Anthony's Cafe, Fondue & Catering

For Anthony Carbone, the former Marine, turned police offer, turned restaurateur, cooking was always in his future. "I started cooking at age 13," he says proudly, "making tomato sauce with my mother." At age 18, Carbone turned down education at Cornell University's culinary program because he didn't want to "specialize," but it was always his dream to open a cafe. Today, Carbone, 51 is the owner, cook and menu planner (along with his wife) behind Anthony's Cafe, Fondue and Catering located in Downtown Toms River. Anthony's first opened in December 23, 2008 only serving breakfast and lunch. Now, the eatery first known for its omelets, burgers and Carbone's famous homemade Creamy Tomato Florentine soup, made with a coveted recipe, has expanded to include an unconventional, yet exciting fondue menu. By day, the neighborhood hotspot is packed with high school students, business people and others enjoying a casual meal at an affordable price. And why not? With a menu boasting a variety of choice, from breakfast (all day), to salads, deli sandwiches and wraps to Philly cheesesteaks and specialty sandwiches (a must try is the grilled chicken with roasted peppers, fresh basil and mozzarella and balsamic vinaigrette), nothing is priced over $6.95. Anthony's also offers student specials featuring chicken fingers, grilled cheese, mozzarella sticks and more, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to just stop by for a cup of coffee. But by night, the restaurant seats 50, dims the lights and transforms into an inviting setting where tables are dressed with crisp, whit linens, votive candles and flowers in bud vases, and fondue is the main attraction. "My wife and I have always been fondue lovers; trying fondue restaurants throughout New York City and Hoboken," Carbone explains. "So I was inspired to start some niche at the Jersey Shore."