Location: Toms River
Top Restaurants in Toms River
Top Things to do in Toms River
Countries
Where to Eat in Toms River: The Best Restaurants and Bars
Toms River is a township in Ocean County, New Jersey, United States, and the county seat of Ocean County. Formerly known as the Township of Dover, in 2006 voters approved a change of the official name to the Township of Toms River, adopting the name of the largest unincorporated community within the township. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township had a total population of 91,239, with the township ranking as the 8th-most-populous municipality in the state in 2010 (after having been ranked 7th in 2000) and the second most-populous municipality in Ocean County (behind Lakewood Township, which had a population of 92,843). The 2010 population increased by 1,533 (+1.7%) from the 89,706 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 13,335 (+17.5%) from the 76,371 counted in the 1990 Census.
Things to do in Toms River
1. Tardi's Ristorante Italiano
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 615 reviews
Known especially for having the finest Italian food prepared with the very freshest of ingredients, Tardi's award-winning cuisine now celebrates its 35th anniversary year in business. The Tardi family thanks God, and all their loyal customers for their success over the years. At Tardi's, concern is all about the customer's enjoyment, and so to ensure their dining pleasure, we employ a very professional, well-trained, courteous, and friendly staff, always at the service of their patrons. At Tardi's, you're always "Dining with Friends!" We are located near Cattus Island, in the Bellcrest Plaza on Fischer Blvd. In Toms River, NJ
Reviewed By Alice L - Cleveland, Ohio
We came here for dinner for my mother-in-law’s 95th birthday - what a treat! Although my brother-in-law and his wife live in Toms River, they had never been here before. We found it on TA and everything was wonderful! Our server Kate was great and the food was so delicious! I had the Shrimp fra diavolo and it was perfect- not too mild or too hot. My husband had the tortellini special and loved it. We also had the mussels, and stuffed mushrooms appetizer. Other dishes included the chicken francaise, ziti with shrimp/crab in vodka sauce and papardelle Bolognese. We’ve been to a number of Italian restaurants in the area, but this is definitely my favorite one! We’ll be back!
2. Anchor Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By Leo M - NY, NY
I recently dined here with my wife, kids and parents. If you are considering a visit you need to keep in mind that you are entering a time warp back to 1970s NJ. You'll be enjoying straightforward Italian/seafood/shore food, service, and decor. Thankfully the beers and wines available reflect more modern tastes and I am happy to report that the Anchor now takes credit cards.
The food IS uneven. Probably the biggest pitfall is the appetizing-sounding frozen seafood. Much to his later dismay I couldn't keep my son from ordering one of the fried 'sampler' plates. But depending on what is in they do serve delicious fresh seafood - I had some yummy fried whole belly clams. And the Italian food is dependably good (in a 1970s 'red sauce' kind of way)...the Veal Parmigiana was very tasty. We loved the salad bar that comes with dinner - pretty much everything you need and nothing you don't. But if you're expecting a 100 item feast you will be disappointed.
As fair warning I grew up on the shore and have a soft spot in my heart for the vanishingly small number of places like this left. My step dad has been going to the Anchor Inn since the 1960s. Order well and you will have a wonderful time.
3. Sand Castle Diner
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
Reviewed By Ken_NJ_11islands - Toms River, New Jersey
We tried this place for lunch. The menu has something for everybody. We had the French Dip platter and a Tuna Sandwich. The bread for both was very fresh, and the service was excellent. The fries and cole slaw were above average, and the drink refills are free! There are several items on the menu that appealed to me. The hostess, Ashley, was very pleasant and checked that everything came out of the kitchen correctly. We'll be back!
4. River Lady
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 288 reviews
The River Lady is the only true stern-wheeler in the state of NJ. She is an elegant award-winning icon of the Jersey shore and sails rain or shine, Tuesday through Saturday from May to September, and on a more limited schedule into October. Mondays are available for private cruises, for larger groups. The lunch cruise features a historical commentary by the captain, while you enjoy your meal. During the dinner cruise, we witness some spectacular sunsets, and Saturday night we offer a dinner/dance cruise. Passengers have their choice of the main deck which is climate-controlled, or the upper deck which is covered, but open to the fresh air, and beautiful scenery along the Toms River and Barnegat Bay. The River Lady is the perfect venue for your next celebration. Private cruises are available for parties of 35 to 150.
Reviewed By Martin B
The River Lady cruise was a very enjoyable and relaxing 3 hours. Got to learn more about the Toms River and surrounding areas along the river from the Captain's commentary during the trip. The staff was very friendly and the food was excellent.Thanks for your 5-star review, we are glad you enjoyed your cruise!
