So you’ve finally made your move to NYC and are ready to explore the city. We understand that things can get a little overwhelming at first and finding good food and great hangout spots can be a little tricky, but don’t worry, we have gathered 9 best brunch restaurants in NYC that you should definitely visit.
Brunch restaurants are also a great way to meet and mingle with fellow New Yorkers. We are sure there’s plenty to choose from and since you’ve just moved here, you’ll have more than enough time to try out most; if not all of them and eventually find your favourite. Food always brings people together so this is a great way to make new friends.
Best brunch restaurants in NYC:
- BANTER NYC
An amazing restaurant located in Greenwich and West village NYC. This place is the epiphany of live and be happy. With it being one of the top rated restaurants in the city, it is no doubt a MUST try!
This is a great place to make new friends and enjoy some great food. They have a wide selection ranging from egg sandwiches, wraps, salads and more. If you’re looking for some great banter and food in NYC, this is the best place for you.
The restaurant doesn’t take reservations as it is a walk in only cafe however, if there’s a wait, they’ll take your details and call you as soon as a table becomes available.
- JACKS WIFE FRIDA
“If you were going to give the cuisine a long and unwieldy name, it might be South African Israeli Jewish Grandmother Cuisine.” New York Magazine.
And we can fully agree that this place has a touch of different cultures. The food speaks for itself. They have amazing brunch dishes like sandwiches, salads and a special South African dessert which is the Malva pudding. We highly recommend this place.
They take reservations and are “open all day everyday” according to their website. Check them out as they’re one of the most highly rated restaurants in SOHO NYC.
- SADELLES
This restaurant is best known for its housemade bagels. It’s also located in the heart of NYC.
“Among its many accolades, Sadelle’s was named an essential brunch destination by Harper’s BAZAAR and Cosmopolitan, and its sticky buns were ranked one of the Best Dishes of 2015 by The New York Times.”
If you love bagels for brunch then this is the best spot to try. They have seafood bagels to egg bagels and more.

- THE BLUE DOG
This is a healthy eatery. They are dedicated to your health and well being. They use organic, fresh ingredients for their meals and if they can’t find anything organic, they source locally from certified farms.
“Our proteins are all natural Antibiotic-free USDA approved. Nothing is processed, nothing is ever frozen” According to their website.
They have everything from French toast, homemade crab cakes, quesadillas, egg sandwiches and cocktails. Check out their website for a full menu and more.
- COOKSHOP
Some of the best pastries in NYC. If pastry is your preferred brunch meal, then this is the best place for you.
Their menus change frequently. They stay in season so they try to get the freshest ingredients that are in season from the local farms. This is great because it means you can expect a variety of food from the same restaurant all year round. That is one great business model.
They have beignets, breakfast sausages, toasted sandwiches and more. This is a popular brunch spot with inside and outside seating. If you have a dog, this place is great as it is dog friendly.
- RUSS AND DAUGHTERS
This is a full service outpost that serves Jewish food. They have bagels and sandwich boards, platters and caviar just to name a few. If you are looking for some good fish bagels, we would recommend this place. If you’re looking to mingle, this is not the place for you as they only do pick-up orders as of May 2022 (till further notice).
However, there’s a lot of cafe’s in and around the same block where you could go sit and enjoy your bagel.
- SHUKA
An eastern Mediterranean food restaurant. They have mezze, chicken shawarma, malawach and a whole lot more. If you like a different style brunch, this is the place to go. Fresh food, stylish restaurant and an amazing selection of drinks.
Located in the heart of SOHO. It’s very convenient and they have a great garden at the back where you can sit and enjoy your food and with some backyard fresh air.
- CLINTON STREET BAKING COMPANY
This is a chef owned classic American restaurant and bakery located in the lower east side of New York city. They have a great selection of pastries, milkshakes and great desserts. Their pastry display will have you drooling.
Great food, good vibes and a great welcome to New York city.
With more than 3000 google reviews with a 4.4 star rating, this is one of the best restaurants in New York City. It is well known for its brunch and pancakes. Give it a try and we’re sure you won’t have any regrets!
- BUBBY’S
This is known as New York’s beloved restaurant and pie shop. They are open everyday for dine in and delivery.
They have some classic American dishes like avocado toast, burgers, fried chicken, pancakes etc. It is a great restaurant to meet new people, make friends or even say hi to your neighbours. Great spot to socialise!
CONCLUSION
We hope this lost will help you find your favourite restaurant in your new neighbourhood. Moving to a new city can be overwhelming and you can find yourself isolating and never going out to mingle, but you should always try to familiarise yourself and get out of the house.
These restaurants have classics and are multi cultured which makes them the best rated restaurants in NYC. Go out have fun and make friends! Welcome to NYC!!
Check out our Capital City Movers website for more great tips about NEW YORK CITY.