Sweet Celebrations and Flavorful Bites at Rocco’s Townhouse in Hammonton

Hammonton, New Jersey—affectionately known as the Blueberry Capital of the World—is one of my favorite foodie day-trip destinations. With its blend of Italian markets, cozy eateries, and small-town charm, every visit is a treat. Our usual routine includes a visit to Bagliani’s Market for freshly baked bread, cheeses, pasta, and maybe a few of Little Gina’s Pitzells or Jen’s cookies to stash away for later. Then, it’s a stroll down Bellevue Avenue, popping into antique shops or grabbing a seasonal cannoli from Mannino’s, and a savory waffle sandwich from Funky Cow Café, all while my husband digs into his second elote from Fruitamex.

But this visit was extra special: it was my mother-in-law’s birthday, and we had the perfect place to celebrate—Rocco’s Townhouse.

About Rocco’s Town House

A Local Favorite with a Storied Past

Rocco’s Townhouse isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a Hammonton institution. Originally opened in 1949 as “The Town House,” it was designed to be a true neighborhood tavern: good food, great drinks, and a place to gather. The current owners have been running the show since 1983, and they’ve kept the spirit alive with warm service and a cozy vibe. There's even a speakeasy-style whiskey bar tucked away somewhere downstairs—though I still haven’t found it! Apparently, it’s open during certain hours—if you know where to look. Next time, I’m asking the bartender!

From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with big smiles and an inviting atmosphere. The dining room buzzed with happy diners and the aroma of comfort food. We grabbed our menus, but my eyes were already fixed on the real prize: the dessert board.

There are some places where you just have to get dessert first, one place is Cheesecake Factory, and the other is Rocco’s Townhouse.

First Things First—Dessert!

We kicked things off with a thick, fudgy slice of chocolate cake, piled high with whipped cream that melts on the tongue. My husband—forever loyal to Hammonton blueberries—went straight for the blueberry buckle topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Warm, sweet, and gone in about two bites, though I managed to steal the first one! 

The Mocktail

Oh right, we have to hydrate! We looked over the drink menu, and there was one mocktail on the menu! Hurray!! Though I am sure their bar can make whatever mocktail you want, it is nice to see it placed on the menu. I’ll take it! One non-alcoholic blueberry spritz made with zero alcohol pinot grigio, ritual aperitif, and blueberry simple syrup. They garnished the drink with an orange slice and cherry on a tooth pick. Adorable, fun, and DELICIOUS! The flavor was bold and just a touch too “cocktail-y” for my personal taste. I may find it a little bitter and complex, but if you’re a fan of bold, cocktail-style drinks, even without the booze, you’ll probably love it.. The blueberry syrup, though? Perfection. Call me what you will, but I guess I’m more of a juice and fresh ingredients concoction drink guy than a “make me a non-alcoholic alcohol” guy. 

The Starters: Flavor Bombs Incoming

We began with a basket of homemade chips and sour cream & onion dip—simple, salty, satisfying. But the standout was the appetizer special: housemade gnocchi with bacon in a creamy sauce. BROTHERRRR. I’m not even a bacon person, and I couldn’t get enough. It was rich, comforting, and easily could’ve doubled as a main course.

Entrees Worth the Drive

Every dish that hit the table was a showstopper:

• Mother-in-law’s pick: Peppercorn-crusted Szechuan tuna on sticky rice with sweet and sour bok choy. She raved about it from the first to last bite—spicy, sweet, and perfectly cooked. The symphony of flavors all worked well together without any one fighting for 1st place.
  
  

• My plate: A gorgeous piece of grilled salmon with a sweet ginger glaze, paired with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. Simple, but done so well. The glaze gave it a fresh twist that made it sing.
  
  

• My husband’s favorite: The “White Chicken and Spinach”, Rocco’s unique take on chicken parm. Imagine a crispy chicken cutlet layered with spinach and basil-ricotta, smothered in melted mozzarella, and drizzled with roasted garlic sauce over thin spaghetti. It was cheesy, comforting, and just as indulgent as it sounds. Cheesy, ooey, gooey, and oh so good!
  
  

Yes—I stole a bite of everyone’s dish. That’s just how I operate.

 Final Thoughts

If you find yourself in South Jersey, make Rocco’s Townhouse a must-stop on your culinary itinerary—especially if you're celebrating something (or someone!) special. With its welcoming staff, nostalgic roots, satisfying menu, and over-the-top desserts, it’s the kind of place that leaves you full—in both heart and stomach.

And while you're in Hammonton, don’t forget to take home a box of cookies, a few pitzelles, or maybe some fresh cheeses from Bagliani’s. Trust me—future-you will be grateful.

Final Sober Party Girl Score: 10 out of 10!

Pros	Cons
Special and Dessert Boards always have great options	A little on the pricey side, but no different than any other restaurant…
There was a mocktail on the menu!	The zero proof alcohol made the drink have a weird taste, but that’s coming from someone who has never drank. I am sure that may be a nice surprise to someone who enjoys that zero proof alcohol experience.
You can find interest food options that you won’t find anywhere else, making this a fun dining experience.

Until next time, 

The Sober Party Girl

This post was originally written on June 13th.