The mission at Comfort Kitchen Cafe in Kinnelon is simple. They serve fresh and tasty food that is meant to make patrons feel good, in an environment that feels homey. The cafe serves what Owner Brianna Soule describes as “comfort food we all grew up with, with an updated twist.”
The 1,200-square foot Comfort Kitchen Cafe can seat 30 to 35 guests inside and eight diners outside for sidewalk dining. The décor is a mix of pieces from Brianna’s mother-in-law’s antique shop, her family home, and new pieces. Some of the counter space, tables, and chairs were repurposed. “It feels familiar but updated,” Brianna says.
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Class Comfort Food with a Modern Twist
The menu features favorites like the Supreme Grilled Cheese. This sandwich combines Havarti, muenster, and American with a Parmesan crust on fresh sourdough with a cup of tomato soup. Meanwhile, their Reuben sandwich is house-smoked turkey and pastrami-spice rub, Swiss, homemade sauerkraut, and special sauce on rye. Their avocado toast adds house-made garlic hummus and everything seasoning on fresh sourdough. “Our goal is to give our guests familiar food but make them a little more interesting,” Brianna reiterates.
Another popular pick is the Rise & Shine Burrito. This breakfast burrito combines house-made sausage, spicy ketchup, breakfast potatoes, American cheese, and scrambled eggs. Even their BLT adds mayonnaise, tomato, and romaine on sourdough.
However, their signature Comfort Salad stands out for showcasing seasonal produce. During fall, the salad features superfood mix, goat cheese, bacon, roasted butternut squash, onion, apple slices, and maple mustard vinaigrette.But Brianna’s favorite dish is The Cuban, with Taylor ham, pulled pork, house-made pickles, habanero Carolina gold, and Swiss.
As for the cafe part of Comfort Kitchen Cafe, they have a full espresso bar. The drink menu curates a selection of hand-crafted specialty drinks.
More than Just a Meal
Comfort Kitchen Cafe hosts a full calendar of community events. This includes activities such as charm bracelet making, candle making, pumpkin painting, and cookie decorating. They are also working on expanding their catering and in-house events. “We want our space to turn into a local celebratory spot,” Brianna explains.
Brianna and her husband, David, grew up in Kinnelon. They actually met at Kinnelon High School and their families both still live in town. David and his family own River of Beer in Bloomingdale, and he has been cooking professionally since he was 16. Meanwhile, Brianna started working in restaurants when she was in college. She quickly fell in love with the industry and managed a variety of local spots. “We always knew we would open our own place together and are thrilled we were lucky enough to do so in our hometown.”
Visit Comfort Kitchen Café at 104 Boonton Ave in Kinnelon. Look for them online to learn more.
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Comfort Kitchen Cafe FAQs
No, they do not accept reservations online.
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
Comfort Kitchen Cafe offers vegetarian dishes, yes.
Yes, they offer takeout.
Yes, they offer in-house delivery as well as via DoorDash and Uber Eats.
No, they do not serve alcohol.
Yes, they have a kids’ menu.
All Photos: © Brianna Soule / Comfort Kitchen Cafe
