It is usually unwise to make broad, opinionated statements, especially in published writing, but with full confidence I can say that there is not a single person on Earth who dislikes brunch. Brunch is a rare social activity that celebrates waking up before noon on Sundays––something not usually celebrated. Brunch food can be savory, indulgent, sweet, or healthy, and often come with a side of bacon and coffee. As a big brunch believer, I have taken it as my duty to compile this list of the top restaurants in Montclair and Bloomfield that serve the breakfast-lunch combo!

9. State Street Grill and Nevada Diner

Every local has their favorite (the competition runs so deep it would be too controversial to rate one above the other), but all can agree that a stack of gigantic golden pancakes from a favorite diner hits the spot after a long night for a price that can't be beat.

8. Petit Parisien

Sticking true to its Parisian theme, Petit Parisien's crepes and cappuccinos can't be beat. The cafe does not identify as a brunch location, but the early hours, bright decor, and variety does allow for an easy, sweet meal.

7. Vital

This healthy hidden gem is definitely worth a visit. The food is Jamaican-themed and has a variety of healthy options, including many vegan and vitamin-packed dishes and drinks that taste good enough to make up for the lack of bacon and cheese with your eggs. If you happen to stop by at any time of day, trying the black-eyed pea hummus is an absolute must.

6. Toast

Toast is the place to go for the most classic brunch in Montclair. Everyone in your party will find something worth salivating over, from eggs Benedict and waffles to carrot cake pancakes and challah French toast.

5. Hot Bagels Abroad

If this was a top nine breakfast spots list, Hot Bagels would be number one. Due to the lack of variety and general brunchy-ness in the Sunday morning hot spot, it comes in at number five for brunch. A bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel (or a BEC with SPK on everything) is filling, delicious, and, at under five dollars, worth every penny.

4. Raymond's

Raymond's is a Montclair staple, most known for their fries and hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows. Their French toast, egg and avocado toast, and just about everything on the menu makes for great brunch with friends in a bustling but warm atmosphere.

3. Red Eye Cafe

Three words: Double Happiness Waffle.

2. The Corner

The newest yet strongest addition to the brunch scene has proven to live up to the hype. Everything from the cucumber water to their house-made pastries shows effort toward making sure customers are in heaven for their entire meal. The coffee and huevos rancheros are the stuff of dreams, but it's impossible to go wrong with anything on the menu.

1. Bluestone Coffee Co.

A longstanding favorite, Bluestone still has hour-long waits every weekend morning after years of service. The French toast and waffles are fluffy, service is quick and friendly, and the space is cozy (and recently expanded!). If there was one brunch place to define the brunch scene of Montclair, it would be Bluestone.