Welcome to Silverton, a sun-splashed neighborhood tucked north of downtown Toms River, where the Jersey Shore’s back bays meet a diverse local food scene. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Silverton’s restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and food trucks prove you don’t need to head downtown for memorable meals. Here’s your guide to discovering the most delicious spots in Silverton—along with a few secrets only the savviest foodies know.
Harboring Tastes: Where to Begin?
Silverton’s main dining corridors run along Hooper Avenue, Silverton Road, and Church Road, where an array of mom-and-pop joints and bustling eateries welcome everyone from hungry families to lunch-hour professionals. You’ll also discover neighborhood favorites and under-the-radar gems sprinkled along nearby routes like Kettle Creek and Hinds Road.
Classic Italian Fare on Every Corner
- Joe Bella’s Italian Kitchen (1619 Church Rd)
When it comes to cozy, old-world Italian, Joe Bella’s has neighborhood legend status. This casual but welcoming spot boasts homemade pasta, fork-tender chicken parmigiana, and classic pizzas. Locals come for the Eggplant Rollatini and stay for warm garlic knots and the sense that here, everyone’s treated like family. Prices hover in the mid-range, with generous portions ensuring nobody leaves hungry.
- Attilio’s Pizza (1817 Hooper Ave)
Just off the intersection of Hooper and Silverton Road, Attilio’s is a go-to for piping hot, foldable slices with a Jersey-perfect crust. While the pizza is the star, the robust sub sandwiches—especially the Italian combo—draw rave reviews. On Fridays, Silverton residents know to arrive early for the fresh-baked zeppoles.
Seafood by the Shore
- Crabs Claw Seafood Market (2640 Hooper Ave)
A family-friendly staple on Hooper, this market and casual eatery is famous for its fresh, local catches. Dine inside or grab carryout—try the lump crab cakes, fried clam strips, or buttery lobster rolls. Prices range from affordable sandwiches to splurge-worthy seafood platters. Don’t miss their Friday clam chowder—a neighborhood tradition.
- Shore Points BBQ (829 Fischer Blvd, just outside Silverton proper)
It’s not your typical seafood spot, but the smoked salmon and shrimp tacos are worth the slight detour. Plus, barbeque brisket, ribs, and house-made sauces win loyal fans—think silver tin trays piled with flavor for a moderate price.
Cozy Cafés and Breakfast Staples
- C&G’s Country Café (213 Route 37 E, just over the border)
Though not strictly “in” Silverton, locals claim this as their breakfast haunt. Fluffy omelets, stuffed pancakes, and endless mugs of coffee make it the spot for lazy weekend mornings. Affordable and welcoming, families mix with solo diners—if there’s a wait, it’s always worth it.
- La Scala Italian Pastry Shop (2119 Whitesville Rd)
Tucked in a small strip mall, La Scala is Silverton’s go-to for sweet Italian treats, picture-perfect cookies, and cannoli made fresh to order. Their tiramisu and ricotta pie are legendary for special occasions—or just a Friday night treat.
Affordable Eats and Family Favorites
- Silverton Farms Market Food Truck (1520 Silverton Rd)
Locally grown goodness is served up fresh from Silverton Farms’ food truck, a seasonal lunchtime favorite. Expect fresh salads, veggie wraps, pulled pork sandwiches, and farm-fresh smoothies. It’s affordable, ever-changing, and the perfect sunny-day lunch.
- Silverton Diner (1848 Hooper Ave)
Every neighborhood needs a classic diner. Silverton’s is open early and serves the best of Jersey breakfast, lunch, and late-night eats. Whether you’re craving disco fries or a club sandwich, the prices are wallet-friendly. Bonus: the rotating pie selection behind the counter.
Silverton’s Hidden Gems
- Rocco’s Pizza and Subs (1889 Hooper Ave)
Overshadowed by bigger names, Rocco’s quietly plates up terrific pizza, overstuffed cold subs, and unexpectedly delicious cheesesteaks. The pepperoni rolls are a must-try snack; prices are low and under-the-radar charm is free.
- Señor Juan Mexican Grill (1684 Route 9)
Just off Silverton proper, this humble taqueria-style spot is a favorite for street tacos, tangy ceviche, and fresh guacamole. The authentic birria tacos and aguas frescas set it apart from more generic options nearby.
Sweets, Bakeries, and Coffee
- Bourre Bakery (inside Silverton Farms, 1520 Silverton Rd)
Artisan bread, creative scones, and decadent pastries—all made from locally-sourced flour and Jersey-grown fruit. Bourre’s displays at the farm stand tempt everyone from morning joggers to afternoon snackers.
- Just Dough It Donut Truck (Various locations; frequently at Silverton events)
Warm, fresh donuts rolled in cinnamon sugar or classic glaze—find this cheerful white-pink truck at farmers markets and community events. Locals swear by the hot apple cider donuts in the fall.
Food Traditions and Community Flavors
Food in Silverton isn’t just about eating—it’s woven deeply into neighborhood life. Friday fish fries at local churches, summertime farmers markets featuring regional produce, and block parties teeming with food trucks all showcase the close-knit, flavor-loving spirit of Silverton. At any community event, you’ll likely see neighbors sipping Lemonade from a Silverton Farms stand or sharing slices of pizza after a Little League game at Silverton Park.
Where to Go Next?
For an unbeatable food day, begin with breakfast pastries at La Scala, grab lunch from Silverton Farms’ food truck, enjoy dinner at Joe Bella’s or Crabs Claw Seafood Market, and finish with treats from Bourre Bakery or the donut truck if you catch it. Many eateries cluster around Church Rd, Hooper Ave, and Silverton Rd, making it easy to graze through Silverton on foot—or on a lazy Sunday drive.
Why Silverton Shines
Silverton’s food scene blends classic Jersey comfort with the creative touches of family-run and chef-driven kitchens. Here, everybody has a favorite spot, every menu tells a story, and new surprises seem to pop up at every corner. Hungry yet? Head north of Route 37 and discover why Silverton is the Toms River neighborhood locals never keep secret for long.