Out of all the meals we eat, brunch is best enjoyed with as many friends and family as possible. The ‘anything goes’ attitude of the menu carries over to the festive midday gathering. Essex County has no shortage of brunch locations, but not all of them can accommodate a large group. Whether looking for a brunch spot with a menu with a wide variety of options, something for the vegans and vegetarians in the group, or a private room, this list has it all. Read on to find the best spot for the brunch bunch.
Montclair
Bluestone Coffee Co. | 123 Watchung Avenue
Bluestone Coffee Co. is a coffee lover’s dream and offers an expansive breakfast menu, and roasts all of its coffee in-house. This breakfast and lunch spot takes reservations for large groups, even on the weekends at peak brunch hours. Its large breakfast and lunch options make it an ideal place for a large group to pick and choose what fits their needs.
Faubourg | 544 Bloomfield Avenue
(Photo credit: @faubourgmontclair)
An elegant spot for brunch, Faubourg’s French-inspired menu is the perfect place to host a brunch get-together. In addition to the regular seating area, the restaurant also has a private room for large groups to take advantage of. With a menu that ranges from sweet, savory, seafood, and plant-based, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
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Fresco da Franco | 15 Church Street
(Photo credit: Fresco da Franco)
Fresco da Franco offers a Sunday brunch with a series of breakfast and lunch classics. From avocado toast to Eggs Benedict, this restaurant is great for those who enjoy a classic brunch. The restaurant accepts reservations for groups of up to six online, and larger parties can call ahead. Three is also the option to reserve the restaurant for large gatherings like birthday parties, corporate events, and rehearsal dinners.
Le Salbuen | 97 Walnut Street
(Photo credit: @lesalbuencafemarket)
Le Salbuen opened in 2012 and has been a local hit ever since. It is recommended that large groups make a reservation before arriving. The brunch menu highlights the core farm-to-table concept that inspired the restaurant. Farm fresh eggs, and locally sourced fruits and veggies are the stars of this restaurant’s brunch menu.
Samba Montclair | 7 Park Street
(Photo credit: @sambamontclair)
This certified gluten-free restaurant is a haven for those who have been searching for a gluten-free brunch that is not limited to eggs. Samba Montclair offers gluten-free French Toast and gluten-free paninis and burgers. The vegan and vegetarian options round out the menu, ensuring there’s something for every diner to enjoy. Reservations are required for groups of any size.
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Clifton
The Barrow House | 1296 Van Houten Avenue
(Photo credit: @thebarrownj)
Technically located in Passaic County but worth a mention, The Barrow House’s brunch menu is available on Saturdays and Sundays — and features everything from French toast and short rib Benedict to pizzas, sandwiches, and burgers. The brunch menu also has appetizers that are great for feeding a crowd. Combine breakfast and lunch with the bacon mac and cheese, or share the local burrata with eggplant, prosciutto, basil, and fig balsamic. For large groups, the Barrow House has several rooms that can be rented for private events.
Livingston
Sweet Basil’s Cafe and Grille | 498 South Livingston Avenue
(Photo credit: @sweetbasilscafe)
Open seven days a week, Sweet Basil’s Cafe and Grille has a large menu of breakfast and lunch options, so everyone can find something they like. For those who are vegan or vegetarian, Sweet Basil’s also has a selection of vegan scrambles and frittatas, as well as several vegan and vegetarian sandwich and salad options, and even a vegan burger. Brunch is available every day from 10AM- 3PM, with indoor and outdoor seating available. For groups of 35 and up a private brunch can be arranged.
