River Street Sweets

If you're a New Jersey local with a sweet tooth, you've probably heard of or driven past the charming storefront of River Street Sweets in Asbury Park. Since opening its doors, this candy and ice cream shop has quickly become a beloved spot, bringing a taste of Southern tradition right to the Jersey Shore. But it's more than just a place to grab a cone; it's an experience. From watching skilled confectioners create batches of their famous pralines to getting a free sample of a new treat, River Street Sweets offers a unique and engaging atmosphere for families, couples, and solo sweet lovers alike. This guide will give you a detailed look at what you can expect when you visit, from their extensive menu to their convenient location.

The shop is a franchisee of the original River Street Sweets, a legendary candy store founded in Savannah, Georgia, in 1973. While the brand has expanded with locations across the country, the Asbury Park store maintains the same commitment to quality, old-fashioned hospitality, and handmade candies that made the original a must-visit destination. The local ownership and operation by the Mennie family ensures that the Asbury Park location is deeply connected to the community it serves. Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting the area, stopping by River Street Sweets is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious treat while supporting a friendly, local business that takes pride in its craft.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 550 Cookman Ave Suite C109, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, USA, River Street Sweets is perfectly situated in the heart of downtown Asbury Park. Its prime location makes it an ideal stop during a day of exploring the city's vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. The shop is just a short stroll from the iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk and the beach, making it a perfect spot to grab a dessert after a day in the sun or before catching a show at a nearby venue like the Stone Pony.

When it comes to getting there, Asbury Park offers several convenient options. For those driving, the city provides ample parking with both metered street parking and paid parking lots available. You'll find a variety of parking options on and around Cookman Avenue, so finding a spot shouldn't be too much of a hassle. It's a great idea to download a local parking app to pay for your spot with your phone. For those using public transportation, Asbury Park is easily accessible by train, with the Asbury Park station being a short walk from the shop. The shop’s downtown location also makes it incredibly pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily walk from other points of interest in the city.

Services Offered

River Street Sweets is a confectionery paradise, offering a wide array of sweet treats to satisfy every craving. Their menu is thoughtfully crafted to provide both classic favorites and unique specialties. Here is a list of some of the services and products you can find:

• Handmade Candies: The heart and soul of River Street Sweets is its selection of fresh, handmade candies. Their signature offering is the World Famous Pralines®, made with butter, sugar, and Georgia pecans right in the store. Other popular choices include creamy fudge, caramel-covered apples, and a variety of chocolates.

• Homemade Ice Cream: For those seeking a colder treat, the shop offers a delicious selection of homemade ice cream and gelato. This is a perfect way to cool down during the warmer months, with a variety of flavors available to suit any preference.

• Baked Goods: Beyond candy and ice cream, the store also features a range of baked goods, including Southern-style pecan pies, cookies, and other decadent desserts. These are perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence.

• Gift Baskets and Assortments: River Street Sweets is a go-to for corporate gifts, holiday presents, and party favors. They offer a variety of beautifully packaged gift boxes and baskets filled with their most popular items, making gift-giving easy and delicious.

• Free Samples: A hallmark of the River Street Sweets experience is the opportunity to try before you buy. Customers are often greeted with a free sample of a freshly made praline, allowing them to taste the quality and freshness firsthand.

• Custom Orders: For large events or special requests, the shop can accommodate custom orders for a variety of their products. This is ideal for weddings, parties, or corporate events where a sweet treat can make a big impression.

Features / Highlights

What sets River Street Sweets apart from other candy shops is a combination of its high-quality products, engaging atmosphere, and exceptional service. Here are some of the standout features that make it a local highlight:

• World Famous Pralines: These are not your average candies. The pralines are a key highlight, made with a secret family recipe using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their rich, buttery flavor and satisfying texture have earned them a reputation that precedes them.

• Made Fresh Daily: One of the most unique and appealing aspects of the shop is that much of its candy, including the pralines and fudge, is made fresh on-site every day. You can often see the confectioners at work, which adds a layer of fun and authenticity to your visit.

• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: Customers consistently praise the friendly and attentive staff, who go out of their way to provide excellent customer service. This includes offering samples and making personalized recommendations, creating a warm and inviting environment.

• Nostalgic Candy Selection: The shop offers a wide variety of classic candies and confections, with some customers noting the selection of treats from their childhood. This nostalgic touch makes a visit feel like a trip down memory lane for many.

• A Fun Place to Browse: Even if you're just looking, the store itself is a fun place to explore. The vibrant displays of candy, chocolates, and other treats create a visually appealing and exciting experience for all ages.

Contact Information

For more information or to place an order, you can contact the Asbury Park location directly:

Address: 550 Cookman Ave Suite C109, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, USA

Phone: (732) 359-6550

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Jersey residents, River Street Sweets is more than just another dessert shop—it's a local gem that provides a perfect escape from the everyday. Its combination of Southern charm and Jersey Shore personality creates a truly special experience. The commitment to fresh, handmade products ensures that every visit is a delicious one, whether you're grabbing a bag of pralines for the family, a pint of ice cream to enjoy on the boardwalk, or a thoughtful gift for a friend. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make every customer feel like a part of the family, encouraging repeat visits and fostering a sense of community. Its location in the vibrant downtown area of Asbury Park also makes it a convenient and enjoyable part of any local outing, whether you're taking in the local music scene or simply enjoying a day by the ocean. By supporting River Street Sweets, you're not just getting a sweet treat—you're supporting a business that brings a unique and high-quality product to our community, enriching the local landscape one delicious bite at a time. It’s a place where sweet memories are made, and that’s a tradition worth keeping.

River Street Sweets

550 Cookman Ave Suite C109, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, USA