The Office In Toms River Embraces Change While Keeping Its Charm

It was only last year that The Office Restaurant & Lounge celebrated its 50^th anniversary and by now you are probably aware that the business has been sold by the Citta Family to the Esperto Hospitality Group which operates several other restaurants in Monmouth County.

The late Phil Citta opened The Office in 1975 and it was just a few days into the operation when I and some friends from Ocean County College paid The Office a visit as at that time the drinking age in New Jersey was 18.  The bar became a fast-favorite for the large beers served in what looked like fish bowls. We spent many days and nights there as it was an ideal location for us to get together.

I could not even venture a guess as to how many times I’ve been there and it was always a favorite after a local football or basketball game and it’s where we always celebrated the end of the WOBM Christmas Classic. It was also a place that probably got a few people in trouble for saying they were working late but coming home with $2 bills…a tradition that will remain,

Of course I am sure there are some who feel that the ownership change will result in a very different local landmark but that will not be the case.  Ownership plans to modernize things to enhance the dining experience and improve aesthetics but the focus will be on retaining the customer base while attracting new patrons as well. Sushi will remain a popular item and among the additions will be a new state of the art pizza oven.

The idea is to keep The Office a central part of Toms River’s social and culinary scene and a big part of that is Nick Pagano will remain the General Manager. Nick is well-known in the area and has worked at the OL for 35 years, starting as a bus boy and working his way up to GM.  He is very involved in charitable causes and has become the face of the business. With him and others remaining you can count on The Office to remain “Toms River’s place to meet and eat.”