Press

Asbury Park Press
by Gina Columbus, @GinaColumbusAPP

Sunday mornings can mean sleeping peacefully under the covers with no alarm to wake you. The final weekend day to lounge on the couch and watch classic movies. A day to beat the crowds to those spectacular sales.

Now another must-do item has been added to your weekend agenda: brunch.

Whether buffet-style with table after table of sizzling breakfast dishes and carving stations, or an a la carte menu with a Bloody Mary, brunches are another way to bring people together and create some memorable moments.

Clear your calendar, make reservations, and indulge in these local eateries for brunch.

McLoone's Pier House, Long Branch

With its serene ocean views in Pier Village, McLoone's Pier House makes for a fun-filled Sunday. Head to the exquisite brunch, then shop around the various shops.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sundays; reservations are recommended.

THE SELECTION: Dine on fresh vegetable crudites, display of international cheese and fresh fruit, chef's salad assortment, omelet and waffle station, baked goods, smoked salmon tray, raw bar, carving stations. The hot buffet line features bacon, sausage, home fries, eggplant rollatini, gourmet stuffed French toast, chicken, seafood and pasta.

BEST BITES: Some of the most popular items are the gourmet stuffed French toast, omelet station, and McLoone's award-winning crab cakes station.

SPECIALTY DRINK: The buffet includes a complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary, but guests can upgrade to a McLoone's Bloody Mary served with citrus, olives, celery and garnished with a colossal shrimp ($14).

WHY INDULGE: "McLoone's Pier House has made quite a name for itself since its opening in spring 2005," says Margaret Gilbertson, general manager at Pier House. "With dazzling oceanfront views, delicious cuisine and friendly service, McLoone's Pier House has become the place for exceptional brunches. Located right in the heart of Pier Village, it's no wonder that McLoone's Pier House has become a favorite with both Jersey Shore visitors and locals alike."

CJ McLoone's, 560 Shrewsbury Ave., Tinton Falls, and McLoone's Asbury Grille, 1200 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, also have Sunday brunch menus.

MORE INFO: $32.95 per adult, $12.95 per child ages 4 to 12. 1 Ocean Ave., Long Branch; 732-923-1006 or www.mcloonespierhouse.com