The "Sunday Scaries" can start to set in as you begin to plan for the upcoming work week. A great way to recharge for the week ahead is grabbing brunch and catching up with old friends. While the weather is cold, warm up with some waffles, omelets and mimosas from these local Mercer County spots below. Work hard, brunch harder!
10 Places to Brunch in the Princeton-Mercer Region
The word “brunch” first appeared in the 1895 Hunter’s Weekly article, “Brunch: A Plea.” The author advocated for brunch because it would “make life brighter for Saturday night carousers” who stayed out late enjoying their favorite beverages, so to speak.
The origins of the tradition of brunch, however, are hotly debated. In the U.S., brunch is believed to have taken flight, or hit the railroad, in the 1930s because movie stars taking the train across the country would stop in Chicago for late morning meals. As restaurants capitalized on the trend with decadent menus and morning cocktails, the concept spread across the country.
If you’re visiting the Princeton-Mercer region looking for brunch, there are dozens of options, but here are 10 of our favorites!
1) The Meeting House
The Meeting House opened on Witherspoon Street in Princeton with a simple purpose – to bring people together. The Meeting House offers brunch favorites like brioche French toast, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Serving brunch Saturday and Sunday.
2)Skil-Lit Café (Trenton)
Brunch got “lit” at Skil-Lit Café on South Warren Street in downtown Trenton. Skil-Lit Café serves Om-Lits and other brunch dishes made from family recipes on a hot skillet to ensure your meal is hot and ready to enjoy. Serving brunch Tuesday through Sunday.
3) Bluestone Lane
Bluestone Lane brings unmistakable Aussie charm and coffee culture to its newest café on Nassau Park Boulevard in Princeton. The progressive, all-day brunch menu is healthy and delicious, with signature dishes like the Avocado Smash. Serving brunch every day.
4) Café 72
Café 72 on West Upper Ferry Road in Ewing offers an eclectic selection of cultural flavors in their brunch menu, from Mexican and Southwest to Cajun and French, along with six Benedicts and vegan and gluten-free options. Serving brunch every day.
5) Agricola
In Latin, “Agricola” means “farmer,” which embodies this brunch destination’s farm-to-table spirit. Fresh, down to earth, and full of flavor, Agricola sources ingredients from local farms for dishes like the Local Mushroom Flatbread. Serving brunch Saturday and Sunday.
6) PJ’s Pancake House
A local institution since 1962, the iconic PJ’s Pancake House is a regular stop for locals and a must-see for visitors, with six locations across the region. Banana Coconut Rum is a recent entry to the 20-plus styles of buttermilk pancakes. Serving brunch every day.
7) Kristine’s
Kristine’s on Witherspoon Street in Princeton offers fresh ingredients, fresh ideas, and a fresh take on a traditional French bistro menu, like Bavette Steak and Eggs. At Kristine’s, you’ll discover that simple is delicious and delightful. Serving brunch Saturday and Sunday.
8) Crave Nature’s Eatery
Wholesome nourishment meets vibrant community at Crave Nature’s Eatery on Brunswick Pike in Lawrenceville. Nutrient-packed breakfast dishes, grain bowls, paninis, salads, and smoothies are crafted with both health and taste in mind. Serving brunch every day.
9) Maman
Situated in Princeton’s Palmer Square, Maman feels like you’re in a Hallmark film. Maman classics like Smashed Avocado Tartine are inspired by family traditions, with a nod to the founders’ mothers from the south of France and North America. Serving brunch every day.
10) The Brookwood Café
The Brookwood Café on Quakerbridge Road in Mercerville blends family tradition with modern flair. Recipes like Chavez French Toast have been passed down generations, while fresh eggs, coffee, bread, and produce are sourced locally. Serving brunch every day.
Whether you’re a Saturday night carouser or simply enjoy sleeping in and making that first meal of the day special, get out and enjoy brunch with friends and family in the Princeton-Mercer region!
