There are few things more exciting than a French café, and Café Madelaine in Jersey City is as exciting as it is delicious. From the ambiance to the delectable French pastries, this truly is a little slice of Paris tucked away in JC — and we’re loving it. Read on to find out more about Café Madelaine in Jersey City:
First Impressions
On the corner of 2nd and Cole Streets sits this new French café serving up a long list of savory and sweet treats sure to please any carb lover. The café’s friendly staff is eager to take your order and help you decide on which quiche of the day to try first. The bakery counter is filled with tarts, macarons, and a basket overflowing with freshly baked croissants.
With a long career in the restaurant industry, owner and Jersey City local Anne Dufour opened up the shop last summer {which was previously a bodega} across from Lucky 7 Tavern. Before opening Café Madelaine, she owned and operated businesses in the South of France, as well as her first café in the Financial District of New York City. Anne has created a cozy café with an ever-changing menu that keeps locals coming back for more.
Everything on the menu is baked in-house, including fresh fruit tarts, lemon meringue pie, rotating quiches, and local favorite — the chocolate croissant.
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The Menu + What Not to Miss
When it comes to the French classics, Café Madelaine is serving up some spot-on eats. The menu boasts an assortment of quiches such as broccoli + cheddar, mushroom + swiss, salmon + goat cheese, and vegetarian options, all served with a side of fresh mixed greens. The homemade pancakes and brioche French toast are two items that should not be overlooked either at this Parisian spot. Both are served with fresh fruit and maple syrup, which is sure to please any brunch connoisseur.
As for the drinks menu, there is a variety of hot and cold beverages such as espresso, americano, cappuccino, and even a matcha latte. Whether you choose to dine in or take a cup to-go, this cozy neighborhood spot has your caffeine fix covered.
The Vibe
From the moment you walk in the door, the patrons are speaking French, eating croissants, and sipping cappuccinos out of bright mismatched mugs {it’s like taking a trip to Paris minus the passport + airplane}.
Each table has a small vase with fresh carnations and the walls are adorned with pictures and prints from Paris. Madelaine is relatively spacious for a Jersey City café {bar seating by the window for prime people watching, half a dozen tables and a long farmhouse table seating six} — and can accommodate any group with more than one stroller {now that is a #JCluxury}.
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Whether you’re looking to grab a coffee on the way to the PATH or brunch with friends on the weekend, Café Madelaine is definitely worth checking out. The hours of operation during the week are 7:00AM-6:30PM, Saturdays 8:00AM-6:30PM, and Sundays 8:30AM-6:30PM.
Do you have a go-to order at Café Madelaine? Let us know in the comments!
