Jenny Schecher 
From eggs Benedict to French toast to mimosas, brunch may not be the most important meal of the day, but it’s certainly the most fun. Jersey City is home to some of the best brunch and brunch experiences the area has to offer, from beautiful outdoor dining to epic drag performances. We’ve created the ultimate guide to the top brunch spots in Jersey City based on the range of food, ambiance, and deals to choose from.
Ambiance
Beechwood Cafe + Market | 290 Grove Street
With an extensive weekend/weekday menu, Beechwood Cafe serves classic breakfast and lunch staples and is known for its freshness and variety. The ambiance is laid back and has great outdoor seating options available.
Boots + Bones | 116 Newark Avenue
While many know this spot for its nightlife scene, its brunch menu is equally worth checking out. The menu blends classic brunch favorites with barbecue-inspired dishes, making it a great option for anyone looking for a hearty weekend meal.
Cafe Alyce | 641 Montgomery Street
There’s really something for everyone on the menu at Cafe Alyce. For brunch traditionalists, many favorites include a breakfast burrito or corned beef hash. For those wanting to try something new, check out the bulgogi breakfast skillet or curried lamb and yams. Sandwiches, salads, and an enormous à la carte menu round out the delicious choices. And a shareable cinnamon roll is an unforgettable way to start off, or end, the meal. This restaurant is in a building that was a longtime luncheonette for the nearby medical center, and the exposed brick and charming interior are an elegant nod to its past.
Cafe Peanut | 586 Newark Avenue
This charming cafe offers just that: a charming environment designed after a European cafe. The owners took inspiration from their European roots to create this space, where guests can enjoy tasty brunch dishes, including a vegan breakfast burrito, bagels, paninis, and more.
Chickie’s JC | 236 Pavonia Avenue
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This Hamilton Park spot combines an Italian-inspired menu, creative cocktails, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere for a brunch experience that feels both elevated and relaxed. The charming outdoor seating and variety of brunch offerings make it an ideal place to spend a weekend afternoon.
Felina Steak | 2 Chapel Avenue
Brunch is available on Sundays at this waterfront spot. The incredible steaks that guests are used to at dinner are transformed into classic brunch entrees such as steak and eggs, meatballs, and burgers. The Insta-worthy skyline views are the finishing touches for a meal at this special place.
Hamilton Pork | 247 10th Street
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Hamilton Pork’s brunch menu is a standout for anyone craving barbecue-inspired comfort food with a brunch twist. The menu blends smoky favorites with classic brunch dishes and cocktails, making it a fun and flavorful option for a laid-back weekend meal.
Lighthorse Tavern | 199 Washington Street
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This spacious spot has been a part of the neighborhood fabric of Paulus Hook since its opening in 2002. The brunch menu features many of the incredible seafood choices that Lighthorse is known for, such as fresh oysters, clams, and mixed seafood platters. The brunch menu has egg-forward classics like eggs Benedict and omelets, plus more lunch-ish choices like sandwiches, burgers, and salads. The full bar makes its cocktails with fresh-squeezed juice, taking the Mimosa to a new level.
Lokal | 2 2nd Street
Lokal boasts Michelin-trained Chef Walter Donadio, who serves up must-try dishes in a gorgeous ambiance featured by the Manhattan skyline. This is the perfect spot for a large gathering, an Instagrammable design, and a delicious brunch meal.
Madame | 390 4th Street
Photo Credit: Nick Gagliano
This modern French bistro and cocktail parlor is an ideal brunch destination, with a menu that combines elevated brunch classics, fresh seafood, and indulgent dishes. Guests can also enjoy a creative cocktail selection in a stylish and lively setting perfect for a weekend outing.
Maritime Parc | 84 Audrey Zapp Drive
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This iconic spot’s menu has classics like a feta cheese frittata alongside Maritime Parc’s signature seafood offerings, like the lobster mac and cheese. This unforgettable spot is just the place for a special brunch out.
Read More: 94 Spots That Prove Hudson County, NJ is a Foodie Destination
Saigon Bistro | 514 Central Avenue
At this spot, guests can indulge in a Vietnamese brunch, which includes menu items like Vietnamese spring rolls, steamed dumplings, sugarcane shrimp, pho house specialty noodle soup, pad thai, shaken cubed steak, and a banh mi sandwich.
Sam AM | 112 Morris Street
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Sam AM is a staple in the breakfast and brunch scene in Jersey City. The daily menu changes seasonally, and the ingredients are sourced locally. The cappuccinos are made with coffee roasted that week and milk that was milked the day before from Battenkill cows.
Skinner’s Loft | 146 Newark Avenue
Skinner’s Loft is an American Bistro located in Jersey City that has cozy and welcoming vibes with great portion sizes and an eclectic outdoor seating option. The menu is wide-ranging and full of tasty choices, as well as a drink menu to choose from.
