Best Brunch in South Jersey: Gilchrist & Jon & Patty’s on List

Pancakes, omelets, Bloody Marys, there is something about brunch in New Jersey, and two local spots are standing out, with one in Atlantic County and one in Cape May County earning statewide recognition.

The list, compiled by Best of NJ, highlights brunch spots known for consistent quality and a loyal customer base.

South Jersey Brunch Spots Get Statewide Recognition

Best Of NJ put out their "Best Brunch Spots In New Jersey" list for 2025, with Gilchrist Restaurant, which has three locations (Atlantic City, Margate, and Galloway), and Jon & Patty’s Coffee Bar & Bistro in Ocean City, making the list.

Gilchrist Restaurant: A Brunch Staple Since 1946

"Gilchrist has been serving breakfast and lunch since 1946, and is famous for their hotcakes," Best Of NJ writes. "In particular, their best-selling blueberry hotcakes are the main menu attraction. We also recommend the Italian Omelet with sausage and peppers."

With three locations in Atlantic County, Gilchrist Restaurant has been a staple in the area and is a must-visit when in the area.

It's not the first time a major New Jersey publication has recognized Gilchrist.

What sets Gilchrist apart

Patrons with a large appetite can also take advantage of their Hungry Man Combos. These value specials offer a combination of eggs, hotcakes, choice of meat, home fries, toast, and grits. Side options to pair with meals include fruit cups, corn or blueberry muffins, bagels with cream cheese, and oatmeal.

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Gilchrist Locations in Atlantic County

Gilchrist has two Atlantic City locations, at Gardner's Basin, 804 N Rhode Island Ave, and at the Tropicana at 3050 Pacific Ave. Gilchrist in Margate is a 9400 Atlantic Ave, and in Galloway at 734 W White Horse Pike.

Gilchrist serves breakfast and lunch daily from 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Jon & Patty’s Coffee Bar & Bistro in Ocean City

Also on the list was Jon & Patty's Coffee Bar & Bistro at 637 Asbury Ave in Ocean City. From Best of NJ:

The theme of Jon & Patty’s is fresh, healthy, creative, and affordable neighborhood bistro fare. That certainly translates to their daily breakfast menu, which includes popular picks like “The Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich” Crispy Burrito.

Jon & Patty's is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and has a unique menu and a ton of coffee options as well, with one of the largest coffee selections in the region from their latte bar.

Mike Gill

They are open Wednesday - Saturday, 8 am - 8 pm, and Sunday - Tuesday, 8 am - 2 pm for breakfast and lunch.