TOMS RIVER, NJ — Members of Toms River PBA Local 137 are celebrating a flavorful victory after taking home the first-place award for Best Chili at the 2026 JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off.

The annual event, hosted by JBJ Soul Kitchen, brought together community organizations and participants for a friendly culinary competition centered around one beloved comfort food: chili. Toms River PBA Local 137 expressed its appreciation to the restaurant and organizers for the opportunity to participate in the event.

“We would like to thank JBJ Soul Kitchen for having us at their 2026 Chili Cook-Off,” the organization shared following the competition.

The event served as more than just a contest, providing an opportunity for community engagement, fellowship, and support for the mission of JBJ Soul Kitchen, which is known for its community-focused approach to addressing food insecurity while bringing people together through shared meals.

For Local 137, the day ended on a high note as judges selected their recipe as the best in the competition, earning the top prize and local bragging rights.

The first-place finish highlights the camaraderie and teamwork that extend beyond law enforcement duties, showcasing another side of the officers who proudly serve the Toms River community.

As community events continue to bring residents and organizations together across Ocean County, the chili cook-off proved that a little friendly competition can go a long way, especially when it results in an award-winning bowl of chili.

Congratulations to Toms River PBA Local 137 on their first-place finish and to all participants who helped make the 2026 JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off a success.

Photo Caption: Members of Toms River PBA Local 137 proudly display their first-place trophy after winning Best Chili at the 2026 JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off.