6 Places To Pick Up Carnival Classics

From funnel cake to fried Oreos, these local establishments can give you all your favorite fair flavors any time of year.
Deven Rue,
Hands dipping a pastry in chocolate

Though New Jersey Meadowlands State Fair is taking a two-year hiatus to accommodate the FIFA World Cup, the season is still filled with street fairs, local carnivals and festivals. The best part of all of those? The food, of course!

Carnival food has carved out a special place in our hearts and in American culture—nostalgic, unique and nearly always unapologetically unhealthy. Essentially, the ideal special-occasion treat, and ideal for snacking on as you walk past booths, rides and live music.

But if you’re longing for a bite right now, you don’t need to wait until the next event pops up. Though these establishments can’t recreate the entire state fair vibe, they can give you food that’s just as good:

  • Nothing says “fair food” quite like funnel cake, and Cake and Cone in Rutherford—among Bergen’s many options—makes a mean one. For something extra special, top it with ice cream or a full sundae.
  • If the craving for sweets hits while you’re at Garden State Plaza in Paramus, try Mimi & Pin Churros and Donuts. This mall option offers classic, glazed or stuffed (with custard, Nutella, raspberry and more) churros to satisfy any sweet tooth.
  • Hankering for fried pickles? Check out Blackjack Mulligan’s Public House in Garfield. This spot has top-notch fried pickle chips on its app menu, served with a Cajun mayo dipping sauce.
  • If you can’t get enough of empanadas, you can head over to Bergenfield and check out Empanada Mania. In addition to classic fillings, try spinach and feta or sweet Thai chili options.
  • Korean corn dogs periodically go viral on social media for their wealth of toppings. Check them out for yourself at Kong Dog in Wallington, with sweet potatoes, ramen or Cheetos on top.
  • Many bars offer great soft pretzel starters, but if you’re really looking for that fair food vibe, check out Philly Pretzel Factory locations in Hasbrouck Heights and Allendale and grab one for snacking.

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Categories: Bergen Health & Life