Best Brunch in NYC

The best brunch in NYC including everything from scrambled eggs to french toast, dim sum and bottomless, boozy options this weekend.

Last Updated on September 19, 2023 by Top Brunch Spots Staff

Brunch Food

Looking for the best brunch NYC this weekend? Great! Top Brunch Spots is the go to resource for brunch in New York each and every weekend. On top of that, we’ve already done all the hard work for you. That includes filtering through the noise to provide you only the best bottomless, boozy drinks and tasty brunches in New York City this weekend. Don’t forget to check out our guides for mother’s day brunch and easter brunch too.

So how does this work?

We pick our top choices based on the quality of the food, service, and consistency over time. We’ll start off by giving you the best options overall for brunch in the city and then follow up with links to different types of brunches and brunches in different neighborhoods at the end of this page.


Newer Brunch Restaurants


Breakfast by Salt’s Cure

Located in the West Village, Breakfast by Salt’s Cure is a popular spot for brunch in NYC. The menu features classic breakfast dishes with a twist, such as the Smoked Salmon Hash with dill, pickled onions, and a poached egg, and the Grilled Cheese and Egg Sandwich with tomato and avocado. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic vibe, and the outdoor seating is perfect for warm weather.


RH Rooftop Restaurant New York

RH Rooftop Restaurant New York

If you’re looking for a more upscale brunch experience, RH Rooftop Restaurant in the Meatpacking District is the place to go. Located on the top floor of a luxury department store, the restaurant boasts stunning views of the city. The brunch menu features dishes such as the Lobster Omelette and the RH Burger with truffle aioli and a sunny-side up egg. The cocktails are also a highlight, with options like the Strawberry Fields Forever with gin, strawberry puree, and lemon juice.


The Cabin NYC

For a laid-back brunch with a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere, The Cabin NYC in the East Village is a great choice. The menu features dishes such as the Breakfast Burger with a fried egg, bacon, and avocado, and the French Toast with caramelized bananas and whipped cream. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails, including the Cabin Bloody Mary with bacon-infused vodka.


Malibu Farm New York

Located in the trendy neighborhood of NoHo, Malibu Farm New York is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh, organic dishes. The brunch menu features items like the Avocado Toast with smoked salmon and a poached egg, and the Quinoa Porridge with almond milk, berries, and honey. The restaurant has a laid-back, beachy vibe and offers outdoor seating.


Villard

Located in the New York Palace Hotel, Villard is a luxurious spot for brunch in NYC. The menu features dishes such as the Crab Cake Benedict with avocado and hollandaise sauce, and the Grilled Prime Rib with roasted vegetables and truffle mashed potatoes. The restaurant has a formal atmosphere and is perfect for a special occasion.


Pig & Butter

Located in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood, Pig & Butter is a small, intimate spot for brunch. The menu features dishes such as the Chicken and Waffles with maple syrup and hot sauce, and the Biscuit Sandwich with fried chicken, bacon, and a fried egg. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic vibe and is a great choice for a casual brunch with friends.


Chez Ma Tante

For a taste of French cuisine, Chez Ma Tante in Greenpoint, Brooklyn is a great choice. The brunch menu features dishes such as the Croque Monsieur with ham and cheese, and the Omelette aux Champignons with mushroom and Comté cheese. The restaurant has a cozy, bistro-like atmosphere and is a great spot for a romantic brunch.


Estela

Located in NoLIta, Estela is a trendy spot for brunch in NYC. The menu features dishes such as the Egg and Bacon Tortilla with potato, onion, and aioli, and the Ricotta Toast with honey, sea salt, and olive oil. The restaurant has

a sleek, modern atmosphere and is a great choice for a sophisticated brunch.

No matter which of these restaurants you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable brunch experience in New York City. Whether you’re looking for classic breakfast dishes with a twist, elegant cocktails, or a taste of French cuisine, these eateries have something for everyone. So why wait? Make a reservation at one of these restaurants and treat yourself to a delicious brunch in the city that never sleeps.


Chez Nick

Located in the Lower East Side, Chez Nick is a charming spot for brunch in NYC. The menu features dishes such as the Croque Madame with ham, cheese, and a fried egg, and the Quiche Lorraine with bacon, onion, and Gruyere cheese. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic atmosphere and is a great choice for a casual, relaxed brunch.


Classic Brunch Spots


1803


NOMO Soho


230 Fifth Rooftop


While We Were Young


1. Agave

Agave NYC
Agave
Agave restaurant logo

Buzzy Southwestern restaurant in the West Village known for its margaritas & all-you-can-drink boozy, bottomless brunch on the weekends.

For $33 you get a choice of a meal (not just your normal eggs and french toast dishes) and unlimited drinks (mimosa, wine, or frozen margaritas) for 2 hours.

