Pay-It-Forward Table: JBJ Soul Kitchen Serves Community Through More Than Just Meals

Since opening its doors in 2011, the JBJ Soul Kitchen—started by Jon and Dorothea Bongiovi—has redefined what it means to give back. Located in Red Bank, New Jersey, and expanded to pop-ups at Toms River, Newark, and Jersey City, this pay-it-forward community restaurant offers restaurant‑quality meals free or by volunteer exchange, depending on what diners can afford  .

By early 2025, Soul Kitchen celebrated serving over 200,000 meals, with 59% provided through volunteer efforts and 41% donations  . All guests—regardless of payment—enjoy the same experience: a three‑course meal, a welcoming table, and a community built on mutual respect.

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“All are welcome at our table” is the motto for Jon Bon Jovi’s charity restaurant Soul Kitchen, where rich and poor alike can dine together in a safe and loving environment and enjoy quality organic meals.

Highlights:

• Founded in Red Bank, expanded to Toms River pop‑up and two college campuses
• Serves meals via dine‑in, volunteer exchange, or “pay it forward” donations
• Designed for dignity, not charity—everyone is welcomed equally
• Supported by volunteers, donations, and community partnerships

“When we opened, people didn’t understand our unique model… this model has been proven time and time again for over a decade,” reflect Jon and Dorothea 

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The Pay-It-Forward Model:

Based in New Jersey, JBJ Soul Kitchen operates on a simple four-part ethos:

• Suggested meal price: $10 - $12
• Pay-It-Forward diners: donate for future guests
• Food-for-Service option: one hour of volunteer work per meal
• Aim: cultivate empathy and satisfy hunger  

The Impact:

• 208,000+ meals served
• 59% of diners volunteered in lieu of money
• Served up waves of national support—including praise from past presidents including Bill Clinton  

Unexpected Pushback:

Despite the impact, the Toms River location drew opposition—some officials claimed it attracted homeless individuals. Yet JBJ Soul Kitchen remains supported by local commissioners and continues serving communities.  

Why It Inspires:

This story redefines generosity—not as one-way charity, but inclusion and reciprocity. It reminds us that a shared meal can break barriers, build trust, and spark a spirit of reciprocity. In today’s fragmented world, JBJ Soul Kitchen is a reminder: kindness is currency. 🍽️

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