Toms River feels like the kind of town where every local has a strong opinion about great pizza—and they’re not afraid to share it. I still remember the first time I sank my teeth into a blistered crust, the cheese still bubbling, not sure if my taste buds were ready for that level of perfection. That’s the charm of pizza in this town. Each spot has a loyal fanbase and a distinct personality, and finding the “best” is as much about your taste as the sauce on your slice.
If you think all pizza is created equal, Toms River will change your mind. I’ve spent chilly evenings in cozy booths, grabbed a quick slice after long days at the shore, and tested many menus for a contender to my personal pizza throne. This guide trims the guesswork, spotlighting local gems and trusted classics. Whether you chase the tang of fresh mozzarella, the crunch of a flawless crust, or simply want to avoid disappointment, the answer is in these slices. Let’s dig into the best options—each with its own story, flavor, and reason for making the list.
1. Lisa’s Cucina Italian Ristorante
Tucked in West Hill Plaza, Lisa’s Cucina Italian Ristorante has a warmth you can’t fake. The welcoming staff remembers regulars, and even if you’re new, you feel like part of the family after your first slice. You’ll catch regulars chatting over steaming pizza at lunch or lingering over dinner.
After many tries, I still can’t ignore their classic margherita pizza. The crust is thin and crisp, with a balance you only get from decades of experience. If you like your pizza with a bit more flavor, try the veggie pie—with fresh vegetables that actually taste fresh.
What sets Lisa’s apart is the sense that everything, from dough to sauce, is made with attention. It’s easy to see why this spot has been a Toms River staple for over 35 years.
2. Mangia Brick Oven Pizza
Mangia Brick Oven Pizza starts with a crackling, perfectly-charred crust that just tastes different from typical pizza. You catch the smoky aroma before your first bite. I showed up midweek and watched a steady stream of locals picking up pies, which is always a good sign.
What makes Mangia stand out is its consistent quality. The moment I sank my teeth into their classic Margherita, I knew this was something special. The sauce has just the right tang, the cheese is gooey, and the flavors blend without overpowering each other.
If you want to try the house favorite, order the Veggie Supreme. The combination of crisp vegetables with that signature brick oven flavor is a win. Mangia proves that fresh ingredients and an expert oven can turn out something memorable.
3. Capone’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta
+1 732-473-1777
Capone’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta brings a little downtown charm to Toms River. The space feels cozy, almost like a friend’s kitchen, and there’s a buzz every time an order leaves the oven. I spent an afternoon here people-watching and sampling slices.
Their signature Capone’s Special Pizza defines what they do best. Great crust, flavorful sauce, and the toppings actually feel gourmet. Every bite balances texture and flavor, which isn’t easy to pull off.
If you want something classic, the Margherita is a standout for its simplicity. Capone’s makes every pie feel considered, with a care for ingredients you can taste. This is a reliable stop for anyone chasing good pizza in Toms River.
4. Schiano’s Pizza
Schiano’s Pizza is a beloved local mainstay that knows how to keep things classic. There’s nothing flashy about the place, but the quality draws a loyal crowd. I remember stopping in after work and finding every booth filled with familiar faces diving into pies.
What sets Schiano’s apart is their approach to tradition. Their plain cheese pizza is a local favorite—thin crust, just enough char, and a sauce that brings a subtle sweetness. Sometimes simple really is best.
If you want something different, try their veggie pizza. Schiano’s piles on fresh toppings without making the slice soggy, striking a great balance. For a taste of why Toms River locals come back, this spot speaks for itself.
5. Johnny G’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
+1 732-255-8900
Johnny G’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria feels like stepping into a friend’s dining room. The family-owned warmth shows, whether you’re dropping in for a quick lunch or settling in for dinner. Every visit, you’ll spot families celebrating milestones and regulars sharing stories over pizza.
What’s special here is the crust—it manages to be light, yet sturdy enough to hold generous toppings. The signature Johnny G’s Special pizza is a must-try, loaded with fresh veggies, a balanced sauce, and just the right amount of cheese.
If you want something lighter, their plain pie lets the ingredients shine. Johnny G’s delivers on the basics and then some, always with a homemade touch. It’s hard not to leave satisfied.
