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The Best Breakfast And Brunch Spots In Long Island City, New York City

Freshly squeezed juices, taco shells prepped with slaw, beans and caramelized plantains and sliced cucumbers are just a few of the options on the menu 
Freshly squeezed juices, taco shells prepped with slaw, beans and caramelized plantains and sliced cucumbers are just a few of the options on the menu  | © Levi Mandel / Culture Trip

Is there anything better than fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon, with the perfect cup of coffee or a delicious mimosa? The correct answer is no, unless you are referring to having all of the above in the quirky art-infused neighborhood that is Long Island City. Just a short trip to both Midtown and Brooklyn, LIC is the best place to enjoy the most important meal of the day. Here are our top picks for starting the day right in Long Island City.

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51st Bakery and Café

Bakery, Cafe, Pastries, $

This café, which seats 46 people, is a must for those looking for a delicious pastry-filled breakfast. Just blocks away from the East River, you can enjoy diverse daily specials made by Faye, the talented co-owner and chef. Providing a flawless combination of a homely aura and a chic presentation, dining at 51st Bakery and Café is never a bad decision. Start your day by filling up on different baguette sandwich combinations and cream-of-the-crop pastries.

Barista Panini House

Cafe, American
Early and late mornings are meant to be spent drinking freshly squeezed orange juice and eating individualized paninis. Do not let their understated outdoor presence deter you, because once you enter and take in the modern décor, you will quickly understand why Barista Panini House is a Long Island City local’s go to spot. Quick, personal, and professional service is a constant here, which leads to many returning customers who order food to dine in or take out. The fresh food, the to die for coffee, and the unparalleled sandwiches are just three of the many reasons why nobody should miss an early meal here.

Café Henri

Bistro, French, $
This colorful French bistro is a cozy place with some of the most flavorful foods in all of the brunch scene in Long Island City. Don’t let Café Henri being owned by an American with Mexican chefs fool you; their menu is top-to-bottom filled with authentic French cuisine such as customer favorites les oeufs a sa façon and l’omelette avec choix de trios. Devote a morning or early afternoon to pleasing your taste buds with a taste of Europe in this Queens neighborhood.

Masso

Restaurant, American
Green eggs and ham are not just for Dr. Seuss books, but also for brunch patrons at Masso. The décor is not the only creative and inspiring feature at this place – the presentation of each dish is just as inventive. From adorable mason jars filled with various types of flowers to the attention spent on detail to each plate, customers will find everything here aesthetically pleasing. Décor and appearance is just the beginning; the food here is equally fascinating. Popular menu items include smoke salmon eggs benedict and the frittata of the day, which will have your mouth watering in no time. Masso embodies the complete package, when searching for a place that provides good food and atmosphere.

Tost Café

Cafe, Sandwich Shop, Fast Food
Paninis, wraps, omelets, and bagels, individualized for your personal preference, can be found here at Tost Café. Even though this place has limited seating, it does not deter customers, as this breakfast joint is an on the go spot that all locals love. Found on a modest corner in LIC, this eating establishment has the fairest of prices and the most accommodating of servers. Stop by this joint for one of their several early morning bites that will not only satisfy your cravings, but also that of your friends, family, and even co-workers.

About the author

Originally from the Jersey Shore, Alexis now lives and attends school in New York at St. John's University as a Public Relations major. When she isn't lost in a book, Alexis spends her time baking things found on Pinterest and attending concerts. From Dance Moms to The Bachelor, Alexis is up to date on all reality shows and is ready with an opinion on them at anytime!

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