Best Brunch Spots in New York

By Katie Sagal

Brunch is a serious business in New York. It’s when everyone rolls out of bed, fights through that weekend malaise (or possible hangover), and heads out to the new hot spot for the decadent food and bottomless mimosas. For brunch lovers heading to (or living in) New York City, we’ve pulled together our favorite venues for this timeless weekend rite. To help fill out the rest of your day, we’ve also made some suggestions for other fun things to do in the area after you’ve eaten your fill.

Red Rooster

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The brainchild of famed chef Marcus Samuelsson, this Harlem hot spot boasts a menu filled with all the luscious southern favorites you can imagine—fried chicken and waffles, biscuits, gooey cinnamon rolls, and the ever-popular rooster slam, a delectable combo of hot honey chicken, blueberry waffle, French toast, beef sausage, bacon, and a fried egg. Things to do Nearby: We like the walking tour of Harlem that focuses on the history of gospel in this neighborhood, or the self-guided bike tour of Harlem to help you burn off that eggs benedict.

Jacob’s Pickles

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You’ll probably need to wait at this immensely popular UWS spot, but it’s worth every minute. Their abundant menu features practically everything we can imagine wanting for brunch: more southern favorites like biscuits and gravy, the French classic Croque madame, deviled eggs, catfish tacos (I know, right!?) and, of course, their signature array of pickled veggies. Things to do Nearby: Jacob’s Pickles is conveniently close to many cultural attractions like the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Historical Society Museum, as well as the west side of Central Park.

Victor’s Café

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A sumptuous array of Cuban cuisine awaits you at Victor’s Café. Located in Hell’s Kitchen, this brunch powerhouse offers classics alongside new inventions—our top picks include ceviche de pargo, bartolito (plantain croquettes), empanadas, and the Cubana frittata. They also offer hearty brunch entrees that feel more like dinner options, but you’ll leave feeling stuffed and content. Things to do Nearby: Within a stone’s throw of the theatre district, Victor’s Café is near the Museum of Modern Art, Radio City Music Hall, and the Top of the Rock. Plus, you know, all the theatres.

Vinegar Hill House

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Among the most popular restaurants in Brooklyn, Vinegar Hill House is a cozy space serving rustic dishes from a modest menu. You won’t have a wealth of choices, but what they offer makes up for it in taste. Some current dishes (although these may change) include sourdough pancakes, omelets, and shrimp and grits. Things to do Nearby: Explore the Brooklyn Navy Yard, walk around DUMBO, get some shopping in, or check out the local street art.

Olmsted

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Located in Prospect Heights, this eclectic restaurant features plentiful brunch in beautiful digs. The menu shifts frequently to cater to seasonal produce and local sources, but some recent options have included Austrian donuts, potato latkes, heirloom tomato schnitzel, and waffles with seasonal fruit and whipped cream. You can also enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Things to do Nearby: One of the best ways to unwind and burn a few calories from brunch is to stroll in some fresh air—fortunately, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Museum is right near Olmsted!

Locanda Verde

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Fans of Italian cuisine will adore the rustic and hearty fare offered by one of the city’s best. A beloved spot in Tribeca, Locanda Verde features favorites like lemon-ricotta pancakes, frittatas, sandwiches, and all kinds of egg dishes. If you’re there on the later end of brunch, you can also opt for more hearty savory dishes—definitely worth the feeling of being extra full. Things to do Nearby: Several cruises depart from the adjacent piers if you’re hoping to enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the harbor. You’re also close to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

Café Mogador

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Fans of Moroccan food, or anyone looking to try something unique, will delight in Café Mogador. Its East Village location boasts flavorful Mediterranean dishes like halloumi with eggs, French toast, eggs with spicy stewed tomatoes, buttermilk pancakes, and organic granola. You can also choose from sides like house-made merguez sausage, bacon, and authentic sauces like Schug. Things to do Nearby: You’re a few blocks or a quick transit ride away from several different cultural tours, including a tour of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral and the downtown experience by the RIDE, an entertaining tour perfect for visitors.

