Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Blue Bears

    4.9 (58 reviews)
    Closed 8:30 am - 3:00 pm

    The Blue Bears Photos

    THE BLUE BEARS ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - The Blue Bears

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Morning coffee in the Blue Bears courtyard
    Jess M.

    My husband and I came here for breakfast and it's my new favorite weekend spot. We actually got a good seat outside right away and the courtyard was nice and relaxing. I ordered fresh squeezed orange juice and the breakfast sandwich. I opted for the croissant, which was super flaky and delicious. It was nice that they had some large outdoor tables. The next time my parents visit I'm going to take them here for breakfast. It's seems good for families because it has a nice chill vibe with plenty of space. I loved it!

    Margie A.

    What a lovely gem! Hidden in a back corner of the Princeton Shopping Center, this is a quaint little bistro. The menu changes on a daily basis, and has a lot of variety. I stopped in for breakfast and had a delicious croissant and a cup of coffee. There were several different coffee beverages available along with a nice assortment of teas. I ordered and paid at the counter and my food was delivered to the comfy table I had chosen in the bright dining room area. The room is nicely decorated and even has magazine racks with a wide assortment of reading material. As I was leaving, I stopped by the front counter and mentioned that one of their soups of the day - Mushroom Cream - is my favorite. The cashier offered to check if it was ready yet. But at that moment, one of the other employees was bringing the soup out so I got a cup to bring home for lunch. It was delicious and creamy! One of the special parts about this shop is that it was created to provide those with mental and developmental challenges an opportunity for meaningful employment. A secondary goal is to teach healthy eating for those individuals and the public at large. I look forward to going back. And the nice thing is that I can check the menu online to make sure that the menu is to my liking before I go!

    Quiche lorraine
    Stephanie D.

    A hidden spot in the back of the princeton shopping center with a nice ambience and outdoor seating. The menu changes daily and it's a great nonprofit! The quiche lorraine was yummy and the almond rose water pistachio cake was soo good!

    Inside dining area
    JV F.

    Amazebears! I was up early on Saturday and wanted to grab some breakfast. I'm always up for a new place and a came across The Blue Bears cafe on google, so decided to try it out. Food: hit the spot! I got the English breakfast with 2 eggs and baguette, added bacon and spinach. I also got a double cappuccino. Everything was great albeit a little greasy (the bacon might have tipped it over the top, but who does not love bacon?). The star of the breakfast was the baguette. Crusty on the outside and soft in the inside. Looks like they have a daily a la carte menu, so will be back to try more things. Service: excellent! Young man at the counter took my order and brought the food to me at my table after a few minutes. Friendly, personable and kept me updated on status of the cooking. Ambience: Inviting! They have a big space inside and tables set up outside. Enough space to physically distance during this current health crisis. I came in at around 8:30am and the place had one other customer. The banter of the staff amongst themselves and with their guests is genuine and welcoming. Location: Convenient! Lots of free parking right in front of the cafe. It's at the Princeton Shopping Center. It's on the side of Ace Hardware. Bonus: I read up more about the cafe and discovered it is a non-profit with an admirable mission. Check them out at www.bluebears.org. And come visit them!

    Tomato mozzarella pesto on a fresh baguette
    Mia K.

    Finally sat down at Blue Bears, which I had been looking forward to after learning of their mission of providing meaningful work to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a social worker, I truly appreciate, admire and respect this mission. Walking in, I was in so much of awe of their vision come to life with an open kitchen and beautifully bright dining space. The process is to order and pay on the kitchen side, find a seat, then they bring your order out to you. I suggest ordering your drinks and savories first, then place an order for dessert after. Because, for my first sit-down, I made a sampler and made the mistake of picking a "cozy" spot without considering the accoutrements of the hot tea, so it was crowded on the table. I'll plan better next time! Everything had an artisanal quality in taste and presentation. I dare say, more delicious than pictures could convey. For example, they have a pistachio cake made with almond flour and rose water, sprinkled with rose petals, and is gluten-free! I really just am so delighted by this place, and look forward to coming back.

    Gabbi T.

    The food here is amazing so flavorful and delicious! We ordered the goat cheese salad, potato leak soup, and the Lorraine quiche, mozzarella pesto sandwich, and a bunch of French desserts. Chef Eric and Cynthia are so nice and really make your experience better. Highly recommend coming here!! Support business that employ people with disabilities!!

    Lunch salad, roasted peppers, Moroccan pork, calamari & ratatouille

    See all

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jim B.
    38
    31
    9

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Great food and cause. Pleasantly surprised by the service provided by Down syndrome patients. They are the best !

    Business owner information

    Photo of Eric G.

