You did it! You made it through the cold months of January and February and now it’s time to start thinking about all the upcoming spring events in your calendar. Whether it’s planning a graduation party, an engagement party, or maybe just getting together with coworkers, there are plenty of restaurants in Downtown Toms River that turn your get together into a celebration.

Hosting an Event in Downtown Toms River

On the hunt for that perfect location to host a special event in Downtown Toms River? Well, look no further. We’ve got a number of places that will check off every box of your wish list. If it’s an entire facility you’re looking for, check out The Villa (10 Highland Parkway, Toms River 732-349-1469). With its ability to seat up to 125 people, 11 HD flat-screen TVs equipped with a full video package (perfect for presentations), a full bar area, and of course a friendly and experienced staff, it’s an easy decision! Or check out The Downtown Shops @ 53 Main (53 Main Street, Toms River 732-341-8738) for a unique location that combines the appeal of downtown with a cozy space.

For those interested in hosting a smaller party with all the fixings, there aren’t too many places along the Jersey Shore that can compete with excellent food and “huge portions” from Daddio’s Grill (10 Washington Street, Toms River 732-286-6780) and the Buffet Dinner and House Antipasto and Pizza Party of Capone’s Gourmet Pizza and Pasta House (17 Washington Street, Toms River 732-473-1777).

For a unique location that will give your guests a pang of jealousy that they didn’t find it first, look no further than the historic 600 Main Bed & Breakfast and Victorian Tea Room (600 Main Street, Toms River 732-818-7580). Your guests will be transported back in time to an era when tea, antiques, and homemade scones were a daily part of everyday life. As for those parties where you’re focused on entertaining a younger generation, there’s Crop A Cabana (82 E. Water Street, rear building, Toms River 732-288-2158). With the ability to accommodate up to 12 friends, your child will love crafting with their friends to commemorate their special day.

Finally, as the weather warms up, why not take your party outside? With the help of the River Lady (1 Robbins Pkwy, Toms River 732-349-8664), your guests will enjoy a cruise aboard a classic Victorian riverboat. Or why not take in Huddy Park (39 E. Water Street, Toms River 732-341-1000 x8415). Entertain your guests in this historic riverside park that’s located just steps away from Downtown Toms River.

Featured Businesses: Breakfast Spots in Downtown Toms River

Hungry for some breakfast? There are plenty of places to start your day off right in Downtown Toms River. For a quick bite to go, check out Uncle Dood’s Donuts (4 Robbins Street, Toms River 609-462-3517) for a delicious donut that has been continually voted a must try in the country… yes, the country! Then there’s Bagel Bistro (65 Main St., Toms River 732-569-3735) where you can get your fix of both bagels (from plain to classic breakfast sandwiches). One your way out, stop by Café Enigma (216 Main St., Toms River 732-504-7653) where coffee aficionados can delve into “truly great coffee” in a relaxing lounge.

At soon as your breakfast arrives at Shut Up & Eat (804 Main Street, Toms River 732-349-4544), that’s all you’ll want to do! Try out one of their crazy stuffed French Toast creations (they have over a hundred) or waffle sandwiches while dining in your PJs (no one will comment and you may even get a free coffee!) At a Thyme for All Seasons (207 Main Street, Toms River 732-255-2650) they’ll not only cater your breakfast shin dig, but you can also head on over to their café open Monday – Friday 7am – 3pm for breakfast items like Shrimp Omelets and Homemade Waffles (with pork roll of course!)

Yes, we mentioned them above for a great hosting option, but Daddio’s Grille (10 Washington St., Toms River 732-286-6780) is also home to a number of specialty breakfast and brunch items. As for those times when you crave an egg sunny side up with a side of waffles, but it just so happens to be a little after noon – head over to CK’s Café (63 Main Street, Toms River 732-604-4885) where they’ll serve you up their specialties (like Veggie Omelets) and breakfast bowls all afternoon.

Last, but certainly not least, there’s Poppy’s Place (290 W. Water Street, Toms River 732-503-4313) where you’ll get a “blast from the past” with a 50s style diner setting and home cooked dishes. (There’s also no harm in heading over to two of America’s favorite breakfast places – Perkins (149 Rt. 37., Toms River 732-473-1733) and Dunkin’ Donuts (101 Washington St. , Toms River 732-244-4100)!)

Featured News:

On Thursday, February 8th The Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District(BID) held its’ Annual General Meeting. Below is a brief outline of what the BID provides for the downtown area.

Annual General Meeting 2018: Executive Director’s Report
Identity: Clean, Safe & Happy

What is the Business Improvement District (BID)? A quasi-governmental agency incorporated as a non-profit organization
Why does it exist? Enhances government service to improve the quality of life & commerce in the district
Who is a part of it? 5 employees — 3 full time + 2 half time, 19 Board Members (contact list to be provided at next regular board meeting), 50+ Volunteers (TEAM kids from the high schools; locals), Partners (businesses, government agencies, NPOs, residential associations, schools)
Where does it operate? Parkway to Hooper Ave, South side of Rt. 37 to the River
Office building (upstairs, 53 Main St.); Retail Incubator (1st floor 53 Main St.; 5 out of 6 stores occupied/7 out of 9 units rented); Storage Unit (Allied Building Supply on West Water St.); Self-Storage Lockers (basement of 53 Main St.; Fully occupied)

Which services does it enhance? Planning; Zoning; Parking, Business Development, Safety; Streetscapes; Sanitation, Tourism; Marketing; Events, Community enrichment; Recreation; Arts & History

Which committees are responsible? Land Use, Economic Restructuring, Design, Promotions, Culture

When are your events?
Chili & Salsa Cook Off –  3rd Saturday of May
Summer in the Street – 3rd Saturday of July
Harvest Arts Festival – 3rd Saturday of October
Farmers’ Market – Every Wednesday from mid-May to Thanksgiving
Cruisin’ Downtown – 2nd Wednesday of June, July, August, and September
Winter Farmers’ Market – First Wednesday of January, February, March, April, and May
Christmas Tree Lighting – First Friday of December
Ribbon Cuttings/Unveilings/Grand Opening – As needed

Looking Ahead to April:

Looking ahead to April, The Toms River Artist Community (TRAC) will host their monthly art show at their gallery inside The Downtown Shops @ 53 Main. We will also visit lunch & dinner spots and give an update on the Redevelopment Plan for the downtown area.