TOMS RIVER, NJ – The big day is almost here. The day men women wait for and men somewhat dread. Yes, Valentine’s Day is coming soon. If you live in Toms River, you don’t have to travel far to treat your significant other to nice, romantic Valentine’s Day. Here are five choices we think you both will enjoy.
Il Giardinello Ristorante
Located on Route 166, just south of Bay Avenue and Exit 83, Ill Giardinello is Italian fine dining at it’s best in Toms River. The restaurant sometimes caters to the senior crowd, but if you’re looking to be pampered and have a delicious meal with great service, look no further than Il Giardinello.
Owners, Joe and Colleen Pisacreta deliver fine cuisine, warm, inviting ambiance and impeccable service effortlessly combine to create a rich and authentic Italian dining experience.
“From delicate dishes with the lightest of touches to hearty, full-bodied fare each dish is carefully prepared with masterful culinary skill,” the restaurant boasts. ” We look forward to serving you in the Old World tradition of courtesy and grace that has earned us a place in the hearts of our very loyal customers.”
Aqua Blu
If you’ve been around the block, you’ll remember this used to be Nick the Greek’s. Now, Aqua Blue has begun to create a name of its own with bayfront dining at the foot of the Route 37 bridge.
“Dining out is one of the most enjoyable luxuries in the country. If you’re ready to indulge, you can enjoy delicious meals served by the friendly staff at our modern American restaurant with an Italian flare,” the restaurant says. “Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails is a modern restaurant in Toms River, New Jersey. We serve classic Italian-inspired fare with a modern twist. You’ll enjoy our variety of steaks, pasta and seafood, as well as our enticing wine, beer and cocktail options.”
Villa Amalfi
Andrea and Carlo over at Villa Amalfi have created one of Toms River’s hidden gems. Italian fine dining is at its best at Villa Amalfi and if you want to have a nice elegant night out, this should be one of your top choices.
“Our many years of experience, dedication, delicious hors d’ oeuvres, distinctive entrees, tempting desserts, as well as our fully stocked top-shelf bar, & exquisite banquet packages, make Villa Amalfi your choice for everyday dining or for any of your Special Occasions,” the couple says. “We offer everyday dining and on-site/ off-premises catering services. We will gladly accommodate any of your needs and special requests. Bringing you your own serving staff, bartending, and coffee & tea services. We pride ourselves on preparing the best food, with the highest quality ingredients, to make any event a successful one for you.”
Shogun Legacy
They used to have the best hibachi in Toms River, but now Shogun focuses on tableside Asian fusion food in a nice and elegant setting. They describe it as “Modern authentic Asian cuisine”.
“From 2002 to 2012, Shogun Legacy operated under the name of Shogun Bey Lea and served a full spectrum of Japanese cuisine. Shogun Bey Lea was closed in mid-April 2012, at which time extensive renovations were undertaken. Shogun Legacy represents the evolution of the restaurant from a Hibachi Steak House and Sushi Bar to a fine dining establishment offering a comprehensive selection of Asian and Thai entrees to compliment the selection of traditional sushi and sashimi dishes previously offered,” the restaurant says. “Shogun Legacy boasts an elegant main dining room, a new, larger sushi bar, a private dining room. A wine cellar enables customers to pair their dining entrees with a wide selection of vintage wines to further enhance their overall dining experience. Experienced and attentive service staff will afford customers a truly unique and enjoyable dining experience.”
Baladina
If you’re tired of the same old thing every day in Toms River, then you need to check out Baladina. Baladina is another one of Toms River’s best unkept secrets. They serve food from all around the Mediterranean Sea.
“Enjoy a delicious variety of Mediterranean cuisine right at the Jersey Shore. Visit our inviting dining area that is reflective of the Middle Eastern culture leaving you with a fulfilling and unique dining experience. Baladina’s friendly staff will ensure that your friends and family will come back for another visit,” the restaurant says.
It’s almost like an ‘around the world’ adventure of different tastes, flavors, and cultures.