Breakfast often gets the all the accolades as the most important meal of the day, but brunch is really the unsung hero of the meal category. Not only does a delicious brunch taste good, provide more of a range and fill you up for hours, but it's a great way to get out and enjoy company among your fave crew. Plus, mimosas anyone? With Mother's Day just around the corner and restaurants booking up fast, check out some of Bergen County's BEST spots for brunch. Warning: the content below should be consumed on a full stomach to avoid hunger aches.
The Craftsman The only thing that pairs better with brunch than cocktails is a lively ambiance. Luckily, The Craftsman has both, and brings it every weekend. Dine on flavorful bites such as Smoked Salmon Tartar, Heuvos Ranchero and Short Rib Hash, and be sure to top it off with one of their signature craft cocktails such as the Tequila Mockingbird or the Painkilla.
1609 Maple Ave., Fair Lawn
Willow & Whisk Expect the weekend wait at Willow & Whisk to be long long, but with good reason. With each menu item prepared with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients, you'll enjoy a mouthwatering experience that will leave you coming back for more. Try their shareable bites likes Mini Brioche French Toast and Mini Lemon Ricotta Poppers, or go it alone with popular orders including the Avocado Toast or the So-Cal Breakfast. Their filling orders pair perfectly with one of their signature mocktails such as the Strawberry-Blood Orange Tonic.
319 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff
Stern and Bow Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and lively brunch menu to start the day off the right way. Menu items like Blueberry Pancakes and Fried Chicken & Crepes offer a delicious way to start off your day, while their cocktails such as the Mango Paloma and Ghost Moon Margarita add some spice. Be sure to save room for one (or more) of their decadent desserts such as New Orleans Beignets or the Butterscotch Praline Sundae.
171 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter
LT Bar & Grill The vibe at Michelin Star Chef Laurent Tourondel's Hackensack spot is always filled with high energy, while the menu is filled with innovative dishes with fresh flavor in every bite. Brunch specials include Truffle Popovers Benedict and their Poke Bowl, plus additional specials available during Mother's Day weekend. Pair with their boozy Bloody Mary, that could even be a meal in itself, and prepare for total satisfaction.
The Shops at Riverside, 390 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack
Cork & Crust This BYOB, Italian-meets-Mediterranean spot offers sweet and savory brunch options to tickle the palate. On the sweet side, try their Stuffed French Toast with marscapone and fresh berry compote, while the savory side offers Cali's Palm Beach Club with bacon, egg, avocado, jack cheese and more. Plus, their regular menu is available, too, if your pasta craving has taken over.
90 La Roche Ave., Harrington Park
Sofia No Bergen County brunch list would be complete without Sofia, which serves Saturday and Sunday brunch with your mid-morning cocktails including mimosas, bellinis and bloody marys. Choose from heartier items such as Hot Pepper & Eggs and Crab/Avocado Toast or sweeter items such as Crepes and Tuscan French Toast. With a kids brunch menu, you can bring the whole crew to enjoy.
36 Engle St., Englewood
Valley Rock Cantina Nestled just outside of Bergen County lives the gem of Sloatsburg, Valley Rock Inn, which houses this popular dining spot. Both indoor and heated outdoor dining offer a beautiful atmosphere and a delicious brunch menu. Choose from items such as their Breakfast Burrito or Lincoln Log French Toast plus larger entrees such as the Short Rib Tacos and Wood Oven Pizza. Classic brunch drinks and speciality cocktails will have you gushing about the meal for months to come.
27 Mill St., Sloatsburg