In the Real NJMOMs of NJ, we take you on an adventure through a new town with one of our Garden State moms spilling the beans on the best places to eat, play, and shop in her ‘hood. Just think of it as a real mom’s guide with insider intel you need to know – because mom life gets a lot more groovy when you supplement your usual go-to’s with some new ideas for dining or play dates with the kids, or a fun visit to a new city.
The Real NJMOMs of NJ: Brit G., Princeton
As a freelance graphic designer and illustrator, Princeton mom Brit G. enjoys balancing her work at home with play time in downtown Princeton. After growing up in Bayonne, but living in Manhattan for five years as an adult, Brit now calls the Princeton area home, which she loves because it’s a blend of those two experiences – city vibes tempered by a cozy “Main Street” charm. Together with her husband and adorable 4-year-old son, they love adventuring around Princeton and we loved discovering it along with her. Read on for Brit’s favorite places to eat, play, shop in Princeton, New Jersey – and a bonus tip on a best-kept secret in town (hint: it involves buttery, flaky perfection and sounds better in French).
EAT in Princeton
Conte’s
It’s a challenge narrowing down my favorite places to eat in Princeton, as there are so many terrific spots. No contest, though, my favorite spot is Conte’s! First off, it’s incredibly family-friendly. That’s always a major plus. It gets busy, we never wait terribly long for a table. Secondly, having grown up in what I consider to be the Pizza Mecca of the world (North Jersey), I’m admittedly a bit of a pizza snob. Give me no-frills over gourmet any day of the week. Conte’s pizza reminds me of home in the best way possible.
Conte’s
339 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ 08542
PLAY in Princeton
Marquand Park
Thanks to a glowing recommendation from a neighbor-turned-friend, we love to go to Marquand Park when the weather is nice. It’s a sprawling, green heaven. They’ve got a nice sandpit chock full of toys for the kids to play with; big, beautiful trees to enjoy a picnic under; two playground areas and a Little Free Library for the kids to borrow (and return) a book from. It’s a lovely place to relax and enjoy being outside.
Marquand Park
68 Lovers Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540
SHOP in Princeton
Palmer Square
Palmer Square is the best if you’re just looking to stroll around, window shop, or enjoy some gourmet ice cream (The Bent Spoon’s sweet corn ice cream during the summer will change your life). I love taking my little guy to Jazams in the Square. They’ve got the best toys, tons of books and cool little gadgets, but let’s be honest, Jazams is for grown-ups, too! I’m also a bit of a beauty and skincare nut, so I love that Palmer Square boasts a brick-and-mortar Bluemercury. They are a bit more luxury in terms of a beauty store, but if you enjoy treating yourself to something extra special, you’ll find a goody (or two, or three) in there. I get lost in their Dyptique display every time I go in. Candles and facial serums? I’m in!
Palmer Square
40 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08542
BEST KEPT SECRET in Princeton
The Little Chef Pastry Shop
When I was pregnant with my son, I had an insatiable craving for croissants, but not just any run-of-the-mill croissants, though. Well, imagine my joy after a quick Google search turned up an article online with the title “Are America’s Best Croissants in Princeton?” That article led me to The Little Chef Pastry Shop, a tiny little shop on Tulane Street not too far from the Princeton Record Exchange. You’ve got to get there early, but it is so worth the early rise-and-shine – without question, it’s the very best croissant I’ve ever had the pleasure of devouring.
The Little Chef Pastry Shop
8 South Tulane Street, Princeton, NJ 08540
For more Princeton adventures, follow Brit over on Instagram.
