Business & Tech
Joe Joe's Italian Hot Dogs Closes In Toms River As Owner Retires
"It's just simply time," a family member wrote of the permanent closing of the restaurant at Route 37 and Coolidge Avenue.
TOMS RIVER, NJ — For months fans of Joe Joe's Italian Hot Dogs checked in with the Route 37 restaurant, wondering when it was going to reopen.
On Friday, they got the answer they hoped they wouldn't: Joe Joe's has closed after more than 30 years.
The closure wasn't due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, however. Owner Joe Rizzolo has retired.
Find out what's happening in Toms Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Sometimes great things come to an end," his stepdaughter, Jessica, wrote in a comment on the restaurant's Facebook page in early June in response to questions about the continued closure. "He loves his business and more … his loyal patrons!"
"Covid isn’t to blame," she wrote. "It’s just simply time."
Find out what's happening in Toms Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The permanent closure prompted questions about Rizzolo's health and the reasons for the closure; an update Saturday reiterated the closure wasn't the result of the pandemic.
"Hi everyone. I just wanted to clear the air. No, this isn't because of Covid. No, Joe doesn't have Covid. Joe is officially retiring! It's his turn to enjoy retirement and relax. Thank you to all his loyal customers. You will be missed! Feel free to post memories on this page if you'd like! Let's all wish Joe a happy retirement!!" the post said.
A "For Rent" sign is posted in the window and has been since late May, commenters said.
Joe Joe's was known primarily for its Newark-style hot dogs, served in pizza bread and smothered with peppers and potatoes, a recipe that he brought to the Shore after years in the Iselin section of Woodbridge. It was a favorite stop of hundreds of people, and comments on the retirement post emphasized that.
"Thank you for all the memories and fantastic food over the years," one man wrote. "I still remember my first Italian Dog from the late '70s as kid. Even my kids will miss you. I wish the best and happy retirement."
Click here to get Patch email notifications, or download our app to have breaking news alerts sent right to your phone. Have a news tip? Email karen.wall@patch.com Follow Toms River Patch on Facebook.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