Snapdragon Coffee + Social | 190 Monticello Avenue
This cozy coffee shop is the perfect spot for a low-key, casual brunch. This stylish cafe serves up all sorts of delicious breakfast items like pastries and quiches. It is the perfect spot to bring a book or laptop, to relax and enjoy some fresh food and a good cup of coffee.
87 Sussex | 87 Sussex Street
87 Sussex is a charming neighborhood restaurant known for its elevated American fare, cozy atmosphere, and inviting ambiance. It’s the kind of spot that feels warm and welcoming, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal any time of day.
Large Parties + Outdoor Seating
Brightside Tavern | 141 Bright Street
Brightside Tavern is a go-to spot for brunch lovers thanks to its extensive menu of sweet and savory favorites, relaxed atmosphere, and spacious outdoor patio. Whether stopping in for a casual meal or lingering over cocktails with friends, it’s an easy choice for a laid-back brunch outing.
La Milpa Taqueria | 45 Franklin Street
La Milpa Taqueria opened earlier this year and has an adorable backyard patio that warrants a spot on this list. The taqueria is from the same team behind The Franklin and offers a small but mighty selection of tacos. It’s also BYOB, making it a great option for a budget-friendly boozy brunch. HG pro tip: don’t skip the flautas. They are so good.
Low Fidelity | 328 Palisade Avenue
The sunny and spacious patio at Low Fidelity is a great spot for brunch. The menu has creative cocktails made with distinctive ingredients. The Detroit-style pizza on the menu includes a selection of variations to choose from, as well as delicious salads, sides, sandwiches, and rice bowl options.
Maddy Rose | 76 Audrey Zapp Drive
For a fancier meal along the Hudson, check out the substantial brunch menu at Liberty House’s Maddy Rose Restaurant every weekend, which includes a raw bar, Sicilian meatballs, apple cider pancakes, and roasted salmon, among other dishes. Pair with a fancy cocktail, and don’t forget to snap some pics in the beautiful back garden area.
Maxwell Alley | 12 Coles Street
Maxwell Alley serves a menu of world-class food, coffee creations from Butler Café, and weekend brunch. HG recommends that patrons enjoy their meals outdoors on the restaurant’s patio, which boasts ample shaded seating.
Porta | 135 Newark Avenue
Porta is a fan-favorite in New Jersey with two other locations in Asbury Park and Montclair. The Jersey City location has mastered the art of outdoor seating with a large rooftop space ideal for a Springtime brunch. There is also sidewalk seating available, which is a great option that provides lots of room for groups and gatherings, and an ambiance that is laid-back and fun. Porta is known for its brick-oven pizza, perfectly crispy, with a wide variety of toppings to choose from, ideal for splitting with a large group.
South House | 149 Newark Avenue
This Texas-inspired spot puts a fun twist on brunch with bold flavors, hearty dishes, and a menu full of creative takes on classic favorites. The stylish atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a standout destination for brunch in Jersey City.
The Hutton Bar + Grill | 225 Hutton Street
The Hutton Bar + Grill is a cozy neighborhood spot known for its welcoming atmosphere, creative cocktail menu, and crowd-pleasing brunch offerings. With a spacious bar, comfortable indoor seating, and a large outdoor area, it’s an ideal place to gather for a relaxed weekend brunch.
The Table | 400 Claremont Avenue
Opened by Chef Daniel Latham, The Table brings a mix of classic brunch dishes, sandwiches, and fresh seasonal options to Jersey City’s dining scene. The restaurant also serves creative takes on brunch cocktails in a warm and inviting setting that’s perfect for a weekend meal.
Zeppelin Hall | 88 Liberty View Drive
This beer hall is a go-to brunch destination thanks to its lively atmosphere, expansive menu, and weekend entertainment. Guests can enjoy classic brunch favorites alongside dishes inspired by the restaurant’s brew hall roots, making it a fun and laid-back spot for a weekend meal.
BYOB
Ahri’s Kitchen | 227 7th Street
This spot is known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. Located just steps from Hamilton Park, Ahri’s Kitchen has been a neighborhood favorite for a long time. Vegetable dumplings, noodle rolls, and Korean ramen soup are a must-try to pair with the liquor of your choosing, as it is BYOB as well.
Carol Ann’s Table | 333 Palisade Avenue
Carol Ann’s Table is a cozy BYOB restaurant serving up a small, curated menu. Located on Palisade Avenue, the brunch menu includes options like omelets, mac + cheese, and more.
Central Bistro | 403 Central Avenue
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Central Bistro stays true to its name, as it’s located in central Jersey City, and it serves up all the brunch staples and a great ambiance to boot. The BYOB is a favored component of the brunch, as well as the reasonable prices and delicious food.
