13 GO-TO BRUNCH SPOTS IN NEW YORK CITY
New Yorkers live for a Brunch induced weekend, filled with shared plates and boozy cocktails. I've spent many of my weekends brunching in the city. In fact, it’s one of my favorite ways to try new restaurants around Manhattan. And I thought it was time to share some of my favorites. Especially since restaurant recommendations are one of the most frequently asked questions for visiting New York. And also one of the hardest decisions to make living here, because there are so many restaurants to choose from. So here is my curated list of Go-to Brunch spots in NYC.
NOTE: This list was created prior to COVID-19. However, many of the restaurants listed are OPEN for takeout, delivery and outdoor dining. Please click on the restaurant name to be directed to their website for more info.
BLUESTONE LANE
Location: Click here for locations
The Vibe: Bright, colorful, casual spot to grab coffee & quick bite. Offers outdoor seating.
What to Order: The Avocado Smash, Banana Bread, Iced Coffee (my fave)
JACK’S WIFE FREDA
Location: Click here for locations
The Vibe: Bistro with Mediterranean influenced menu.
What to order: Green Shakshuka, Mediterranean Breakfast, Cantaloupe Mimosa
JACOB’S PICKLES
Location: Upper West Side
The Vibe: Modern Rustic meets Southern Hospitality. Best seats are at the bar.
What to order: The Buffalo Mac n Cheese, Deviled Eggs & Fried Pickles, Any of the Biscuit Sandwiches
*Note: Portions are generous.
MAISON PICKLE
Location: Upper West Side
The Vibe: Modern casual with a bar that feels very 1920s.
What to order: Berries-n-Cream French Toast, Challah Croque Madam, 24 Layer Chocolate Cake
*Note: Sister restaurant to Jacob’s Pickles
GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT
Location: Upper West Side
The Vibe: Super casual country kitchen. Offers outdoor seating.
What to order: Mexican scramble, Buttermilk Biscuits & Sausage Gravy, Pancakes (seasonal flavors)
FORAGERS TABLE
Location: Chelsea
The Vibe: Modern Farm to table. Also has a small fresh market connected to the restaurant.
What to order: Mixed Berry Scone, Ricotta Pancakes, Salmon Tartine, Cold brew
SHUKA
Location: SoHo
The Vibe: Mediterranean casual. Beautiful enclosed back garden room with seating available.
What to order: Cinnamon Rolls, Hummus, Chicken Shawarma, Bloody Mary
THE SMITH
Location: Click here for locations
The Vibe: Classic American Brasserie. Offers outdoor seating.
What to order: Vanilla Bean French Toast, The Smith Eggs Benedict, Spicy Salmon Tartare
TAVERN ON THE GREEN
Location: Upper West Side (inside Central Park, near Sheep’s Meadow)
The Vibe: Iconic New York City restaurant. Gorgeous glass enclosed seating area. Offers outdoor seating w/ views of Central Park.
What to order: Brioche French Toast, Baked Vegetable Frittata, Eggs Benedict Florentine
FRIEDMANS
Location: Click here for locations
The Vibe: Classic American eatery.
What to order: Chicken chilaquiles, Mac n’ cheese, Nova Benny
*99% of the menu can be prepared Gluten-free
COOKSHOP
Location: Chelsea (near The High Line)
The Vibe: American Farm to table. Offers outdoor seating.
What to order: Beignets, Frittata, Heuvos Ranchero, Strawbiscus Rickey Cocktail
BOQUERIA
Location: Click here for locations
The Vibe: Authentic Spanish style tapas bar.
What to order: Tortilla Española, Croquetas, Churros, Rosé Sangria or Spicy Shishito Margarita
CLINTON ST. BAKING COMPANY
Location: Lower East Side & Timeout Market in Brooklyn
The Vibe: Casual American restaurant & bakery.
What to order: Pancakes w/ warm maple butter (any flavor) *The best pancakes in the city!
*Note: Cash ONLY at Lower Eastside Location
SAVE this list for the next time you and your friends can’t decide on where to go for Brunch. Or for the next time you’re visiting the city and need some good brunch spots to impress your friends.
PRO TIP: Always make a reservation. NYC restaurants fill up fast especially on the weekends.
Which are your favorite Brunch spots in the city?! Share in the comments below.
XO, Dana Rae
