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The Best Places for Brunch in New York City

Brunch is never in short supply on one of the world’s densest islands
Brunch is never in short supply on one of the world’s densest islands | © Travel Wild / Alamy Stock Photo

The city that never sleeps nevertheless enjoys a good brunch, complete with avocado toast and a healthy dose of mimosas. Make the most of its cornucopia of options with our guide to brunching in the Big Apple.

Bowery Bar and Grill

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, Bowery Bar and Grill is the perfect place for weekend brunch at any time of year. Their menu is versatile with a wide selection of eggs and sides, from sausage to bacon and fries. Other classic plates include cinnamon French toast, buttermilk pancakes, steak and eggs, and the smoked salmon plate. On Sundays, customers can indulge in their freshly baked banana bread; the best possible reason to pay B Bar and Grill a visit.

Good Enough to Eat

Good Enough to Eat has been the Upper West Sider’s destination for “good old-fashioned American food” since it opened in 1981. Brunch plates including apple pancakes, pumpkin French toast, and a smoked salmon-stuffed “Upper West Side Omelette” are as beloved now as they were then. Retro wall hangings and wholesome holiday decorations fit right in the residential neighborhood.

188 Bakery Cuchifritos

You may recognize 188 Bakery Cuchifritos from its appearance on the popular food show, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (for the record, Bourdain was a fan). Follow in the chef’s footsteps, and check out this neighborhood gem for garlicky mashed plantains served with fried salami, cheese, or eggs, authentic flan, and, of course, cuchifritos, the Spanish word for just about anything bite-sized and fried. This luncheonette is far from being a luxurious brunch spot, but it is serving up some of the best food you’ll have anywhere in New York’s five boroughs.

The Añejo

Two words: bottomless brunch. The Añejo has a brunch that is off the charts with mojitos and margaritas. Their pancakes are light and fluffy with a dulce de leche sauce and plantains. The atmosphere is comfortable, and the staff is attentive. The food is rich and flavorful with spice but not too much spice, and the menu is diverse with something for everyone. A bottomless brunch with good food and free flowing drinks can’t be missed. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of shopping in SoHo.

Balthazar

Gracing New York City patrons since 1997, Keith McNally’s iconic haunt offers a wide range of unparalleled fare for your weekend brunch. From French onion soup to the caramelized banana tartine, perfectly executed eggs Florentine, and more, Balthazar is one brunch spot that every New Yorker should visit at least once. Brunch is served from 9 am until 4 pm, and reservations are highly recommended.

Sarabeth’s

One of New York City’s most classic brunch spots with multiple additional locations around the city, you can never go wrong with Sarabeth’s, where a full bar with specialty cocktails awaits you. Arrive early, as Sarabeth’s reputation precedes itself, and they don’t take reservations for Sunday brunch. Come for expert gourmet spins on the classics, from eggs to pancakes, French toast, and more.

Eatery

Upon entering Eatery, you’ll be greeted by friendly waitstaff and an inviting indoor and outdoor dining atmosphere. This restaurant offers delicious, reasonably priced brunch options from 10am to 5pm, seven days a week. Locals can even order online to pick up or have their meal delivered. Choose from a selection of flavorful dishes, from the ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ on an English muffin with goat cheese, pesto and baby greens, to ricotta-lemon pancakes. Eatery gives the ultimate brunch experience with many flavorful options to enjoy seasonally on their menu.

The Penrose

There’s seemingly always a wait to get into The Penrose, especially on weekends when brunch is served. This half bar, half restaurant certainly knows a thing or two about cocktails. A particular highlight is Mister Pink, made with pink-peppercorn-infused tequila, hibiscus and lime. Once seated, sample fun dishes like French toast sticks (to be directly plunged into brown-butter maple syrup), mac and cheese bites, and fried chicken and waffles.
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