Longtime Freehold Ice Cream Spot Named Local Business Of The Year

FREEHOLD, NJ - If you grew up around Freehold within the past 60 years, the name Jersey Freeze brings back certain memories.

Founded in 1952, the Manalapan Avenue business (which has also expanded into Holmdel’s Bell Works) is known for its famous ice cream, milkshakes, burgers and more. In fact, Freehold’s own Bruce Springsteen previously vowed to return to the location for a frozen treat once the coronavirus pandemic subsides.

"When this is over, I want to get an ice cream cone at the Jersey Freeze — to walk inside, step up to the counter and say, 'Soft vanilla dipped in chocolate, please,'" Springsteen told AARP magazine last year. Read more: Bruce Springsteen's Post-Pandemic Plans? A Jersey Freeze Visit

“Our business is known for the best soft serve ice cream and milkshakes around. We are also known for great burgers, cheesesteaks, hot dogs, wings … basically great american food,” said Matt Cangialosi, who has co-owned the business with Katie DiNonno since 2015. “Most importantly we are known for being a staple in the community. We host countless fundraisers and events for local teams and organizations.”

The owners report that operating during the pandemic has certainly proved challenging, requiring a complete “revamp” of the historic operation. Over the past ten months, Jersey Freeze has offered curbside pickup, family food packages and at-home sundae kits, all of which have been “huge” hits among customers.

“This is something we never offered previously. Our discounted family meals and ice cream packages were the talk of the town,” the owners told Patch. “The most challenging part was when the weather began getting nicer in May. We had to change our whole outdoor line and Ice cream lobby operation to allow for only 2-3 groups to safely enter at a time.”

Cangialosi and DiNonno consider Jersey Freeze to be one of the more “supported” local businesses in town throughout the pandemic. To that, they owe the support of their amazing customers recognizing their commitment to the Freehold community.

“The discounted family bundles and Ice cream kits at the price we were offering was a great deal. It helped our customers who had to tighten budgets as well as occupy their kids. It also kept our staff busy and working,” the owners said.

“We hope our customers walk away satisfied with our product, as well as the overall experience, and cleanliness of the facility. We hope they see the pride that goes into every small detail in our small business.”