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Best Brunch Spots in New York
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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Red Rooster (@roosterharlem) on Feb 2, 2019 at 9:01am PST 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacob's Pickles (@jacobspickles) on Aug 22, 2019 at 9:53am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Victors Cafe (@victorscafenyc) on Aug 26, 2019 at 9:01am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vinegar Hill House (@vinegarhillhouse) on Aug 10, 2019 at 4:33am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olmsted (@olmstednyc) on Aug 18, 2019 at 9:19am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Locanda Verde (@locandaverde) on Aug 15, 2019 at 6:01am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mogador (@mogadorcafe) on Jun 17, 2019 at 10:05pm PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Upland (@upland_nyc) on Aug 4, 2019 at 7:28pm PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scott Shells (@scottshells) on Sep 1, 2019 at 9:18am PDT 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 View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eric Kayser Officiel (@maisonkayser) on Aug 12, 2019 at 8:19am PDT 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. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
I ran down my phone battery in record time from stopping to take pictures every few seconds during my bike ride around DUMBO and the Brooklyn Heights Promenade because the views are THAT GOOD. Rent a bike for the day and explore DUMBO (Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass), you'll get great views around the bridge and from the piers on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.
Perhaps we're stating the obvious but no "views of New York City" list would be complete without including the unbeatable views from the Top of the Rock. Want more amazing view? Compare the difference between Top of the Rock vs Empire State Building for yourself. Insider tip: Get your ticket to head up an hour before sunset for the best photo opportunities. You'll get to see the skyline in daylight and stay for the post-sunset views when all the lights come on and the buildings light up. 
(Quick photography lesson: the hour before sunset is called "the golden hour" because it's the most flattering natural light of the day, so your selfies will look extra good.) Do you have any New York City vantage points that you think should have made the list of Top 3? Let us know in the comments below.