Diners' Choice: Great for brunch restaurants in Essex

OpenTable

Updated November 05, 2026

Looking for restaurants that are great for brunch in Essex? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Nero's Grille

4.8

4.8 (805)

$30 and under

Steakhouse

Livingston

About the restaurant

Now celebrating its 55th year, Nero's Grille continues to be one of north-Jersey's most popular dining scenes. We combine the highest quality, freshest ingredients with a comfortable, familiar atmosphere and service that makes you feel like one of the family. Nero's has become the area's place to see and be seen. Three separate dining rooms, and outdoor patio dining as climate permits, provide a warm, unpretentious intimacy in which to enjoy our high-quality, moderately-priced American and Italian fare, while the large bar area buzzes with the energy of friends gathering over a favorite martini or a glass of wine from Nero's award-winning list. Private rooms are also available, and our banquet staff is noted for making special events 'extra special.' After four decades, the entire Nero's family continues to take enormous pride in offering our guests, new and old, a gracious welcome, a terrific meal, and our sincere appreciation.

Top review

RobertGold

Dined 5 days ago

As always, enjoyed a business dinner at Nero's. Excellent food. Attentive, friendly service.

Tops Diner

4.8

4.8 (2881)

$30 and under

American

Newark

About the restaurant

Ever since Tops Diner was established in 1942, our focus has always been to serve what our customers want, exactly when and how they want it. As the American dining culture shifts, we recognize we must strive to recreate the 1920’s renaissance that birthed the diner as we know it today, all the while preserving the historical and cultural identity that made Tops Diner the model all others hope to emulate.

By constantly evolving, we ensure our ability to provide a diverse menu of high quality options with the speed of service we’ve all become accustomed to, providing the uniquely satisfying experience synonymous with the Tops Diner name. Our hope is that we can grow as our clients do, and continue to serve both our Newark family, and our community at large.

Top review

Jennifer

Dined 1 day ago

Excellent Service, Excellent Taste and even better Desserts!!!

Willow & Whisk - Millburn

4.8

4.8 (269)

$30 and under

Breakfast

Millburn

About the restaurant

Our concept and menu was created with two key ingredients - family and great food. At Willow & Whisk, we’re taking a new approach to your breakfast and lunch favorites. With every meal, we’re dedicated to fresh ingredients and an elevated culinary experience. Whether it’s your first cup of coffee in the morning or your salad at lunch, we’ve put thought and soul into every bite.

Top review

Cheryl

Dined 5 days ago

The service was exceptional friendly prompt very helpful

Greek Taverna - Montclair

4.7

4.7 (615)

$31 to $50

Greek

Montclair

About the restaurant

Set in the suburban splendor of Upper Montclair New Jersey, the culinary prowess of Executive Chef Lefter is what gives Greek Taverna its deserved acclaim. Exquisite selection of fresh fish and seafood as well as a fine selection of carnivorous delights. Complete your fine dining experience with a wonderful assortment of authentic Greek Desserts to top off the evening. BYOB and local liquor store will deliver, Takeout, Delivery, Outdoor seating, Private room, catering.

Top review

Howard

Dined 4 days ago

Highly recommend for a culinary experience. Food was tasty, hot and enjoyable. The babaganuch was a great dish

Pig & Butter - Montclair

4.6

4.6 (9)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Montclair

About the restaurant

Coming Soon!

Top review

Neesha

Dined on Oct 18, 2026

If you need to try some place new for breakfast or brunch run to Pig & Butter! You will not be disappointed at all. Do not let the menu steer you away or intimidate you because you’re wondering how this will taste with that or convince yourself that you’ve had a particular meal before. Your mouth & tastebuds will be blown away & you’ll be happy that you decided to travel to Montclair.

Felina Steak - South Orange

4.4

4.4 (202)

$31 to $50

Italian

South Orange

About the restaurant

Felina Steak South Orange is the newest chapter in the Felina story, building on the award-winning legacy of Felina Ridgewood, Felina Summit, and Felina Steak Jersey City. Rooted in our signature blend of red sauce luxury and New Jersey attitude, we serve bold flavors, craft cocktails, warm hospitality, and Italian American favorites in a vibrant setting.

