These Long Branch Small Businesses Have Patch Readers Raving

LONG BRANCH, NJ — Last week, we asked Patch readers across New Jersey to nominate their favorite local businesses, or tell us about a business that has gone above and beyond during the pandemic.

And you answered. These Long Branch spots come highly recommended from locals in the know:

Rockafeller's Station Eatery & Bar, Long Branch. Classic new American food in a stylish setting. 228 Morris Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"The owner, Renee, is one of the kindest people I have ever met. The staff are so friendly and go out of their way for you. The food is outstanding," raves customer Dawn Cleffie.

Jack’s Goal Line Stand, Long Branch. Sports bar. 149 Brighton Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"They changed their model to accommodate safe and convenient take-out food with contact-less pick up, and then when allowed had the best and safest outdoor dining options available. Simply just the best and a true staple in Long Branch!" said customer Kelly Altenau.

Richard's Deli, Long Branch. Cozy locals' spot for breakfast and lunch. 155 Brighton Ave, West End, NJ 07740

"The best deli! Vinny is caring and accommodating to all customers. The vibe is nostalgic and comfortable," said customer Liz.

"The customer service is always amazing. Food is always fresh and atmosphere is wonderfully safe and well spaced out. They take appropriate measures during this crazy time," agreed Melissa.

The Butcher’s Block, Long Branch. Farm-to-table eatery and old-fashioned butcher's shop. 235 West Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"Everything is amazing there. The atmosphere, the vibe it’s just all highly recommended. Love everything about it," said customer Angelica Dambrisi.

The Stone Gallery. Stone supplier in Long Branch. 659 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"Extremely knowledgeable, professional and helpful with our kitchen and dining room renovation. Large variety of options and they encourage taking home samples. They also helped when the new sink had to be replaced," shares customer Deborah Cinque.

Sun Moon Yoga and Healing, Long Branch. 104 Brighton Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"Beautiful atmosphere, loving yoga instructors and uplifting community."

White Chapel Project, Long Branch. 15 2nd Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"They rock food, location and service," said customer Melinda.

Monmouth Medical Center (part of RWJ Barnabas), Long Branch. Yup, a reader nominated it! 300 2nd Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"In spit of overwhelming odds, the entire staff of Monmouth Medical did whatever it took, worked as many hours as necessary and took great personal risk in facing the COVID-19 onslaught beginning in March. Saving lives, caring for the injured and sick and putting the public first has always been what Monmouth Medical Center is all about," said customer Howard Margolin.

Winz Market, Long Branch. You knew it HAD to make the list! High-end food market in Long Branch's Pier Village. 16 Laird St, Long Branch, NJ 07740

"Winz Market has the best assortment of household staples and stayed open during the pandemic to serve their community. They go above and beyond to source items I’ve asked for. The shop is run by a husband and wife, the true definition of a small mom-and-pop shop," said customer Emily Landis.

"All of the products are so high quality. It is so clean inside. Great selection. The staff couldn’t be nicer!!" agrees customer Grace Lambert.

"Winz Market is the ultimate local food market in the area. They sell only local products and lead the way for the homegrown food industry," said customer Matt Glassoff. "The owners are very personable and are amazing at explaining each product to the customers. They are passionate about their mission and serving the community. One-of-a kind business."

"Excellent store with great product selection. Amazing staff and will continue doing business there!" raves customer Seth.

"As someone with health issues, the staff here always have plenty of options for my restricted diet and work to accommodate any other needs. They’re extremely considerate and helpful and have made my life MUCH easier. I’m not used to having so many delicious choices!" - Name not provided.

"I used to live next to the market in Pier Village and Zach from Winz Market was happy to bring my groceries over from the store anytime with no charge. He was my lifeline during COVID!" said customer Pauline Bakal.

"This market is honestly my favorite small business find that I simply cannot get enough of," said customer Sam G. "They bring in these products from specialty suppliers from local communities all around the country. It's so fun to walk around, learn about and discover new things every time I go in, and the owners know so much about what they sell. You can just tell they put so much thought into what they carry, and it's opened me up to trying so many new things I never would have otherwise. Their stuff is fresh, consistent, reliable and always creative. They know their customers and have a real knack for finding things we'll enjoy. Coffee drinks are great too. It's so hard to find La Colombe coffee which I always get in NYC, and I can always go there to get my fix."

"I think it’s incredible how the founder Zach, and his wife Sophie, have revived a family business run by our great grandfather Louis in 1920 ... with a modern twist. They have the best gourmet and rare snacks on the Jersey Shore and provide an incredible experience. Such an inspiring story!" said Josh Winzelberg, who is related to the owners.

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