The Ultimate 2026 Destination For New Jersey’s Most Creative And Award-Winning Burgers

So here’s the scoop: Toms River used to be all about beaches and boardwalks, but now? I’m driving straight past the sand because there’s a burger joint that’s basically the town’s new landmark.

Forget fancy dining rooms, this place is a snug little counter spot that somehow turned into the ultimate burger destination.

I mean, 3,000 people have already dropped reviews and it’s rocking a 4.6-star rating. That’s not hype, that’s math.

And trust me, every burger feels like it’s auditioning for “Best Supporting Role in My Lunch.” The shakes? Absolute masterpieces.

The vibe? Like stumbling into a food adventure you didn’t know you needed.

Locals are lining up before 11 AM just to snag a seat, and I get it, once you bite into one of their signature creations, every other burger you’ve ever had suddenly feels like background noise.

And don’t even get me started on the mango sorbet at the end. Sunshine.

In. A.

Bowl.

So yeah, if you’re ready to ditch boring brunch and sink your teeth into something that’s part flavor explosion, part cult following, this is the spot.

Just don’t blame me when you’re planning your next visit before you finish your first bite.

Award-Winning Signature Creations That Redefine the Burger Experience

Walking into Burger 25 Toms River feels like stepping into burger heaven where creativity meets perfection on every plate. The signature creations here aren’t your average fast-food fare; they’re carefully crafted masterpieces that have earned this spot its award-winning reputation across New Jersey.

Each burger starts with premium beef that’s seasoned to perfection and cooked exactly how you like it.

What makes these burgers truly special is the unexpected combination of flavors that somehow work together in magical harmony. From caramelized onions that add sweetness to tangy special sauces that pack a punch, every ingredient plays its part in the flavor symphony.

The chefs here aren’t afraid to experiment, which is why you’ll find toppings you never imagined on a burger but will crave forever after trying them.

Regulars at 199 NJ-37 have their favorites, but newcomers often spend delightful minutes studying the menu board trying to choose their first adventure. The beauty of these signature burgers is that they’re designed to surprise your taste buds while still delivering that satisfying, juicy burger experience you’re craving.

Whether you’re a purist who appreciates a perfectly executed classic or an adventurous eater ready to try something wild, there’s a signature creation waiting to become your new obsession.

The attention to detail extends beyond just the patty: the buns are toasted to golden perfection, vegetables are fresh and crisp, and every layer is thoughtfully placed for the perfect bite every single time.

Oreo Shakes That Turned Into a Cult Favorite Across Ocean County

Some people drive to Burger 25 specifically for the burgers, but an equally devoted crowd makes the trip just for those legendary Oreo shakes. These aren’t thin, disappointing milkshakes that leave you wanting more – they’re thick, creamy, cookie-loaded masterpieces that require a spoon as much as a straw.

The first sip tells you immediately why these shakes have developed such a loyal following throughout Toms River and beyond.

Crushed Oreo cookies get blended into premium ice cream creating a texture that’s both smooth and satisfyingly chunky with cookie bits. Every shake is topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream and more cookie crumbles because the folks here understand that when it comes to Oreo shakes, more is definitely more.

The balance between sweetness and that distinctive Oreo flavor is spot-on, never too overwhelming but always indulgent enough to feel like a proper treat.

Parents love that these shakes are big enough to share with kids, though many admit they end up ordering two because nobody wants to give up their portion. The shakes pair perfectly with the savory burgers, creating that classic sweet-and-salty combination that makes American dining so satisfying.

On hot summer days, locals know that nothing beats the heat quite like one of these frozen delights.

The consistency is always perfect, thick enough to stand a spoon in but smooth enough to sip through a straw with just a little effort, exactly how a proper milkshake should be served.

Counter-Serve Setup That Creates a Uniquely Personal Dining Vibe

Forget stuffy table service and long waits for your check – Burger 25 Toms River embraces the counter-serve model that keeps things moving while maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You walk up to the counter, place your order with friendly staff who know the menu inside and out, and then grab a seat while your food is prepared fresh.

This setup might seem casual, but it’s actually part of what makes the experience so enjoyable and stress-free.

The snug space at 199 NJ-37 means you’re never far from the action, and there’s something exciting about watching your burger being assembled by skilled hands. Counter service eliminates the awkward moments of trying to flag down a server or waiting endlessly for your bill; you’re in control of your dining pace from start to finish.

The staff behind the counter are genuinely enthusiastic about the food they’re serving, often offering recommendations or explaining what makes each burger special.

Families appreciate how quickly they can order and get settled, especially when traveling with hungry kids who can’t wait another minute for food. The casual atmosphere means you can come as you are, whether you’re dressed up for a night out or still sandy from the beach.

There’s no pressure to linger or rush, making it perfect for both quick lunches and leisurely meals.

