Middlesex County Small Business Holiday Shopping Guide 2021

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ — The United States is experiencing a disruption in the supply chain, which will likely slow down online holiday shopping. But why worry about the supply chain when you can enjoy shopping locally at your convenience?

We rounded up some of our very favorite Middlesex County small businesses and shops. Here's the best of the best from Patch:

New Brunswick

There are some great — and affordable — small women's clothing and jewelry boutiques along George Street in New Brunswick. After that, you can take in a holiday show at the State Theatre NJ or a comedy show at Stress Factory Comedy Club, or pop into the Heldrich Hotel for a cocktail, followed by dinner at any of the high-end New Brunswick restaurants (Catherine Lombardi, Frog & The Peach). Finally, cap off the night over in the college section of town with warm cookies right out of the oven from Insomnia Cookies on Easton Avenue.

Highland Park

Sibel's Vintage Antique store in Highland Park 311 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ 08904

Somewhere In Time Vintage clothing store "Better than any shop in Somerville, or even NYC!" "Great store, the owner is amazing. Prices are reasonable. Will definitely be coming back." "Lenny is the best! Such attention to detail and it really shows how much he cares about everyone that comes into his shop. Great prices, great selection." 233 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ 08904

Covered Girl Clothing Modest women's clothing boutique 235 Raritan Ave, Highland Park, NJ 08904

Metuchen

Cachet Boutique in Metuchen: For trendy and contemporary women's clothing, head to Cachet. You'll find unique fashion pieces here.

Genus Boni: This store has toys, games, models, puzzles, handicrafts, décor items and more. You will not be disappointed.

FK Living: An independent gift shop in downtown Metuchen, the store has arts and crafts, kitchen and dining ware, makeup toys, puzzles and more. A small family-run business, you'll find unique and curated pieces in this store.

Runner's High: A locally-owned specialty running store in Metuchen. Runner's High carries the best shoes for running, walking, hiking, you name it. They also have women's and men's sporting apparel.

Leonard Jewelers: The store houses a collection of exquisite jewelry from across the globe. At Leonardo Jewelers, you will find the finest 18 karat gold and platinum jewelry and the most extensive array of award-winning Swiss timepieces.

A&J Jewelers: Located in Main Street Metuchen, A&J Jewelers has diamond, gold, bridal jewelry, sterling silver, watches and more.

Woodbridge

Fords Jeweler 449 New Brunswick Ave, Fords, NJ 08863 "Prices are wonderful, staff is knowledgeable."

Neves Jewelers of Woodbridge Engagement rings, bridal jewelry, diamond jewelry & more 103 Main St, Woodbridge Township, NJ 07095 "Excellent service."

Floral Expressions of Woodbridge 91 Main Street, Woodbridge Township, NJ 07095 "The owner Jim Olgren can make any kind of arrangement with flowers. All a customer has to do is show him a picture; he has an amazing talent."

Extremz Bike Shop 108 Main St, Woodbridge, NJ 07095 "Great service, great prices, great variety." (732) 855-1771 They sell all kinds of bike and skater gear

Goddess Boutique Women's clothing store 88 Main St, Woodbridge, NJ 07095

Mane Street Cigars The finest cigars from around the world. A classic cigar lounge featuring a humidor of 100s of cigars nestled in the heart of Woodbridge's Main Street business district. 53 Main St, Woodbridge, NJ 07095

Vito Mazza Salon & Spa: Women's haircuts and color, eyelashes, eyebrows, massages, facials, skin care, waxing, manicure/pedicure 114 Main St, Woodbridge Township, NJ 07095 Buy a gift certificate for the loved ones in your life!

East Brunswick

The Clothing Center: The Clothing Center needs no introduction. An East Brunswick institution since 1978, the store is one of the best known independently owned men's and boy's clothing stores.

Serendipity Bath & Body: Handmade soaps, body butters, and bath products will definitely make it to your shopping list. So, why not try this local store, known for making artisanal and luxurious bath products. They have various gift sets to choose from.

North/South Brunswick

Belle Jewelry, Kendall Park: A family-owned business, Belle Jewelry has been creating handmade jewelry for over 70 years now. They specialize in custom-made jewelry, diamonds setting, appraisals, special orders, watch repairs, and more. So, if you're looking to buy jewelry this holiday season head to Belle.

Road Runner Sports: The local North Brunswick store has been serving the Middlesex County running community for years now. The store carries the best shoes for running, walking, hiking, you name it.

South Amboy area

The Hobby Shop in Aberdeen: "With Toys R Us closing down, this is definitely going to be our go-to place to bring the kids for toys!" "Awesome selection of model trains." 1077-C State Hwy 34 Aberdeen, NJ 07747 (732) 583-0505

The Geekery in Matawan: Comic book store in Matawan 19 Little St Matawan, NJ 07747 (732) 696-8530

Did we miss your favorite small business? Please let me know: Carly.baldwin@patch.com