Upland

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Anyone homesick for California or their fresh cuisine won’t want to skip brunch at Upland. Located in the Flatiron District, this chic restaurant combines Italian influences with a Cali cool vibe in dishes like funky donuts, buttermilk pancakes, eggs benedict, quiche, and bucatini cacio e pepe. May we also recommend “The Larry David,” an everything bagel with smoked whitefish, tomatoes, capers, and cream cheese? Things to do Nearby: If you’re brunching with your significant other—or a hot date—then try checking out the Museum of Sex. It’s a funky little space that’s among the most unique museums in the city. Otherwise, the Empire State Building is a few blocks farther north.

Balthazar

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A longstanding Soho brasserie, Balthazar is not for those with a light budget. However, should you be in the mood to splurge, they offer a menu bursting with French delights like caramelized banana tartine, chicken liver, and foie gras mousse, eggs Florentine, a ratatouille omelet, and many (very expensive) seafood options. If you want to see the décor but only want to spend a bit, try one of their hangover drinks—which will still run you over $15/drink, but hey, it’s Soho. Things to do Nearby: Soho’s location makes it the perfect nexus for local tours, as well as the City Winery, which is an awesome destination if you want to keep up with the imbibing.

Maison Kayser

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This bakery-slash-café is one of a series of such outposts, but the original location in the UES is a nice place to start. Offering primarily French fare—and doing very well at baking said French pastries—this is the perfect option for those looking for a quick bite or less expensive option. Some of their most iconic dishes include natural levain bread and viennoiseries, all baked on-site. You can choose from a pit stop at the coffee bar to grab some bread, or a sit-down at the café to enjoy a full Parisian menu. Things to do Nearby: The Upper East Side is filled with nature, culture, and fun. Spend the rest of the day at the Met, zip around Central Park on a bike, or marvel at the architecture at the Guggenheim Museum.

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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New York in October

Searching for interesting activities and exciting events in New York this Autumn? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re planning a fun family trip or travelling solo, the city provides a wide array of engaging experiences to keep you busy in the fall. Those looking for stunning architecture, delicious food and world-class art will not be disappointed. If you’re planning to make the trip, read on for some of our top things to do in New York during October. Explore the City If you’re looking to avoid those rainy Autumn afternoons, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Built into a stunning building overlooking the Hudson River, The Cloisters specializes in European medieval art, with an emphasis on the Romanesque and Gothic periods. A total must-see for art lovers, the repository holds an expansive collection of over 5,000 paintings, sculptures, tapestries and more. Fascinating and exciting, this place provides a delightful educational experience for those of all ages. Those who are interested in exploring the history and culture of New York might want to check out the Merchant’s House Museum. Though once serving as a home to the Tredwells, a prospering merchant-class family, this fully intact row house now seeks to provide an intimate glimpse into Old New York. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this small venerable building is considered to be one of the best remaining examples of Greek Revival and late-Federal architecture. Visitors can take self-guided walking tours to view the elaborate plasterwork and rare art pieces whilst learning more about those who lived there. Don’t let the weather ruin your vacation. If you’re wanting to stay dry whilst soaking up some culture, why not check out the New York Film Festival? Standing out amongst other fantastic attractions in the city, this event is one of the longest-running and most prestigious film festivals in the United States. Screening a broad selection of feature films, short pictures, and documentary pieces, there's more than enough to choose from. Those who are particularly interested in learning more about cinema can also catch special events, masterclasses and talks. Find Interesting Activities There’s always a fun event to attend in the city. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the New York Wine and Food Festival brings together some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and sommeliers together for this annual four-day extravaganza. A great stop for all foodies, the event offers a wide array of culinary events, including walk-around tastings, intimate dinners, culinary demonstrations and late-night parties. Elegant, relaxing and affordable all at once - what's not to love? The city presents a wide variety of indoor attractions once the weather starts to cool down. If you’re interested in pop culture, you might want to check out New York Comic Con. Since establishing itself in 2006, the event has grown to become one of the biggest Comic Cons of them all, celebrating all things nerdy! The festival features everything from exciting workshops and artist and celebrity Q&A panels, to lightsaber battles and cosplay contests right in the center of Manhattan. With previous guests like Adam West, David Harbour and Bryan Cranston, you won't want to miss out on this one! How could we talk about October in New York without mentioning Oktoberfest? Running from the start of the month, this traditional Bavarian festival is undoubtedly one of fall’s finest delights. Celebrations take place across all five boroughs at various restaurants, bars and outdoor spaces. Soak up the suds at the biergarten, dig into a hot bratwurst straight off the grill or enjoy an authentic music performance – the choice is yours! Arguably, one of the greatest things about New York City is its delicious gastronomic offerings. Those who are looking for a taste of the city should head down to the Brooklyn Bagelfest for an unparalleled cultural and culinary adventure. Enjoy the best bagels from a wide variety of favorite New York vendors, as well as craft beer on tap. As if that wasn’t enough, the festival also features bagel-themed activities, art and music. Get Festive October is Halloween season, and we refuse to just ignore it. If you’re looking to kick the spookiness into high gear, you might want to look into Central Park’s Pumpkin Flotilla. Amongst the best fall foliage in the city, you can hear ghost stories, check out a costume parade, and carve out a delightful pumpkin! After the festivities, watch fifty gourds glow up the Harlem Meer at twilight. Feel free to dress up for the occasion! Another one of our favorite October events is the Village Halloween Parade. Drawing in millions of spectators each year, the event is recognized as the world’s largest Halloween procession. Billed as ‘’New York’s Carnival’’, the spectacular parade features around 50, 000 costumed participants, exceptional marching bands, remarkable floats and enormous puppets. A little quirky and a whole lot of fun, the festival delivers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience to remember for years to come. If you were thinking that Halloween was the only way to celebrate in New York in October, you were wrong! A national holiday for many, Columbus Day celebrates the discovery of the New World whilst also serving as an important festival for the Italian American community. Drawing in around a million spectators each year, the Columbus Day Parade brings a whole host of family-filled fun, complete with colorful floats, lively musical performances and dancing. Those who are travelling during the federal holiday should keep in mind that other attractions may be closed for the rest of the day. The East Coast dazzles all year round, but we particularly love New York in the vibrant autumn months. The air is brisk, the colors are changing, and the city comes alive with a whole host of seasonal experiences. Whether you're looking for fun Halloween events like the Pumpkin Flotilla, or something cozier like a quiet museum day, the city presents a wide array of engaging experiences to keep you busy in the fall. Explore the city to its maximum potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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New York in May