    Eric G.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Eric G.

    Eric G.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Jess M.
    2
    32
    31

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Leslie B.
    1
    164
    11

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of JV F.
    0
    16
    29

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of L H.
    74
    566
    671

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of S C.
    1
    257
    0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Food and service was exceptional. This will be our new go to for breakfast, brunch, lunch!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    The French food is always delicious and the restaurant has a terrific mission -- yummy pastries, savory main dishes

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Great place both for breakfast and lunch! Chocolate croissant and lemonade -- one love.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of F. P.
    0
    43
    3

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Love the social mission and wonderful French goodies. One of our favorite places in Princeton!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Great place for lunch or brunch. The fresh food is well chef prepared . Nice atmosphere and freindly staff. Eager to go back again.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of A D.
    9
    22
    0

    5 years ago

    Absolutely a wonderful experience! Food was fantastic and the staff is beyond great!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Love Blue Bears! I have had wonderful breakfasts there. The omelettes are terrific. So is the quiche, espresso and croissants.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of D E.
    0
    21
    1

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - The Blue Bears

    Do they do dinner?

    No, it's breakfast and lunch only.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Bakeries 2,454 times last month within 10 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    J S Foodies - Soufflé pancake and chicken waffle

    J S Foodies

    4.4(123 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    Best Soufflé Pancakes ever!…read more Now that I've actually been to Japan I can honestly say I crave these pancakes more than the ones I had overseas! These pancakes are more fluffier and eggier (I think that's a legit word, LOL), and super rich! If you don't like eggs, don't visit because there is a lot of eggy flavor. I've tried the two dominant flavors, Matcha and Strawberry, and I can't tell which one I like better. The light cream topping is better than any butter or maple syrup I've ever had. There is usually one more flavor that they change from time to time as well which I've heard is great. Going on the weekday avoids the wait. The abnormal hours of operation don't make it easy to visit but if you do you'll definitely enjoy. Book the table on Yelp!

    There are places that feed you, and there are places that pause time just long enough for you to…read morenotice your own happiness chewing. J S Foodies is the latter, a small and cheerful outpost of Tokyo imagination where breakfast behaves like theater. I arrived with my boys and my father in law, a man celebrating another year of survival in a universe that has not yet figured out how to improve pancakes. The space is small, and the famous Kiseki pancakes take their time, about twenty to thirty minutes, as if they are being persuaded into existence rather than cooked. These Kiseki pancakes are not pancakes in the American sense. They are soufflé style creations, tall and trembling, as if gravity is only a suggestion. They arrive airy and delicate, with a gentle jiggle that suggests optimism. We ordered accordingly. I had the lemon ricotta, which tasted like sunlight had been filtered through dairy. My oldest chose matcha, green, purple and quietly sophisticated and complex. My youngest went with the original maple, a classic executed so well it made the classics feel new again. All were excellent, the sort of food that makes conversation pause because mouths are busy being grateful. My father in law ordered what I personally considered a cautious breakfast. Regular pancakes with eggs and bacon. A meal that could have been assembled in any roadside diner between here and forever. Yet even this was handled with care. The eggs were perfect, the bacon honest, the pancakes dignified. No irony, no shortcuts. Yes, the prices are a little steep. But this is not a place for routine nourishment. This is a place for occasions, for birthdays, for reminding yourself that breakfast can aspire to something like art. Five stars, because sometimes the world surprises you by getting something exactly right.

    Photos
    J S Foodies - Dining room

    Dining room

    J S Foodies - Chocolate & Banana Soufflé Pancakes

    Chocolate & Banana Soufflé Pancakes

    J S Foodies - Chocolate & Banana Soufflé Pancakes

    See all

    Chocolate & Banana Soufflé Pancakes

    The Perch At Peacock Inn - Bread is complimentary

    The Perch At Peacock Inn

    4.5(80 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    Less a restaurant than an experience in immaculate luxury... where the quarter percenters must go…read moreto keep the remaining one percenters out of sight and mind. For years I have been boring friends, family and anyone who would listen about the wretched state of service in the US, unfortunately made even more dismal by the pandemic. Well, I'm happy to report that service isn't dead, it's just lounging in the witness protection program at a place called the Perch at Peacock. Service here is as gracious and precise as a metronome and is a welcome respite from the current shambolic state of things on planet earth. And before I forget, the food... almost matching the service which is saying something. I absolutely loved the Restaurant Week Hangar Steak and Tomato Bisque with a finger sandwich of grilled cheese and lobster. Tastes that I'm unlikely to replicate as I return to the assorted diners and dives that are not privy to the safe harbor of witness protection and the unwashed remnants of the one percent. Damn. I almost don't have to say it, an easy five stars.

