New Jersey – March 3, 2025 – JBJ Soul Kitchen is proud to announce the celebration of a significant milestone—serving its 200,000th meal. What started as one small restaurant with a big mission has grown into a community-driven initiative that proves real change is possible. Through its Pay It Forward model, JBJ Soul Kitchen has provided restaurant-quality meals to those facing food insecurity while inviting paying customers to contribute toward feeding their neighbors.

Since opening our doors, JBJ Soul Kitchen has remained committed to providing delicious three-course meals to individuals and families in need while fostering an environment where All Are Welcome to dine with dignity. The milestone of 200,000 meals served is shared between the Red Bank and Toms River locations, highlighting the ongoing impact of the initiative in New Jersey communities.

Reflecting on this milestone, Dorothea and Jon Bon Jovi shared their gratitude, “When we first opened, people did not understand our unique Pay It Forward model. We are not a soup kitchen. We are not a pay-what-you-want restaurant. We are a unique Pay It Forward model where those who are unable to pay, volunteer their time. Those who can pay, pay for their meal and donate to pay it forward. Everyone has the same amazing meal. Everyone has the same fantastic experience. This model has now been proven time and time again for well over a decade.”

Watch our celebration video!

The flagship location in Red Bank, New Jersey, opened in 2011 with just 33 seats. Over the years, JBJ Soul Kitchen has expanded to include The B.E.A.T. Center in Toms River, a vibrant resource hub offering a choice food pantry in partnership with Fulfill, a culinary training program, and a JBJ Soul Kitchen. Additionally, we have locations at Rutgers University-Newark and New Jersey City University, addressing food insecurity among students.

JBJ Soul Kitchen has served 200,000 meals within its dining room setting. This number does not include the thousands of additional meals provided during crises such as Superstorm Sandy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and supporting local warming centers and overnight shelters during Code Blue nights.

Supporters can directly affect change by dining at JBJ Soul Kitchen’s Red Bank or Toms River locations. The mission to fight food insecurity is ongoing, and continued community involvement is essential. To contribute directly to our Pay It Forward program, visit this link

Update – June 20, 2025 – We’re excited to share that the JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up at the Ocean County Library will now remain open through August 2025!

Toms River, N.J. – February 11, 2025 – JBJ Soul Kitchen, the unique nonprofit Pay It Forward restaurant, is excited to announce the opening of a new pop-up location in Toms River, New Jersey. Located at 101Washington St, in the Ocean County Library, this temporary café will serve meals to the local community while continuing JBJ Soul Kitchen’s mission of addressing food insecurity.

The JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up will offer nutritious meals for a suggested price of $12. Diners can enjoy a variety of choices such as sandwiches, wraps, bowls, and large salads. For those on the go, an a la carte menu is also available, allowing diners to choose what they want for a lighter bite or quick lunch.

The JBJ Soul Kitchen Pop-Up follows the same model as our other locations. It is not a pay-what-you-want model or a soup kitchen. Customers pay for their meals and are given the opportunity to pay it forward, helping those who are unable to pay but have volunteered for their meals. All customers enjoy a delicious meal regardless of their socioeconomic status.

JBJ Soul Kitchen is deeply committed to supporting the Toms River community, especially those facing food insecurity. The new café is conveniently located near essential services such as the Toms River Bus Terminal and many businesses and organizations, such as Bright Harbor Healthcare, South Jersey Legal Services, and NJ Reentry Corporation offering critical services to those in need.

Rob Wood, Assistant General Manager of JBJ Soul Kitchen, expressed his excitement about the new location, “We are thrilled to expand our reach and serve even more members of the community. This pop-up allows us to connect with those who may not be able to visit our main location on Hooper Avenue,” which is located at The B.E.A.T. Center, a resource hub for the community. Rob continues, “Our goal is to provide a space where All Are Welcome to enjoy a nutritious meal and be part of a community where all are valued.” Guests can enjoy a delicious meal, knowing that their dining experience directly supports the mission of JBJ Soul Kitchen to feed those who need it most. “We are here to create a positive impact on the Toms River community,” Rob added. “Whether you are here for a meal, to volunteer, or to Pay It Forward, every small act helps make a big difference in someone’s life.”

Location:
Inside Ocean County Library
101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ 08753

Hours of Operation:
Tuesday – Friday: 10:00AM – 2:00PM
Saturday – Monday: Closed