May is a wonderful time to visit New York and see the sites, find some exciting activities, and immerse yourself in the culture of the city. As the weather starts to warm up, the area will be flourishing with exciting festivals, fun pop-up markets and delightful events held in NYC parks. So, we’ve rounded up our favorite springtime ideas for those who are thinking about making the visit — from Cinco de Mayo festivities to extravagant flower shows, we’ve got you covered. With Co City, you can create memories for years to come. Get to Know the City There’s nothing like a day at the ballpark, right? Once spring kicks off, the balmy weather serves as the perfect backdrop for the start of the season. Those who are interested in catching a Big Leagues game should be able to book tickets to the Yankees or Mets online – just be sure to book early, since these things sell out fast! We can almost taste the cold beer on our lips and feel the sun on our faces. Another one of our favorite things to do in the city for May is attending Frieze New York. A total must for art lovers, the event seeks to celebrate the best work of international historical and contemporary artists. For five days each year, The Shed fair features works from over 1,000 artists and 200 international galleries for a broad audience. In addition, the festival features a great program of just commissioned works, films and talks. If you’re looking to experience the city through its food, you might be interested in the next item on our list. The perfect day trip for any gastronome, the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival offers a diverse range of cuisines from popular local vendors. Whether you’re looking to try out traditional street fair treats or taste cuisine from around the globe, this event has it all. In addition, the festival features two stages of live music, food contests, as well as over 200 vendors selling unique arts and crafts. Find Interesting Activities Since New York is known for its exceptionally multi-ethnic population, it seems only fitting that the city observes Cinco de Mayo in style. Held annually in the fair springtime weather, a vibrant parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue and leads towards festivities in Sunset Park. In addition, you should be able to celebrate at various bars and restaurants across all five boroughs with live Mariachi music, traditional dancing, and delicious Mexican food. Bursting with excitement, New York is the perfect tourist destination with a plethora of attractions for you and your loved ones. Since its establishment in 1982, Fleet Week has served as an annual celebration of the US Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps. The annual week-long tradition kicks off with a flotilla of naval vessels docking in at the New York Passenger Ship Terminal on the Hudson River. Those who are looking to join in on the fun should be able to find a string of parties all over the city, with dress-up, live musical performances, and an abundance of drink! An unusual and exciting occurrence, this event is nothing but fun! If you’re travelling during Memorial Day weekend, you might want to check out some of the festivities going on in the city. As with any big federal holiday, you won’t have to look far to find the parade, which kicks off at 11 A.M. on Third Avenue each year. In addition, the city offers some great ways to pay tribute to America’s fallen soldiers, including the New York Philanthropic Memorial Day Concert, Intrepid Museum’s Free Movie Night, and Central Park walking tours, which take you through a number of fountains, monuments, and sculptures that honor past lives. And as if that wasn’t enough, you should be able to find many restaurants and bars across the city holding their own special events. Try Something New Why go to the theater when you can watch Shakespeare right in the middle of Central Park? That’s right, you heard us. Set up against the magnificent natural splendor of the park, The Public Theater provides admission-free world-class entertainment – honestly, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the evening. With past cast members like Meryl Streep, Al Pacino and Denzel Washington, we don’t think you’ll want to miss out on this one. May means Mother's Day – and what better way to celebrate this major holiday than with a flower show? Running from 2nd-26th of May, Macy’s spectacular two-week exhibit features beautifully manicured living sculptures, inspired by a different theme each year. Completely free to the public, the vibrant display is open for viewing during the store’s regular hours. Totally iconic and incredibly Instagram-worthy, we highly recommend noting this one down. New York is home to some of the most renowned cultural amenities in the country. Situated along Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and finest creative institutions in the Western Hemisphere. As stunning as it is fascinating, the repository features more than two million works of art spanning over 5000 years. Spring is an especially great time to visit, since the Cantor Roof Garden Bar will be open to all visitors. Granting fantastic views over Central Park, this is undoubtedly the perfect place to sit and relax after a hard day at the museum. May is the perfect time to visit the Big Apple. The weather is fresh, the flowers are in bloom, and as always, the city presents endless exciting attractions to its visitors. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a sports fan, there’s a little something for everybody here. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo to its fullest, try out the area’s rich culinary offerings, or enjoy Shakespeare under the stars – the choice is yours! And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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American Museum of Natural History Discount Tickets & Tips for Your Visit