    I was so looking forward to dinner here at the venerable Peacock Inn. I had worked in the…read moreneighborhood a few years ago and it was always considered the fancy place for an elegant meal. Sadly, our weekday meal was a disappointment. My friend and I were only one of two parties dining in the restaurant. The menu overall feels old and dated. It features Just the classics, which is fine if executed well, but the execution was seriously lacking. The little gem salad featured pickled cucumbers in a very sharp vinegar sitting next to overdressed, lettuce and kale. It also had very large round carrots, which I think were completely unnecessary. The complimentary bread was brought to the table, warm and featured little mini salads on the side, which was a thoughtful touch. My entree of duck was a substitute for the more exciting braised short ribs mentioned initially. The breast was tough and chewy and the bread crumb on the leg was mushy and not crisp. Desert was our last hope but the flourless cake proved to be a hard, tough dome. Shout out for the kind and thoughtful wait staff! Overall, however, a let down. What a shame! There are too many excellent restaurants in the Princeton area and a clientele that definitely have a global palate so I worry this place might not last.

    Photos
    The Perch At Peacock Inn
    The Perch At Peacock Inn - The Cherry

    The Cherry

    The Perch At Peacock Inn - New Year's Eve Prix Fixe Menu

    See all

    New Year's Eve Prix Fixe Menu

    The Dinky Bar & Kitchen - Chicken Bao

    The Dinky Bar & Kitchen

    3.9(284 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$

    Came here after seeing a play at McCarter Theatre Center, which is conveniently right across the…read morestreet. Vibes: classic tavern Tables: linen-covered Service: fast and friendly Food: great I ordered the shrimp tempura roll and the French onion dumplings. Both were delicious and I'd gladly order them again.

    If you're looking for a place located right on the campus of Princeton University then you should…read moretry Dinky's Bar and Kitchen. They have a wide range of wonderful Signature Cocktails using seasonal ingredients,,Mock Cocktails, Curated Wine list by the Glass or Bottle and Craft Beers on Tap and in Bottles. Dinky's Bar is located in the historic 1918 train station, featuring train station-themed, signature cocktails and locomotive themes to pay homage to the building's heritage. Dinky's has a Happy Hour: it's from 3 PM to 5 PM (Sunday - Thursday) and "Happier Hours" from 10 PM to close... Dinky's offers a Seasonal Menu of Small Plates, Burgers, Flatbreads, Limited Sushi, Pizza, Soup, and more. Everything is locally sourced. The also serve a limited Brunch. The vibe is fun and fits right in with the area.. It's located right on Princeton University and is walking distance to The Art Museum. This quaint restaurant has an outdoor patio with seating, and some tables and high tops inside with a full bar. and their menu is simple and delicious. Dinky's doesn't take reservations. They only accept walk-ins. We had a fun server named Conner. He made great suggestions, especially for cocktails and food choices. We both started with their Pear Paloma-tequila, pear, cardamom, lime, grapefruit soda. It was refreshing and good. It was the perfect drink to try. We were looking to get a quick bite just to tie us over. This place came recommended by a close friend. We ordered a few appetizers. Spicy Tuna Roll- tuna, spicy mayo, masago, scallion, sambal, eel sauce, sesame seeds add avocado + $1, add pickled mango + $1 I chose the mango for a twist. It was fresh and delicious. We also ordered a California Roll- kani, cucumber, avocado, nori, sushi rice, sesame seeds. You can add pickled mango + $1 or avocado for + $1. We added the mango for a twist. It was very good. Next time I come I want to try their Buttermilk Fried Chicken Bao Buns-sriracha slaw, house made pickled cucumber, micro cilantro, asian glaze. It looked so good. There was a couple sharing our high top and they ordered several orders of these and they told us it's a must try. I would've ordered more food, but we were going to another place and I didn't want to fill up. The staff is very nice here all very friendly and welcoming. There's no children's menu. This place is a bit small so I don't recommend it for young children and it would be difficult for handicapped unless you're able to get a table outside. We will definitely be back.

