Top 5 Boardwalk Eats You Have to Try

The Wildwood Boardwalk isn’t just famous for its rides and games — it’s a destination for food lovers. With dozens of options lining the 2-mile stretch, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. After 50+ years of walking this boardwalk, here are the foods we tell all our guests they absolutely cannot miss.

1. Curley’s Fries

Location: Multiple locations on the boardwalk

No Wildwood trip is complete without a bucket of Curley’s Fries. These fresh-cut, seasoned fries have been a boardwalk staple for decades. The secret? They’re cut fresh daily and fried to crispy perfection, then tossed with their signature seasoning.

Pro tip: Get the large bucket to share — though you might end up fighting over the last few. They also offer cheese fries if you want to take it up a notch.

2. Mack’s Pizza

Location: Multiple locations on the boardwalk

Ask anyone who grew up coming to Wildwood, and they’ll tell you: Mack’s Pizza is the real deal. The thin crust, slightly sweet sauce, and generous cheese have remained unchanged for generations.

What to order: A slice of plain cheese, the way the locals do it. But if you’re hungry, their whole pies are perfect for feeding the family back at the room.

Insider tip: The oak benches outside Mack’s are a people-watching goldmine. Grab your slice and settle in.

3. Kohr’s Frozen Custard

Location: Multiple stands along the boardwalk

Not ice cream — frozen custard. It’s creamier, denser, and absolutely perfect after a day in the sun. Kohr’s has been serving their signature orange and vanilla twist since the early 1900s.

Must try: The orange-vanilla twist in a waffle cone. It’s basically summer in food form.

4. Sam’s Pizza (Not to be Confused with Mack’s!)

Location: Sam’s Pizza Palace, center of boardwalk

Yes, we’re recommending two pizza places. That’s because there’s a friendly rivalry between Mack’s and Sam’s fans that’s lasted generations. Sam’s is known for their thicker crust and signature sauce. Some say Sam’s, some say Mack’s — we say try both and decide for yourself.

The debate: Mack’s fans tend to prefer thin crust and simplicity. Sam’s fans love the heartier slice. Where do you stand?

5. Douglass Fudge

Location: Near the tram car entrance (and other locations)

Watching them make fudge in the copper kettles is almost as good as eating it. Almost. Douglass Fudge has been crafting their famous fudge on the Wildwood Boardwalk for generations. They also have salt water taffy, chocolate, and other treats.

Best bet: The chocolate fudge is classic, but their peanut butter fudge has a cult following. Get a small box of assorted to try a few flavors.

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Honorable Mentions

• Jumbo’s — For cheesesteaks and hoagies
• Laura’s Fudge — Another fudge contender
• Boardwalk Breakfast — For a morning meal before the crowds
• Stubborn Brothers — Craft beverages and bites

Tips for Boardwalk Dining

1. Bring cash — Many stands don’t take cards (or have high minimums)
2. Go early or late — Peak dinner hours (6-8pm) mean longer lines
3. Share portions — Boardwalk portions are generous; split and try more things
4. Save room for dessert — You’ll pass a lot of tempting options

Our Guests’ Favorites

We asked our guests what they always eat on the boardwalk:

“Curley’s fries before the rides, frozen custard after.” — The Miller Family

“We have a Mack’s vs. Sam’s taste test every year. Kids vote. It’s very serious.” — The Chen Family

“Funnel cake. Every. Single. Night.” — The Williams Family

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After all that boardwalk food, you’ll appreciate having a kitchen in your room. Our efficiency suites at The American Inn let you balance boardwalk indulgence with homemade breakfasts. Book your stay and start planning your boardwalk food tour!