Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Kitchen: The Rock Star’s Mission to End Hunger One Meal at a Time
Jon Bon Jovi is more than just a legendary rock star—he’s a philanthropist with a heart as big as his hits. While millions know him for anthems like Livin’ on a Prayer and It’s My Life, many don’t realize he’s been quietly working to combat hunger in America through his unique charity restaurant, JBJ Soul Kitchen.
A Restaurant With a Mission
Located in Red Bank and Toms River, New Jersey, JBJ Soul Kitchen isn’t your typical high-end celebrity eatery. It operates on a “pay what you can” model, meaning that guests who can afford to pay are encouraged to make a donation, while those struggling financially can enjoy a meal free of charge. There are no prices on the menu—only the option to give, receive, or volunteer in exchange for a warm, nutritious meal.
“Food is not just a necessity; it’s a right,” Bon Jovi has said. “At Soul Kitchen, we want to provide dignity for people in need. We don’t judge; we just serve.”
How It Works
The restaurant serves delicious, three-course meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Diners can expect hearty and healthy dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. But the experience goes beyond food—Soul Kitchen fosters a sense of community.
For those who can’t afford a meal, there’s an option to “pay” by volunteering at the restaurant—washing dishes, prepping ingredients, or helping to serve meals. This creates a cycle of generosity and ensures that no one walks away hungry or feeling ashamed.
More Than Just a Soup Kitchen
What makes JBJ Soul Kitchen stand out is its welcoming, restaurant-style atmosphere. Unlike traditional soup kitchens, guests are treated with the same dignity and service as any paying customer in a fine dining establishment. The goal is to break down stigmas associated with food insecurity and remind people that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Bon Jovi’s wife, Dorothea Hurley, who co-founded the initiative, says: “We wanted to build a place where people wouldn’t feel embarrassed to come in. It’s about dignity, respect, and lifting people up.”
Expanding the Mission
Bon Jovi’s philanthropic efforts don’t stop at Soul Kitchen. Through his Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, he has worked to address issues like homelessness, affordable housing, and job training. The foundation has built hundreds of homes for families in need and continues to develop initiatives that empower people to get back on their feet.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bon Jovi took an even more hands-on role, rolling up his sleeves and washing dishes himself when the restaurant saw a surge in demand. “If you can’t do what you do, do what you can,” he wrote in an Instagram post, later turning that phrase into a song.
A Growing Movement
Since its launch, JBJ Soul Kitchen has served over 100,000 meals, with nearly 50% of those being paid for by donations. The model has inspired other communities to explore similar concepts, showing that sustainable charity initiatives can truly make a difference.
Many visitors leave not just with full stomachs, but with a renewed sense of hope. Some who once relied on the free meals have come back to pay it forward, donating or volunteering once they got back on their feet.
How You Can Help
If you’re inspired by Bon Jovi’s vision, there are many ways to support JBJ Soul Kitchen:
Visit and dine in if you’re ever in New Jersey—your meal helps pay for someone else’s.
Donate online to help fund meals for those in need.
Volunteer your time if you’re local.
At a time when food insecurity continues to be a pressing issue, initiatives like JBJ Soul Kitchen prove that a little kindness—and a lot of rock and roll spirit—can go a long way.
“You can’t do everything, but everyone can do something.” – Jon Bon Jovi