Complete your visit at La Terrazza, our indoor-outdoor bar featuring handcrafted cocktails, an approachable bar menu, live music during our Summer Sounds series, and a lively atmosphere perfect for after-work drinks or gathering with friends.

Felina Steak is open for dinner Thursday through Sunday from 5–10 PM. On Wednesdays, reservations are available exclusively for La Terrazza, where guests can enjoy drinks, light bites, and the full bar experience.

Top review

Jessica

Dined 1 day ago

This was our first time going to Felina Steakhouse since it changed from Village Hall Restaurant. Same space, but the difference is night and day. The service was incredible: attentive, intuitive, polite, and thoughtful. The cocktails were amazing. The oysters were the biggest I’ve ever seen. The pumpkin ravioli was out of this world, and my husband’s minestrone soup was the best we’ve ever tasted. For dessert they even have a cigar menu. My husband selected a cigar and they cut it for him at the table and then walked with us outside to light it for him and provide an ashtray by the fire pit. They even wiped down the chair cushions for us. We will definitely make this our go-to date night restaurant. Outstanding!

Discover more

Experience

SOPAC 2 COURSE PRE-FIXE MENU

Experience

Thanksgiving Day

Swahili Village OTS

4.3

4.3 (495)

$31 to $50

African

Newark

About the restaurant

Coming Soon!

Top review

Henry

Dined on Oct 13, 2026

My brother and I visited the Swahili Village prior to our visiting NJPAC. He had been there previously; this was my first time. The host, hostessed (Winnie) and talked us through the menu, made excellent recommendation, explained Kenyan food & culture and was absolutely wonderful. The food was excellent but would have liked more ... more portion size and more options. I will definitely go back and would recommend this restaurant for others. We were celebrating my brother's birthday, and they offered a dessert on the house. We did not take them up on it, but the gesture did not go unnoticed. A wonderful time. Thanks Winnie!!

Meet Me at Madison's

4.3

4.3 (47)

$31 to $50

Bistro

Montclair

About the restaurant

Meet Me At Madison's is a European designate upscale Bistro serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch. Our Award winning, Chef Saverio Stassi, has created a fusion menu inspired by his many trips around the world. This enabled him to create an array of flavor combinations and a menu for everyone. Popular dishes include Latin inspired linguine, Spicy Chilean Sea and his Basque Cheesecake with chocolate tahini sauce- a crowd favorite! Take out and a full coffee/espresso menu are available.

Top review

J . J .

Dined on Jul 24, 2026

The staff was exceptional, the ambiance and food was very good. Looking forward to returning.

McLoone's Boathouse

4.1

4.1 (3943)

$30 and under

American

West Orange

About the restaurant

Located within the South Mountain Recreation Complex,

McLoone's Boathouse sits on the banks of the reservoir, showcasing spectacular views to our customers.

The offerings range from fresh seafood to hand-cut steaks, as well as pastas, burgers, salads & homemade desserts.

We also host Private & Semi-Private Events as we have banquet coordinators on site.

Top review

MaureenM

Dined on Oct 29, 2026

Our server Hanifa was fabulous. She was so friendly and so personable. She constantly checked in to see how we were doing and if we needed anything!!!

Discover more

Experience

Sunday Brunch at McLoone's Boathouse

Legacy 27 Kitchen + Cocktails

3.8

3.8 (86)

$50 and over

Creole / Cajun / Southern

Newark

About the restaurant

An Experience, Not Just a Reservation

Legacy 27 is more than a restaurant—it’s a statement.
Located in a landmark building in downtown Newark, we’ve reimagined a historic space into a destination where culture, elevated flavors, and unforgettable experiences converge.
Every detail is intentional—from the ambiance to the menu—designed to create moments that go beyond dining.

Top review

amber

Dined on Oct 28, 2026

My hubby and I enjoyed such a beautiful and romantic date night at Legacy 27, and the experience was absolutely unforgettable! From the intimate atmosphere to the amazing hospitality, everything was just perfect. A special shoutout to Donson for the incredible recommendations and outstanding service!The Jollof rice paired with the lamb chops was definitely the star of the night packed with flavor and absolutely delicious! And if you haven't tried the Sweet Nothing cocktail you're missing out! It's a must-try! Legacy 27 truly knows how to create a memorable dining experience. We loved every moment and will definitely be back! 10/10 for the food, service, and romantic vibes.

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