Two Classic Restaurant Chains Are Back in Town

Toms River is now home to two of the greatest establishments of all time! Stewart's Restaurant and Nathan's Famous / Arthur Treacher's Fish & Chips. I have been to both places at least once every day this week. Everything on both menus is good. In fact, you will have a hard time deciding what to get.

Stewart's Restaurant

Stewart's is located in the Food Court of Ocean County Mall. You will wait in line but it's worth it! The friendliness of the counter staff helps ease the wait and the gives you time to browse the menu. I've tried the corn dog nuggets, patty melt, cheese burger, cheese steak, French fries and of course the Root Beer Float (with a refill). One of my favorite things? The Black Cherry Wishniak in their ice cold mug. I even ventured to the mall on a Friday night to get my fix.

The manager told me they opened at the end of November and business hasn't slowed down. The menu is quite extensive, and although it's not listed on their website, they do offer breakfast at the mall location. This classic is a winner!

Nathan's Famous / Arthur Treacher's Fish & Chips

I don't even know where to begin when I talk about Nathan's / Arthur Treacher's. I heard about this opening for a while then forgot about until recently when it came across my Facebook feed. Hidden off of Hooper Avenue & Church, this fast-food franchise is another classic! The service is outstanding and the food is even better. They have such an extensive menu — the Nathan's side features hot dogs, hamburgers, cheesesteaks and chicken sandwiches, while the Arthur Treacher's side has fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, hush puppies and clams. Not to mention the French fries — best fries ever! Hands down! Add a little salt and your set, or maybe you like some cheese on your fries — either way you win. You can get something different every time you come. My husband raves about the Orangeade!

I spoke to the night manager who said they are one of the busiest Arthur Treacher's in the country, and that the hidden spot really isn't a detriment; the customers come because they have great food. The hot dog is their best seller, but my two favorite things are their cheesesteak and the best fried shrimp I've had on and off the Boardwalk! Look for their grand opening once the weather gets a little nicer.

How lucky are we to have these two classics make a comeback within minutes of each other? It's worth the drive down Hooper and the loop around the Jug Handle. Friendly service and great food is back in town. You will be satisfied eating anything off either menu and you'll be greeted by smiling faces while making your choice. There is a reason why this food is so classic!