A new kosher pizza destination is launching this weekend in the Lakewood suburb of Toms River, NJ. Starter & Stone, a modern sourdough-focused pizzeria, will officially open its doors on Sunday, June 22, 2025, offering artisanal pies and a streamlined menu of sides and salads to the local community.
Starter & Stone replaces the now-closed House of SUGO, an upscale Italian kosher restaurant that previously occupied the same location. Operated by the same ownership, this new concept pivots to a casual, fermentation-forward model centered around quality ingredients, naturally leavened dough, and a minimalist, modern aesthetic.
At the core of Starter & Stone’s menu are its 12” sourdough pizzas, crafted from dough that undergoes a slow, natural fermentation process for maximum flavor, chew, and digestibility.
The current pizza offerings include 13 unique pies, including sourdough pizzas and Sicilian pies. The simple menu is rounded out by 4 appetizers and two salad options.
Note: While sourdough is not gluten free, it does have a lower gluten content and it will be easier for most to digest, but it may still trigger symptoms in people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Located just minutes from Lakewood, Starter & Stone is positioned to become a go-to spot for kosher pizza lovers in both Toms River and surrounding communities. With its focus on fermentation, a simple menu, and good quality pizza, the pizzeria offers a unique experience that distinguishes it from more traditional kosher pizza shops in the area.
Starter & Stone is located at 2360 Lakewood Road, Suite 3, Toms River, NJ. It is kosher certified by Zichron Yaakov Hechsher, based in Lakewood, NJ. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11am to 7pm.
To place an order online, visit starterandstone.com.