Address

140 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

West Village

Food Type:

Mexican


2. Poco

Poco logo

Poco’s world famous East Village brunch includes an entree (eggs dishes, etc) and unlimited mimosas, bloodies, and sangria for $37 per person, cash only.

Address:

33 Avenue B

New York, NY 10009

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

East Village

Food Type:

Spanish


3. Sweet Chick – Lower East Side

sweet chick food
Sweet Chick
sweet chick logo

Sweet Chick is located on the Lower East Side (another neighborhood known for its history of cool). Sweet Chick is recognized as one of the best restaurants in NYC, so just for that, it’s worth a try. They are most known for their fried chicken and waffles, so skip the boring egg dishes and avocado toast in favor of grits with your fried chicken.

Address:

178 Ludlow St

New York, NY 10002

Website:

https://www.sweetchick.com/

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

Lower East Side

Food Type:

Southern


4. The Wild Son

Cozy, Hip Restaurant in the Meatpacking District

the wild son brunch
the wild son logo

The Wild Son is another always fashionable Meatpacking District West Village neighborhood spot close to the High Line whose dining room fills up fast on the weekend. They open at 10 AM and don’t take reservations, so make sure you plan accordingly because you may have to wait. This place has perfected fish dishes for breakfast in addition to pancakes, so you know they’re good. Serving eggs with trout on the side may not seem like your immediate first choice, but don’t knock it until you try it.


Address:

53 Little W 12th St

New York, NY 10014

Website:

https://thewildsonnyc.com/

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

Meatpacking District

Food Type:

American


5. The Crooked Knife

Crooked Knife drinks
Crooked Knife Boozy Brunch
The Crooked Knife logo

The Crooked Knife offers a boozy brunch in the Murray Hill neighborhood on the east side of Manhattan for $42 on the weekends. The $42 price point includes any entree along with unlimited bloody mary or mimosas to wash down your buttermilk pancakes, eggs and food dishes.

Address:

232 W 14th St
New York, NY 10011

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

Murray Hill

Food Type:

Comfort


6. Banter

Cozy Brunch Place in the Village

banter nyc
Banter
banter logo

Another Australian inspired restaurant (See Five Leaves), has its home in the Village and gets in name from flirting, or just a really good conversation. Besides great food dishes, people like Banter because it is also a great brunch place with a great dining room to catch up with friends over healthy options, pancakes, eggs or whatever you like to eat on the weekend.

Address:

169 Sullivan St

New York, NY 10012

Website:

https://www.banternyc.com/

Borough:

Manhattan

Neighborhood:

Greenwich Village

Food Type:

American


7. Jacob’s Pickles

jacobs pickle sandwich
Jacob’s Pickles
jacobs pickle logo

People come for the biscuit or eggs and stay for the pickles. Jacob’s Pickles is one of the most popular brunch spots for good reason. There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a Southern meal in a chill dining room. Before you ask, they do make their own pickles. And they do fry them (and make a spicy pickle margarita).

Address:

509 Amsterdam Ave

New York, NY 10024

Website:

https://jacobs.picklehospitality.com

Neighborhood:

Upper West Side

Food Type:

Southern


8. Buvette

buvette
Buvette
buvette logo

The village has brunch! Another place situated in the ultra-desirable Village is Buvette. Buvette is a French place with an upscale dining room, and with many french options it may be hard to decide which French brunch is the best.

Address:

42 Grove St

New York, NY 10014

Website:

https://ilovebuvette.com/

Neighborhood:

West Village

Food Type:

French


9. Queens Comfort

queens comfort food
Queens Comfort
queens comfort logo

This eatery is for the bruncher who loves eggs benedict dishes. Get ready, because Queens Comfort has 11 varieties on the weekend brunch menu for people of all taste palettes and they serve lots of egg dishes in their dining room too. This neighborhood spot is best if you’re super hungry or super hungover, or both. Besides the benedicts, most of what is on the menu is deep friend and covered in cheese or gravy. Some other menu items include the breakfast burrito with fries and siracha aioli, the Oreo brioche french toast, and spicy chicken breakfast enchiladas.

Address:

3618 30th Avenue

Astoria, NY 11103

Website:

https://www.queenscomfort.com

Neighborhood:

Astoria

Food Type:

French


10. Buttermilk Channel

buttermilk channel chicken and waffles
Buttermilk Channel
buttermilk channel logo

Ah, the beauty of Carroll Gardens. What was once a Brooklyn neighborhood that people did not want to go to, is now an area with some of the most beautiful scenery and brownstones in Brooklyn. With Smith St. becoming more popular, and new restaurants and bars popping up all the time, Buttermilk Channel is a neighborhood spot in good company and a great choice for brunch dishes (eggs, french toast, etc) this weekend.

