Each year around this time, I spout a shout-out to shoppers to rethink their gift-giving thought process. To break away from useless, mundane, often boring items that receive a canned thank you or end up in a return pile at a department store is tough. Most shoppers are birds of habit, returning to the same old roosts! I love steering folks to small-town restaurant supply stores. Every year I mention, that if you TRULY know someone, then the perfect appreciated and useful gifts can be found! Most are even practical!
I know three local stores that I bet you have never even considered or ventured into. Bet you’ve driven past Johnson’s Restaurant Equipment & Supplies in Brick Township a million times! Their motto: “Shop where the restaurants shop for their kitchen needs.”
A 2nd location can be found in Neptune. They boast 60,000 sq. ft. of inventory and 30,000 items ALWAYS in stock. Guess what? My husband and I have only purchased toilet paper twice since the beginning of the pandemic! HOW YOU SAY?? We buy a box of 96 rolls of individually wrapped T P. Some go in the bathroom cabinet, linen closet, pantry, etc. while the rest can be stuck in the attic.
While planning that holiday gathering, cruise through Johnson’s for all your needs. They’ve got “helpful hints & guides from how to choose wine glasses to seating layout guides.”
From cool appetizer picks, paper products, take out plastics for beverages, food or soups to beautiful non-breakable platters in truly vibrant patterns & colors. Ever make soup to give or share? Look no further for great containers for traveling leftovers, Johnson’s has it covered. I love looking over the selections of place setting ideas and wide variety of great kitchen items for myself and for the chefs in my life. Serving a fun holiday punch or cocktail?
Johnson’s has a nice selection of glass beverage dispensers with spigots stands. Professional bar supplies will delight the mixologist in the family as well as round out your party bar. One of my all-time favorite items is the tabletop burner. Back in our restauranteur days, we did lots of demos and catering using a compact cooktop. A neat little portable stovetop in a case which everyone can use indoors or out. Perfect for cooking on the boat, beach, camp or your own backyard patio table. Inexpensive and a proven winner of a gift! When you visit, say “Hi” to the owner, Joe Marchese and please let him know you heard some good bits about them here at Jersey Shore Scene!
Visit one of the locations for great finds!
1801 NJ 88 Brick Township – (732)899-2845
1100 Rt 33 Neptune City – (732)775-1660
https://johnsonsrestaurant.com/
`
How many times have you driven down Arnold Avenue in Pt. Pleasant Beach? Bet you flew right past Rudy’s?
Did you think it was just for those in the hospitality bizz? Well, rethink it. While shopping the many great shops on Arnold Avenue, venture down a tad further and pop in! Another fantastic destination for all your party and gift-giving needs is found right in Point Pleasant!
Rudy’s Restaurant Equipment & Bar Supplies has great reviews! “Great selection, prices and superb staff”, “Wonderful local place to shop for home, kitchen and bar items,” “ Love Rudy’s! Wonderful guys that work there! And if you’re missing one crème brulee dish or a tart pan, then you will find it! So much fun to shop their store. It’s a must-see if you are in the area!”, “Yes, they have it” (my favorite review.)
The place is quite packed and it will take at least an hour to really see everything. Holiday entertaining usually includes great cocktails. Rudy’s has your favorite drink needs covered to really shake up the party! Surprise the martini lover with a new cool shaker & strainer. How about a stylish apron or chef jacket to personalize as a gift for the little chef in your family?
The selection of cast iron shapes and sizes for cooking can’t be beat! Ask for Bob (Rudy) or Rich, they’ll be more than happy to assist in all your questions and needs. Hit them up on: https://www.facebook.com/RudysRestaurantEquipment/
Please mention this article and tell them Sharon and Dave sent you!
804 Arnold Avenue Point Pleasant Beach – (732) 892-4400