The German Butcher – Forked River, NJ

It’s finally summer time. The few months out of the year that brings about high index sunshine, refreshing adult beverages, and great times with friends and family. We like to go “DTS”, down the shore, during these months. Most people like to eat light in order to feel great and show off that body on a boat they worked so hard for throughout the whole year. We are not most people. Going down the shore means throwing a diet out the window, drinking one too many drinks, and napping constantly throughout the day because the sun wakes you up at 5AM even though you went to bed at 2AM. What better way to set yourself up for a nap, than eating a hearty, specialty deli sandwich and buying a tomahawk steak from the same place? I’m referring to The German Butcher in Forked River, NJ.

Quick History on The German Butcher’s Chopping Block

The German Butcher is rooted in family tradition, which you can read all about on their website (as well as check up on their catering menu, plethora of products, and a gallery of their offerings). The current location has been in action since 1999, where the owners moved to due to higher demand from the community. The people of Forked River can’t get enough of their hot sandwiches, large selection of high-grade meats, specialty hot bar items, baked goods, and coffee.

What to expect?

Every time we go to The German Butcher, it is always packed with patrons getting their hands on some of the best food around. We mainly go to get hot sandwiches for lunch in order to fuel up (be fat and happy pigs) for the rest of the day. That being said, there is so much more to be bought here. Do you need steaks for the whole family? The German Butcher will take care of you. Are you in the mood for all the best kinds of wurst? The German Butcher definitely has you covered. Maybe you want some German chocolate cake or homemade apple strudel? Well, you have come to the right place. The German Butcher does it all. They even offer amazing sides like their “Red Bliss Potato Salad” and other leafy green salads (If there’s too much of an overload of meat).

Braving a lunch from The German Butcher – Ruebens, Cubans, and More

So how was our lunch this fine day? We went with: Ruebens, Cuban Paninis, Veggie Panini, Pierogis, and Rueben Croquettes (as if the Rueben Sandwiches weren’t enough).

• The Rueben: A Jersey diner and deli classic. At The German Butcher you’ll find perfectly toasted rye bread, topped with freshly carved corned beef. To top it off, add tangy sauerkraut, a healthy amount of Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of thousand island dressing. This makes for an ideal sandwich for keeping you full all afternoon.
  
• The Cuban Panini: You’re probably wondering, “Who the hell buys a Cuban sandwich at a place called ,The German Butcher?”. Boy, am I happy that I don’t think like you! The Cuban Panini is half of a long roll with ham piled high. On top of that you’ll find a juicy piece of roasted pork, Swiss cheese, sour dill pickles, and a squeeze of yellow mustard. Pop the other half of your roll on top, and press with a panini maker, and you’ve got yourself one delicious sandwich.
  
• The Veggie Panini: If you’re needing something a bit healthier, but still want your stomach to be happy I suggest the Veggie Panini. With fried eggplant, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, and a fantastic pesto on top, you can’t go wrong. Oh and once again, that’s pressed on the panini maker for a crispy grilled finish.
  
• Pierogis: A staple in their ever-changing hot bar selections. These little pockets of potatoes and cheese are topped with sautéed onions. This German butcher would make some Polish Grandmas a little nervous with how delectable these pierogis are. Truly perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack.
  
• Rueben Croquettes: Something I hadn’t seen in their hot bar prior to my visit. Quite frankly, these were the star of the show. They reimagined the typical potato croquette and turn it into something much more adventurous. A fried ball of mashed potatoes, stuffed with cheese, corned beef, and a touch of sauerkraut. These bite (or three) sized treats are a must have if they’re on the menu.

Final words on the best from The German Butcher.

Unless you have some time to spare, make sure to call ahead to place an order. The German Butcher gets quite busy as the staff have to handle numerous orders each day! But, we one thousand percent agree that The German Butcher in Forked River is a Jersey Gem. Whether you need cold cuts, desserts, or steaks to grill at home The German Butcher has you covered. For us? There’s nothing we love more than eating amazing hot sandwiches and prepared foods, then show off our dad bods on a boat out at Tice’s Shoal. Prost!