Despite the fast-casual format, the quality never suffers – every order receives the same careful attention whether it’s a busy Friday night or a quiet Tuesday afternoon at this beloved New Jersey burger spot.

Inventive Fast-Casual Chow That Proves Quality Beats Speed Every Time

Fast-casual dining often gets a bad reputation for sacrificing quality in favor of speed, but Burger 25 Toms River completely flips that script. Yes, your food comes out relatively quickly, but never at the expense of flavor, freshness, or craftsmanship.

The kitchen team has perfected the art of efficient preparation without cutting corners, which is exactly why this spot has maintained its impressive 4.6-star rating across thousands of reviews.

Every burger is made to order, meaning your patty hits the grill only after you’ve placed your order at the counter. Fresh vegetables are sliced daily, buns are delivered fresh, and sauces are prepared in-house using recipes that have been tweaked and perfected over time.

The fast-casual model works here because the menu is focused; they know exactly what they do best and they’ve streamlined the process without losing the soul of good cooking.

What you won’t find here are heat lamps keeping food warm for unknown amounts of time or pre-made patties sitting around waiting to be reheated. The commitment to freshness means you might wait a few extra minutes during peak hours, but one bite proves it’s absolutely worth it.

The inventive menu keeps regulars coming back because there’s always something new to try or a seasonal special that showcases creative thinking.

This approach to fast-casual dining has made Burger 25 a model for how restaurants can serve customers efficiently while still delivering an experience that feels personal, fresh, and genuinely delicious every single visit to their Toms River location.

Prime Location on Route 37 That Makes Stopping By Incredibly Convenient

Location matters, and Burger 25 Toms River hit the jackpot with its spot at 199 NJ-37 in the heart of Ocean County. Route 37 is one of the main arteries running through Toms River, making this burger destination incredibly easy to reach whether you’re a local or just passing through New Jersey on your way to the shore.

The accessibility means you can satisfy a burger craving without going out of your way or getting lost on confusing back roads.

For shore-goers heading to or from the beaches, this location serves as the perfect pit stop for refueling before hitting the sand or grabbing dinner after a long day in the sun. The restaurant sits in a busy commercial area with ample parking, so you won’t waste time circling the block looking for a spot.

Visibility from the road is excellent, and once you’ve been here once, you’ll easily spot it on future drives through town.

Local workers love having a quality lunch option so conveniently located near offices and shops throughout Toms River. The central location also makes Burger 25 an easy meeting spot for friends coming from different parts of Ocean County.

Whether you’re coming from the Parkway, local neighborhoods, or nearby towns, getting to 199 NJ-37 is straightforward and stress-free.

The surrounding area offers other shopping and dining options, but regulars will tell you that once you’ve tried these burgers, you’ll have a hard time choosing anywhere else when you’re driving down Route 37 with hunger striking.

Hours That Accommodate Both Lunch Rushes and Late Dinner Cravings

Timing is everything when hunger strikes, and Burger 25 Toms River understands that burger cravings don’t follow a strict schedule. Open seven days a week starting at 11 AM, this spot catches the lunch crowd, afternoon snackers, dinner families, and even late-evening diners looking for quality food.

Weekdays wrap up at 9 PM, giving you plenty of time after work to swing by for a satisfying meal without rushing.

Friday and Saturday nights extend the hours until 10 PM, perfect for those weekend evenings when you want something delicious but don’t feel like cooking or sitting through a lengthy restaurant experience. The consistent daily opening at 11 AM means you can plan your lunch breaks or weekend outings knowing exactly when those doors will open.

No confusing schedules or days when they’re mysteriously closed, just reliable hours that respect your time.

Families appreciate the early opening for late lunches after morning activities, while night owls love having a quality option available when many other restaurants are already closing up. The Sunday schedule matches weekdays at 11 AM to 9 PM, making it a fantastic option for weekend meals or that post-beach dinner when you’re too tired to cook.

During peak hours, especially Friday and Saturday evenings, the counter can get busy with eager customers, but the efficient service keeps lines moving.

These hours strike the perfect balance between accommodating various schedules while giving staff reasonable closing times, contributing to the consistently positive service experience that keeps customers returning to this New Jersey burger haven.

Affordable Pricing That Delivers Incredible Value for Gourmet Quality

Gourmet burgers often come with gourmet prices that make your wallet cry, but Burger 25 Toms River manages to keep things affordable while never compromising on quality. The double-dollar-sign price range means you’re paying a bit more than fast food but significantly less than upscale dining establishments.

What you get for that moderate price is restaurant-quality food prepared with care, fresh ingredients, and creative recipes that justify every penny.

A complete meal with a signature burger, fries, and one of those famous Oreo shakes won’t break the bank, making this spot perfect for families feeding multiple hungry mouths. Students and young professionals appreciate having access to genuinely good food without needing to save up for a special occasion.

