The Cliff

- 38 Congress St, Jersey City, NJ 07307

The Cliff is a cherished neighborhood cafe nestled in the heart of Jersey City Heights, and it has quickly become a go-to spot for locals seeking a delightful culinary experience with a focus on wholesome, unprocessed, and delicious foods. It’s a wonderful option for residents of New Jersey looking for an inviting, casual, and trendy cafe that excels at breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Identifiying as a women-owned business, The Cliff is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a community gathering spot that offers a cozy retreat with an artful, inviting interior and a highly sought-after, secluded backyard for al fresco dining.

Since opening its doors, The Cliff has cultivated a reputation for serving "killer coffee" alongside an eclectic American menu that is predominantly pescatarian but features an impressive and robust array of vegetarian and vegan options. The cuisine emphasizes fresh, clean, and flavorful dishes, making it a perfect destination for health-conscious diners. Whether you are in a rush and need a quick, healthy bite on the go or are looking for a comfortable spot to linger over a delicious meal with friends or family, The Cliff has thoughtfully designed its space and menu to accommodate all needs.

The Cliff is conveniently situated in a walkable neighborhood of the Jersey City Heights, making it easily accessible for local New Jersey residents.

The full address is: 38 Congress St, Jersey City, NJ 07307, USA.

Public Transit:

For those traveling via public transportation, The Cliff is just a short walk—mere steps, in fact—from the 9th Street – Congress Street Light Rail (HBLR) stop. This makes it an incredibly convenient stop for commuters and anyone using the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail line. The cafe is also located near bus routes on Palisades Avenue.

Parking:

The cafe itself does not offer dedicated on-site parking. Visitors driving to the area should be aware that street parking in the Jersey City Heights neighborhood can be challenging, as resident parking permits are often required for stays over two hours. However, time-limited free-of-charge spots may be available nearby, but it is always recommended to pay close attention to all posted signs to avoid a ticket, which can average around $54 in New Jersey. Various paid parking garages and lots are also available in downtown Jersey City, though these are typically a slightly longer distance away.

Accessibility:

The Cliff is committed to being welcoming to all guests, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating.

The Cliff is a full-service cafe and restaurant providing a comprehensive range of services for dining and convenience.

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere inside with comfortable seating and table service.
• Outdoor Seating: Offers one of the best outdoor dining options in the Heights with a secluded backyard patio and sidewalk tables, perfect for warmer weather.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or on the go.
• Catering Services: Customizable menus are available for both drop-off and in-house catering, accommodating private residences and corporate accounts for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or hors d'oeuvres.
• Reservations: The cafe accepts reservations, which are particularly recommended for brunch during peak hours to ensure prompt seating.
• Counter Service: Available for quick bites and coffee.
• Children's Amenities: Includes a dedicated kids' menu, high chairs, and a changing table, making it very family-friendly.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods like Debit Cards and NFC mobile payments.

What truly sets The Cliff apart is its commitment to quality, a welcoming environment, and a diverse menu that caters to a wide audience.

• Killer Coffee & Great Tea Selection: The cafe is highly regarded for its coffee, featuring a well-balanced, robust house blend that is locally roasted in partnership with Roast'd. They also boast an excellent selection of loose leaf teas and specialty drinks like Iced Coffee, Chai Latte ($4.50), and Matcha Lemonade ($4.00).
• Healthy and Diverse Menu Options: The focus is on whole and unprocessed foods, offering extensive options including healthy dishes, organic dishes, comfort food, and small plates. The menu is predominantly pescatarian but is celebrated for its abundant Vegan and Vegetarian options.
• Fan-Favorite Dishes: Must-try items that local customers consistently rave about include the decadent Brioche French Toast ($15.00), the hearty Nuevos Huevos Rancheros ($13.00), the savory Breakfast Burrito, and the Pressed Mozzarella Sandwich ($12.00). The Icelandic Cod Burger ($17.00) and the Vegan Burger ($15.00) are also popular choices.
• Cozy and Pet-Friendly Ambiance: The cafe is known for its cozy, chic, and artsy interior, creating a beautiful space for dining. The outdoor seating areas—both the secluded backyard and sidewalk tables—are a highlight and are dog-friendly.
• Community and Inclusivity: The atmosphere is family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and is noted as a transgender safe space, fostering a welcoming environment for all groups, locals, and tourists.
• Fresh House-Made Beverages: In addition to coffee and tea, enjoy refreshing cold drinks made in-house, such as the unique Watermelon Mint Juice ($4.00) and Berry Lemonade ($3.50).

For reservations, catering inquiries, or general questions, you can reach The Cliff using the following information:

Address: 38 Congress St, Jersey City, NJ 07307, USA

Phone: (201) 626-4046

For anyone in New Jersey on the hunt for a brunch spot that balances health, flavor, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, The Cliff is an exceptional choice. The cafe's dedication to using whole, unprocessed ingredients in an eclectic American cuisine ensures a fresh and vibrant meal every time.

You should choose The Cliff for:

• Outstanding Brunch: With signature plates like the Brioche French Toast and Nuevos Huevos Rancheros, The Cliff provides a memorable start to your weekend. The menu is flexible enough to please all palates, from a classic Two Eggs Any Style ($13.00) to the hearty Tofu Scramble ($13.00).
• Commitment to Dietary Needs: As a predominantly pescatarian cafe with expansive vegan and vegetarian options, The Cliff makes it easy for guests with various dietary preferences to find satisfying and creative dishes. Even classic "comfort food" favorites like the Grilled Cheese ($11.00) or the Vegan Burger ($15.00) are crafted with wholesome ingredients.
• Al Fresco Dining: The picturesque, secluded backyard and sidewalk seating is one of the neighborhood's gems, providing a perfect outdoor escape that is hard to find elsewhere in the Jersey City Heights.
• A Quick, Healthy Grab-and-Go: If you are a commuter near the 9th Street Light Rail, the range of coffee, wraps like the Quinoa Wrap ($12.00), and breakfast bowls such as the Acai Bowl ($12.00) offer an easy way to grab a nutritious meal without sacrificing quality.

The consistent quality of the food—from the fresh flavor of the Watermelon Mint Juice to the impressive crispness of the fries—combined with the friendly, community-focused ambiance makes The Cliff a genuine local treasure. It’s a wonderful spot to slow down, enjoy a superb cup of coffee, and treat yourself to a fresh, delicious meal in a truly charming New Jersey setting.

The Cliff

38 Congress St, Jersey City, NJ 07307, USA