Best brunches NYC. It’s the morning after a hard-earned night on the town, which can only mean one thing: brunch. Brunch comes in all shapes and sizes in the Big Apple and happens to be a sacred institution that New Yorkers take very seriously. Thus, it should come as no surprise that NYC houses some of the most delicious Benedicts and Bloody Marys out there. Don’t be limited by Manhattan, either: there’s some great stuff more than worthy of a jaunt across the East River. Grab up some friends or family and spend a leisurely weekend morning (or afternoon) at one of these best brunch spots in Manhattan and North Brooklyn.
Best Brunches East Village: Veselka
This East Village Ukrainian landmark has been serving stuffed cabbage, borscht, and varenyky with dollops of sour cream since 1954. The food is traditional Ukrainian fare–a little something different from your routine bacon and eggs. Point to anything on the menu and you likely won’t be disappointed. 144 Second Ave., veselka.com.
Best Brunches East Village: Root & Bone
Southern Comfort takes on a whole new meaning at this favorite rustic spot. One taste of the flaky biscuits and perfectly fried chicken—with a flavorful rye whiskey to wash it all down—and you’ll be coming back for more. The food is fresh and unique, putting fresh twists on classic American comfort food. 200 E. 3rd St., rootnbone.com.
Best Brunches Williamsburg: The Federal Bar
Make the former carriage house that holds The Federal Bar your first stop in North Brooklyn, just one train stop away from Manhattan, for a contemporary American feast. The staff is as friendly and helpful as the food is creative and tasty. There aren’t too many problems in life that a Cast-Iron Cornmeal Pancake with spicy maple, egg, and pulled pork won’t fix. 367 Metropolitan Ave., bk.thefederalbar.com.
Best Brunches Upper West Side: Jacob’s Pickles
Get a reservation if you can (or bring a snack to munch on while you wait in line) because Jacob’s Pickles will likely have a line during brunch hours. When you get seat, do yourself a favor and try the pickles: they’re made in-house! Keep in mind that the Southern/comfort food portions here are huge, so prepare for a food coma. 509 Amsterdam Ave., jacobspickles.com.
Best Brunches Greenwich Village: Sotto 13
Take a break from the fast pace of NYC in this romantic hub for wood-fired pizzas and family-style dining. A classy joint, enjoy soaking in the ambiance of an Italian café while enjoying innovations like a prix fixe brunch and a DIY Prosecco Bar. 140 W. 13th St., www.sotto13.com.
Best Brunches East Williamsburg: Ringolevio
Tucked away in a nook of the hip East Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn lies Ringolevio, a small neighborhood restaurant and wine bar that cooks up a mean French Toast Kebob for brunch. The eclectic décor exudes a certain nostalgia and leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy. 490 Humboldt St., www.ringolevio.nyc.
Best Brunches Upper East Side: La Tarte Flambée
Another French staple to try: tartes flambée! What is that, you ask? Essentially, it’s a French pizza, where the pizza crust is similar to a crepe. These dishes come in both sweet and savory varieties, and their airiness means you won’t be weighed down for the rest of the day. 1750 Second Ave. www.latarteflambee.com.
Best Brunches Williamsburg: Okonomi
If you’re looking for variation from eggs and pancakes, Okonomi offers traditional homemade Japanese breakfast foods served omakase-style. Japan chefs spend years perfecting their cooking, so leave it up to the experts to decide what flavors will please your palate. 150 Ainslie St., www.okonomibk.com.
Best Brunches Gramercy: Union Square Café
Amid the bustle and grind, take a moment to stop at the wonderful Union Square Café. Just like its name, the food is not overly complex. The menu changes as seasonal ingredients change (they shop at the Union Square Greenmarket), making each dish fresh and perfectly executed. Note: they’re closing in December, but reopening around the corner at 10 E. 16th St in the former City Crab space. 21 E 16th St., www.unionsquarecafe.com.
Best Brunches West Village: Buvette
Eat, drink, and be merrily transported to Paris without leaving New York. Bring your appetite to this cozy West Village French eatery serving up croques, omelettes, fine wine, and rich coffee. 42 Grove St., newyork.ilovebuvette.com.
