Could This Be the Most Exciting Restaurant News Toms River Has Had All Year?

It could actually be happening, a Chick-fil-A coming to Toms River! If you've driven past the old Bahama Breeze restaurant near the Ocean County Mall, you've probably wondered what might eventually move into the empty building.

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Now, it looks like there's an exciting possibility that has plenty of local residents talking.

One More Step Before It Can Become Reality

A proposal to transform the former Bahama Breeze property into what would be Toms River's first Chick-fil-A has taken an important step forward after receiving final approval from the Ocean County Planning Board, according to Facebook page Toms River Talk.

That doesn't mean construction is ready to begin just yet.

The project must still receive approval from the Toms River Planning Board before any work can officially move forward. Until that happens, the future of the property remains undecided.

Many Residents Expected Something Different

When rumors first started circulating about the vacant restaurant, I honestly thought a Texas Roadhouse would be moving into that location. It seemed like a perfect fit for such a large building.

Judging by conversations on local Facebook pages, I wasn't the only one thinking along those lines.

Cracker Barrel Is Still a Fan Favorite

One name keeps popping up again and again whenever people discuss new restaurants coming to Toms River: Cracker Barrel. We need a Cracker Barrel!

Many residents say they'd love to see the country-style restaurant make its way to the area. It's clearly one of the most requested chains whenever a major restaurant space becomes available.

A Chick-fil-A Would Still Be Big News

Even with all the Cracker Barrel requests, it's hard to deny that Chick-fil-A would be a welcome addition to Toms River.

The restaurant has a loyal following, and many local fans currently have drive to Brick to grab their favorite chicken sandwiches, nuggets and waffle fries. Let's not forget about the Chick-fil-A Sauce, oh it's so good. Having a location right in Toms River would certainly make a lot of people happy.

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For now, all eyes will be on the Toms River Planning Board as the proposal moves through the approval process. If everything comes together, the former Bahama Breeze building could soon have a brand-new life, and Toms River could finally get its first Chick-fil-A. Fingers crossed from this girl.