- This event has passed.
Chris Pinnella: Christmas in Red Bank
December 14, 2024 @ 2:00 pm
$39
Powerhouse vocalist + platinum-selling recording artist Chris Pinnella will be performing with his 15-piece orchestra to ring in the holiday season.
Kohr’s Frozen Custard: The Story Behind This Jersey Shore Staple
The 'Jersey Strong' term refers to the unity and resilience of those who reside in our beloved hometown known as the Garden State. When tremendous devastations, such as Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, hit New Jersey, it was small business leaders who helped to withstand the storm and bring light to the hardship many locals were experiencing. In these times of trouble, people seek small beacons of hope and a sense of comfort amidst the chaos, and that's what Kohr's Frozen Custard has provided for the community since 1919.
The Jersey Shore Girl was lucky enough to speak to Greg Kohr, owner of Kohr's Frozen Custard, The Original. Greg gave us the inside scoop (no pun intended) on the famous Jersey Shore ice cream and frozen custard business that has become a source of happiness for generations of families and community members. Continue reading to discover more about Kohr's, the originators of frozen custard, who have established a landmark Jersey Shore business that feels like home to generations of customers.
The History
The story of Kohr's Frozen Custard begins in 1919 when three brothers, Archie (26), Clair (21), and Elton (17), from York, Pennsylvania, started delivering fresh milk and homemade ice cream to local homes and restaurants. A drastic difference from today's delivery options like Doordash and UberEats, the brothers hand-delivered their dairy products out of the back of a horse-drawn wagon and, later on, out of their Model T panel truck.
Archie, Clair, and Elton soon noticed they were only breaking even on profits, and they knew their homemade recipe had the potential for a larger-scale impact. That's when their Uncle Sylvester came into the story: he introduced the brothers to a machine capable of making a continuous flow of soft ice cream. This game-changing appliance was recently patented in 1914 and labeled "Meisenhelter Ice Cream Freezer."
The boys got their hands on the first machine manufactured by the machine shop in 1920, and in the fall, they took their business to the Delaware State Fair. In the way that most great stories go, the fair was a setback for the brothers, as they lost money. Archie, Clair, and Elton decided to take matters into their own hands by disassembling the machine, replacing some of its parts, and modifying others.
Their dismantling of the original machine was the moment that changed everything. When the brothers ran their new recipe through the redesigned machine, an amended version of what was their homemade ice cream appeared. It was unlike anything they had ever tasted before: silky, creamy, refreshingly cold, and "very rich flavor," as Greg described to JSG.
View this post on Instagram
Uncle Sylvester, gave the boys advice on where to take their revolutionary dairy treat — to the beach during the summer (of course). In 1919, the brothers ventured to Coney Island. They set up their booth, selling what they called, at the time, a "Frozen Dessert," which they created by using an early electric motor and freezing action achieved through the use of salt, rock, and ice.
The people of Coney Island couldn't get enough, and the Kohr brothers’ stand was an immediate success. On the opening weekend, they sold more than 18,000 cones — the brothers knew they had discovered something special.
Read More: Your Jersey Shore Beach Badge Guide
The Origin of Frozen Custard
The only issue they encountered during this period was that the ocean's salt air was causing the "Frozen Dessert" to melt more quickly than they'd have preferred. After countless attempts to alter the formula, Greg told JSG, "My grandfather (Elton) came up [with the idea to put] egg yolks into the ice cream so it wouldn't melt as fast."
View this post on Instagram
Elton and Archie noticed that the product became much stiffer and velvety and would melt much more slowly. Greg explained to JSG that "The egg yolk is an emulsifier which makes it creamy."
The brothers didn’t like the name “Frozen Dessert” anyhow and used the new recipe formulation to change the product’s name to “Frozen Custard.”
With the combination of the improved recipe and the new machine, they developed a light and fluffy product that is now famously known as the first and original frozen custard. The latest product proved to be a successful change, as the community showed its dedication to frozen custard and helped the brothers' business thrive.
View this post on Instagram
In 1923, Elton D. Kohr decided to break off on his own, and so he started his own business, called Kohr’s Frozen Custard, The Original. He opened his first store in Atlantic City.
Legacy
In 2025, Kohr's Frozen Custard is a staple Jersey Shore brand. Whether walking on the boardwalk or looking for a treat on the way home from the beach, Kohr's is a must-stop for a genuine New Jersey experience.
Greg Kohr, Elton's grandson, owns and operates six Kohr's locations, which have kept the legacy alive:
- Kohr's Frozen Custard The Original, Casino Pier: 800 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights
- Kohr's Frozen Custard, The Original, Franklin Avenue: 301 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights
- Kohr's Frozen Custard, The Original, Lavallette: 507 Grand Central Ave, Lavallette
- Kohr's Frozen Custard, The Original, Ortley Beach: 1956 NJ-35, Seaside Heights
- Kohr’s Frozen Custard, The Original: 1107 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights
- Kohr’s Frozen Custard, The Original: 1817 Promenade, Seaside Park
Greg highlighted to JSG, "My grandfather always stressed quality."
