RED BANK, NJ — JBJ Soul Kitchen, a non-profit Community Restaurant run by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, has redefined dining by serving both paying and in-need customers in a unique approach emphasizing community involvement and volunteerism.
This week, they kicked it up a notch, announcing a free dinner to veterans and their spouses on Veteran’s Day.
The restaurant, which operates in two locations in New Jersey, offers meals without set prices. Instead, diners are asked to make a suggested donation. Those unable to donate can volunteer their time in exchange for a meal, fostering a sense of community and offering job training in the hospitality industry.
Unlike traditional restaurants, JBJ Soul Kitchen does not feature prices on its menu. If guests cannot make the suggested donation, they can still enjoy a three-course meal consisting of American Regional cuisine. Dishes are prepared with locally sourced ingredients, often coming from JBJ Soul Kitchen Farm or the restaurant’s garden.
Guests interested in volunteering as an alternative to payment are encouraged to visit during operational hours or contact the restaurant via email. Volunteering options aim to involve community members while providing potential avenues for job training.
The establishment prioritizes in-need diners, seating guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not required, promoting a welcoming atmosphere for all community members.
JBJ Soul Kitchen in Toms River has unveiled its weekly menu, emphasizing locally sourced, farm-to-table American Regional cuisine as it continues to serve both paying and in-need community members.
The three-course meal starts with an option of soup or salad. Diners can then choose an entrée that includes a selection of fish, meat, or a vegetarian dish. Each meal is completed with a freshly made dessert. Many of the dishes utilize natural ingredients sourced either from the JBJ Soul Kitchen Farm or the restaurant’s own garden.
This week’s menu includes mushroom chicken, beef stew, glazed salmon, and cheese tortellini entrees with a fruit cup for dessert. This week’s lunch menu includes turkey club and two chef’s specials.
On Veteran’s Day, Veterans are eligible for a free dinner for themselves and their spouse to thank them for their service.
JBJ Soul Kitchen’s two locations in New Jersey are at 207 Monmouth Street in Red Bank and 1769 Hooper Avenue in Toms River. With its unconventional approach to dining, the restaurant continues to be a place where community members can enjoy quality meals, regardless of their ability to pay, while also promoting opportunities for job training and community building.