Toms River takes pizza seriously old‑school slices, creative toppings, and neighborhood spots where the staff knows your order by heart. After digging through reviews, local rankings, and word‑of‑mouth favorites, here are five standout pizzerias that keep coming up when people talk about the best pizza in town.
These aren’t the only good pies in Toms River, but if you’re starting a “who’s really best?” tour, this is a strong starting lineup.
1. Pondrelli’s Pizza and Kitchen
Vibe: Warm, welcoming, and very “family‑run” in feel—people talk as much about the staff as they do about the food.
Signature pizza style: Thin square “New Roman” pies, Sicilian, and classic boardwalk‑style slices. If you like a crisp, flavorful square slice, this is your spot.
What people say: Commentary & reviews: Reviews highlight how the owners walk guests through every slice and sandwich, making first‑timers feel like regulars. The phrase “all of the food was amazing” shows up a lot, especially for first visits.
Specials & standouts: New Roman thin square pizza, Margherita pies, garlic knots, and classic subs. Great for mixed orders—pizza plus sandwiches and salads.
Vibe: Casual, slice‑centric, and very much a “grab a slice and hang out” kind of place.
Signature pizza style: NY‑style slices, upside‑down pies, Sicilian, and loaded specialty slices like bacon chicken ranch and chicken ricotta.
What people say: Commentary & reviews: Regulars praise the “really great pizza and nice staff/owner,” and it’s the kind of shop people recommend when someone asks for a reliable, everyday slice.
Specials & standouts: Upside‑down pizza, bacon chicken ranch, stromboli, and zeppoli stuffed with cannoli cream—a sleeper dessert hit.
Vibe: Neighborhood joint with a loyal following—especially for parties and catering. It’s the place people quietly recommend when they want consistently good food for a crowd.
Signature pizza style: Classic Jersey pizzeria pies and personal pizzas—straightforward, satisfying, and built for repeat orders.
What people say: Commentary & reviews: Reviews rave about their catered trays—meatballs, wings, vodka rigatoni, subs—and call it their “favorite place for pizza too,” which says a lot in a town with this many options.
Specials & standouts: Personal pies, party trays, wings, vodka rigatoni, and subs. Ideal if you’re hosting a game night or family gathering and want pizza plus full trays.
Vibe: Classic Italian‑American restaurant with generous portions and a full menu—this is more “sit down and stay awhile” than quick slice.
Signature pizza style: Traditional Italian‑American pies with a focus on hearty toppings and a well‑balanced crust and sauce.
What people say: Commentary & reviews: Diners highlight “everything was delicious” and “generous portions,” making it a go‑to for families and groups who want pizza plus pasta and classic Italian dishes.
Specials & standouts: Gourmet pies, pasta dinners, and family‑style portions. Great if some of the table wants chicken parm or baked ziti while others stick to pizza.