Address:

524 Court St

Brooklyn, NY 11231

Website:

https://www.buttermilkchannelnyc.com/

Neighborhood:

Carroll Gardens

Food Type:

American


11. La Tarte Flambee

Cozy, Cheap Brunch

la tarte flambee pizza
La Tarte Flambee
la tarte flambee logo

Another French-influenced restaurant, because why not? This Murray Hill restaurant inspired by cuisine served and prepared in Alsace, is an authentic representation of the city’s food. With chefs and owners committed to serving approachable and enjoyable cuisine, La Tarte Flambee will open up the casual bruncher’s mind to what’s possible beyond french toast and eggs for brunch this weekend.

Address:

153 E 33rd St

New York, NY 10016

Website:

Neighborhood:

Murray Hill

Food Type:

French


12. C.Lo Cafe

c lo cafe tacos
C.Lo Cafe
c lo cafe logo

Who isn’t in Bushwick nowadays? C. Lo Cafe aims to celebrate Guatemalan roots while serving a tasty brunch meal. There are plenty of spicy options for people that aren’t scared of the heat along with some classic sides and dishes to look out for include plantains cooked to both creamy and crispy deliciousness, aguacate toast for a refreshed take on the now-boring avocado toast, and a BELT sandwich with rave reviews. C. Lo has a mixture of fresh juices and alcohol along with a breakfast burrito for when you need one, eggs and a Guatemalan plate with all the favorites.

Address:

39 Bushwick Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11211

Website:

https://www.clocafe.com/williamsburg

Neighborhood:

Williamsburg

Food Type:

Guatemalan


13. La Cafette

la cafette brunch
La Cafette
la cafette logo

There is truly nothing like a French brunch. If you want the quality croissant you deserve or the pain au chocolat you desperately need, then you can have it at La Cafette in Williamsburg. The French have given people so many delicious delicacies beyond eggs; it’s hard to decide which one to choose for brunch.


Address:

103 Havemeyer St

Brooklyn, NY 11211

Website:

https://www.lacafettebrooklyn.com

Neighborhood:

Williamsburg

Food Type:

French


14. Sweet Chick – Williamsburg

sweet chick food
Sweet Chick
sweet chick logo

Sweet Chick’s philosophy says it all. Great food, a cool vibe, good people, and interesting brunch cocktails at a great price for brunch. Skip the eggs and go for the grits on the side. The chef makes amazing buttermilk pancakes too!


Address:

164 Bedford Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11211

Website:

https://www.sweetchick.com/

Neighborhood:

Williamsburg

Food Type:

Southern


15. Boulud Sud

boulud sud food
Boulud Sud
boulud sud logo

How about something just beside sun and the sea? Boulud Sud is a restaurant with a Mediterranean ambience that offers something for people of every taste bud.   The shakshuka, chicken tagine, or the sensational lamb burgers are just some of the options for brunch. The service and menu focus on the regional flavors. Fresh vegetables, seafood, citrus, grains, eggs and herbs – try anything that you are interested in.

Address:

20 W 64th St

New York, NY 10023

Website:

Neighborhood:

Upper West Side

Food Type:

 Mediterranean


16. Cafe Mogador

cafe mogador brunch
Cafe Mogador
cafe mogador logo

Another East Village brunchery is Cafe Mogador in its St Marks location. St Marks has changed quite a bit in the last ten years, and many of the street’s institutions have disappeared, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t also new places worth trying. The history alone is worth the trip. Make sure to try the pancakes, eggs and toast at this brunch spot this weekend.

Address:

101 St Marks Pl # 1

New York, NY 10009

Website:

https://www.cafemogador.com/

Neighborhood:

East Village

Food Type:

Moroccan


17. High Street on Hudson

high street on hudson duck barley
High Street on Hudson
high street on hudson logo

High Street on Hudson is known for the best breakfast sandwiches (side of eggs anyone?). The capable spinoff of the excellent option for the restaurant chain, it is an ideal bakery and restaurant for the brunch needs of all people.

Address:

637 Hudson St

New York, NY 10014

Website:

https://highstreetonhudson.com

Neighborhood:

Meatpacking

Food Type:

American


18. Maison Kayser

There should be a special mention for the notorious French brunch spot Maison Kayser, because the small chain of restaurants can now be dined at all over Manhattan, and is not exclusive to the Upper East Side. Eggs, pancakes, toast and brunch on the Upper East Side is always a good look so check out Maison when you get a chance.

Address:

1294 Third Ave, New York, NY 10021

Website:

Maison Kayser Website

Neighborhood:

Upper East Side

Food Type:

American


19. The East Pole

No doubt a play on the North Pole’s fame, The East Pole is just the kind of gourmet we want to see in a well-constructed brunch. The brunch menu has a variety of healthy and non-healthy eats (pancakes, etc), meaning that you can take your friend who’s dieting, and the one who isn’t for endless eggs, and they’ll both be happy. This place is a little on the pricey side, so very doable for a special occasion. Just please don’t come here in sweatpants.

