For the sweet tooths
Some people crave steak, burgers, or can’t imagine brunch without a perfect Eggs Benedict. But for those who believe brunch is still more breakfast than lunch—and who need that daily sugar fix—New York has plenty to offer.
Head to 44 & X in Manhattan for their buttermilk fried chicken with maple syrup. If you’re hunting down the ultimate pancakes, Café Luluc in a beautiful area of Brooklyn delivers fluffy stacks with classic toppings. Sweet cravings satisfied.
For the classics
What’s more iconic than ordering scrambled eggs at brunch? Good news—New York is the birthplace of this legendary dish, and two restaurants still claim to be the original creators.
Delmonico’s says they added it to the menu in the 1840s (now only served at their Bar & Grill), while Oscar’s American Brasserie at the famous Waldorf Astoria credits maître d’ Oscar Tschirky with inventing it for a certain Lemuel Benedict.
Both spots deliver history on a plate—perfect additions to any New York food tour style brunch adventure. Meanwhile, Pastis fans still hold their breath, hoping for a full comeback.
For the adventurous and trendsetters
If your brunch game is all about discovering what’s hot and what’s next, Allswell in Williamsburg is your dream destination. Their brunch menu changes daily—yes, they serve brunch every single day—based on what’s freshest or simply what the chef feels like cooking.
Expect a rustic, homey twist on every dish. Check their Tumblr each morning to see what’s on.
For the music lovers
They say music feeds the soul—but when it’s time to feed your stomach too, NYC has the perfect combo. For a jazzy brunch in a low-key setting, Jules Bistro in the East Village offers live music and a tasty prix-fixe brunch menu for just $20. Meanwhile, uptown, The Blue Note Jazz Club brings the groove with a cozy brunch setting and live performers. It’s the kind of experience that makes a great detour on any New York food tour with soul.
For those who want to keep the party going!
New Yorkers were nearly in uproar recently when it looked like their sacred boozy brunch might be under threat. Fortunately, the bottomless brunch survived, and anyone nursing a hangover (or planning ahead) can rejoice.
Yuca Bar in the East Village is famous for its unlimited sangria bar alongside hearty Latin-inspired dishes—ideal for soaking up last night and starting the new day. At Ofrenda, the question isn’t what to drink—it’s how many mimosas or Jalapeno Margaritas you can manage in 90 minutes (all for $25 with any brunch plate).
Prefer bubbles? Harry’s Bar & Restaurant, in the Financial district, keeps the champagne flowing with every main dish. And if Bloody Marys are your vibe, Poco in the East Village includes them in their bottomless brunch deal. Cheers.
For the semi-party brunchers
Not sure you’re up for a full-on all-you-can-drink frenzy? Go for the middle ground: prix-fixe brunches with a few included drinks.
Essex is already a classic in the “fun brunch” category in the Lower East Side. For $25, you get your pick from a solid menu (think steak and eggs, Benedict, mac & cheese) plus three drinks—choose from mimosas, screwdrivers, or Bloody Marys. A good time, minus the pressure.
Looking for the perfect brunch place depends on your mood, your vibe, and maybe your hangover level. If you are planning your next food tour New York edition, these spots are more than just stops, they are stories on a plate.