View this post on Instagram
Despite the passage of time, Greg ensures that the custard and ice cream products remain reminiscent of the standards his grandfather created back in 1919 by maintaining a present and hands-on approach to the operations of all his stores.
Childhood Commitment to Quality
Greg's commitment to maintaining the quality that his grandfather, Elton, established in the early 1900s stems back to his childhood when he learned from an early age the fundamental values behind Kohr's Frozen Custard and its dedication to the Jersey Shore.
"I lived in Seaside Heights every summer of my life. I grew up here, and I lived above [The Original: Franklin Avenue Kohr's Frozen Custard location],” he said. When I was a kid, around nine years old, I would come down and cut oranges to make the Orangeades."
View this post on Instagram
Greg told JSG that the Orangeade, which consists of fresh-squeezed orange juice, sugar, and water, is still made in-house: Kohr's employees squeeze all the oranges.
Greg went on to explain to JSG his payment for cutting the oranges as a child. "My father would give me a dime, and then I would run and play the pinball machines and the skeeball."
Another feature that remains today is Seaside Heights' boardwalk, which still has various games and arcades that continue to keep families connected before or after grabbing a Kohr's ice cream or custard.
View this post on Instagram
As Greg grew older, so did his responsibilities."By the time I was fourteen years old, I was working here full time, open to close. I was entrenched in the business,” he said.
Greg didn't see the extra layer of duties as a burden. Kohr's felt like home to him, as it still does for many local custard loyalists. "I just loved being here," he said to JSG.
That love remains because, in 2025, Greg still works at the Franklin Avenue location, where he was once cutting oranges as a nine-year-old.
Modern-Day Kohr's Menu
Greg helped to transfer his grandfather’s values into what we know as Kohr's Frozen Custard today.
View this post on Instagram
One of those foundational characteristics is the fact that Kohr's Frozen Custard is lower in fat and sugar than traditional ice cream. The soft-serve frozen custard contains 10% milk fat, while the hard ice cream contains 14% milk fat.
Customers love that it's guilt-free and equally as delicious. "It adds value to our company," Greg expressed.
So what's on the menu? A few staple items include:
- Hard Ice Cream: Including flavors like cookie dough, vanilla peanut butter, mint chocolate chip, and cherry vanilla.
- Soft Frozen Custard: Featuring options such as vanilla, chocolate, vanilla + chocolate twist, orange sherbet, and orange cream.
- Italian Ices: Your choice of cherry, mango, or lemon.
- Flavor Burst options like strawberry, raspberry, bubble gum, cool mint and more.
- Orangeade, Orange Float, or Orange Shake.
View this post on Instagram
If you're a Kohr's fan, it's hard to deny that one flavor consistently stands out. "The orange and vanilla [swirl] is one of our biggest flavors of custard. It's vanilla custard with an orange sherbet," Greg shared with JSG.
However, when asked what his favorite flavor was, Greg admitted, "I like the chocolate."
No matter the flavor preference, it's hard to leave Kohr's without feeling a bit happier.
When asked about some of his favorite aspects of owning and operating Kohr's, Greg told JSG, "I love seeing everybody and the expressions of the people when they eat the frozen custard,” he said.
Greg also highlighted that the upkeep of the quality of custard and ice cream, which would make his grandfather proud, is also due to the employees he hires, who often return for repeat summers and keep in touch years beyond. Greg shared stories with JSG of how past employees thanked him for the skills they learned while working at Kohr's, which helped shape them for success in their future careers.
See More: 10 Independently-Owned Ice Cream Shops in the Montclair Area
A Family-Owned Business
View this post on Instagram
Greg continued, "[Customers] will say, 'I remember having [the custard] as a child!' [...] They bring their grandchildren back [to Kohr's] because they want them to have the memories they had when they were children."
In many ways, Kohr's is a way for generations of family members, regardless of age, to come together and agree on one thing: a custard after the beach is a quintessential Jersey Shore tradition. It promises to remain the greatest treasure; no matter what turbulence may be going on, a Kohr's orange-and-vanilla swirl helps to make the situation feel better.
To learn more about Kohr's Frozen Custard, The Original, click here and be sure to try a frozen custard this summer.
Powerhouse vocalist + platinum-selling recording artist Chris Pinnella will be performing with his 15-piece orchestra to ring in the holiday season.
