If you love food as much as you love travel, you will know all too well how food experiences can shape fond memories of a place. In a city like New York, with its distinct multi-cultural character, it is frankly a rite of passage to dedicate portions of your trip to some great meals. And, what better place to start than a delicious brunch sitting, which by no streak of luck, is an offering New York does well. Whether you’re after a quintessential bagel and schmear with all the trimmings or a New York shakshouka, each neighbourhood is awash with options; almost too many to choose from. With that being said, we have done the heavy lifting for you and rounded up a unique and impressive list of must-visit spots. Ones we can safely say will not disappoint – with good coffee either. Here are the best brunch spots in New York City.
If you’re craving a good avocado toast and let’s face it, which Aussie isn’t, Two Hands is up there with one of the best. Owned by two Aussie expats, the menu includes a fun and flavourful variety of sweet and savoury options so no matter what you’re feeling, you’ll find something to hit the spot. They also solve your problem of not knowing where to find a good coffee. @twohandsrestaurant
The original location is Soho, but Jack’s Wife Freda, which defines the quintessential New York restaurant, now has several outposts across the city. The all-day diner was born from a beautiful immigrant love story and to this day is one of the best places in the city to gather over a meal. The Madame Freda and Mediterranean breakfast bowl are two of those ‘go back for brunch every day’ kind of meals and the price is very reasonable for the incredible quality. @jackswifefreda
Mogador refer to themselves as being part of the East Village fabric. That’s because nobody can imagine the East Village without it. Celebrities such as Zoe Kravitz frequent the spot for their signature Moroccan inspired cuisine; the other location of which is in Williamsburg. Brunch is served weekends until 4pm and we will literally recommend every dish on the menu. Especially the haloumi eggs! @cafemogadornyc
The menu is loaded with mouth-watering options. Russ & Daughters bake all their own breads at their Brooklyn location, and you can bet your bottom dollar that the delightful selection of cured fish, spreads and soups will be one of those New York meals you won’t forget. Remember to order a babka and some speciality halva after brunch for good measure! @russanddaughters
The charming little bistro located in the West Village feels like a slice of Paris in New York. The menu is made up of delicate sandwiches, waffles and Les Oeufes – egg options. If you know what’s good for you, treat yourself to some of the freshly baked in house pastries each day. @buvettenyc
If you like to satiate your sweet tooth at brunch hour, look no further. While there are some delish savoury options on the menu, the Sunday Pancakes at Sunday in Brooklyn seem only right. Also, they are adorned with Hazelnut Maple Praline and Brown Butter. A great brekkie spot to be grateful for good food and travel rolled into one. @sundayinbrooklyn
If you’re travelling with a group, Sadelle’s is a great spot to go. Sit outside and people watch as you enjoy the must order bagel tower and share memories from the previous day. @majorfoodgroup
One of our favourite Aussie chefs Dan Churchill has taken over the kitchen of the Osprey Brooklyn and created a brunch menu that we would basically fly to New York for. The injection of Australian flavours is faultless; Aussie Banana Bread and whipped strawberry and lemon ricotta, or for something a little more unforgettable, DC’s brekkie sandwich with chicken shop chips. Yes, chicken shop chips! @theospreybk
Cachapas Y Mas is a family owned and operated restaurant dedicated to serving up a taste of Venezuela’s most iconic dishes. From the minute you walk in you are welcomed with a warm smile and beautiful service. Some items you will find on the menu are Patacons, a Venezuelan/Dominican sandwich using Plantain fritters as the bread, and our favourite, the Cachapas sweet corn pancake. @cachapasymas