6. Charlie’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub
Charlie’s Pizza Restaurant & Pub makes pizza the center of attention, but the laid-back vibe keeps people coming back. It’s not unusual to see a mix of families and friends filling tables, catching up over slices and big salads. The energy feels friendly, yet relaxed.
What grabbed my attention on my first visit was the award-winning thin crust. Each bite offers a gentle crunch without being dry—proof of skilled hands in the kitchen. The Cheese Lovers pie is a solid pick, layering just the right blend of cheeses for a gooey, satisfying slice.
The Veggie pizza comes with a medley of fresh toppings and never feels overloaded. If you crave a spot that balances tradition with a little flair, Charlie’s is the kind of dependable neighborhood staple everyone wants nearby.
7. Naples Pizza
Naples Pizza stays loyal to classic flavors while adding just enough personal touch to make your meal memorable. I first walked in after hearing the buzz from locals, and it only took one slice to understand why people keep coming back.
The magic here is in the dough. Every pie has that trademark chew—crust with a perfect edge, sauce that’s both bright and not too rich, and cheese that pulls just right. Their Plain pizza lets those fundamentals shine and never disappoints.
For a twist, try their veggie slice—fresh toppings, never soggy, and seasoned thoughtfully. Naples Pizza is the spot to hit if you crave a familiar, comforting pie that still manages to impress every time.
8. Pizza & Panini
Pizza & Panini is a low-key gem where creativity meets comfort food. I found myself drawn in one rainy afternoon, looking for something fast but hoping for more than just another standard slice. What I got was better—fresh, hot, and surprisingly inventive pizza.
Their Margherita pie hits all the right notes: warm crust, tangy sauce, and generous cheese, all without feeling heavy. The attention to detail is obvious even with the simplest of pizzas.
If you want something to remember, try the Veggie Pizza. Crisp peppers and mushrooms sit atop a crust that stays crisp. For Toms River pizza with a slight twist (but not too much), Pizza & Panini delivers every time.
9. Attilio’s Pizza
Attilio’s Pizza is a neighborhood mainstay where tradition rules the oven. The moment you walk in, the smell of baking dough makes you hungry even if you weren’t before. My first visit was fueled by rave reviews, and the pizza lived up to every word.
What makes Attilio’s stand out is their commitment to getting the basics right. The cheese pie is everything you want—stretchy cheese, a slightly crispy crust, and sauce with just a touch of sweetness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their white pizza. It’s creamy but never heavy, bringing out the best of each ingredient. For classic Toms River pizza with no shortcuts, Attilio’s is tough to beat.
10. Brooklyn Square Pizza
Brooklyn Square Pizza captures that unmistakable New York spirit without crossing the bridge. The family-run vibe is almost as comforting as the aroma that hits when you walk through the door. My first slice at this spot had me convinced—some places just nail the crust every time.
The “Upside Down Sicilian” is the standout. Thick, fluffy dough topped first with cheese, then sauce, gives each bite a memorable texture and a perfect balance of flavors. For anyone who likes a heartier slice, this is the top pick in Toms River.
If you’re after something more traditional, try their Margherita. It’s fresh, colorful, and just the right amount of chewy. Here, every pie feels like it’s made with hometown pride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular pizza places in Toms River, NJ?
Some of the most talked-about spots include Lisa’s Cucina, Mangia Brick Oven Pizza, Brooklyn Square Pizza, and Capone’s Gourmet Pizza & Pasta. Each brings a unique spin to classic pies.
Are there vegetarian pizza options available?
Absolutely. Most Toms River pizzerias, including Schiano’s Pizza, Pizza & Panini, and Johnny G’s, offer veggie pies loaded with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces.
Do these pizzerias offer gluten-free options?
Many local spots now include gluten-free pizza. It’s a good idea to call ahead, but places like Mangia Brick Oven Pizza and Capone’s are known for offering these choices.
Can I get pizza delivered in Toms River?
Yes, delivery is available at most area pizzerias. Popular options such as Lisa’s Cucina, Attilio’s Pizza, and Domino’s all provide delivery services.
What style of pizza is most common in Toms River?
You’ll find a mix of thin crust, Sicilian, and classic New York-style pizza throughout Toms River, so there’s something for every preference. Brooklyn Square’s Sicilian and Naples Pizza’s thin crust are two local favorites.