Travel Itinerary
Brunch in New Jersey is more than just a meal: it’s an experience worth getting out of bed for!
From waterfront views to innovative menus that blend breakfast and lunch favorites, the Garden State offers something for every palate.
Whether you’re craving classic eggs Benedict or unique culinary creations, these 12 brunch spots will make your weekend mornings something to look forward to.
1. Elli’s Backyard – Red Bank
In charming Red Bank, Elli’s Backyard offers a garden-inspired brunch sanctuary with farm-to-table ingredients taking center stage.
Weekend warriors flock here for the legendary lemon ricotta pancakes topped with seasonal berries and house-made maple butter.
Sipping their signature lavender mimosa under string lights transforms ordinary mornings into celebrations worth savoring.
2. Alyce – Jersey City
Tucked away in Jersey City’s vibrant downtown, Alyce marries French techniques with American comfort food, creating brunch magic in an intimate setting.
Morning meals here feel like culinary artwork, especially the duck confit hash crowned with perfectly poached eggs.
Visitors rave about the freshly baked pastry basket, featuring buttery croissants and seasonal scones that disappear within minutes of arrival.
3. Blue Morel – Morristown
Luxury meets local at Blue Morel, where Morristown’s historic charm blends with contemporary culinary excellence.
Sunday jazz brunches elevate the experience as guests savor brioche French toast drizzled with bourbon-barrel aged maple syrup.
What makes this spot extraordinary? The build-your-own Bloody Mary bar featuring house-infused vodkas and garden-fresh garnishes that turn morning cocktails into masterpieces.
4. Jackie Smalls – Wayne
Family recipes shine at Jackie Smalls, where vintage photographs line brick walls and regulars are greeted by name.
Hungry guests can’t resist the crab cake Benedict: jumbo lump crab meat seasoned to perfection atop toasted English muffins.
After one bite of their famous banana bread pudding French toast, you’ll understand why locals willingly wait in line every weekend.
5. Rooney’s Oceanfront – Long Branch
Waves crash just feet away as brunch unfolds at Rooney’s, where panoramic Atlantic views complement every bite.
Seafood dominates the menu with lobster omelets and shrimp avocado toast stealing the spotlight.
Cool ocean breezes flow through open windows while servers deliver platters of freshly shucked oysters – making Sunday mornings feel like mini-vacations without leaving the Garden State.
6. Orchard Park by David Burke – East Brunswick
Celebrity chef David Burke transforms brunch into performance art at Orchard Park, where creative presentation meets extraordinary flavor.
Jaws drop when the clothesline bacon arrives, thick-cut maple glazed strips hanging from actual miniature clothespins.
Lobster scrambled eggs come adorned with caviar and chives, making ordinary breakfast feel like a special occasion worth celebrating any day of the week.
7. The Turning Point – Multiple Locations
Pumpkin walnut pancakes remain bestsellers year-round at The Turning Point, converting even the most devoted egg enthusiasts into sweet breakfast fans.
Coffee connoisseurs appreciate the extensive specialty drink menu featuring cinnamon toast lattes and salted caramel cold brews that rival any standalone café.
8. De Martino – Somerville
Authentic Italian hospitality awaits at De Martino, where old-world recipes meet modern brunch expectations in downtown Somerville.
Foodies swoon over mascarpone-stuffed Italian toast topped with amaretto-soaked berries and crushed amaretti cookies.
Mimosas flow freely while plates of prosciutto Benedict with basil hollandaise circulate through the bustling dining room filled with multigenerational families celebrating togetherness.
9. Triumph Restaurant & Brewery – Red Bank
Craft beer enthusiasts rejoice at Triumph, where house-brewed selections perfectly complement hearty brunch offerings in downtown Red Bank.
Beer flights arrive alongside stout-braised short rib hash topped with sunny-side eggs and chimichurri.
Hungover patrons swear by the recovery burger, a magnificent creation featuring applewood bacon, avocado, and a fried egg atop grass-fed beef.
10. The Squire at Branches – West Long Branch
Grandeur greets guests at The Squire, where chandeliers sparkle above elegant brunch buffets stretching through the former estate’s dining room.
Weekend brunches feature carving stations with prime rib alongside made-to-order omelets and Belgian waffle bars.
Live piano music fills the air as patrons return from buffet tables balancing plates of crab legs, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and everything delicious in between.
11. Apple Street Kitchen – Tinton Falls
Rustic charm defines Apple Street Kitchen, where mismatched vintage chairs surround farmhouse tables and seasonal ingredients star in every dish.
Apple cider donuts made fresh each morning disappear quickly, especially when paired with their famous brown butter apple compote.
Culinary magic happens in the open kitchen where guests watch chefs transform locally sourced eggs and produce into Instagram-worthy breakfast creations.
12. Beckett’s – Jersey City
Manhattan skyline views provide the backdrop at Beckett’s, where Jersey City brunchers gather for sophisticated morning feasts with urban flair.
Spicy chicken and waffles steal the spotlight: crispy buttermilk chicken drizzled with hot honey atop cornbread waffles.
Mimosa towers arrive at tables filled with various fresh juices and champagne, allowing friends to customize drinks while debating which brunch dish to order next.