So, #NYU2020 (or transfers or secret aliens from the planet Mars), you’ve been to Washington Square. You’ve changed your wardrobe to all black, you’ve figured out how to walk as quickly as possible on a packed rush-hour sidewalk, you’ve learned to avoid crazy homeless people, and you’ve even mastered the subway. What else do you need to become a true NYU student, and a true New Yorker? You thought you were there, but you aren’t. Not yet. What do you need? Brunch.
Brunch. The quintessential New York meal. The meal where drinking before 5pm is acceptable. The one where you can roll out of bed, get fancy, and laugh with friends about what you don’t remember from the night before over pancakes or an egg scramble. Not sure where to go? This list will break it down for you.
If you’re looking for something close...
Grey Dog is a must. This Village, order-at-the-counter staple is often the first brunch stop for many NYU students, the first foray into the brunch world. The seats are tight, but the place has an eclectic, woodsy feel, and it doesn’t break the bank. Also, their Challah Bread French Toast is absolutely unrivaled.
If you’re looking to feel #chic...
Check out Jack’s Wife Freda. This SoHo staple serves Mediterranean-inspired brunch dishes, and everything from their sugar packets to their food presentation to their tableware is oh-so-Instagram-able. The dishes are dainty, colorful, pretty, and even a bit healthy. The Green Shakshuka is an absolute must.
If your parents are in town...
The Smith is your best bet. Someone once described the Smith to me as an “upscale diner,” and it’s completely true. The Smith does classic food—everything from egg scrambles to avocado toast to waffles, but the difference is that everything there is always fresh, flavorful, and prepared with the utmost care. This is the place to take your parents (or to have them take you) when they visit. Better yet? The Smith has multiple locations. The one by Third North is great, but a brunch at Lincoln Center before a matinee at New York City Ballet will prove to your parents that you are truly a person of class.
If you really, REALLY like pancakes...
Head to Clinton Street Baking Co. The place does brunch every day of the week, making it a true NYC gem. Head early, because it always has a line. The pancakes are that good. And ff you’re looking for something extra-special, head there during Pancake Month in February. There’s a new specialty flavor almost every day; past favorites have included German Chocolate and Japanese Pumpkin.
If you miss your Grandma...
Friend of a Farmer is the place to be. Think wholesome pancakes, packed omelets, cornbread, and French-pressed coffee in a cozy space decorated with kitschy little red roosters. It’s decently priced for brunch, the waiters are super friendly, and there’s fresh produce everywhere. You can’t go wrong with literally any of the items off their extensive menu. What are you waiting for? It’s time to get your comfort food on.
If you’re in it for the coffee...
Bluestone Lane. The Australian joint has arguably some of the best coffee in the city, from your standard brew, to lattes, to cold brews, cappuccinos, and the famous flat white. On top of delicious coffee, they offer lighter fare, from delicious scones to fancy yogurt parfaits to the most delicious avocado toast you will ever have in your life. A bonus? Because it’s located in the West Village, the walk there (as well as the restaurant itself) is completely picturesque.
If you’re a true hipster...
Spitzers’ Corner is the place to be. The brunch is absolutely delicious (try the Country Breakfast with sugar cured bacon, the Watermelon Salad, or the Avocado Omelet), and the Lower East Side is arguably Manhattan’s coolest neighborhood, the place where a history of immigrants intersects modern-day street art. The restaurant is in a great location, located across the street from an amazing mural of Bernie Sanders, and do you want to know the best part? They take reservations.
So there you have it. Some of the best brunch tips I have to offer, where to go and why. If I left off your favorite, let me know in the comments below. Hoping you’re looking forward to the weekend, and happy brunching.