Corto | 507 Palisade Avenue
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This cozy spot in The Heights is ideal for a relaxed weekend brunch, with a menu featuring handmade dishes and seasonal ingredients. The warm atmosphere and inviting outdoor seating add to the experience, making it a great place to unwind over a leisurely meal.
Itto Sushi | 239 Barrow Street
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This sushi spot specializes in Japanese and Korean cuisine and serves up rolls, teriyaki, and bento boxes, as well as bibimbap bowls, bulgogi, soft tofu soup, and galbi-jjim. It’s just a short walk from Van Vorst Park.
Mezcal Kitchen | 665 Newark Avenue
Mezcal Kitchen is located in Journal Square in Jersey City, serving up authentic Mexican cuisine, a laid-back atmosphere, and friendly staff. The menu is extensive, with fresh items to choose from, like guacamole, nachos, tacos of all kinds, and even burgers. It is BYOB, so feel free to bring alcohol to enjoy with the amazing menu items.
One Dee Siam | 137 Newark Avenue
This Thai spot on the Newark Avenue pedestrian plaza serves delicious Thai dishes such as noodles, curry, salads, and spring rolls. Wine, rum, beer, and more can be up to diners’ choices when it comes to the BYOB option.
Pinwheel Garden Dumpling + Noodle Bar | 318 Communipaw Avenue
This family-owned restaurant serves a twist on Asian-American cuisine by using ingredients and flavors from Taiwan, Japan, Korea, India, and China, to name a few. It is a BYOB restaurant and also vegan-friendly.
Rustique Pizza | 611 Jersey Avenue
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This family-run pizzeria serves brick-oven pizza, homemade bread, beautiful salads, and classic Italian dishes. There are several vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.
Short Grain | 183 Montgomery Street
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Located near Jersey City Hall, this spot serves brunch with Vietnamese-inspired flavors and a menu full of savory dishes, fresh options, and vegetarian-friendly picks. Guests can also enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, including traditional Vietnamese coffee, along with fresh juices that round out the brunch menu.
Taqueria Downtown | 236 Grove Street
Taqueria Downtown is a go-to spot when looking for a Mexican food fix. Besides serving classic Mexican dishes like tacos, flautas, and enchiladas, their drink menu has choices like mimosas + sangria on the weekends for brunch. BYOB is also an option to amp up a night out.
The Franklin | 159 New York Avenue
Located in The Heights, The Franklin serves up a wide-ranging brunch menu, touching on all of the best brunch dishes, like eggs Benedict and ricotta pancakes. It is BYOB, so feel free to bring alcohol if you are in the mood, or enjoy the freshly brewed coffee and juices on the menu.
Uncle Momo | 289 Grove Street
This French-Lebanese bistro is directly across from the Jersey City Hall in downtown Jersey City. Guests can BYOB to accompany the brunch menu, with items such as moussaka, shawarma, savory crepes + more. Reserve your outdoor dining table by booking on the website.
Good Cocktails
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard
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Battello is an elegant and rustic spot, serving up brunch items and a lengthy cocktail list, which are as pretty as the NYC views offered here. You can go fancier with the menu items, like a seafood tower, or keep it simple with avocado toast. Either way, the cocktails are diverse and satisfy all types of alcohol preferences.
dullboy | 364 Grove Street
The drink menu at this bar and restaurant features a variety of creative cocktails, alongside a food menu filled with shareable bites and flavorful dishes. With its unique menu offerings and lively atmosphere, it’s a great spot for brunch, drinks, or a casual meal with friends.
Jane Doe | 333 Newark Avenue
This cocktail bar and restaurant makes for a great brunch option, with a menu featuring creative cocktails alongside a variety of savory and shareable dishes. Guests can expect a mix of elevated brunch and lunch offerings in a lively, stylish atmosphere perfect for weekend dining.
Mathews | 351 Grove Street
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The interesting cocktail menu at Mathew’s has gathered a lot of attention, making it a fan favorite among patrons. Along with the diverse cocktail menu options, the presentation (and taste) of the drinks is enduring.
Rumba Cubana | 235 Pavonia Avenue
Rumba Cubana is a Cuban restaurant, exceptional in creating authentic Cuban dishes, and the drinks are no exception. With a ton of different mojito flavors to choose from, as well as classic Cuban drinks, frozen cocktails, margaritas, and much more, there is really something for everyone to enjoy and rave about.
Brunch Deals
Ed + Marys | 174 Coles Street
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Ed + Mary’s is a neighborhood favorite in Jersey City, fitting for a cozy brunch with friends. Serving up pub grub and a full bar, patrons can relax outside or in and try all of the cocktails available, as well as a considerable beer list on tap.
Fire + Oak | 479 Washington Boulevard
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The brunch menu features cocktails and dishes ranging from French toast to steaks, making it a go-to spot for everything from casual brunches to celebratory meals.