Address:

133 E 65th St, New York, NY 10065

Website:

The East Pole

Neighborhood:

Upper East Side

Food Type:

American


20. Upland

Located in Gramercy and known as one of the best brunches in New York, just ask former President Barack Obama what he thought of Upland. Ok, probably don’t because he has better things to do than answer that question. If a president can brunch there, so can you.

Address:

345 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10010

Website:

Upland

Neighborhood:

Gramercy

Food Type:

American


21. AbcV

AbcV in Gramercy has a brunch menu for everyone, especially vegetarians. Not only that, they’ve got the mimosa on lock, people also love their bloody marys. Interestingly enough, the restaurant is owned by Abc Carpet & Home, which has a strong brand on its own. For a cozy brunch outing with a good bloody mary, AbcV is the place.


22. Victor’s Café

This Cuban spot has lively atmosphere and authentic eats, and is historic in that it has been in existence since 1963. This spot is designed to take the diner exactly to the place of its cuisine’s inspiration, and they do not disappoint. With bright colors that would wake anyone up, and an atmosphere more sea-side than river side, Victor’s Café is perfect for the bruncher that wants to experience old New York.

Location 236 West 52nd Street | New York, New York 10019

Hours Sat-Sun 11:45 AM – 3:00 PM

Website – https://victorscafe.com


23. Prime Meats

Prime Meats

Located in Carrol Gardens in Brooklyn, Prime Meats is an excellent option for the best brunch New York. What makes it an excellent choice is the wide range of choices available from the chef that will meet all your preferences. Whether you are looking for an all-out meal or simple light meal – the menu at this restaurant takes care of everything. You will indeed love the look of the farm to table restaurant and the appearance that resembles the inns and dining halls of the 20th century. You will definitely like the fresh and seasonal ingredients along with your pancakes.

Location Prime Meats 465 Court St Brooklyn, NY 11231

Working Hours Sat + Sun | 10 am – 4 pm

Website – https://frankspm.com/


24. Altro Paradiso

Altro Paradiso
Altro Paradiso

Looking for one of nyc best brunch places that resembles the lunch? Look no further than the Altro Paradiso. This Italian restaurant has the spreads that will cater to all genres of food addicts. Yes, they also have a reservation for larger parties. The chic and sophisticated setting and homely ambience are what would attract you all the more. The light wood and marble setting provide an excellent outlook to this extravagant spot a new dimension.

Location 234 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013

Hours Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am-3:00pm

Website – https://www.altroparadiso.com/


25. Esperanto

Esperanto
Esperanto

Launched in 1999, the restaurant has been the hot favourite for the foodies ever since. In fact, if you are someone who loves South American and Caribbean, you would just love its spread. The menu that spreads across delicacies like ovos rancheros on crispy tortillas and cheesy breakfast burritos should be an ideal inclusion on everyone’s dream palate. If you want something light, you can go for the affordable açaí fruit bowl. The restaurant in the Alphabet City is indeed an authentic Brazilian Latin option you can ever go with.

Location 145 Avenue C & 9th New York, NY 10009

Working Hours Sat & Sun 10AM-4:20PM

Website  – https://www.esperantony.com

26. Red Rooster

Who didn’t know this was coming? Red Rooster, and the restaurant’s chef, Marcus Samuelsson, are an institution in cuisine. The famous Harlem eatery is also open for brunch (if you can get in, be aware that they don’t take reservations on Sundays). Like the global combination of cultures that Red Rooster compiles in its lunch and dinner dishes, the brunch menu reflects a southern hospitality (complete with chicken and waffles and biscuits and gravy) as well as odes to traditional Mexican breakfast options like chilaquiles. Not to mention: cornbread with honey butter.

Location 310 Lenox Avenue (between 125th and 126th) Harlem, NY 10027

Hours Sat-Sun, 10:00am-3:00pm

Website – https://www.redroosterharlem.com

27. Atla

atla nyc
Atla

If you’re looking for the brunch experience that you deserve, with the spicy Mexican dishes to match, then you’ve found it at Atla. This place is decorated in a modern, casual fashion, and serves brunch all day on the weekends to an interesting mix of people.

Location 372 Lafayette St, NoHo, NY 10012

Hours Monday to Wednesday 9am – 3:30pm  5pm – 11pm Thursday to Saturday 9am – 3:30pm  5pm – 2am Sunday 9am – 4pm  5pm – 10pm

Website – https://www.atlanyc.com

28. Estela

estela
Estela

Quenching the taste buds since 2013, the Estela is indeed what has lived up to the imagination of the food lovers in New York. The menu is creative at the height of it and has been receiving accolades for its presentations. Cooking here approaches a personalized touch and thus meets all the social and cultural diversity of the city of New York.

Location 47 East Houston Street, New York, NY 10012

Working Hours Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am-3pm

Website – https://www.estelanyc.com


29. Narcissa

The new American restaurant located just at The Standard at East Village, Narcissa offers you a rotational menu. You also have access to a private dining room in addition to the main dining hall. The menu includes Seasonal, farm-to-table dayside bites like the duck hash and lobster scramble that is available at $20.

