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Welcome to New York City, where brunch is not just a meal but a weekend ritual. In the city that never sleeps, brunch is a cherished pause—a time to enjoy leisurely conversations, sip on mimosas, and indulge in culinary delights that combine the best of breakfast and lunch. From chic, minimalist cafes to bustling, lavish eateries, NYC's brunch scene offers an exciting array of choices to kickstart your day in the most delicious way possible. Here’s our list for the 11 best brunch spots in NYC that are sure to elevate your New York mornings. (For the best weekend getaways, hotels, rooftop bars, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City weekend guide.)
Tip for the Best Brunch in NYC
Do I need to make a reservation for brunch in NYC?
Reservations are a must! Many of the best brunch in NYC spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Book ahead to secure a spot at your preferred time.
What area in NYC has the best brunch spots?
Our best suggestion is to explore the neighborhoods, each brunch spot reflects the character of its neighborhood. Take a walk before or after brunch to soak in the local sights and sounds.
What to wear for brunch in NYC?
For the best brunch in NYC it's best to dress for the occasion, while NYC’s brunch scene is generally casual, some places have a more upscale vibe. A smart-casual dress code will fit right in at most locations.
What is the best time for brunch in NYC?
In New York City, the brunch scene thrives during the weekend, with the prime hours stretching from late morning into the early afternoon. The best time to indulge in a leisurely brunch is typically between 11 AM and 2 PM. To avoid long waits, consider arriving right when doors open or after the peak rush around 1 PM.
How much is brunch in New York?
The price of the best brunch in New York City can vary widely depending on the location and the exclusivity of the establishment. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $16 to $30 per person for a typical brunch entrée with a coffee or tea. If you decide to treat yourself to bottomless cocktails or opt for more upscale venues, prices can rise to $50 or more per person.
The 11 Best Brunch in NYC
1. The Butcher's Daughter
Address: 19 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
The Butcher's Daughter, located in the Lower East Side, is a vibrant vegetarian café and juice bar that has become a haven for plant-based cuisine lovers. Known for its rustic-chic decor featuring blonde-wood counters, white-washed brick, and lush greenery, this spot offers a menu that appeals to both vegetarians and carnivores alike. Highlights include the cashew cheese egg sandwich, curry-flavored smashed avocado toast, and organic muesli paired with local fruits. As one of the best brunch spots in NYC, The Butcher's Daughter can get crowded during peak brunch hours, consider taking your meal to go and enjoying a picnic in a nearby park!
2. Jack’s Wife Freda
Address: 226 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
Jack's Wife Freda stands out as one of the best brunch spots in NYC, offering a unique blend of South African and Israeli culinary influences in the heart of SoHo. Known for its cozy yet stylish ambiance, this bistro serves up comfort food with an exotic twist, making dishes like rosewater waffles and green shakshuka local favorites. These offerings infuse a distinctive international flair into the NYC brunch scene. Additionally, Jack's Wife Freda complements its meals with an innovative drink menu, featuring cantaloupe mimosas, bloody marys, and espresso martinis, which pair wonderfully with their signature dishes. With four locations across NYC, this bistro remains accessible and a must-visit for both hearty and inventive brunch options.
3. Clinton St. Baking Company
Address: 4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002
Clinton St. Baking Company is celebrated as one of the best brunch spots in NYC, particularly famous for its exceptionally fluffy blueberry pancakes topped with warm maple butter. This bakery and restaurant are a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth, drawing crowds that are testament to its popularity, especially during the weekend rush. Not only does it satisfy cravings for sweets, but it also offers a savory menu featuring items like the Southern breakfast and sugar-cured bacon. The diner-style vibe, complete with bottomless coffee and a nostalgic feel, makes it an irresistible spot for New Yorkers and visitors alike. While weekdays may offer a shorter wait, be prepared for a bustling scene during peak times on weekends.
4. Dimes
Address: 49 Canal St, New York, NY 10002
Dimes in Chinatown is recognized as one of the best brunch spots in NYC, particularly for those who prioritize health-centric and globally inspired cuisine. This modern and minimalist eatery first captured the city's attention when it opened in 2013, quickly becoming a social media sensation. Known for its vibrant, Instagram-worthy dishes like açai bowls with homemade granola and hearty salads packed with fresh produce, Dimes offers a culinary retreat from the urban frenzy. Relocated to its current location in 2015, it continues to be a popular destination where patrons can enjoy a variety of dishes, from breakfast sandwiches and tacos to eggs prepared in any style, all while escaping the buzz of the outside world.