5. Stone Fire Grille
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By Barb M - New Jersey
Food comes out looking amazing and so tempting, however, when this restaurant first opened it was. It has slowly spiraled downward and last night was our last night after the OWNER himself accused me of trying to "Get a free meal" because I sent back a steak (complete meal, almost complete steak with maybe 2 bites missing but steak was cut looking for pieces with no fat and sides untouched) steak was loaded with fat, waitress asked if I wanted it wrapped. I said "no thank you, it's all fat". She said "oh my gosh, it is! I'll be right back!" When she returned to the table, check in hand saying nothing, I said "excuse me, what did your manager say? She said, "oh, he said that's grizzle." What? Sorry, but, I didn't come out to eat a plate full of grizzle! Nice word for fat. At the rate of $25. Not to mention, they were out of half of everything on the menu.. I proceed to get up from the table to talk to the manager who is also the owner who is going to give me a lesson on beef. Then said, "lady, you came to wrong place for a free meal!" "But I'll take it of, it's Mothers Day." Outrageous! We had a large party so our check was not small, and never in my life would I go out looking for a free meal. I said "leave the steak on the bill and I'll pay for it, but I'll never be back" (he took it off) but he tried to get his staff involved which I told him that isn't right to put waitresses in the middle. He is an arrogant man and not a good business owner. Now I understand why when I pass the parking lot it's not as full. He is lacking customer service skills. (Sorry I didn't take a photo of the meal).
6. Xina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 377 reviews
New restaurant where Ava's by the bay was.
Reviewed By Connie H
I don’t know how many times I have been here, but I do know I’ve never been disappointed. I always order the walnut shrimp and have never regretted doing so. My sister in law had the stir fry chicken and said it was delicious. We had the ginger salad and it too, was great.
7. Senza
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By Albie46528 - Jackson, New Jersey
This place is in many ways an exceptional exponent of authentic, well-prepared regional Italian food, conscientiously prepared (four-plus stars overall for the food, fopr fore).
However, the pacing and time taken for preparation in the kitchen and frequent lapses and inattentiveness to detail by the service staff at the front of the house are well beyond reasonable limits.
There's also the distinct impression of pandering to regulars to the detriment of newcomers, which is bewildering, as it's the one sure way of deterring the latter into becoming the former (capisci, Giovanni?).
8. Il Giardinello
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 331 reviews
Reviewed By molokinirum
Have eaten here before and it was good. Went again with just the wife and the meal was pretty poor. We started with the oysters amalfe which was very good. You get 5 oysters with crab stuffing and broiled. The Mrs. ordered a dish that had shrimp, veal sausage and broccoli raabe served over linguine. She mentioned that it was way salty but did not want to complain and send it back. I ordered the shrimp scampi and it was not shrimp scampi. There were 5 shrimp, lightly breaded served over linguini with a watery tomato sauce and sliced garlic. Never had a shrimp scampi like this before. It was pretty tasty, but not what a scampi is. No desserts were ordered, just coffees which were very weak. Service was good. BUT.... not worth the money and the LONG wait to get a table.
We arrived at 5:30 and were told about 20 - 30 minutes wait for a table. No problem. After 1 hour and 15 minutes we were seated.
Not coming back here, many better places in the area to eat at.
9. Velo Eatery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Predominantly fresh seafood, with other comfort food options. Fresh Lemonades hand squeezed daily. Great New England Clam Chowder. All desserts made in house. All made fresh from scratch.
Reviewed By Marie P
This small, BYOB is a gem in a culinary wasteland. Relatively new to the area, we've been disappointed time and again in local eateries. The diversity and creativity of the menu is commendable, as is the freshness of the ingredients. Tonight I enjoyed pan-seared scallops with creamy Parmesan grits, fresh corn relish and broccoli rabe. My husband had fish stew, chock full of an assortment of fish and seafood in an expertly seasoned broth. Salads of spinach with walnuts, strawberries, and feta cheese, and arugula with fresh peaches, almonds, and Parmesan shavings were crisp and refreshing. Portions are generous as well. Kudos to the chef.
10. The Serenity Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 125 reviews
Phone number 732 270 2088
Reviewed By Ternstyle1952 - Toms River, New Jersey
First, the place is beautifully decorated,with linen covered tables and linen napkins. Second, the food is out-of-this-world good. I had the shrimp appetizer and the Faroe Island Salmon. Every component in each dish was utterly delicious. The salmon came with black olive tapenade, a potato "gallette", and a creamy white sauce. All were fantastic. Nor have I ever had sauteed spinach that tasted this good. Three other diners had 3 different entrees, and all raved about every aspect of their dishes. Third, this place is over-priced only if you compare it to a hamburger joint. Given the quality of the food, I thought the prices could well have been a few dollars higher.
We have eaten in some high-end and well regarded restaurants in Charleston, SC, and New Orleans, and Chef Greg's food is every bit as good. The menu changes monthly - check the restaurant's web site.