Location 25 Cooper Square, New York, NY 10003

Working Hours Sat-Sun  – 10:00AM-3PM

Website – https://www.narcissarestaurant.com

30. Dante

The breakfast dishes, sourdough flatbreads, hazelnut granola, and Italian restaurant sandwiches – does that impress you and want to visit the place for the exciting brunch session? Head over to Dante right away. It has been adjudged as the top 16 among the 50 best bars in the world. It has a history spanning over a century or even more and has been a landmark for the New York City.

Location 79-81 Macdougal Street, New York City 10012

Working Hours Open from 10 am on all weekdays and weekends

Website – https://www.dante-nyc.com/

31. Cookshop

cookshop
Cookshop

If you haven’t yet been to the Highline, you should go at least once. The view is spectacular, and there are a huge number of restaurants to choose from. If you’ve decided you’ll do brunch at the Highline, start with Cookshop. This is a supremely popular brunch in NYC, so do your best to plan ahead.

Location 156, Tenth Avenue, 20thStreet, NY 11

Hours Saturday and Sunday : 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Website – https://cookshopny.com

32. Mezetto

Mezetto

Address:

161 E Houston St

New York, NY 10002

Neighborhood:

Lower East Side

Food Type:

Mediterranean

33. LIC Market

LIC Market
LIC Market

Going in a completely different direction, LIC Market is known for its farm-to-table recipes and reputation. And now that Amazon won’t be coming to Long Island City, we can still bask in the glory of the neighborhood’s incredible food scene.

Location 21-52 44TH DR LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, 11101

Hours Saturday & Sunday   10 am – 3:30 pm

Website – https://www.licmarket.com


34. Joseph Leonard

joseph leonard brunch
Joseph Leonard

The Village strikes again with Joseph Leonard. With a cute atmosphere that feels authentically Village and New York, Joseph Leonard also has a diverse menu that will likely satisfy any bruncher looking for a good, filling meal.

Location 170 Waverly Place New York, NY 10014

Hours Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 4 pm

Website – https://www.josephleonard.com

35. Fort Defiance

Launched in 2009, the Fort Defiance has wonderful neighborhood feel. A great choice for the seasonal American food, it offers you reasonable prices and a great food. The menu spread includes Red Hooks staple serves, huevos rancheros, and a biscuit sandwich stuffed with eggs, red beans on toast ham, jalapeño jam and  French toast.

Location 365 Van Brunt St., Brooklyn NY 11231

Hours Saturday and Sunday – 9 am to 4 pm

Website – https://www.fortdefiancebrooklyn.com


36. Jack’s Wife Freda – SoHo

With three locations: one in Soho, one in Chelsea, and the original in the West Village, Jack’s Wife Freda is a brunch where the American and Middle Eastern sides are in perfect harmony. For Middle Eastern fare, the menu features grilled halloumi, peri peri chicken wings, homemade Lebanese yogurt, and waffles made with rosewater.

224      LAFAYETTE STREET     10012  2125108550    American


37. Sadelle’s

Iconic brunch spot that’s located between the Village and Soho, Sadelle’s, is worth its weight in bagels. Sadelle’s has a history of making the news with their incredible breakfast options and perfectly prepared bagels. In fact, Sadelle’s was named the best bagel in New York by Grub Street in 2016. They were named the best french toast in 2017, and one of New York’s best new restaurants by the Infatuation in 2015.

38. Prune

There’s no sugarcoating this: Prune is famous. This East Village eatery is one of the best brunches in the city, and is as busy as they come. Make sure that you plan ahead for this one, as it is very worth the wait. Head chef Gabrielle Hamilton deserves a medal.


39. Chez Ma Tante

This French-Canadian inspired restaurant takes its European flair very seriously. Chez Ma Tante’s menu is done by chefs Aidan O’Neal and Jake Leiber to the nth degree of subtlety. The seemingly simple menu has something for every bruncher: oysters and parsley, quiche Lorraine, swordfish with beans and eggs, a non-descript egg and sausage sandwich, and pancakes. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this menu.


40. The Bonnie

Astoria is a hidden gem code for food heaven. Astoria has it all and more in terms of the varieties of ethnic cuisines, bakeries, and overall dining experience. The Bonnie is an example of that variety. Whoever said Queens was too far out, or irrelevant probably hasn’t actually been past a subway stop.

41. Rabbithole

We’re glad to be back in Williamsburg. With a menu that will leave you salivating and a bloody mary that will leave you needing water, the Rabbithole is precisely what it sounds like: a vortex that will suck you in with their food, and you’ll be wondering what you had planned for later that day anyway.

