With Mother Nature on the nice list this week, the beautiful weather has inspired us to start thinking about the unsung hero of the meal category: brunch. More than a delicious meal that fully incorporates all of your favorite foods, brunch is a social affair that deserves our love and attention. And when it comes to finding satisfying brunch spots, Bergen County delivers. There are tons of tasty restaurants serving up brunch, and with temps hitting summer-level numbers, they're offering brunch al fresco, too. Here are some of Bergen County's best brunch spots with outdoor dining options available, too.
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. Get a taste of the outdoors on their heated patio that brings greenery inside while you feast on flavorful bites such as Brioche French Toast, Huevos Rancheros, and Short Rib Hash. 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
Haven Nestled right on the river, this waterfront resto gives you an up-close view of Manhattan, and it's brunch menu is just as delicious as any city fare. Grab an outdoor seat while you enjoy brunch dishes like Southern Fried Chicken Benedict, a French Omelet, or the Farm House Croissant Sandwich. Plus, all prix fixe items come with your choice of two mimosas, bellinis, or bloody Marys.
2 Main St., Edgewater
Elia Mediterranean There's outdoor dining, and then there's outdoor dining at Elia. The gorgeous, expansive outdoor space will transport you to the heart of Greece, where you're surrounded by vibrant decor. The brunch menu is equally impressive, offering Tsoureki French Toast, Lobster and Shrimp Roll, a full Raw Bar, and much more.
240 Hackensack St., East Rutherford
Brasserie Mémere As the weather heats up, so does the huge patio space of this French brasserie. It has plenty of space and tables to accommodate small and large parties, and has an extensive classic French menu to complement the charming space. Choose your favorite from menu options like Crepes, Scramble du Jour, Steak Frites, and Pain au Chocolat for those with a sweet tooth.
107 Vervalen St., Closter
Farmhouse Café and Eatery If you're looking for a more low-key brunch option, head to one of Farmhouse's two Bergen locations in Westwood and Cresskill. Both BYOB spaces serve weekend brunch with flavorful favorites on the menu including Shakshouka, Three Breakfast Tacos, and the Brioche French Toast (pro tip: add the Nutella). They each boast a cozy outdoor space for the warmer month, but get there early as they fill up during sunny weather.
15 East Madison Ave., Cresskill
301 Center Ave., Westwood
