Have you ever found yourself strolling along the Jersey Shore, the salty air whetting your appetite, only to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of dining options? Maybe you’ve just spent a sun-soaked day at Island Beach State Park and are craving something delicious to cap off the perfect day. Or perhaps you’re a Toms River local, tired of the same old chain restaurants and yearning for a truly memorable meal. Finding the absolute best food in Toms River, New Jersey can be a delicious but daunting task. Fortunately, I’ve been there. I’ve navigated the pizza parlors, the seafood shacks, and the hidden culinary corners of this vibrant town to bring you the definitive guide to the best eats in Toms River.
Toms River, situated in the heart of Ocean County and a stone’s throw from the glistening Atlantic, has blossomed into a thriving community. With its beautiful beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and ever-growing selection of shops and attractions, Toms River is more than just a summer destination. It’s a place where people live, work, and, most importantly, eat. And the food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the town itself. Forget the idea of just boardwalk fries and saltwater taffy. While those definitely have their place, Toms River’s culinary landscape offers something for every palate and budget.
This article is your compass, your roadmap, and your trusted guide to navigating the delicious terrain of Toms River’s restaurant scene. We’ll explore everything from classic Italian fare to fresh-off-the-boat seafood, from juicy American burgers to exotic ethnic dishes. We’ll uncover hidden gems cherished by locals and shine a spotlight on the newcomers making waves. So, put on your stretchy pants, grab your appetite, and get ready to discover the best food Toms River, NJ has to offer.
Defining “Best”: What Makes a Restaurant Stand Out?
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s clarify what we mean by “best.” Taste, of course, is subjective. One person’s favorite might be another’s “meh.” But beyond personal preference, there are certain qualities that elevate a restaurant from good to great. Variety certainly plays a role. A town with only one type of cuisine would quickly become boring. Toms River shines because it boasts a delightful mix of flavors and culinary styles. You’ll find everything from authentic Italian trattorias to vibrant Mexican cantinas, from classic American diners to innovative seafood restaurants.
Atmosphere is another crucial factor. Are you looking for a cozy, family-friendly spot for a casual weeknight dinner? Or perhaps a romantic, upscale restaurant for a special occasion? Toms River offers both. Some restaurants boast stunning waterfront views, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail and a plate of fresh oysters. Others offer a lively, bustling atmosphere that’s ideal for gathering with friends.
Price point is also a major consideration. Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on every meal. Thankfully, Toms River caters to all budgets. You can find delicious, affordable eats at local diners and pizzerias, or splurge on a high-end dining experience at one of the town’s more sophisticated establishments.
Finally, the best restaurants are those that strike a perfect balance between established favorites and exciting newcomers. Toms River has plenty of restaurants that have been serving the community for generations, earning a loyal following through consistent quality and service. But it also has a steady stream of new restaurants opening their doors, bringing fresh ideas and flavors to the table. The quality of ingredients is important, as is good customer service.
Exploring Italian Delights in Toms River
No discussion of the best food in Toms River, NJ would be complete without mentioning Italian cuisine. And thankfully, there are some amazing options.
Pasta Perfetto
Located on Main Street, Pasta Perfetto is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving authentic Italian dishes for over two decades. Their pasta is homemade daily, and their sauces are bursting with flavor. Be sure to try their signature dish, the “Linguine alle Vongole,” a classic clam sauce pasta that’s simply divine. The warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service make Pasta Perfetto a local favorite.
Bella Notte Ristorante
For a more upscale Italian dining experience, head to Bella Notte Ristorante on Hooper Avenue. This elegant restaurant offers a refined menu of classic and contemporary Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their wine list is extensive, and their service is impeccable. I highly recommend the “Osso Buco,” a slow-braised veal shank that’s fall-off-the-bone tender.
These restaurants are considered the best due to their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, their dedication to authentic Italian recipes, and their consistently excellent service.
Savoring the Seafood Scene in Toms River
Given its proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that Toms River boasts a thriving seafood scene. From casual clam shacks to upscale waterfront restaurants, there’s something for every seafood lover.
The Clam Hut
For a truly authentic Jersey Shore experience, head to The Clam Hut on Route . This no-frills establishment serves up some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in town. Their steamed clams are a must-try, as are their fried scallops and their lobster rolls. Don’t expect fancy décor or white tablecloths; The Clam Hut is all about the food.
Watermark Restaurant
Located right on the water, Watermark Restaurant offers stunning views of the Toms River along with a menu of innovative seafood dishes. Their chefs use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful cuisine. I highly recommend their grilled swordfish or their pan-seared scallops.
The reason these restaurants rank so highly is their commitment to using fresh, local catches, their dedication to preparing seafood to perfection, and their inviting atmospheres.
American Classics and Comfort Food
Sometimes, all you want is a good old-fashioned burger or a plate of comforting diner food. Thankfully, Toms River has plenty of options to satisfy those cravings.
