Here are 7 places in Toms River that do a great version of Arancini. These are homemade deep-fried rice balls, filled with meat, cheese, and/or vegetables, and covered in sauce.
More About Arancini
According to The Mediterranean, Arancini (pronounced “aran-chini”) is a Sicilian street food made of risotto that’s rolled into a ball, stuffed, breaded, and gently fried. When you bite into an arancino (the singular name for these golden beauties), you’re met with layers of flavor and texture. First comes the crispy outer layer, followed by a creamy risotto, and finally a center of melted cheese that stretches on for what seems like miles. These culinary treats take some effort to prepare, but they are truly a delight to eat. Perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer with a simple Marinara Sauce.
Arancini is believed to have originated while Sicily was under Arab rule, beginning in the 9th century. During this time, Middle Eastern foods including rice, citrus fruits, and spices were introduced to the locals. Arancini was fried, most likely to preserve transport.
ALSO READ: 5 Of My Favorite Ice Cream Shops in Toms River
Getting Your Rice Balls
While many of us have a deft hand in the kitchen and would love to make our own versions of these Italian Rice Balls, not many of us have the time or quite the skill to make the perfect serving. Maybe that’s why over the past few years more and more establishments outside of traditional Italian Restaurants are taking their shot at making their own Arancini dishes. Yup, Arancini has become almost as ubiquitous as mozzarella sticks in many restaurants today. However, as a local Toms River fellow, I wanted to know what places in town make the freshest, tastiest, most authentic Sicilian Rice Balls in town. So here in no particular order, are the 7 places.
Della Cucina-A Taste Of Italy At The Jersey Shore 1407 Route 37
One of the premiere places in town to get authentic homemade Italian dishes catered for your event, or just to grab a great lunch or dinner item! The menu is extensive and includes everything from burgers to artisan sandwiches and Italian desserts. You can get your Arancini 2 ways here: Risotto ball has just cheese. Rice ball has cheese plus beef
and a pork ragu in the center… Madone! Both are served with marinara.
Brooklyn Bistro 1861 Hooper Ave
This Toms River favorite has finally found a home in Silverton, after moving around town a couple of times. They do it all from Sunday Sauce to homemade Ricotta Lemon Zest Cheesecake. However you have to start your meal with their amazing Arancini Duo: 2 Deep Fried Rice Balls one filled with Bolognese Sauce & the other with Prosciutto & Mozzarella Cheese. Oh Lawd! If you want potato and no meat, try their potato croquettes, Arancini’s French Cugine!
Lisa's Cucina Italian Restaurant 864 Route 37
These folks have been serving Ocean County for over 30 years and this location has great food and very reasonable prices. Try the rice ball or rice ball parm with a cup of their from scratch tomato sauce. you won’t be disappointed. One of Rockin’ Robyn Lane‘s favorite places too!
Maria's Diner Pizzeria & Bakery 927 Route 166
This Jack Of All Trades place has great food and even live entertainment. Their scratch made rice balls are outstanding and are just one of many delicious apps you can choose from. And yes, they are indeed a bakery with amazing desserts.