42. Sweet Afton

Sweet Afton, another Astoria staple, promises solid cocktails and a range of dishes on their brunch menu. Even the cocktails are based on food with their brown butter bourbon cocktail and peach cobbler cocktail.

Sweet Afton has more of a Southern feeling to their food, with lots of fried items like the fried pickles and zucchini fritters, which are crowd favorites. This brunch definitely takes a twist on some favorite and classic breakfast items with dishes like mac and cheese, avocado toast with bacon and corn, and fried chicken with a biscuit and egg. The comforting feels vibrate out into the atmosphere with its cute modern vibe.

One downside to Sweet Afton is its prices. While the food is excellent and substantial, it can be a bit pricey for what you’re getting. It’s always hard to pay $14 for a burger without fries when you know you could get a bigger one for less. It all depends on how good the burger is. What’s worth it is somewhat subjective.

43. Five Leaves

Try this Greenpoint spot before you absolutely have to dip out and buy a polish pastry in the neighborhood.

This favorite brunch spot isn’t just popular because the late, great actor Heath Ledger was one of its original investors. Five Leaves gets busy, and you can see why after you peruse the breakfast and lunch menus.

The breakfast menu includes such favorites as ricotta pancakes, the sage scrambled egg sandwich, green tea noodles with boiled egg and edamame, and the incredibly popular and absolutely worth ordering Moroccan scramble. And those are just the breakfast options.

When it comes to the lunch dishes, they include a grass-fed burger complete with pineapple and a fried egg, duck pot pie, and their twist on a bacon-lettuce-and-tomato. Five Leaves also uses fresh, sustainable food that is locally sourced. In good conscience, you should try it.

If you can make the Times happy, we think you’ve made it.

This popular brunch spot isn’t just popular because the late, great actor Heath Ledger was one of its original investors. Five Leaves gets busy, and you can see why after you peruse the breakfast and lunch menus.

The breakfast menu includes such favorites as ricotta pancakes, the sage scrambled egg sandwich, green tea noodles with boiled egg and edamame, and the incredibly popular and absolutely worth ordering Moroccan scramble. And those are just the breakfast options. When it comes to the lunch dishes, they include a grass-fed burger complete with pineapple and a fried egg, duck pot pie, and their twist on a bacon-lettuce-and-tomato. Five Leaves also uses fresh, sustainable food that is locally sourced. In good conscience, you should just try it.

44. Clinton Street Baking Company

This iconic brunch spot, famed for being one of, if not the best in the city, has even expanded to Singapore, Dubai, and Tokyo. What started as a simple brunch spot has now become the place to go if you absolutely have to have the best pancakes money can buy.

The restaurant uses locally sourced products and foods. And for the Portlandia-spoofed diner who wants to know exactly where their meal came from, all their vendors are listed on their website.

Let’s get back to pancakes. Named the best in the city, you really can’t go wrong here. This is so true that people actually wait hours to get them. If you don’t have the time for that, then plan to go when you do.

Other than delicious pancakes, Clinton St. Baking Company also serves the classics: huevos rancheros, eggs benedict, potato pancakes, and chicken and waffles. If you’re looking to expand your brunching palate, there is also the buttermilk biscuit sandwich, a Spanish or salmon scramble, or brioche french toast.

As far as booze goes, you’ll be welcomed with bellinis, mimosas, and bloody marys to give you a little hair of the dog when you need it.


45. Shopsin’s General Store

Shopsins’s General Store puts on absolutely no airs. This diner is known for its rough and curt approach to breakfast service, so you better be ready. While New Yorkers might be prepared for this particular type of grit, your grandmother from the Midwest may not. But it’s all a part of Shopsin’s charm.

The menu itself is huge so there’s really something for everyone. Included on the menu is also the Shopsin’s cheeky humor, such as, “one adult per kid” and “we cannot accommodate severe allergies.” We told you, if you’re sensitive, Shopsin’s is not for you. Even if it’s not your thing, this place is something to be experienced and seen.

And of course, there’s the food. Some honorable mentions on the seemingly endless and hilarious menu include mac and cheese pancakes, name plates that include “Auntie,” “Bastard” and “Hunky Dory,” slutty stuffed pancakes, pancake sandwiches (even with schnitzel!), and poutine.

For the hungry bruncher with a wicked sense of humor, this place was made for you.


46. Egg

Egg is actually a brunch sent from socially conscious heaven. Their Brooklyn location is the original one, but there is now an Egg operating in Tokyo as well. Besides the beautiful brunch they serve, Egg also runs their own farm, employs a diverse kitchen staff, and has established a program that emphasizes the importance of literature in the community.

We’re already sold based on the aforementioned, but we need to talk about the food, too. Egg makes what you’d expect from the name, but they do it simply and they do it well. With a menu that changes with the season, you’ll probably always be surprised by the different dishes you can try at Egg Shop throughout the year. And before you absolutely run out the door to get to this place, put your shoes on, because breakfast is served all day.

