Jilly’s Expands on Ocean City Boardwalk: New Souvenir Shop Opens as French Fry Factory Celebrates 25 Years

The iconic Ocean City Boardwalk brand, Jilly’s, celebrated the grand opening of their newest store, Jilly’s Souvenirs and Gifts, on the boardwalk at 11th Street. This exciting new venture coincides with a significant milestone for the franchise: the 25th anniversary of Jilly’s French Fry Factory, a beloved boardwalk staple that has delighted visitors since its inception.

The new souvenir shop promises to offer a unique retail experience. “Expect to find things that you’re not gonna find anywhere else on the boardwalk,” said owner Jody Levchuk. “You’re gonna find all kinds of Ocean City and Jilly’s branded merchandise in there that is exclusive to us.”

The story of Jilly’s French Fry Factory is particularly personal for Levchuk and his brother, Randy,  who is also his partner. While the arcade was the family’s first venture, the French Fry Factory marked the brothers’ first independent opening. “Really, on a dream,” Levchuk reflected when asked about how the French Fry Factory came to be. “I loved Curly Fries in Wildwood. When the expansion was happening here with Playland, we needed to do the same thing.  Put delicious french fries at the entrance and exit of an amusement park, and people are gonna love it.”

The success story of Jilly’s French Fry Factory isn’t just about business acumen; it’s also a testament to love. Jody and his now-wife, Jill, had just started dating before the very first summer of the French Fry Factory.  Jill vividly recalls coming to visit Jody that summer.  “He said “hello” and then, without missing a beat, placing an apron over my head,” Jill recalled.  With only a few employees at the time, Jill quickly jumped in to help, a scene that would become a common theme throughout their journey. Twenty-five years later, that collaborative spirit endures as they oversee eight thriving stores on the boardwalk and proudly raise their two beautiful daughters.

When asked about the key to 25 years of sustained success, Levchuk’s answer was simple and profound: “You gotta love what you do. When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work.”

Levchuk doesn’t just say he loves what he does; he truly lives it. After the crowds from the ribbon cuttings dispersed, he lingered on the boardwalk, striking up a warm conversation with a father and daughter visiting from nearby Millville. They chatted for a while, and before they left, Levchuk generously offered them complimentary french fries. Though they politely declined, he wouldn’t let them leave empty-handed. Instead, he presented the delighted daughter with a “Fry Guy,” the French Fry Factory’s beloved mascot, plush toy, and a rain check for fries on their next visit.