You’ve probably heard of the Stone Pony in Asbury Park. It’s legendary. Bruce Springsteen, rock history, the whole bit. But about fifteen minutes south, there is a different kind of local legend that people obsess over just as much.
The Scone Pony in Spring Lake New Jersey is basically the "rock star" of the pastry world.
If you walk down Washington Avenue on a Saturday morning, you'll see it. The line. It snakes out the door of this tiny, unassuming shop and down the sidewalk. People aren't waiting for concert tickets, though. They are waiting for scones that feel less like a dry, crumbly rock and more like a fluffy, buttery cloud.
Honestly, most scones are disappointing. They’re often like eating a sweetened brick that requires a gallon of tea just to swallow. This place changed the game by creating something that sits right in the sweet spot between a biscuit and a cake.
What Makes These Scones Different?
It’s the texture.
Debra Buruchian, who owns the shop, grew up in the bakery business. Her parents had a shop in North Jersey, so flour is basically in her DNA. When she and her family—including her sister Tara and brother Ronald—started The Scone Pony, they leaned into a specific recipe that defied the "dry scone" stereotype.
They are incredibly moist.
✨ Don't miss: How to get rid of spectacle marks on nose: What actually works for those stubborn dents
You can actually taste the butter. It’s not subtle. The exterior has this slight, sugary crunch, but the inside stays light. If you’re a purist, the Vanilla Bean with its thick vanilla glaze is the gold standard. It’s the one everyone starts with.
But then you see the others:
- Blueberry Lemon: Zesty, bright, and packed with fruit.
- Cranberry Orange: A classic that actually tastes like fresh citrus, not extract.
- Chocolate Chip: Because sometimes you just want dessert for breakfast.
- Cinnamon Chip: It tastes like the best part of a cinnamon roll but in scone form.
The Savory Side of the Menu
A lot of people don't realize they do savory stuff, too. If you don't have a sweet tooth at 8:00 AM, you're not out of luck. They do a Black Forest Ham and Gruyere scone that is basically a meal. There’s also a Cheddar and Bacon version.
They’re heavy. They’re filling. They are absolutely worth the calories.
It’s Not Just About Scones
Walking into the shop feels like stepping into a cozy, rustic kitchen. It’s small. There are a couple of tables on the porch, but most people are there to grab a box and go.
👉 See also: Why Your Fusilli Corkscrew Spring Twist Pasta Is Actually a Genius Engineering Feat
While the name suggests a one-trick pony, that’s not the case at all. The display cases are usually crammed with other treats that are arguably just as good as the namesake.
The Classic Crumb Cake is a local favorite. It’s the New Jersey style—meaning the crumbs are about three times thicker than the actual cake. Then there are the Whoopie Pies. They’re massive, with a marshmallowy filling that’s dangerous if you’re trying to eat healthy.
You’ll also find:
- Monkey Muffins: A sticky, pull-apart situation that kids (and adults) go crazy for.
- Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies: Imagine a Nutter Butter, but made by a professional pastry chef.
- Napoleon Cake: A specialty made by Debra’s mother, who still brings her expertise to the kitchen.
- Giant Fudge Brownies: Dense, dark, and very fudgy.
Survival Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to visit The Scone Pony in Spring Lake New Jersey, you need a game plan. You can't just roll up at noon on a Sunday and expect a full selection.
They sell out. Frequently.
The shop is typically open Thursday through Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. If you want the best variety, you need to be there early. By 1:00 PM, the trays are often looking pretty sparse.
Pro tip: You can actually "jump the line." If you call ahead (732-280-8887) and place a special order, you can skip the queue. You just walk in, give them your name, and they’ve got your box ready to go. It makes you feel like a local VIP while everyone else is staring at the sidewalk outside.
Shipping the Goods
What if you aren't in Spring Lake? Maybe you’re stuck in another state and craving a Vanilla Bean scone. They actually ship! They use USPS Priority Flat Rate boxes, usually fitting about 6 to 12 scones per shipment.
It’s not quite the same as getting them warm from the oven on Washington Avenue, but a quick 10 seconds in the microwave at home gets them pretty close.
Why This Place Matters to Spring Lake
Spring Lake is often called the "Irish Riviera." It’s a town of manicured lawns, big Victorian houses, and a very quiet, upscale vibe. The Scone Pony fits into that perfectly, but it adds a layer of warmth.
It’s a community hub.
You’ll see surfers grabbing a snack after being out in the water, families heading to the boardwalk, and seniors who have been coming here since the shop opened over 15 years ago. It’s one of those rare places that lives up to the hype because the quality hasn't dipped even as they’ve become more famous.
Actionable Steps for Your First Trip
If you're heading there this weekend, here is how to do it right:
- Check the Days: They are usually closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Don't be the person pulling on a locked door.
- Parking: Washington Avenue is busy. You might have to park a block or two away and walk, but it's a beautiful town, so the walk is pleasant.
- The "Starter Pack" Order: Get two Vanilla Bean, one Blueberry Lemon, and one savory scone. It gives you the full spectrum of what they do best.
- Go to the Lake: The bakery is just a few blocks from the actual "Spring Lake." Take your coffee and your box of scones, find a bench by the water, and enjoy the view. It’s the peak Spring Lake experience.
The reality is that The Scone Pony in Spring Lake New Jersey isn't just a bakery; it’s a destination. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Jersey Shore, it’s one of those spots you have to try at least once. Just be prepared—one bite of that vanilla glaze and you might find yourself standing in that long line every single weekend.