The menu includes favorites like grits and eggs, biscuits and gravy, homemade granola, and eggs Rothko. The prices are also extremely good for such well-prepared and thought out food. The New York Times even gave it a glowing review. If you can make the Times happy, we think you’ve made it.

Special mentions from the menu include candied bacon, the fried oyster sandwich, hot ham, and pimento cheese, and caramelized grapefruit with mint. Now that your shoes are on, you should go now.


Additional restaurants below:

47. Monk Mcginn’s

This Tribeca brunch spot is a classic, and as you can guess from the name, it’s also an Irish pub. As you’d imagine from a bar, the drinks are fantastic. There is even the option to have a “Tipsy Tea” which is a teapot that comes loaded with a cocktail and ice that you pour straight from the pot. That’s the kind of tea time we have in NYC.

What we probably need to say is that this brunch is bottomless, meaning that drinks are never-ending. This could be a plus for those who are celebrating an occasion or just celebrating existing, but so far, this is the only bottomless brunch on the list. Beware.

Meals include a breakfast burger, and Irish breakfast, and crab cakes. Bonus points for technological advancement, as Monk Mcginn’s gives patrons a menu on an iPad so they can see what they’re ordering before they do.

48. Boticarios

This Latin American grub in the East Village is another favorite. It’s a new spot that has several dishes that are generally crowd pleasers like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. This is also a brunch that can come with bottomless drinks, so you better like tequila.

Because Boticarios is a newer restaurant, the owner is likely around to answer any questions and make sure that service is going well. He might even have a drink with you over some ceviche. However, the drink special might be better than the food as the portions are known to be small.

49. Barney Greengrass

Barney is a Jewish deli that will help you get your bagel fix. With deli staples like matzo ball soup, lox, deli sandwiches, challah french toast, and latkes. We’re not kidding when we say that Barney Greengrass is an institution. This Upper West Side eatery has a long history and just as long of lines.

Regardless, this deli is a must-try for their bagels and coffee, as well as the latkes. While cramped, it will give you the slice of old New York you need to get by on those long, winter nights.

50. The Penrose

The Penrose is mostly known as a bar, and they do drinks well, but they also do brunch. While their cocktails might be more fleshed out than the food, it’s absolutely a spot worth mentioning.

The ambiance is worth mentioning as they’ve gone out of their way to look like a chic modern bistro, and they’re serving up such favorites as mac and cheese balls, chicken and waffles, zeppole, and roasted potatoes.


51. Pig and Khao

Pig and Khao food
Pig and Khao logo

Trendy spot for Southeast Asian fare

Address:

68 Clinton St

New York, NY 10002

Website:

https://www.pigandkhao.com/

Neighborhood:

Lower East Side

Food Type:

Asian Fusion


Russ & Daughters Cafe


52. Tina’s Place

Tina’s Place, though the physical sign on the building reads Tina’s Restaurant, is one of the best old-school, non-nonsense diners still around. With a deal that will make your New Yorker head spin (eggs, toast, potatoes, and coffee for just $5), those who know about it are keeping it a secret for good reason.

With a seated diner bar and several tables to sit at that accommodate a small party, Tina’s Place is where you go whether you’re hungover, spent all your money on records, or are just looking to have that greasy diner breakfast that any breakfast lover has come to appreciate. Beware: this place is older and has no air conditioning, so it’s not as pleasant in the summer months, but is anywhere in New York pleasant in August?

This is also a cash only place, but thankfully they have an easily accessible atm. Our recommendation is to go solo use it as time to clear your head in the bustle of the city.


53. Roberta’s Pizza

Roberta’s is another Williamsburg icon, with a menu that is ever-changing and a kitchen that likes to experiment. This also keeps patrons coming back again and again.

However, the menu is a bit limited. In terms of sweets, Roberta’s offers sticky buns and croissants. For traditional breakfast dishes, the restaurant serves a twist on the bodega bacon, egg, and cheese (on a croissant with fingerling potatoes), buttermilk pancakes, and scrambled eggs served with broccolini and pecorino. If you’re feeling extra hungry, there’s also the double cheeseburger.

Aside from breakfast and sandwiches, Roberta’s still serves a selection of pizzas which may or may not right match up with traditional breakfast selections. There’s also a tiki bar included at the restaurant, so wait times can be a lot less boring, and a little more fun. But there are communal tables, so put your most polite hat on for this one.

Penelope

Penelope is an American comfort food in quaint digs. Neighborhood hot spot serving American comfort-food staples in a country-chic setting.

Address:

159 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-481-3800

Website:

http://www.penelopenyc.com/

Sotto 13

Sotto 13 is a casual Italian fare in an intimate space. Cozy, romantic Italian eatery serving wood-fired pizza, pasta & family-style weekend brunch.

