New Princeton Restaurants Serve Up the Innovative, Fresh, and Fun

Welcome to Reunions 2025. Since last year, the Princeton area has been buzzing with new restaurants, offering fresh and innovative dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for the viral fluffy pancakes at J.S. Foodies Tokyo, a quick brunch at Belle Journée Bakery, or a place to relax at the newly reopened Triumph Brewery, there’s something here for everyone.

Courtesy of Belle Journée Bakery

Belle Journée Bakery

19 Chambers St.

Located in the heart of Princeton, Belle Journée Bakery specializes in artisan pastries and has a warm, inviting atmosphere. This cozy spot offers a delightful selection of freshly baked goods, including cookie butter croissants, baguettes, and a variety of cakes. The bakery seeks to combine French traditional baking styles with a twist of modern innovation. One rare item is the vegan croissant, a plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Also check out the chocolate mont blanc, which provides a rich and satisfying experience, with a light, milk chocolate cream filling encased in a flaky pastry. Open at 7 a.m. from Monday to Friday and at 8 a.m. on the weekend, it’s a perfect place to catch up while enjoying something sweet.

Courtesy of J.S. Foodies Tokyo

J.S. Foodies Tokyo

14 S. Tulane St.

Just off Nassau, J.S. Foodies Tokyo already has a reputation for its fluffy pancakes. On top of this, it offers a unique fusion of Japanese-inspired breakfast and brunch dishes in a beautiful minimalist setting. Since it hit town, it’s become an extremely popular spot for locals as well as those trying to find something new to eat, so be prepared for a long line. Popular menu items include the strawberry kiseki pancakes, matcha pancakes, and banana chocolate pancakes that come with fresh fruit and a large dollop of whipped cream. The pancakes are soft and airy but surprisingly not overly sweet. Not quite feeling up for the pancakes? No worries. J.S. Foodies also offers a regular breakfast and brunch menu that includes fried chicken and waffles and classic sandwiches such as a B.L.T. If you’re prepared to wait a bit — since every dish is made to order — and you aren’t afraid to drop $16-$18 on pancakes, J.S. Foodies Tokyo is a perfect place to experience something new, fresh, and fun. It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and the weekend.

Ayat

15 Spring St.

Ayat welcomes diners with a plant-covered ceiling, green chairs, and wooden tables. Nestled one block behind Nassau Street, this Palestinian bistro has garnered acclaim for its authentic cuisine. The extensive menu blends traditional Palestinian dishes with American fusion options. The vegan platter is particularly noteworthy, featuring falafel, fried cauliflower, and stuffed grape leaves, which help to provide a comprehensive taste of traditional flavors. Another standout item is the “pizzawarma,” a wood-fired pizza topped with shawarma meat and halloumi cheese that showcases Ayat’s innovative approach to cuisine. There’s also a serving of political messaging on the walls and menus, including “Down with the Occupation” printed on the cover of each menu. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.

Alfalfa

140 Nassau St.

Alfalfa can’t be missed on Nassau Street with its cute pink exterior. It emphasizes fresh, healthy ingredients and caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The Peruvian chicken salad is known for its well-seasoned chicken, avocado tomatillo salsa, blue corn tortilla chips, and crisp vegetables. The Far East salad is made with organic miso maple dijon tofu, spicy sesame cashew dressing, and roasted vegetables, then topped off with some edamame. Alfalfa also serves health-conscious, gluten-free doughnuts, available in various flavors such as fairy bread or lemon thyme. Open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, stop by if you’re in the mood for a hearty salad, a delicious wrap, or a unique doughnut.

Triumph Brewing is back and now in the historic former post office.

Courtesy of Triumph Brewing Company

Triumph Brewing Company (Re-Opening)

20 Palmer Sq. E.

Triumph Brewing Company, a longtime establishment, has reopened inside the historic former post office building on Palmer Square. The adaptive reuse of this 90-year-old structure has been a meticulous process (about seven years in the making), preserving its historical charm while integrating modern amenities. Known for its craft beers brewed onsite and its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, Triumph has been a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors to Princeton. The newly reopened brewery continues to offer a wide range of house-made brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, alongside a menu of delicious pub foods like burgers, pretzels, and sandwiches. It is important to note that the upstairs bar, lounge, and dining rooms have a dress code that excludes ball caps, flip-flops, leggings, and athletic wear, and the dining options are much different than on the first floor. While the first floor menu contains mostly pub favorites, the second floor menu has items such as filet mignon, pink peppercorn fettuccine, and grilled octopus. Triumph will be open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday and from 11:30 a.m. Friday through the weekend.