If you’re a sandwich lover in New Jersey, you might want to add Ernest & Son Meat Market in Brigantine to your must-visit list! This unassuming deli has been serving up delicious subs for nearly 50 years, and now, it’s officially recognized as one of the best sandwich shops in the entire state.
A recent Chowhound report, “The Best Sandwich Shop in Every State,” crowned Ernest & Son as the top pick for New Jersey. While South Jersey is packed with legendary sandwich spots—like The White House, Dino’s, and Sack O’Subs—this hidden gem managed to stand out among the rest.
What Makes Ernest & Son Special?
Located at 3305 W. Brigantine Ave, this old-school butcher shop has been a local favorite since 1977. Mel Cortellessa, who took over in 2007, continues to run the place with the same passion and love for great food. If you walk in, there’s a good chance you’ll find him chatting with customers—especially about his love for Philadelphia sports!
The shop is famous for its hearty, no-nonsense subs, which have even caught the attention of Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives! When a sandwich joint gets Fieri’s stamp of approval, you know it’s the real deal.
The Must-Try Sandwiches at Ernest & Son
If it’s your first time visiting, you can’t go wrong with their most popular sandwich: The Ernie Special. Named after the original owner, this sub is a delicious mix of prosciutto, salami, sharp provolone, tomato, olive oil, oregano, and roasted peppers.
But that’s not the only star on the menu. The shop also gained national recognition for The Tailgater, a mouthwatering sandwich featuring housemade sausage, grilled peppers, and onions. Food Network even featured it, along with their famous beef jerky!
For those who love chicken, The Pop-Pop is another favorite. It’s packed with crispy chicken cutlets, roasted red peppers, spinach, and provolone cheese—a perfect blend of flavors that keeps customers coming back for more.
A Local Gem That Won’t Stay Hidden for Long
While Ernest & Son Meat Market has long been a local favorite, this recent recognition is putting it on the map in a big way. Whether you’re a longtime fan or planning your first visit, this shop is proof that sometimes the best food comes from the most unexpected places.
So, if you find yourself near Brigantine, don’t miss the chance to grab one of New Jersey’s best sandwiches—you won’t regret it!