Must-Visit Rooftop Bars at the Jersey Shore
No matter the time of year, there is something about a rooftop bar or restaurant that sets a fun mood. While rooftops are typically found in the city, the Jersey Shore area has stepped up its game. The Jersey Shore Girl found some top-floor restaurants with picturesque ocean backdrops that can compete with any skyline. Keep reading for a guide to the best rooftop bars in the Jersey Shore area.
AP Rooftop | 1200 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park
AP Rooftop is Asbury Park's newest bar, with a third-floor panoramic view of the ocean. The decor is chic, with chandeliers of hanging greenery, a large fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The food options include salads, sandwiches, paninis, a raw bar, and plenty of dips. The cocktail menu feels endless and features fun spritzes and mocktails to sip on while taking in the scenery.
The Atlantic House | 67 First Avenue, Atlantic Highlands
View this post on Instagram
The Atlantic House is a family-owned and operated restaurant in the Atlantic Highlands. This casual yet modern spot serves handheld seafood and salads. The drink menu includes wine, draft beer, and fun cocktails. The open-air rooftop dining room is a good spot for families to gather for dinner in this cute coastal town, closer north than most other Jersey Shore locations.
Read More: The Best Mocktails in Asbury Park, New Jersey
Avenue Long Branch | 23 Ocean Avenue North, Long Branch
Avenue Long Branch is a Pier Village restaurant, lounge, and beach club. It serves French cuisine and has an upscale, coastal atmosphere that is a good choice for a date night. The rooftop serves exotic cocktails, beers by bottle or draft, and an extensive wine list to enjoy while dining under the stars at one of its open-air lounges.
Beachcomber Bar + Grill | 100 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights
View this post on Instagram
Beachcomber Bar + Grill is a laid-back restaurant with live music and all those classic American bar eats. IYKYK: Beachcomber Bar + Grill was once featured on MTV's Jersey Shore, but that's not the only reason this spot is a staple for locals. JSG loves that the rooftop patio overlooks the Atlantic Ocean + customers can get fun boardwalk appetizers like fried Oreos or select from one of its many sushi roll options. The cocktails complete this Seaside Heights rooftop experience with fun names like the 'Blame It On Aperol.'
The Beach Gallery | 260 Beachway Avenue, Keansburg
The Studio Bar, the rooftop at The Beach Gallery, is located in Keansburg. There is an indoor bar space that has classic and contemporary art and is a good addition for when the weather is cooperating. The outdoor rooftop area has a cute ambiance with string lights, tables, and lounge areas. The views from this rooftop are diverse, as it has a backdrop of the bay, Keansburg beach, and a distant NYC skyline.
Beach Haus Brewery | 801 Main Street, Belmar
The rooftop at Beach Haus is just a floor above Beach Haus's tap room, all of which is conveniently located in Belmar's downtown. This rooftop bar has plenty of bar seating, but customers are usually tempted to sit in one of the lounge seating sections with fire pits — a special addition for those chillier summer nights. It has signature cocktails and tapas boards that are good additions to watching the sunset at this rooftop bar.
Bird + Betty's | 529 Dock Road, Beach Haven
Bird + Betty's is a staple of the Jersey Shore bar + restaurant scene. This rooftop is on the water in Beach Haven and has a table, lounge, and bar seating. The happy hour here is a can't-miss, and JSG loves that the bar has a shuttle that will pick customers up starting at 6PM. The menu has pizza, seafood plates, sandwiches, and shareables. There are martinis, spritzers, and other fun cocktails, and the frozen drinks add to the vacation vibes.
Boardwalk Bar + Grill | 401 Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach
View this post on Instagram
For anyone who has been to Point Pleasant's boardwalk, the Boardwalk Bar + Grill sign is hard to miss. Boardwalk Bar + Grill is the rooftop to visit if seeking a casual spot to drink, eat, + grab a view of the beach. The menu has all those fried food favorites like mozzarella sticks and chicken tenders. Still, there are also salads, bar pizza, + a whole section for seafood lovers. The drink menu is beach festive with margaritas, buckets, frozen cocktails, beer drafts, and signature drinks that come with a souvenir glass.
The Committed Pig | 165 Main Street, Manasquan
View this post on Instagram
The Committed Pig is a pancake and burger house in Manasquan that is open seven days a week. In the summer, its rooftop is open for visitors to test out one of its classic cocktails or brunch items, like cinnamon-crunch French toast or cookie-dough pancakes. For lunch or dinner, it's a must to try one of its burgers or a pork roll sandwich, which pays homage to New Jersey.
Daddy O LBI | 4401 Long Beach Boulevard, Brant Beach
Daddy O LBI is a boutique hotel just steps away from the beach. Besides its proximity to the shore, it has a cute rooftop bar where customers can enjoy a boozy brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. The bar has a large wine selection, domestic craft beers, specialty and classic cocktails, and hand-rolled sushi.
