This summer, I discovered that there are some great restaurants in Ocean City, Maryland. But I want to take a moment to celebrate my three favorite ocean city boardwalk eats, that you must try when visiting this classic beach town. They each originated in Ocean City and have been serving families for generations. My father and I wanted to visit the boardwalk, and we were determined to eat our way through it!
Thrasher’s French Fries
Thrasher’s has been serving their delicious French fries since 1929. A Georgian named Mr. J.T. Thrasher was determined to specialize in one product and make it the best version of itself! I absolutely love French fries and really enjoyed Thrasher’s. The business has only had two other owners after J.T., and each owner maintained the same potato sourcing and cooking processes over the years. The way Thrasher’s cuts the fires, some skin is left on, and it gives them a great texture and flavor. They are crispy and delicious! There are three locations.
Dumser’s Dairyland
My father is our family’s biggest ice cream eater and loved Dumser’s Dairyland. I had to agree with him that this ice cream is yummy! Dumser’s ice cream is sold within minutes of when it’s made. This Ocean City favorite has been in business since 1939. It all started when Mrs. Gladys Dumsers started making her own homemade ice cream on the boardwalk, and all these years later, there are seven locations throughout Ocean City.
Fisher’s Popcorn
Everett Fisher opened Fisher’s Popcorn in 1937. Quality ingredients and a secret caramel recipe have made this small family business a boardwalk staple. The business is currently managed by the third generation of Fishers. There was a wide variety of flavors like caramel, butter, Old Bay©, Old Bay© dusted caramel, cinnamon caramel, caramel apple, kettle corn, cheddar, and caramel cheddar mix. I tried the white cheddar because I love cheese popcorn, and it was so good! In addition to two locations and being on shelves throughout the Eastern Shore, this popcorn can be shipped anywhere in the U.S. So, you can get your fix even when you’re not on vacation. #winning
Rita’s Italian Ice
Rita’s Italian Ice gets an honorable mention because I grew up in the northeast enjoying Italian ice. Now, Rita’s is a household name in many states – over 30! And continues to grow with franchise opportunities. But it all started in the summer of 1984 when Bob Tumolo, a former Philadelphia firefighter, opened a small Italian Ice business on his front porch in a Philly suburb. The first shop was named after his wife, Rita. I got my Italian Ice fix and was ecstatic!
When you visit Ocean City, of course, you’ll visit the boardwalk. And, of course, you’ll try some of these famous ocean city boardwalk eats as you stroll along and enjoy the sights and sounds.
Safe and Happy Travels!
Tamara