    Photos
    The Dinky Bar & Kitchen - Dinky's Bar Area

    Dinky's Bar Area

    The Dinky Bar & Kitchen - Heirloom tomato abd burrata flatbread

    Heirloom tomato abd burrata flatbread

    The Dinky Bar & Kitchen - Sign

    See all

    Sign

    Mistral - Pan Seared Snapper ($34) - celery root puree, buttered leeks, potato sarladaises, confit tomatoes​

    Mistral

    3.9(768 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$

    We came here on a Sunday morning and there was only one other party seated, so it was pretty quiet…read more That may have been due to it being MLK weekend, with many people out of town for the long weekend. I ordered the Grilled Chicken Wrap, which was excellent, packed with chicken and very filling. I ended up taking half home because it was both generous and delicious. The side salad was also surprisingly good. We ended up returning later for happy hour, which takes place in the room to the right of the hostess stand. I highly recommend stopping by for drinks and bites if you're in the mood for classic cocktails and solid food. Happy hour is first come, first served and limited to the bar only (around 15 seats total). We arrived right when it started, and when we left about 40 minutes later, the bar was about half full. I'd definitely come back to try their dinner or to enjoy their happy hour again.

    Wow just wow. Had a…read morebusiness meeting here. I don't even know how to communicate how delicious it was. We got some starters. West Coast Oysters - filled with lime and pickled cucumbers. Tuna Sashimi - spicy fish over green melon. Such a great combination. Who thought of this?!? Crispy Salmon Bites - my second favorite thing tonight. I got the scallops over peas with bacon as my main meal and man was it amazing. Best scallops I've ever had. I am trying to decide if I want to leave my current spot and work for him. Taking me here was a major step in the right direction. He said we could meet here monthly since it is halfway between us. Uhhhh I guess I should say yes!!

    Photos
    Mistral - Open kitchen

    Open kitchen

    Mistral - Crispy Salmon Bites ($12) - togarashi, nori, tayaki sauce​. Sauce was surprisingly sweet. It's mostly rice.

    Crispy Salmon Bites ($12) - togarashi, nori, tayaki sauce​. Sauce was surprisingly sweet. It's mostly rice.

    Mistral - Crispy Salmon Bites ($12) - togarashi, nori, tayaki sauce​. Sauce was surprisingly sweet. It's mostly rice.

    See all

    Crispy Salmon Bites ($12) - togarashi, nori, tayaki sauce​. Sauce was surprisingly sweet. It's mostly rice.

    Agricola Eatery - Tuna Tartare

    Agricola Eatery

    3.9(1.4k reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$$

    Good food , lively vibrant ambience, and good company makes for a great evening . The service was…read moregood except they missed the occasion we were celebrating and didn't care to bring out a candle with the dessert we ordered . As we were leaving I reconfirmed it with the person at the host's desk ( seemed to be the manager) , who apologized and said maybe our waiter missed it . But it was a noticeable miss that cannot be overlooked, as that was the purpose of our dinner here. End of the meal, our family's spirits fell flat, but we still sang and celebrated sans the petty candle. Now on to the food and drinks... Mocktails were delicious, colorful, and eye-catching . We tried all 3 on the menu and loved it. Appetizers galore filled our table ... Bang Bang cauliflower had a medley of sweet & sour flavors. Hummus pita board - Warm grilled pita was a table favorite with the small portion of hummus and fresh crisp veggies. Harvest salad - crisp lettuce, feta cheese, walnuts, poached and fresh sliced pear, cucumbers, and watermelon radish with rose vinaigrette made this extra special. Crispy calamari - great pairing with pickled veggies and arugula basil aioli. We ordered an assortment of entrees with all seafood choices . Salmon with risotto , Halibut & Branzino cooked to perfection served with flavorful sides. For dessert, it was the warm brownie with vanilla ice cream and peanut butter cup . The brownie was soft and not too sweet, slightly warm and it vanished in a few seconds. Peanut butter cup was a dense donut texture with candied peanuts We hoped that at least one of the desserts would be served with a candle as we were celebrating a birthday but they missed it and didn't care enough despite letting them know when marking the reservation. I loved everything about the experience at Agricola, but their lack of attention to detail stuck out like a sore thumb , as the poor communication between their front desk and wait staff dampens the guests' experience , making it a not-so-great finish .

    Another fine meal at Agricola. The Calamari was light and flavorful without being overwhelmed by…read morethe breading. My Salmon was superb along with service that was right on time. In contrast to their far more expansive location in Morristown, the Princeton location is noticeably more "intimate" with Manhattan inspired table crowding. Not enough to detract from a wonderful meal but certainly worth noting. Five stars all day long. PS... no credit card surcharge. A surprise that certainly puts a smile on my face.

    Photos
    Agricola Eatery - Beautiful ambiance.  Great vibe.

    Beautiful ambiance. Great vibe.

    Agricola Eatery - Roasted Local Mushroom Medley

    Roasted Local Mushroom Medley

    Agricola Eatery - Santa's Sleigh (w/nonalcoholic rum) & Spicy Holiday

    See all

    Santa's Sleigh (w/nonalcoholic rum) & Spicy Holiday

    The Blue Bears - bakeries - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...