Harry's Ocean Bar + Grille | 1025 Beach Avenue, Cape May
Harry's Ocean Bar + Grille is an oceanfront rooftop bar in Cape May. Its popular food items are its signature sandwiches and fresh local seafood options. The bar also offers cocktails, wine, and often plenty of local beer options. It is known for its crushed drinks, which come in various flavors, but the orange crush, which has vodka, triple sec, fresh OJ, and Sprite, is a favorite. FYI: Guests can upsize any drink to 32 ounces for an extra ten dollars.
R Bar | 1114 Main Street, Asbury Park
View this post on Instagram
R Bar is located directly on Main Street in Asbury Park. This restaurant + bar has New Orleans-inspired food options that go along with it. The jazz bands often play on the first floor or, in the summer, in the backyard. This shore rooftop is unique because instead of having an ocean view, it is set up like a greenhouse, making visitors feel like they aren't at the Jersey Shore. The cocktails at this greenhouse rooftop are constantly changing, which keeps things interesting. Still, the bourbon slushy is a staple that JSG recommends trying.
Red Rock Tap + Grill | 14 Wharf Avenue, Red Bank
View this post on Instagram
Red Rock Tap + Grill has three outdoor decks that overlook Red Bank. There is often a lively atmosphere at Red Rock — there is often live music + other fun events. Visitors can grab one of its 16 beers on tap or watch a game on its 19 TVs. The menu has burgers, salads, tacos, and for those with a sweet tooth, there's a lava cake that will be hard to resist.
Reef + Barrel | 153 Sea Girt Avenue, Manasquan
Reef + Barrel is a bar and grill located in Manasquan. It has DJs, local bands, and nightly entertainment that screams Jersey Shore. The plates here are comfort dishes with a casual beach vibe, like quesadillas, tots, pizza, and handhelds. There are daily specials to check out, along with its rooftop, which has a full-service bar.
The Rooftop Bar: Hotel LBI | 350 West 8th Street, Ship Bottom
View this post on Instagram
The Rooftop Bar at Hotel LBI is easy to go to for those visiting the hotel, but locals also love this spot for its views and cocktails. While it doesn't have a full dinner menu, it does serve artisan pizzas, cocktails, wines, and draft beer. The lure of this spot is that it has the best sunset views and cozy outdoor lounge sections that are good for a large group.
Salvation | 210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury Park
Salvation is the rooftop bar at The Asbury, just steps away from the beach. In addition to views of the ocean, this hotel's rooftop has a full view of Sunset Lake, which adds to the pretty atmosphere. Salvation often has live music and DJ sets, so guests will often find people dancing while sipping on one of the curated cocktails or wines. Small bites are also served, like tuna tartar or caviar dip.
Teak Restaurant + Bar | 64 Monmouth Street, Red Bank
View this post on Instagram
Teak is an Asian fusion restaurant and bar located in downtown Red Bank. Its rooftop is known for its nightlife experience — it is the spot to go if looking for a live DJ coupled with dancing and good drinks. The rooftop has a weekly schedule of themed days like Wine Down Wednesdays or Feel Good Fridays. Rooftop updates and special inquiries, like VIP table reservations, can be found on its Instagram here.
Tuckers Tavern | 101 Southwest Avenue, Beach Haven
View this post on Instagram
Tuckers Tavern was created with the inspiration of many American + English pubs in mind. It has gastro-pub-inspired menus and coastal beach favorites. The menu has everything from a raw bar to wings + tacos. Tuckers Tavern has a weekend brunch, happy hour deals, and a vegetarian menu. The cocktail and beer options feel endless, but JSG recommends getting a fishbowl. The rooftop deck is a perfect setting for a cute dinner date or girls' night in Beach Haven.
See More: Outdoor + Rooftop Bars in Hoboken + Jersey City
The VÜE Rooftop Bar | 123 South Indiana Avenue, Atlantic City
The VÜE Rooftop Bar has a 360-degree view of Atlantic City and a clear outlook of the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the 23rd floor, this restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and happy hour deals from 4PM to 7PM every day. It has a full-service bar for drinks served until 2AM on the weekends, along with a late-night bites menu that will be hard to resist.
Watermark | 800 Ocean Avenue, Second Floor, Asbury Park
Watermark hovers right over Asbury Park's boardwalk, a staple bar to visit no matter the time of year. Watermark has a sizable inside rooftop section with a full bar + lounge area with dim lighting that sets a vibe for the night. The windows provide a clear view of the ocean without stepping outside. The outdoor deck area is open in the summer, along with another bar and seating area. IYKYK: Watermark is a great spot to grab a cocktail and listen to music when the Stone Pony Summer Stage has concerts.
