NEW YORK CITY - There are plenty of places to choose from when looking for the perfect place to go for brunch in New York City. You can find a great spot to start your day, from cafes in the Upper West Side to locations on the Lower East Side. But which ones are the best?
Weekday Brunch NYC: A Guide to the 6 Best Spots to Beat the Crowds
In New York City, brunch is a weekend institution, often synonymous with long lines and crowded dining rooms. But the savvy diner knows a well-kept secret: weekday brunch. It's the perfect way to enjoy the city's most delicious breakfast and lunch fare in a more relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a local playing hooky, a tourist with a flexible schedule, or a remote worker looking for a midday treat, these NYC havens offer incredible brunch menus Monday through Friday.
1. Jack's Wife Freda (Multiple Locations, including SoHo & West Village)
- The Brunch: An undisputed icon of the NYC brunch scene, Jack's Wife Freda serves its lively and delicious menu seven days a week. The cuisine is a unique and flavorful blend of Israeli, South African, and New York influences.
- The Vibe: A bustling, all-day bistro with a bright, welcoming, and family-friendly ambiance. Even on weekdays, it can be busy, a testament to its popularity. Don't miss their Green Shakshuka or the Rosewater Waffles.
- Locations: Multiple, including 224 Lafayette St (SoHo) and 50 Carmine St (West Village).
2. Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant (Lower East Side)
- The Brunch: Legendary for a reason, Clinton St. Baking Company is a brunch mecca. While weekend lines are famously long, visiting on a weekday gives you a much better chance of snagging a table to experience their world-famous pancakes with warm maple butter.
- The Vibe: A cozy and classic American eatery that has perfected the art of breakfast. The entire menu is packed with comforting, high-quality brunch staples.
- Location: 4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002
3. Balthazar (SoHo)
- The Brunch: For a truly classic and grand New York experience, the breakfast and brunch at Balthazar are unparalleled. This iconic French brasserie is just as magnificent on a weekday morning as it is for a weekend dinner.
- The Vibe: Stepping into Balthazar feels like being transported to a bustling, glamorous Parisian cafe. Enjoy perfectly crafted pastries, steak frites, or a seafood tower in an unforgettable setting. It's a perfect spot for a celebratory weekday brunch.
- Location: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
4. Mezetto (Lower East Side)
- The Brunch: If your idea of brunch involves bottomless drinks, Mezetto is your destination. This Mediterranean restaurant is renowned for its fantastic bottomless mimosa and sangria deals, available every day of the week.
- The Vibe: Casual, cozy, and perfect for groups. The menu features a variety of shareable Mediterranean small plates, sandwiches, and salads that pair perfectly with their brunch cocktails. Large windows open up in the warmer months for a breezy feel.
- Location: 161 Allen St, New York, NY 10002
5. Bluestone Lane (Multiple Locations, including West Village)
- The Brunch: This Australian-inspired cafe brings a fresh and healthy approach to all-day breakfast and brunch. Bluestone Lane is renowned for its exceptional coffee program and delectable, beautifully presented food.
- The Vibe: Bright, modern, and stylish. It's a popular spot for dishes like Avocado Smash (avocado toast), Brekkie Bowls, and a perfect flat white.
- Location Example: 30 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014 (West Village)
6. Cornerstone Cafe (East Village)
- The Brunch: A reliable and beloved neighborhood staple, Cornerstone Cafe serves the East Village community with a wide-ranging menu of classic American and brunch favorites.
- The Vibe: A friendly and elegant yet casual atmosphere. The menu features something for everyone, from creative omelets like the Tagliata Steak and Egg to a host of French-style pancakes and crêpes. They also offer convenient takeout and delivery.
- Location: 17 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009
Don't wait for the weekend to enjoy one of New York City's best meals. These fantastic restaurants prove that weekday brunch is a delightful experience, offering all the delicious food with a fraction of the typical weekend crowds. From iconic pancakes and grand French bistros to bottomless mimosas and Aussie-style cafes, there's a perfect spot in NYC to make any day of the week feel like a special occasion.