Brunch in New York is an amazing experience, with something for everyone, from classic diners to upscale eateries. Here’s a list of some of the best brunch spots across different neighborhoods, known for great food, atmosphere, and unique offerings:
1. Jack’s Wife Freda (SoHo and West Village)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-American
- A trendy spot with a cozy vibe, Jack’s Wife Freda is known for its brunch classics like poached eggs with grilled halloumi, rosewater waffles, and shakshuka.
- Must-try: Green Shakshuka, Rosewater Waffles
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Location: 226 Lafayette St, SoHo – 50 Carmine Street, West Village
2. Bubby’s (Tribeca)
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- A beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, Bubby’s serves classic American comfort food with locally-sourced ingredients. Their homemade pies and biscuits are a must.
- Must-try: Buttermilk Biscuits, Pancakes with real maple syrup
- Location: 120 Hudson Street
3. Clinton St. Baking Company (Lower East Side)
- Cuisine: American
- Famous for its fluffy pancakes and baked goods, this cozy spot is a go-to brunch destination. Expect long lines, but the food is worth the wait.
- Must-try: Blueberry Pancakes, Brioche French Toast
- Location: 4 Clinton Street
4. Russ & Daughters Café (Lower East Side)
- Cuisine: Jewish-American
- For a traditional New York brunch, Russ & Daughters offers smoked salmon, caviar, and latkes. It’s a classic Jewish deli experience with modern flair.
- Must-try: Classic Lox Bagel, Latkes with Smoked Salmon
- Location: 127 Orchard Street
5. Lafayette (NoHo)
- Cuisine: French Bistro
- Lafayette offers a beautiful Parisian-style brunch with croissants, eggs, and French-inspired dishes. The grand café atmosphere adds an extra touch of elegance to your brunch experience.
- Must-try: Croque Madame, French Toast
- Location: 380 Lafayette Street
6. The Smith (Midtown)
- Cuisine: American Brasserie
- A casual, reliable spot with several locations in the city, The Smith is known for its lively vibe and broad brunch menu. You’ll find everything from avocado toast to mac & cheese.
- Must-try: Benedict Johnny, Hot Potato Chips with Blue Cheese Fondue
- Location: 956 2nd Avenue (at 51st)
7. Cafe Cluny (West Village)
- Cuisine: French-American
- Tucked away in the charming West Village, Café Cluny serves a refined brunch with a French twist. The interior is cozy and elegant, making it a perfect brunch date spot.
- Must-try: Egg White Frittata, Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
- Location: 284 W 12th Street
8. Café Mogador (East Village and Williamsburg)
- Cuisine: Moroccan-Mediterranean
- A popular spot known for its vibrant Moroccan flavors, Café Mogador offers brunch with an exotic twist, featuring dishes like Moroccan eggs, hummus plates, and tagines.
- Must-try: Moroccan Eggs, Halloumi Egg Sandwich
- Location: 101 St Marks Place, East Village – 133 Wythe Avenue, Williamsburg
9. Sarabeth’s
- Cuisine: American
- A quintessential NYC brunch spot, Sarabeth’s is famous for its wholesome brunch dishes, house-made pastries, and preserves. The Central Park location is especially popular.
- Must-try: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Eggs Benedict
- Location: 40 Central Park South
10. ABC Kitchen (Flatiron District)
- Cuisine: Farm-to-Table, New American
- This chic, eco-conscious restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes with an emphasis on seasonal, local ingredients. The ambiance is relaxed and stylish.
- Must-try: Roasted Squash Toast, Eggs & Avocado Toast
- Location: 35 East 18th Street
11. Tiny’s & The Bar Upstairs (Tribeca)
- Cuisine: New American
- Housed in a pink 19th-century townhouse, Tiny’s serves rustic, comforting brunch fare in a charming, intimate space. It’s a hidden gem with a cozy vibe.
- Must-try: Avocado Toast, Breakfast Sandwich
- Location: 135 West Broadway
12. Jacob’s Pickles (Upper West Side)
- Cuisine: Southern Comfort Food
- If you’re craving Southern comfort, Jacob’s Pickles offers rich, hearty brunch dishes like fried chicken, biscuits, and gravy. The portions are generous, so come hungry.
- Must-try: Chicken & Pancakes, Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
- Location: 509 Amsterdam Ave
14. Cookshop (Chelsea)
- Cuisine: New American
- A popular Chelsea spot with an emphasis on fresh, sustainable ingredients. Their seasonal brunch menu offers a variety of delicious, farm-fresh dishes in a light, airy space.
- Must-try: Baked Eggs with Tomato and Chorizo, Buttermilk Pancakes
- Location: 156 10th Avenue
Tips for Brunching in NYC:
- Reservations: Many popular brunch spots accept reservations via OpenTable, especially those with high demand like Sadelle’s and Lafayette. For others, you may need to arrive early to avoid long waits.
- Brunch Hours: Brunch typically runs from late morning to early afternoon, but times vary by restaurant. Some spots only offer brunch on weekends, so check the hours in advance.
Enjoy discovering NYC’s vibrant brunch scene!
