It's always fun to explore a flea market, where you never know what you'll find and might be able to discover the bargain of a lifetime. At some of the biggest flea markets and thrift stores in New Jersey, it's easy to spend the whole day looking - but then a challenge emerges. What to do when hunger strikes? It's either scrounge for snacks amid the stalls, or leave and hope no one snaps up that rare 1992 comic book while you're gone! But that's not the case at some of New Jersey's best - where the eats are just as much a draw as the bargains. The best flea market food in New Jersey just might be at the Manahawkin Flea Market, an out-of-the-way destination not far from Long Beach Island. This outdoor flea market is open every Saturday and Sunday, and it's found at a local shopping plaza that happens to have some incredible food on offer! Read on to discover your new favorite thrifting and dining spot.
Located at a laid-back shopping center in Manahawkin, the Manahawkin Flea Market comes to life every weekend - even in the offseason.
This old-school flea market has hundreds of local vendors selling everything you could imagine and so much more.
One of the best things you'll find here is a wide selection of art from local artists and crafters - many with a New Jersey theme,
You'll want to come hungry - there are quite a few food vendors on site selling things like small-batch barbecue sauce - but that's just the start of the culinary adventures here.
The shopping strip next door to the parking lot is filled with great food spots, including one of New Jersey's best cheese shops.
Agnello's Cafe is ideal for a light bite or pastry, serving classic food with an Italian touch at a reasonable price.
But the crown jewel here has to be El Rinconcito De Mexico, a full-service Mexican restaurant with a delicious menu.
Given how close we are to the water, it's no surprise that the menu specializes in seafood - with some seriously tasty fish and shrimp tacos.
You'll need that fuel to get through a full day of thrifting - there's even live music at the market on occasion.
Have you visited the Manahawkin Flea Market and dined at the fantastic Mexican restaurant on site? Let us know what you found and ate in the comments section! You can find out more on the official website of the Manahawkin Flea Market, and El Rinconcito De Mexico has its own website too with the full menu. We also highly recommend you follow the Manahawkin Flea Market website for all the latest updates! And if you're looking to take a vacation in the area, the Holiday Inn Manahawkin/Long Beach Island is a great spot that's more affordable than many of the top beach resorts.
This isn't the only place where you can find amazing flea market food in New Jersey, either - check out the Chicken Coop at the Columbus Flea Market.
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