Address:

140 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-647-1001

Website:

http://www.sotto13.com/

Freemans

Freemans Hip hideaway serving American fare. American fare, craft cocktails & Colonial tavern decor draws a hip crowd to this hidden-away spot.

Address:

Freeman Alley, New York, NY 10002, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-420-0012

Website:

http://www.freemansrestaurant.com/

The Dutch

The Dutch Lively spot with regional American fare. Regional American fare (including oysters and much-hyped fried chicken) in a lively, modern space.

Address:

131 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Phone Number:

Website:

http://www.thedutchnyc.com/

Shuka

Shuka Mediterranean food, wine & cocktails. Place for contemporary Eastern Mediterranean food, wine & cocktails in a stylish setting.

Address:

38 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-475-7500

Website:

http://www.shukanewyork.com/

Fairfax

Fairfax Down-to-earth all-day cafe & bar. Easygoing all-day cafe & bar offering classic & inventive eats, plus wines, beers & cocktails.

Address:

234 West 4th Street, New York, NY 10014, United States

Phone Number:

Website:

http://www.fairfax.nyc/

Toro Loco

Toro Loco

The Grey Dog

The Grey Dog Coffeehouse serving casual American eats. Homey cafe lures locals for coffee, eggs, sandwiches & salads, plus some wine & beer.

Address:

242 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-229-2345

Website:

http://www.thegreydog.com/

1803 NYC

1803 NYC Spot for upscale takes on Cajun-Creole food & drink, with a look inspired by NOLA’s French Quarter.

Address: 82 Reade St, New York, NY 10007

Phone Number: +1 212-267-3000

Cafe Cluny

Cafe Cluny Bustling local bistro. Bright neighborhood bistro whose Franco-American offerings include weekend brunch.

Address:

284 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-255-6900

Website:

http://www.cafecluny.com/

Victor’s Cafe

Victor’s Cafe Decades-old festive Cuban restaurant. Cuban cooking & live Cuban music fuel the festive old-Havana vibe at this circa-1963 spot.

Address:

236 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-586-7714

Website:

https://victorscafe.com/

Parker & Quinn

Parker & Quinn American eatery & bar in a vintage space. American dining & creative cocktails set against a vintage backdrop in the Refinery Hotel.

Address:

64 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-729-0277

Website:

http://parkerandquinn.com/

Hudson Clearwater

Hudson Clearwater Modern American dining & drinking. Hot spot serving New American fare (including vegetarian-friendly choices) & creative cocktails.

Address:

447 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014, United States

Phone Number:

+1 212-989-3255

Website:

http://www.hudsonclearwater.com/

North Folk Restaurant

North Folk Restaurant Snug choice offering brunch, burgers & hearty meat dishes, plus a large wine list & outdoor seating.

Address:

122 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

Phone:

+12125375847

Website:


Finding Your Way Around Town

Wherever you happen to be brunching, and with whomever, it’s worthwhile to notice how special it is to live in the city. While rent prices are outrageous, the subway is never quite running properly and work is never-ending, sitting down with friends or family, or even alone, can be the time in which you reflect on your week, you laugh, and you eat some amazing food.

New Yorkers are lucky to experience a huge slice of global culture, whether it be in art, food, music, stage, or observation. What we can all identify with as New Yorkers is the exhilaration we feel on a good day, and the despondency we feel on a bad one.

Plan ahead, order exactly what you want, share a plate. A good meal should be enjoyed, not rushed through. Don’t rush it. Enjoy.

Many of the Top Brunch Spots are in Manhattan, but there are amazing restaurants in each borough and because of this we have dedicated pages to each borough.

Our coverage of New York City encompasses all 5 boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island), including restaurants near the Hudson River, Times Square and the Empire State Building.

Whether you are traveling here for the weekend or just need a great meal after a long, tough week… We’ve got you covered.

Before you visit Central Park or your favorite Broadway theater grab a bite to eat at one of the Amazing restaurants below.


Brunches By Category


Brunch in Other Cities

Best Brunch in Atlanta

Best Brunch in Chicago

Best Brunch in DC

Best Brunch in Los Angeles

Best Brunch in Miami

Best Brunch in New Orleans

About the Author Top Brunch Spots Staff

Here at Top Brunch Spots, we are foodies believing it is meant to be truly tasted, savored, and enjoyed, not simply consumed. We are excited to share our experiences and enthusiasm with you, whether it’s just to help you find a decent place to eat while you’re traveling or want to enjoy an amazing brunch in your home city. follow me on:

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More Brunches to Check Out

NYC Celebration Brunches

NYC Holiday Brunches

Graduation Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/graduation/

Mother’s Day Brunch

Memorial Day Weekend Brunch

Anniversary Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/anniversary/

Father’s Day Brunch

Engagement Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/engagement/

Valentine’s Weekend Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/valentines/

Anniversary Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/anniversary/

New Year’s Day Brunch

https://topbrunchspots.com/best-brunch-NYC/new-years/
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