Rock legend’ Bon Jovi opens two high-end organic restaurants just to provide free meals to the poor”

In 2006, he founded The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation to support the community to help the poor and homeless. One of the most prominent acts was the opening of JBJ Soul Kitchen, a community restaurant where poor people don’t have to pay for their meals.

The first restaurant opened in October 2011 in Red Bank, New Jersey. A second restaurant opened in 2016 near the Toms River, an area hit hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Both restaurants were opened to combat food insecurity. Both normal and non-payable customers are welcome. There are no prices on the menu, but those who can afford a meal are encouraged to donate $20, and others are encouraged to volunteer at the restaurant.


JBJ Soul Kitchen has served more than 105,893 meals. According to the restaurant’s website, 54% of meals are paid for with donations and the remaining 46% are earned by volunteering.


Patrons are not required to book a table in advance. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, however, those who are struggling financially are given priority.


The restaurant menu includes 3 courses inspired by local American cuisine. JBJ Soul Kitchen ensures that their meals are both delicious and nutritious, so the ingredients in their dishes are organically grown in the restaurant’s garden.

On January 21, 2019, the restaurant offered free meals to government employees and family members affected by the federal government shutdown.