy to serve you. This place is adorable both inside and out. Can't wait for my next trip!