The portion sizes are generous – nobody leaves here feeling hungry or like they didn’t get their money’s worth.

Compared to other gourmet burger spots across New Jersey, the value proposition here is exceptional. You’re not paying for fancy table settings or elaborate ambiance; you’re investing in quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and flavors that rival restaurants charging twice as much.

The pricing structure makes it easy to become a regular without worrying about budget constraints.

Special combo deals and straightforward menu pricing mean no hidden surprises when you get to the counter. The restaurant proves that affordable and high-quality aren’t mutually exclusive concepts, which is probably why they’ve built such a devoted following among locals who visit weekly rather than treating it as an occasional splurge destination.

Stellar Reputation Built on Over 3,000 Glowing Customer Reviews

Numbers don’t lie, and when over 3,000 people take time to leave reviews averaging 4.6 stars, you know something special is happening at 199 NJ-37. Building that kind of reputation doesn’t happen overnight – it requires consistent quality, friendly service, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction day after day, order after order.

Reading through the reviews reveals common themes: fresh ingredients, creative flavors, generous portions, and staff who actually seem happy to be there.

What’s particularly impressive is maintaining such high ratings as the review count grows – many restaurants start strong but ratings drop as they expand their customer base. Burger 25 Toms River has managed to keep quality consistent even as popularity has soared throughout Ocean County and beyond.

Negative reviews are rare and usually relate to busy wait times rather than food quality, which speaks volumes about where the restaurant’s priorities lie.

Customers frequently mention specific burgers they’ve tried, creating a helpful guide for newcomers trying to decide on their first order. The detailed feedback shows that people aren’t just satisfied; they’re excited enough about their experience to share it with others online.

This organic word-of-mouth marketing has been more valuable than any advertising campaign could ever be.

The stellar reputation extends beyond online reviews to local conversations, where Toms River residents proudly recommend this spot to visitors asking where to eat. That kind of community endorsement combined with thousands of positive reviews creates a powerful testament to what Burger 25 has achieved in New Jersey’s competitive restaurant scene.

Perfectly Toasted Buns That Provide the Foundation for Burger Greatness

A great burger starts with a great bun, and this is one detail that separates amateur burger joints from true craftsmen. At Burger 25 Toms River, every bun gets individual attention on the grill, toasted to achieve that perfect golden color and slightly crispy texture that holds up against juicy patties and saucy toppings.

The toasting process isn’t just about aesthetics; it creates a barrier that prevents sogginess while adding a subtle crunch and buttery flavor.

The buns themselves are sourced from quality bakeries, soft enough to bite through easily but sturdy enough to contain all those inventive toppings without falling apart halfway through your meal. Watching them get prepared, you’ll notice the care taken to toast each side evenly, ensuring consistent texture and flavor.

This attention to what might seem like a small detail actually makes an enormous difference in the overall eating experience.

Too many restaurants serve burgers on buns that are either rock-hard or mushy and disappointing, but the balance achieved here is absolutely spot-on. The toasted exterior provides structure while the soft interior soaks up just enough juice and sauce to enhance flavors without becoming a mess.

Fresh buns delivered regularly mean you’re never biting into something that’s been sitting around for days.

Regulars at this New Jersey location know that the bun quality is part of what makes these burgers so memorable; it’s the foundation that allows all those creative toppings and perfectly cooked patties to shine, proving that true burger excellence requires getting every single component exactly right.

Fresh Vegetable Toppings That Add Crunch and Color to Every Creation

Great burgers need more than just meat and cheese; they need that fresh vegetable crunch that adds texture, color, and brightness to every bite. Burger 25 Toms River takes vegetable toppings seriously, sourcing crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and fresh onions that taste like they came straight from a garden rather than sitting in a cooler for weeks.

The difference between fresh and mediocre vegetables is immediately noticeable when you bite into one of these burgers.

Lettuce arrives crispy and cold, providing that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, juicy patty. Tomatoes are sliced thick enough to taste but not so thick they slide out with the first bite; it’s a precision that shows attention to detail.

Onions come in various preparations depending on which signature burger you order, from raw and sharp to caramelized and sweet, each bringing different flavor dimensions.

The kitchen staff preps vegetables throughout the day, ensuring that even customers arriving near closing time get the same fresh quality as the lunch rush crowd. Pickles are tangy and crisp, adding that acidic punch that cuts through rich, fatty flavors.

Even simple additions like shredded lettuce or sliced jalapeños receive the same quality control as more prominent ingredients.

This commitment to fresh vegetables isn’t just about health, though it’s nice knowing you’re getting some nutrition with your indulgence; it’s about creating a complete flavor experience where every component contributes something valuable, making each burger from this Toms River spot a perfectly balanced creation that keeps customers coming back week after week.