Hoagies
Like a sandwich on overdrive, these hoagies (or subs, as they’re known in some parts of the state) are piled high with meats such as capicola, prosciutto and soppressata, as well cheeses, tomatoes, onions, peppers, herbs, oils and more.
Try one here: Carmen’s Deli, 42 E. Browning Road,Bellmawr, NJ
Hot Dogs
Italian Hot Dog
These signature hot dogs are fried in oil, served on Italian “pizza” bread and topped with sautéed onions, peppers and potatoes.
Try one here: Jimmy Buff’s, 506 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ and 60 Washington St., West Orange, NJ
Rippers
After being deep-fried in hot oil, these classic dogs rip open on the ends (hence the name), or at the very least, blister to a slightly crunchy, firm texture. Be sure to top your ripper with their famous relish, made with a top-secret blend of mustard and spices.
Try one here: Rutt’s Hut, 417 River Rd., Clifton, NJ
Texas Weiner
These sauce-slathered hot dogs have nothing to do with Texas—they originated in Paterson, New Jersey, where the hot dog was deep-fried and smothered in a Greek meat sauce (think: something resembling chili).
Try one here: Manny's Texas Weiners, 2580 Springfield Ave., Vauxhall, NJ
Pork Roll
This might be New Jersey’s most iconic food. Created by John Taylor back in 1856, this pork-based meat product is typically sliced and pan-fried or grilled, then used in a breakfast sandwich with eggs and cheese (but it’s not limited to breakfast—we’ve seen it used in everything from burgers to ice cream!).
Try one here: White Rose Diner, 1301 E. Elizabeth Ave., Linden, NJ
Salt Water Taffy
Have you ever wondered: what is salt water taffy? Well, it’s mostly a mix of sugar, cornstarch and corn syrup—no, the ingredients do not actually include salt water—and in New Jersey, it’s been a longtime tradition along the boardwalks. It got its name after an Atlantic City candy shop owner’s taffy was soaked in salt water during a flood. Choose from traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and peanut butter, or go for something wild like white cranberry, spicy pumpkin, mango and sea salt caramel.
Try some here: Shriver’s, E. 9th Street and Boardwalk, Ocean City, NJ
Tomato Pie
Home to two of the most renowned tomato pie restaurants, the Trenton region is a great place to have a slice. Here, the pizza is built a bit differently: first comes the thinly stretched dough, followed by crushed garlic, then grated mozzarella, followed by tomato sauce (made from imported Italian tomatoes) and toppings.
Try one here: De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies, 2530 Rt. 33, or Papa's Tomato Pies, 19 Robbinsville Allentown Road (both are in Robbinsville).