Food Hall Cafe | 130 Monticello Avenue
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Food Hall Cafe serves organic breakfast, lunch, and brunch options, like egg + cheese sandwiches, salads, sandwiches, and more. This spot is also known for its muffins and other baked goods.
Rooftop at Exchange Place | 1 Exchange Place
Brunch with skyline views is most definitely a highlight of the Rooftop at Exchange Place. It has twists on classic brunch dishes, including B.E.C. Stuffed Biscuits, Crab Cake Bruschetta, and Chicken + Waffle Poutine.
Satis Bistro | 212 Washington Street
Satis Bistro is a rustic spot, with beautiful high ceilings and decor throughout, perfect if you want to kick your casual brunch up a notch. There are $5 brunch beverages offered on Saturday and Sunday, which is ideal for any occasion.
The Hamilton Inn | 708 Jersey Avenue
Day drinking can be done in an affordable way at The Hamilton Inn, with $9 mimosas, screwdrivers, and $8 Bloody Marys, Greyhounds, and margaritas offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Located in Jersey City, this eatery is perfect to visit with a group of friends or family, since the deal is reasonable, and the menu is lengthy.
Bar Bites
Corkscrew Bar + Grill | 61 Congress Street
Corkscrew Bar + Grill is your classic low-key bar, serving up bar bites in a casual setting. This spot is perfect to satisfy a burger or wing craving, along with a variety of beers and drinks to choose from.
White Star Bar | 230 Brunswick Street
With two locations in Jersey City to choose from, White Star Bar gives patrons lots of options, from its all-day menu, which offers classic bar bites like craft burgers, to the brunch menu, which serves brunch cocktails and focuses more on breakfast food. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and the patio is open until midnight on weekends.
Breakfast Classics
Àbákẹ́ | 2 Webster Avenue
At this books + café concept, guests can sip thoughtfully sourced coffee while browsing a curated book collection and soaking in a community-driven atmosphere. The space celebrates storytelling, culture, and connection, making it a unique spot to gather in Jersey City.
Buddy’s | 247 Washington Street
Pancakes are a brunch must, and Buddy’s has fully grasped the meaning of the perfect pancake. Not only that, but it has elevated the game with a stuffed cereal pancake, perfect for kids (and let’s be real, adults, too). This pancake brings nostalgia to patrons, with all of the classic cereals that are loved to choose from.
Cafe Con Rumba | 564 Newark Avenue
Owned by the teams behind Rumba Cubana and Chango Kitchen, this brunch spot serves up classic Cuban fare. On the menu, diners can find sandwiches, salads, tacos, omelets, protein shakes, and more. There are also daily specials, including a breakfast special featuring a latte and toast.
City Diner | 31 Montgomery Street
City Diner takes the classic diner and spruces it up with a unique and welcoming vibe. The best part of all is the all-day breakfast that is served, along with cocktails that can be enjoyed during a laid-back brunch.
Life Pancake Company | 426 Jersey Avenue
Formerly known as Brownstone Diner, Life Pancake Company specializes in fluffy, buttermilk pancakes, which have always been a staple of the establishment. Aside from pancakes, there are also breakfast classics on the renovated menu, which has been expanded to touch on brunch options.
RUN/Café | 1000 Garfield Avenue
Photo Credit: Run Cafe
Made for runners by runners, RUN/Café is a fitness refueling station, wellness space, and eatery affiliated with The Grind. Located in Berry Lane Park, the menu features classic breakfast dishes, including artisan breakfast sandwiches.
Tiny Topiary | 163 Monticello Avenue
At this cozy Bergen Hill café, guests can enjoy a slow food menu featuring fresh, homemade dishes like baked goods, sandwiches, soups, salads, and sourdough. The welcoming neighborhood spot is all about simple ingredients, community, and comfort.
Vegan + Gluten-Free Options
Busy Bee Organics | 451 Palisade Avenue
Busy Bee is a 100% gluten-free and plant-forward eatery. The Palisade Avenue cafe has a cute little outdoor seating area right out front, with a few picnic tables and chairs. Swap a mimosa for one of the organic juices, and be sure to try the vegan BEC or Lentil Meatball Parm.
Gaia and Loki | 346 Grove Street
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Brunch is served here on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and its 100% vegan. Sandwiches, scrambles, waffles, soups, salads, and parfaits are all available and all vegan. BYOB is available to pair with the classic vegan + vegetarian dishes Gaia and Loki cook up.
The Cliff | 38 Congress Street
The Cliff is a Jersey City favorite, serving up vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, sourced with the intention of unprocessed foods in mind. There is something for everyone on the menu, with American and European influences found throughout. The tofu scrambled platter is a fan favorite, along with a breakfast burrito with the option to have tofu instead of eggs. The coffee is made of robust blends, and BYOB is allowed.
See More: The Best Brunch Spots in Montclair
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