5. Sunday in Brooklyn
Address: 348 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Sunday in Brooklyn stands out in Williamsburg with its rustic charm and three-story layout featuring a rooftop bar and cozy dining areas. Renowned for its Instagram-famous malted pancakes and savory prime rib hash, this venue is a brunch favorite. Designed to be a neighborhood gem, it merges casual daytime dining with sophisticated evening fare, offering everything from house-made baked goods to innovative American dishes in a relaxed yet refined setting making it one of our favorites for best brunch in NYC.
6. Balthazar
Address: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Balthazar stands out as one of NYC's best brunch spots, epitomizing the charm of a Parisian brasserie right in the heart of the city. Known for its elegant Parisian atmosphere and classic culinary offerings such as eggs benedict and steak frites, Balthazar offers a rich, immersive dining experience. Owned by Keith McNally, also responsible for other notable Manhattan venues like Pastis and Minetta Tavern, Balthazar is not just a place to eat but a scene to be seen. Whether you're nestled in a deep red-leather booth or seated at the bar with a martini, this spot guarantees a diverse mix of powerful and fashionable diners, making it the ultimate brunch destination in NYC.
7. Egg Shop
Address: 151 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012
Egg Shop is a haven for egg lovers, perfecting egg-centric dishes that range from simple poached egg and avocado sliders to more complex benedicts and scrambles. Located in a bright, cozy setting adorned with playful, egg-themed illustrations and unique ceiling lights shaped like egg cartons, this café offers a whimsical ambiance that complements its innovative menu. Using organic, locally-sourced eggs, Egg Shop demonstrates versatility with its expansive menu featuring everything from decadent bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches to lighter, health-conscious bowls like the Warrior One with masala spiced lentils and shaved broccoli. If you are an egg lover, then the Egg Shop is definitely one of the best brunch spots in NYC you must visit.
8. Café Mogador
Address: 101 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Cafe Mogador, a cherished fixture in both the East Village and Williamsburg, has been a pioneer of the NYC restaurant scene since its inception in 1983. This Moroccan-inspired café offers a delightful Mediterranean brunch that includes standout dishes like the Moroccan Benedict and traditional Tagine. With over three decades of history, it has gained significant recognition, becoming a neighborhood institution and a beloved culinary destination. The award-winning brunch, complete with house-made bread and expertly braised tagines, is enjoyed amidst some of the best people-watching spots in the city. Still owned and operated by the founding family, Cafe Mogador continues to grow alongside the communities it has helped shape, maintaining its status as a must-visit brunch spot in NYC.
9. Sadelle's
Address: 463 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
In the bustling heart of SoHo, Sadelle's stands out as the best brunch in NYC for its iconic bagel and lox towers, a favorite among bagel enthusiasts. While not claiming the title for New York’s best bagel, Sadelle's offers some of the most visually stunning ones in the city, thanks to the skill of former Per Se and Roberta’s baker Melissa Weller. These bagels are presented with a flair, announced with a "hot bagels!" shout and displayed on oak dowels, making them a spectacle of their own.
10. Cookshop
Address: 156 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Cookshop in Chelsea provides a standout farm-to-table brunch experience with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Located near the High Line, it's perfect for alfresco dining. The menu includes everything from hearty omelets and savory grain bowls to innovative dishes like cilbir—a mix of poached eggs, sweet-potato hummus, and smoked-chile oil. Sweet favorites like the Dutch baby with lemon curd and warm glazed cinnamon rolls elevate the brunch experience. With spacious seating both indoors and outdoors and the option for reservations, Cookshop offers a comfortable, versatile setting for any occasion. This Chelsea gem perfectly blends traditional and novel brunch elements, making it a best brunch in New York City.
11. Bluestone Lane
Address: 417 Amsterdam Ave, New York, 10024
Bluestone Lane, an Australian-inspired café, has become a staple of the NYC brunch scene with its relaxed ambiance and exceptional coffee. Known for its health-conscious and vibrant dishes like the Avocado Smash and the Big Brekkie, this café offers a unique dining experience that resonates with both locals and tourists. Here, brunch is served all day, allowing ample time to savor favorites like the signature banana bread or indulge in an added egg on your avocado toast. As Bluestone Lane expands, including its first full-service restaurant and bar on the Upper West Side, patrons can look forward to enjoying sit-down dinner services, a range of salads, burgers, and grain bowls, along with "cheeky" cocktails like Aperol spritzes and rum daiquiris. This venue perfectly encapsulates the best brunch in NYC, offering a breezy, health-focused menu amidst a backdrop of stylish décor and casual sophistication.
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Whether you're a local or just visiting, indulging in the best brunch in New York City is an essential experience. Each spot offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to savor the flavors and rhythms of the city. So pick a spot from our list, make a reservation, and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure that will make your weekend truly special.
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