When you think of New York City, what comes to mind? Bright lights, tourists, too many taxis cabs, and a hustle and bustle that can't be beat? You're not wrong. Yet the one word that simply screams New York, fulfilling the essence that the city has captivated?
Brunch.
Other cities may have tried their hand at this classy middle meal, but nowhere does it like New York. New York has the world at its fingertips; every ethnicity has placed their mark on the city that never sleeps, and as a result, plates of delectable food are waiting around every corner. You want waffles? Well be more specific—where do you want them, do you want them buttered up with strawberries or covered in curry, and do you prefer to stand or sit when you enjoy your meal? How much time do you have? And what is your price range? The list of questions goes on. You can be as picky or as loosey goosey as you please—your brunching experience has no boundaries.
And it's like that every weekend.
New Yorkers have crazy schedules. Their days are full of meetings, running to catch the train, and elbowing those pesky slow-walkers out of the way. Yet the weekends are their safe havens. They lazily crawl out of bed on those Saturday and Sunday mornings, ready to use the day to rejuvenate in preparation for the upcoming week. They may walk down the corner in their casual sundress to their favorite neighborhood bistro, for the same eggs benedict they've been ordering since college, or they can get all gussied-up in their Sunday best to meet friends for an unlimited French option uptown. Brunch gives you something special on the weekends; it gives you choices, freedom, flair and a breath of fresh air.
And it brings pancakes.
New Yorkers are obsessed with brunch because it's their city on a plate. It's their Sunday morning because they had an NYC Saturday night. It's what makes it socially acceptable to slow down and chat for hours before jumping into the next week. It makes Sunday slower, and more personal. Brunch gives life to New Yorkers' schedules. It encourages them to have another cup of tea instead of catching the train. It tells them to shut up and stop talking about the revenue they need to make. It presents them with the most New York way to chill out—it maintains their dignity while catching their breath. It lets them step back and breath...while ordering the truffled mushroom asparagus turkey burger, because, New York City.
Brunch is New York City. It is fun and extravagant and holds stories that the rest of the world may never be privy to know. It encourages you to order the mimosa and the bloody Mary. It loves the businessman and the broke student, the immigrant and the traveler. It forces you out but brings the comfort of staying in. It asks for a reservation, but lets you take your time.Taxis are necessary, and tourists aren't going away any time soon. But brunch? Brunch is not only sticking around, but New Yorkers are going to fight tooth and nail for it to last forever. Brunch is New York City, and New York City is brunch.
