Where to Take Dad for Father’s Day Brunch
Father’s Day is just around the corner and there’s nothing that says “I love you” quite like a brunch you don’t have to cook yourself. Get out there! Enjoy the day! No need to be cooped up at home when there are a ton of restaurants on LBI that are waiting to serve you a feast fit for a king (we’re looking at you, dad).
Here are our favorite outdoor restaurants to celebrate the world’s best.
Scojo’s
For the early-rising, build-your-own-skillet dad
If your dad is the type who’s already had his morning walk before you’ve even rolled out of bed, Scojo’s is the place to be. Open at 7AM daily, Scojo’s lets early birds make the most of their Father’s Day. Their hearty breakfast menu includes everything from classic omelets and scrambled skillets to lean, veggie-forward options. Whether Dad’s a traditional eggs-and-bacon guy or wants to load up his scramble with veggies and cheese, there’s something here to start the day off right. Bonus: early brunch means more time for beach naps later.
Blue Water Café
For the upscale-brunch, banana-foster-loving dad
Treat your dad to a more refined start to the day at Blue Water Café, where brunch feels just a bit more elevated. Their lush outdoor patio is covered in greenery, making it feel like a hidden oasis in the heart of Beach Haven. The menu features creative dishes like banana foster French toast, crab cake benedict, and huevos rancheros — perfect for dads who appreciate a twist on the classics. The relaxed, stylish atmosphere and attention to detail make this a special spot for a Father’s Day to remember.
Uncle Will’s Pancake House
For the pancake-flipping, BYOB brunch dad
Uncle Will’s is an LBI staple for a reason — their cozy, welcoming vibe and all-day breakfast menu makes it feel like home. You’ll find everything from towering pancake stacks and buttery waffles to loaded biscuits and benedicts. It’s also BYOB, so bring your own bubbly and make some mimosas while you wait for your table (they’ve got fresh-squeezed OJ to complete the mix). The iconic piggy signage out front lets you know you’re in the right place — this is comfort food at its finest.
Tucker’s Tavern
For the dad who thrives on rooftop oysters
Tucker’s Tavern in Beach Haven boasts some of the best outdoor dining on the island, with multiple seating areas to suit your vibe — beer garden, rooftop deck, sidewalk café, or covered patio. The brunch service starts at 10:30AM and the menu strikes a perfect balance between classic comfort and gastro-pub creativity. Whether Dad’s craving a brunch burger, oysters on the half shell, or just a cold brew in the sun, Tucker’s is a sure win for a laid-back yet elevated brunch.
Sandbox Café
For the creative-breakfast, “let’s try something new” dad
With locations in both Ship Bottom and Surf City, Sandbox Café is a quirky, cozy gem that’s always a hit for dads who like to branch out from the usual. Their sizzling deep-dish pancakes come out bubbling hot in cast iron skillets, and the parmesan baked eggs are both comforting and unexpected. The beachy, casual setting makes it great for lingering over coffee and catching up, and it’s ideal for families with mixed tastes — picky eaters and adventurous diners alike will find something to love.
The Local Market & Kitchen
For the chill, cold-brew-sipping dad
If your dad prefers a more mellow morning with top-tier coffee and fresh, seasonal bites, head to The Local in Ship Bottom. With its farm-to-table feel and friendly staff, this casual yet stylish market and café offers breakfast sandwiches, grain bowls, and baked goods that will please even the pickiest of brunch-goers. Dad can sip on a draft cold brew or matcha while enjoying housemade pastries or a breakfast burrito out on their laid-back patio. It’s low-key in the best way.
How You Brewin? Coffee Company
For the latte-loving, deck-chilling dad
Sometimes the best moments are the simplest — like sipping a perfectly made latte with your feet up and the sun on your face. How You Brewin? in Surf City delivers just that. Their spacious outdoor deck is perfect for a slow morning, and their coffee game is strong, with seasonal specials, espresso drinks, teas, and smoothies. Pair a cup with a fresh bagel, muffin, or breakfast sandwich and just enjoy being together — no stress, no rush, just quality time (and caffeine).
Black Whale Bar & Fish House
For the seafood-for-breakfast, bloody-mary-before-noon dad
Does your dad think every meal should involve seafood? Then Black Whale in Beach Haven is the move. Their outdoor setup is perfect for a relaxed celebration, and the brunch offerings pair perfectly with their raw bar and infamous bloody marys. You can keep it classic with eggs and bacon or go all out with shrimp cocktail and lobster rolls. Either way, Dad’s taste buds (and cocktail glass) will be very happy.
No matter how you celebrate, Father’s Day on LBI is about good food, salty air, and spending time with the ones who made you who you are. Whether he’s into sizzling skillets, banana foster French toast, or just a hot cup of coffee on the deck, there’s a perfect table waiting for your #1 guy.
