FOOD: Mariner's Cove [Brielle, NJ]

New Jerseyans--WE DID IT. We survived. Winter is over. May has arrived. Spring has sprung--and I don't know about you, but I can't wait to get to the shore. With only a couple weeks left until Memorial Day weekend, I have already started mentally cataloguing my favorite spots to hit; at the very top of the list is Mariner's Cove in Brielle.

Mariner's Cove is a quaint spot--and with its faded sign and rustic appearance, you might drive by in the off-season and not even notice it. But if you happen to cruise by in the summer months, it's impossible to miss the massive crowd gathered out front waiting for a table and a chance to dig in to one of their amazing dishes. Mariner's Cove is strictly breakfast and lunch, opening at 6 a.m. and closing at 3 p.m., and that is all they need to keep the crowds coming every morning.

 

[caption id="attachment_80855" align="alignnone" width="449"] A Cozy Nook Inside Mariner's Cove[/caption]

Boasting a menu with over 200 omelette options on the first page alone, it's easy to feel intimidated when you are handed the menu that is actually bigger than most babies. But fear not--there is plenty of coffee in the pot they leave on the table (this is my heaven) for you to refill your cup at your leisure and keep your energy up while making the tough mealtime decision. Though omelettes dominate the selection, don't let the first page stop you from venturing into the magic happening in the rest of the menu.

[caption id="attachment_80856" align="alignnone" width="472"] The Gigantic Menu -- Page 1 is just omelettes![/caption]

A section that I have enjoyed exploring includes a wide range of Eggs Benedict mix-ups. Alongside the classic version, they put their spin on the dish by offering alternatives such as the California Benny (English muffin, bacon strips, avocado, poached egg, and hollandaise) and Benny Cakes (Potato pancakes replace the English muffin and are topped with Canadian bacon, poached egg, and hollandaise).

[caption id="attachment_80857" align="alignnone" width="449"] Benny Cakes[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_80858" align="alignnone" width="449"] Benny Cakes[/caption]

But the king of all Benedicts is none other than the Maryland Benny--potato pancakes topped with a crab cakes, poached eggs, and hollandaise. Aside from the main attraction of your dish, you also get a heaping pile of potatoes and a fresh mix of fruit. These highly satisfying meals come in gigantic portions, which usually results in leftovers for round two later on. If you are capable of finishing the whole plate, I want to know you. I want to know how.

Whether you are in the mood to start your day with eggs and coffee or need a great place to get lunch, Mariner's Cove can be relied on for delicious, fresh food and fast, friendly service. Remember that you can also count on a wait in the summer months--but it is safe to say that each bite you take will make it well worth every minute.

Mariner's Cove
712 Union Ave
Brielle, NJ 08730