Burger Bliss
This popular burger joint on Washington Street is known for its creative and delicious burger creations. They use high-quality beef and offer a wide range of toppings, from classic cheddar cheese and bacon to more adventurous options like guacamole and pineapple. Their milkshakes are also legendary.
Ocean Diner
A Toms River institution, Ocean Diner on Route is a classic American diner that’s been serving up comfort food for generations. Their menu includes everything from pancakes and omelets to burgers and sandwiches to hearty dinners like meatloaf and pot roast. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly.
These establishments earn their high praise by consistently delivering delicious, satisfying comfort food at reasonable prices.
Pizza Perfection in Toms River
What’s not to love about pizza? This Italian staple is beloved by people of all ages, and Toms River has its fair share of excellent pizzerias.
Luigi’s Pizza
A long-standing Toms River institution, Luigi’s Pizza on Fischer Boulevard is known for its thin-crust, New York-style pies. They use high-quality ingredients and bake their pizzas in a traditional brick oven, resulting in a crispy crust and a flavorful sauce.
Joey Tomato’s
A newer addition to the Toms River pizza scene, Joey Tomato’s on Hooper Avenue has quickly gained a loyal following for its creative and delicious pizza creations. They offer a wide range of toppings and specialty pies, including their signature “Tomato Pie,” which is topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
These pizzerias stand out for their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, their expertly crafted crusts, and their flavorful sauces.
Exploring Ethnic Flavors
Toms River’s culinary scene extends beyond Italian, seafood, and American fare. The town also boasts a diverse selection of ethnic restaurants, offering flavors from around the world.
Tacos El Gordo
For authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Tacos El Gordo on Main Street. This unassuming taqueria serves up some of the most delicious tacos in town, filled with your choice of meat, cilantro, onions, and salsa. Their burritos and quesadillas are also excellent.
Siam Paradise
Craving Thai food? Look no further than Siam Paradise on Washington Street. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of classic Thai dishes, from Pad Thai and Green Curry to Drunken Noodles and Tom Yum soup. Their ingredients are fresh, their portions are generous, and their prices are reasonable.
Brunching in Toms River
For many, brunch is a weekend ritual. And thankfully, Toms River has some great brunch spots.
The Buttered Biscuit
This charming cafe on Hooper Avenue is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients. Their buttermilk pancakes are a must-try, as are their omelets and their breakfast sandwiches.
Turning Point of Toms River
Located in the Ocean County Mall, this establishment offers a full brunch menu, from traditional eggs benedict to a wide assortment of french toasts.
Sweet Endings: Dessert and Ice Cream
No meal is complete without a sweet treat. Toms River has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Hoffman’s Ice Cream
A Jersey Shore institution, Hoffman’s Ice Cream has a location on Hooper Avenue in Toms River. Their ice cream is homemade daily, and they offer a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more creative options like peanut butter swirl and salted caramel.
Uncle D’s Ice Cream Parlor
This establishment on Fischer Blvd offers a family friendly setting with ice cream and shakes.
Unearthing Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
While the restaurants mentioned above are all well-known and highly regarded, Toms River also has its share of hidden gems – small, unassuming establishments that are beloved by locals but often overlooked by tourists. One such gem is “The Corner Deli,” a family-run sandwich shop on a quiet side street. Their sandwiches are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and their prices are incredibly reasonable. Another hidden gem is “The Taco Truck,” a food truck that parks at different locations around town, serving up some of the most authentic and delicious tacos you’ll ever taste.
Tips for Dining in Toms River
Planning your culinary adventure in Toms River? Here are a few helpful tips:
Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially during the summer months, making a reservation is highly recommended.
Parking: Parking can be tricky in certain areas of Toms River, particularly around the beaches and the downtown area. Be sure to factor in extra time for parking when planning your visit.
Seasonal Hours: Some restaurants in Toms River have limited hours during the off-season (typically from Labor Day to Memorial Day). Be sure to check their hours of operation before you go.
BYOB Options: Some restaurants in Toms River allow you to bring your own beer or wine. This can be a great way to save money on your meal.
Outdoor Seating: Many restaurants in Toms River offer outdoor seating, which is a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery.
Dietary Restrictions: Many restaurants in Toms River are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Be sure to let them know about your dietary needs when you make your reservation or place your order.
A Culinary Journey Awaits
Toms River, NJ, is more than just a beautiful beach town. It’s a culinary destination with something to offer everyone. From classic Italian fare to fresh seafood, from comforting American dishes to exotic ethnic flavors, Toms River’s restaurant scene is as diverse and dynamic as the town itself. So, next time you’re in Toms River, ditch the chain restaurants and experience the best that the local culinary scene has to offer. Explore, discover, and most importantly, enjoy! Your next favorite meal is waiting to be found in Toms River.