Check out our helpful guide for visiting New York's American Museum of Natural History, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, nearby attractions, and much more. Fans of the Night at the Museum series will recognize the massive façade of New York’s American Museum of Natural History, complete with the iconic sculpture of Teddy Roosevelt – although this one doesn't talk! There is a reason that this museum has been the setting for so many films and books; in addition to its architecture and Central Park adjacent location, it is filled with some of the world’s oldest and most spectacular wonders. How to buy American Museum of Natural History discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – American Museum of Natural History admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: Your Pass entitles you to free general admission. If you would like to upgrade your admission ticket to include a temporary exhibit, IMAX or 3D film, OR a Hayden Planetarium Space Show, you may do so directly at the Museum. How much time do you need at the American Museum of Natural History? There is so much to see and do inside the museum, you could spend the whole day there! Plan to take at least 2 hours and 30 minutes to tour the museum to make the most of your visit. However, if you are planning on viewing a show or special exhibition, plan to be there for up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. What should I bring to the American Museum of Natural History? Camera: The museum encourages visitors to document their experience in photos, but keep in mind that selfie sticks aren’t allowed. You can use flash photography, although not in all areas. Bottle of Water: The museum doesn't allow outside food, but you can bring in a bottle of water. Well-placed water fountains make great places to top off your bottle. Nothing bigger than a purse: You will need to check any items larger than a purse at the Coat Check, and the museum won't allow you to check small luggage or oversized bags. Keep in mind that coat check does cost an additional $2, and the lines can get very long in the cold months. There is an extra coat check located in the Rose Center that is available during winter months (with much shorter lines!) Hall of Biodiversity and Environmental Halls These first-floor exhibits explore the world’s natural life. The Hall of Biodiversity contains many interactive experiences that can help visually illustrate the ways on which all life is interconnected. The Hall of North American Forests features some impressive examples of centuries-old redwoods, and of course, no trip to the museum would be complete without a stop at the Irma and Paul Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life. Here visitors can see the massive blue whale, one of the museum’s most famous inhabitants. Birds and Reptiles and Amphibians Halls Full of wildlife, the dioramas and exhibits on the second and third floors show examples of some of the world’s most exotic small creatures. These animals hails from all over the globe, and from right around NYC, to give you a sense of the scope. Visitors can check out replicas of these animals in their natural habitat and learn more about how they evolved over time. Mammal Halls The Museum of Natural History’s dioramas are perhaps the most famous of their kind in the world. These incredibly detailed representations of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitats are so realistic that you will almost think you see them moving! Creatures from all over the world are presented in full-scale meticulous detail - did that tiger just blink? Earth and Planetary Sciences Halls These areas of the museum are fascinating for people of all ages, as they contain examples of rare gemstones and objects related to minerals and geology. The Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites contains the massive Ahnighito, a 34-ton piece of meteorite which is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old. In the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth visitors will be able to see examples of how minerals and rock formations occur to make our natural landscape. Fossil Halls The top floor fossil halls are definitely one of the museum’s highlights. Want to meet a T-Rex? The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs contains one of these terrifying creatures, in addition to examples of velociraptors and Allosaurus.* There's even an excitingly massive Titanosaur! Enormous extinct mammoths are found in the Paul and Irma Milstein Hall of Advanced Mammals, and massive sharks and sea creatures, straight out of a horror movie, are in the Hall of Vertebrate Origins. *Please note that as of Winter 2018, the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs is currently undergoing restoration work and will reopen upon completion. Please consult the attraction website directly to confirm the status of this section during your visit. Human Origins and Cultural Halls While the museum has an abundance of information about the natural environment, it is also filled with artifacts from the history of human life. With examples from Tibetan Buddhism in the Gardner D. Stout Hall of Asian Peoples and massive totems from Native Americans in the Hall of Northwest Coast Indians, much of the museum is truly a journey through human history. Be sure you make it to the Margaret Mead Hall of Pacific Peoples to meet the Easter Island head, who you may know as "Dum-Dum." Don't be shy, and get up close and personal with the model for some unforgettable photos! Rose Center for Earth and Space The museum is also dedicated to exploring the cosmos and the Rose Center is home to exhibits exploring the history of the universe. The world-famous Hayden Planetarium is located here, but you can still learn plenty if you decide not to buy the additional ticket for a show. Which attractions are near the American Museum of Natural History? There are plenty of other great attractions located nearby. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary... The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a beautiful walk (or cab ride) through Central Park and explores the cultural history of the world in great depth. The Guggenheim Museum, which focuses on more contemporary art forms, is also a pleasant ride through Central Park. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building is one of New York's most iconic structures. The New York Historic Society is a few blocks away and focuses on significant events in the history of New York, many of which are tied into important events in American history. Where to eat near the American Museum of Natural History? What restaurants are near the American Museum of Natural History? Museum Food Court - Inside the museum visitors can stop at the lower level food court for a vast selection of dishes appropriate for palates of all ages. Café on One & Four - There is also a small café with light bites on the first floor and another on the fourth floor. Starlight Café - Located on the first floor, adjecent to the Hayden Planetarium. That being said, there are plenty of options for dining around the Upper West Side location. Shake Shack (366 Columbus Avenue) - No longer do you need to stand in long lines to enjoy the burgers and fries at Shake Shack, one of New Yorkers’ favorite places to grab a quick bite. Jacques Torres (285 Amsterdam Avenue) - Visiting in the middle of winter? You can't miss a Jacques Torres hot chocolate. While the menu focuses around chocolate, this makes a great place to reward the family after a long museum visit! How to get to the American Museum of Natural History? Hours Daily, 10:00 am-5:45 pm Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice. Directions & Address Central Park West at 79th St. New York, NY 10024 The main entrance to the Rose Center for Earth and Space is located at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Public Transportation: By Subway: B (weekdays only) or C trains to 81st Street station; 1 train to 79th Street station at Broadway. Walk two blocks east to the Museum. By Bus: M79 to 81st Street Is there parking at the American Museum of Natural History? There is a parking garage at the American Museum of Natural History. You can find it at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. It is open from 8 am–11 pm and costs up to$26 for 1 hour, $29 for 2 hours, $36 for 3-5 hours, $46 for 5-10 hours and $51 for max to close. Save on Tickets with a New York City Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for savings and flexibility, which includes American Museum of Natural History tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

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