Ernest and Son

Ernest and Son is a beloved old-fashioned butcher shop and deli located at 3305 Brigantine Avenue in the coastal city of Brigantine, New Jersey. Founded in 1977 by Ernest Storino and his son Sam, this family-owned establishment has been serving the community for nearly five decades. The business was later purchased by Mel Cortellessa in 2007, a Brigantine native who started working at the shop at just 13 years old in 1985. Today, the team continues the same traditions that have defined them for decades, offering hand-cut steaks, ground beef, chicken, and pork that are fresh every day. The deli serves an impressive array of made-to-order sandwiches, including signature creations like The Big Mel, The Cortellessa Cutlet with bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo, and the famous cheesesteaks. Breakfast sandwiches feature local favorites like The Brianna with porkroll and The Lacey with egg and cheese. Catering services include wedding menus, party trays, and BBQ packages for any occasion. The shop operates seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and is known for high-quality meats at fair prices, served with honesty and care to locals and visitors alike.