Jersey Freeze has been a Freehold favorite since 1952, but its story is about more than just ice cream. On this episode of The Jersey Link Podcast, Jose Sanchez and co-host Brianna Lundquist sit down with owners Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi to talk about how a local landmark kept its roots while growing into something bigger.

Katie started working at Jersey Freeze when she was fifteen, never imagining she would one day own it. Matt came from law enforcement and a background in running gyms, bringing new energy to the business. Together, they took a snack-bar-style eatery and turned it into a fast casual spot with quality food that could stand next to the ice cream in reputation.

The conversation covers the unexpected turns that led to ownership, the challenges of modernizing without losing the charm, and why social media became a game-changer for the restaurant side. From packed summer nights to community events that draw thousands, Katie and Matt share how they balance tradition with innovation.

You will also hear about their commitment to the Live Like a Unicorn Foundation and how one young girl’s dream turned into a cause that now helps dozens of New Jersey families every year. It began in honor of Olivia Lipnicki, a young girl who loved Jersey Freeze and wanted to help other children with cancer. “Every bad thing turns into a good thing,” Katie says, reflecting on her journey and why giving back is non-negotiable for them.

Here are the key takeaways:

(3:22) The Jersey Freeze history

(28:10) What makes Jersey Freeze a New Jersey icon

(30:44) How Jersey Freeze Supports Businesses & Partners

(35:00) Community First: Trunk or Treat and community events

(35:46) The “Live Like a Unicorn” story

(42:24) From Losing a Parent to Raising $150K for Others

(45:52) How Sundaes and DIY kits saved sales

(50:41) The Turning Point: The moment Jersey Freeze felt “real”

(52:10) More Than Ice Cream: Why Jersey Freeze feels like home

(55:19) Meeting Bon Jovi and Springsteen fans

From pandemic pivots to expansion plans, this episode is full of the behind-the-scenes moments you never see from the other side of the counter. Tune in to hear what it takes to run a place that is part hometown tradition and part growing brand, straight from the people making it happen.

About Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi

Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi have owned Jersey Freeze since 2014, taking over from longtime owner Bruce Blackmore. They have expanded the menu, grown the business, and stayed active in supporting local causes. In 2020, they opened a second location at Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ, and continue to oversee both stores.

Connect with Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi:

Website: https://jerseyfreeze.com/

About Jose Sanchez

Jose Sanchez is a Broker-Associate at Keller Williams Realty West Monmouth with 22 years of experience in real estate, financial sales, and business operations. He leads a team, oversees recruitment, and manages client relationships throughout the buying and selling process. Jose also directs marketing efforts and helps drive team performance. He works closely with the community to support local growth and development. His focus remains on guiding clients and building strong partnerships across the region.

Connect with Jose:

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsanchez35/Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/josersanchez

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects personal stories and community perspectives. It should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with relevant experts for guidance on specific issues.

This week on The Jersey Link Podcast, Jose Sanchez and co-host Casey Cunliffe head to a spot that’s been part of Freehold for over four decades. It’s got history in every corner, regulars who never need a menu, and a lineup of events that keep the place moving. And Casey? She knows it better than anyone because she grew up here. Her family built it from the ground up.

Joining them is Brendan Glynn, the guy keeping the place moving today. From packed Monday nights to a Thanksgiving that surprised even the staff, Brendan gives a peek into what it takes to run a restaurant where no two days feel the same. “Every day there’s a different energy in here,” he says. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Casey opens up about what it was like growing up around the bar, the booths, and the regulars. And when the restaurant changed hands, she stayed, because some things didn’t change at all. “The same environment was kept,” she says. “That’s a big reason why I stayed on.”

There’s also talk of beer. Lots of it. The kind that rotates, surprises you, and occasionally comes with a side of live music. And if you’ve never heard of the Santa and Me dinner, well, you’ll want to stick around for that.

Here are the key takeaways:

(1:54) Brendan’s start in the restaurant business

(3:29) The origin of The Cabin name

(4:58) Most memorable moments at The Cabin

(7:08) What makes The Cabin unique

(10:36) Events that bring the community together

(12:26) Brendan’s vision for the future

(15:44) What locals should know about The Cabin

(16:43) Casey on what makes The Cabin special

Whether you’ve lived in Freehold your whole life or just passed The Cabin on your way to somewhere else, this episode is your reason to finally stop in.

About Casey Cunliffe

Casey Cunliffe is a dedicated real estate professional with over 20 years of experience in customer service. Known for her upbeat energy and client-first approach, she’s passionate about building real relationships and guiding people through one of the most exciting investments of their lives. Casey brings deep local knowledge, clear communication, and a commitment to making every step of the home-buying journey feel informed and stress-free.

Connect with Casey:

https://www.mylinkrealty.com/agent-profile/casey-mezzacappa-110959570

About Brendan Glynn

Brendan Glynn is the Operations Manager at The Cabin in Freehold, NJ, where he’s spent the last three years shaping one of the area’s most beloved local spots. With over a decade of experience in the restaurant industry, Brendan started as a busboy and bartender before moving into management in 2012. He brings energy, consistency, and a passion for customer experience to everything from daily specials and live music nights to growing The Cabin’s signature barbecue program.

Connect with Brendan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-glynn-02b4b9a4/

About Jose Sanchez

Jose Sanchez is a Broker-Associate at Keller Williams Realty West Monmouth with 22 years of experience in real estate, financial sales, and business operations. He leads a team, oversees recruitment, and manages client relationships throughout the buying and selling process. Jose also directs marketing efforts and helps drive team performance. He works closely with the community to support local growth and development. His focus remains on guiding clients and building strong partnerships across the region.

Connect with Jose:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsanchez35/

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/josersanchez

Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects personal stories and community perspectives. It should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with relevant experts for guidance on specific issues.