Brunch and Bougie, Manhattan: Top Four Places to Brunch

Weekend mornings in New York mean two things: sleeping in and going to brunch. The famous New York ritual of brunch is a “must” for New York City dwellers to try, from the chic crowds of brunch-goers to the myriad of ways one can whip up an egg. In order to make a bougie brunch in the Big Apple a little easier, the following is a list of four ideal places to brunch on a weekend in Manhattan.

Two Hands

Conveniently located in TriBeCa, only a short walk from the Franklin St. 1 subway stop, Two Hands Restaurant and Bar is the perfect spot for a healthy, chic brunch. Two Hands takes its inspiration from Australia’s evolving culinary scene and its breezy, nonchalant beach-side experience. The atmosphere is warm, lively and trendy. Ultra-chic, brand-name-adorned brunch-goers add an “it” factor to this charming spot. The decor, is relaxed and has soft lighting that filtered in through large ceiling to floor windows. Stunning photography of Sydney lines the walls, transporting brunch goers to the beaches of Australia. Eclectic covers of popular songs performed by an Australian singer. James, one of the charismatic Australian waiters, describes the food in three words as “healthy, colorful, and awesome." Two Hands’ food is healthy but tasty. The dishes offered range from variations on egg dishes with fresh greens to sweet potato waffles and thick-cut bacon.

Bottom line: if you’re in the mood to be serenaded by an Australian with a manbun while eating fresh, hearty avocado toast, look no further.

• Where: 251 Church St, TriBeCa NYC, 10013
• Hours: Brunch (Saturday & Sunday) 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Notes: The best time to go would be towards the end of brunch, otherwise it will a long wait. Waits can be for over an hour.
• Price: Average range was $12-20
• Craving: Light, healthy, nutritious, trendy, and delicious food.

 

Egg Shop

Second on the brunch hit-list is a cute, tucked away spot called Egg Shop. Just like the name suggests, this little restaurant boasts the promise land of all and everything egg. From sandwiches to bowls, Egg Shop has all your fluffy, scrambled, poached, or fried egg needs covered. Located on an artistic street in Nolita, the restaurant is only a short walk from the Prince St. R/W stop. Egg Shop’s atmosphere is lively, charming, and quaint. With upbeat music and bright lighting, this brunch spot is perfect for an afternoon wake up. According to the waitstaff, “...the ‘Hot Chix’ sandwich is [a favorite].” Complete with spicy fried chicken and a load of eggs, the waiters brag it “...is one of the most unique sandwiches.”

Bottom line: Don’t wanna break the bank but craving something delicious and full of protein? This is your spot!

• Where: 151 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012
• Hours: Brunch, 8 a.m.- 11pm (Saturday),  8 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sunday)
• Notes: A good time to go is a little after noon, but there can be a wait. Budget anything from five to 90 minutes.
• Price: $10-15
• Craving: ANYTHING EGGS. Hearty, filling, good-sized portions on sandwiches, omelets, and anything else. Gluten-free options also available.

 

The Butcher’s Daughter

Looking to enjoy brunch with groovy music, eccentric servers and nutritious food all packaged into a bustling, lively environment? Go no further than The Butcher’s Daughter located in Nolita, a few minutes’ walk from the Prince St. R/W station. With windows lining each wall, the small, open-air brunch shop serves a range of sensational ultra-healthy, ultra-filling plates from cauliflower ‘grits,’ to juices and smoothies, to elixir shots of wheatgrass to cure hangovers. Primarily plant-based, 100% vegetarian, and largely gluten-free, this self-proclaimed “vegetable slaughterhouse” will prepare substitutions for dietary restrictions on request. The atmosphere is bright and energetic, and once you’re seated the service is exceptionally fast. The animated servers bustle around the shop, jiving to funky 70s and 80s music. The food, according to the waitstaff, can be described as “heavy, satisfying dishes.”

Bottom Line: If you need a hearty, vegetarian meal or a refreshing juice, the Butcher’s Daughter has got you covered!

• Where: 19 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
• Hours: 11am-11pm
• Notes: Make sure to budget at least 45 minutes of wait time on weekends (but don’t worry, once you’re seated service is a breeze).
• Price: $9-16
• Craving: Vegetarian, or anything hearty, healthy, and fast!

Cafeteria

If you have a hankering for something mouth watering and decadent, Cafeteria is a must. Located less than a minute walk from the 18th street 1 subway stop, its location is convenient for those mornings when you need to indulge in sleeping in. Serving breakfast and brunch until 5pm every day, the two-level trendy, sleek restaurant will keep you coming back the rest of the week. Offering everything from lemon ricotta pancakes to green eggs and ham to fresh pressed juices, Cafeteria offers a wide range of options that will satisfy everyone at the table. While the atmosphere can be a bit loud when busy, it is funky, fun, and lively. For those who are over 21, Cafeteria has a full-stocked bar and serves mimosas and other brunch drinks all day. Don’t know what to try first? The waitstaff say that the most popular item on their brunch menu is “definitely the avocado toast Benedict.” Despite the business, the service is fast, efficient, and friendly. Quirky menus (you’ll understand when you see it) and a super chic overall vibe give brunch-goers a fun experience.

Bottom Line: If you want unlimited options from pancakes to eggs to sandwiches and more, hit up this stylin’ spot.

• Where: 119 7th Avenue, New York, New York 10010
• Hours: 24/7, but brunch is served until 5 p.m.
• Notes: It’s usually more busy on the weekends. The best time to go is during the week. If you brave the crowds on a Saturday or Sunday, expect a ten to 30 minute wait.
• Price: Average range = $10 -18
• Craving: Anything you desire, they have it.

Regardless of what you are in the mood for, New York has endless amounts of options to enjoy the time-honored tradition of brunch. Check out one of these spots the next time you are in the mood!

Stay tuned for brunch options in Brooklyn.