Not your average diner: MorningStar Cafe opens in Toms River

Two classic sunny side up eggs, and quickly prepared pancakes drenched in grocery store style "syrup" are not dishes you will find at MorningStar Cafe, which opened June 24 at a Toms River plaza on Fischer Boulevard.

While on the outside it may appear to be an average diner, inside is a carefully curated menu of chef-inspired creations.

For breakfast, try frittatas like the Gaia (with eggs, spinach, tomato and goat cheese) or Shakshuka (three eggs poached in a lightly spiced tomato sauce, avocado and warm pita). There's also a variety of decadent meals for lunch and dinner.

Co-owner Alex Tricarico has been an executive chef at Shore spots such as Point Lobster Co. and Shipwreck Point in Point Pleasant Beach, Danny's Steakhouse in Red Bank, and 21A on Broadway in Long Branch.

At MorningStar, she puts her own spin on dishes like the chicken Milanese (cornflake crusted, lightly fried buttermilk chicken with lemon Caesar salad) and The Big Cheese (a grilled cheese with mozzarella, parmesan and pesto on sourdough).

For the crispy French toast and the pancakes, Tricarico makes homemade lemon curd and strawberry compote.

“We care about how fresh and healthy everything is,” she said. "You’ll notice in our pancakes, which are a huge seller, we use organic flax seed and Vermont maple syrup. ... "I’m willing to go the extra mile so my customers can have a different experience and not say, ‘I could do this on my own.’ ”

Her wife Sam, a microbiologist, is co-owner.

"We’re trying to keep it limited… when you offer too much, that’s when you lose quality,” Alex said.

Everything in the intimate 30-seat cafe is "a little bit different" then what you'd expect at a classic Jersey diner.

Customers with allergies, sensitivities or special requirements will find something on the menu.

"This cafe is not for the mindless eater," Alex said. "… We're here for the mindful eater who cares about atmosphere, accessibility and trying something new."

Vegetarians should try the black bean burger (with avocado, harissa mayo, lettuce, tomato) or the pesto campanelle (with organic nut free pesto, parmesan, spinach and mozzarella). They also have gluten-free wraps, and will clean the grill between meals to avoid cross contamination.

"There’s nothing worse than not being able to invite [someone] because they’re not going to eat anything," said Alex, the only cook in the kitchen. "It’s very important for me to make those adjustments."

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MorningStar specializes in craft espresso drinks, inspired by the couple's love of spirituality and mythology. Try the Aphrodite's Love Potion (a single shot of espresso with steamed milk and Madagascar vanilla bean), or the popular Hot as Hades Red Eye (with imported chocolate, single shot of espresso, coffee and ancho chile).

The coffee bar counter is made from a live edge black walnut tree that fell in Toms River.

While Sam was born and raised in Toms River, Alex moved there about a decade ago, after living all across Monmouth County, and in towns like Brick and Manchester.

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They are eager to operate close to home.

“I shop in this plaza all the time … and I saw that this spot was open for rent,” Alex said. “I think it kind of happened for a reason because I’m doing a more local thing here. I live just 2 miles away so it’s perfect.

“Nearly everyone who has come in have been locals and I’m thrilled," Alex added. "The acceptance has been wonderful.”

While there is no outdoor dining currently, they do plan to offer it. The cafe is BYOB.

The Tricaricos are working with local businesses, like Tina's This & That, a metaphysical supply store. If you bring a Tina's This & That punch card to the cafe, or a MorningStar receipt to Tina's, you'll receive a discount.

“The morning star brings the light in the morning, and [it’s a sign] of new beginnings,” Alex said. “[Sam] always loved food, but she really fell in love with food after we met. She started to love it through my eyes.”

Go: 1001 Fischer Blvd., Suite 5, Toms River; 732-232-0558, morningstarcafe.sites.nv5.toast.ventures.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Jersey Shore restaurants: MorningStar Cafe opens in Toms River