One of the biggest perks of living in the city that never sleeps is that you can always find something to do. Be it art galleries in Chelsea, clubs downtown, or shopping in Soho you can never be bored in NYC. But even more importantly, you can never be hungry either. In NYC, we don’t eat 3 meals a day; we eat 4, the most important of which is brunch. From fluffy pancakes, to eggs any style, to fresh avocado toast, brunch is always a good idea. While certain spots dominate in terms of ambiance, others shine in the aesthetics department, and many have specific dishes that are their particular forte. If you’re looking for a trendy brunch spot with a particular craving or vibe in mind, we’ve got you covered.
It’s safe to say that avocado toast has become the food trend of the year, if not decade. Practically all brunch spots have avo toast on their menu, simply because it’s a must have dish for all brunch-goers. The avo toast at The Butcher’s Daughter, a cute little cafe on Kenmare Street, is said to be the best in the city, a claim I can personally attest to. Served on whole wheat bread with accents of cilantro, lime, mustard seeds and an optional farm egg, the sensation of flavors and textures is not only delicious but also 100% healthy.
Although we are #blessed to be in such close proximity to amazing pancakes as Community Food and Juice is basically Barnard’s neighbor, if you’re looking for another pancake spot not necessarily in Manhattan, Five Leaves is for you. Though the lines are long, they’re definitely worth the wait at this corner brunch spot in Greenpoint. Though their menu is all-encompassing, their acclaimed dish is the ricotta pancakes (served with honeycomb butter, banana, blueberries, strawberries and served with 100% pure maple syrup), and rightfully so. The pancakes are moist, fluffy, aromatic and simply delicious. When craving pancakes, we’ll leave you to visit Five Leaves.
Brunch is unquestionably incomplete without an egg dish of some sort, and no restaurant joint masters eggs any style other than Jack’s Wife Freda. From shakshuka, to Mediterranean breakfast, to eggs benedict, this spot has any egg dish you can think of. Their personal specialty is the shakshuka, which I would recommend to anyone in the mood for a not so basic breakfast. Of Mediterranean origin, this dish usually consists of poached eggs cooked in spiced simmered tomatoes with challah bread on the side. Freda definitely deserves a pat on her back for that one.
Last but not least, every New Yorker knows Bluestone Lane is the go-to spot for a fulfilling brunch… and instagram photo. This Australian-styled café is well known for its food and equally popular for its vibe and aesthetic. With wooden, marble, distressed or all white tables, getting a bad gram shot is basically impossible here. Customers also love the outdoor seating option, not only for the fresh air, but also for the lighting! If you’re looking for a place where good food meets good pictures, take a walk down Bluestone Lane.
Take a break from Butler and go out for brunch next Sunday, especially now that you’re informed of the city’s best spots! Bring some friends, take some artsy pictures, and call yourselves The Brady B(r)unch.