Best Brunch Spots in New York City, Ranked by Locals

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The secret to a great brunch? Some say it’s crispy bacon, others prefer the fluffiest pancakes. But in a city where brunch is a big deal? You’ll need our list of the best brunch spots in New York City, ranked by locals. New Yorkers have strong opinions on where to find the best eggs Benedict, waffles, or avocado toasts.

Ever waited an hour for eggs that weren’t worth it? Or picked a spot that looked great online but missed the mark? Locals know which places serve the good stuff without the disappointment. And this list has local-approved favorites that might change your weekend plans.

Please check the restaurant’s website or social media accounts for the brunch hours and latest offerings. 

1. The Grey Dog

Photo via @thegreydognyc / Instagram 

Hungover? Hungry? Both? You can start your day at The Grey Dog. Their pancakes and French toast are like a warm hug for your stomach. Not into sweets? Their omelet, burrito, and Grey Dog Breakfast are solid picks. 

2. Two Hands

Photo via @twohandsrestaurant and @leticiaalmeida / Instagram 

Looking for brunch that doesn’t make you want to nap after? Two Hands balances tasty and healthy—because sometimes you just want the smoked salmon toast but also eye steak and eggs. Got kids in tow? They serve brunch for the little ones too.

3. Good Thanks Café

Photo via @goodthanksnyc / Instagram 

Not starving but still need something? Good Thanks Café serves small bites like banana bread and croissants. Or try the kimchi scrambled eggs. Wash it down with coffee… or a cocktail. It’s brunch. No rules here.

 4. Café Colette

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Photo via @cafe_colette / Instagram 

In Brooklyn and an easy-going brunch? Then, visit Café Colette. Their chicory salad and avocado toast are worth ordering, and the fries make a great side. Feeling hungrier? Your taste buds will love the Fish tacos, burgers, and pancakes.

  • Website: www.cafe-colette.com
  • Price Range: $ – $$
  • Address: 79 Berry Street, Brooklyn
  • Phone: 347-599-1381

5. Little Ruby’s Cafe

Photo via @rubyscafe / Instagram

Little Ruby’s Cafe brings Aussie café appeal to NYC without the plane ticket. Ricotta hotcakes and breakfast bowls? They live up to the hype. The B.L.A.T. sandwich? You’ll enjoy the bacon, lettuce, and avocado combo. Plus, every location has different menus and new dishes, so it’s never the same old brunch.

6. Banter

Best Brunch Spots in New York City
Photo via @banter_nyc / Instagram 

Craving avocado toast or smoked salmon? Banter offers brunch favorites without making you choose between sweet or savory. Don’t skip the breakfast bowls, sweet potato fries, or that golden folded egg. And if you leave without trying them, well, that’s between you and your cravings.

  • Website: www.banternyc.com
  • Price Range: $ – $$
  • Address: Multiple Locations (Greenwich Village, Murray Hill, West Village) 

7. Sea Wolf

Best Brunch Spots in New York City
Photo via @seawolfus / Instagram

Vintage shopping in Bushwick pairs well with bottomless brunch at Sea Wolf. Shrimp & grits or tacos? You really can’t go wrong. And yes, the $35 bottomless drinks deal is real. You can also try their tacos, avocado toast, and waffles.

  • Website: www.seawolfbk.com
  • Price Range: $$
  • Address: 19 Wyckoff Ave, Brooklyn
  • Phone: 833-524-0925

8. Sunday in Brooklyn

Best Brunch Spots in New York City
Photo via @sundayinbrooklyn / Instagram 

The pancakes at Sunday in Brooklyn are as fluffy as clouds and you can have up to three layers. Are pancakes not your thing? Hard to believe, but check out their shakshuka, chicken yummos, or ricotta toast.

9. Five Leaves

Photo via @fiveleavesny / Instagram 

Is waiting in line worth it? Locals say yes. You can grab the truffle fries or ricotta pancakes at Five Leaves, and you’ll understand. You can also order the Waffle & Roe, which includes ricotta waffle, smoked trout roe, and herbed crème fraiche.  

10. Milady’s

Best Brunch Spots in New York City
Photo via @miladysnyc and @shannonshootscocktails / Instagram 

This SoHo gem serves brunch with crispy Brussels sprouts, shrimp lettuce wraps, and grilled hanger steak on toast. Their avocado toast is a must-try, with its sourdough brioche, chipotle aioli, grilled Portobello mushroom, and poached egg. Plus, portions at Milady’s will fuel you for a SoHo shopping spree.

  • Website: www.miladysnyc.com
  • Price Range: $$
  • Address: 160 Prince St., New York 
  • Phone: 646-484-6402

11. Rana Fifteen

Best Brunch Spots in New York City
Photo via @ranafifteen / Instagram 

Haven’t tried a Turkish brunch before? Rana Fifteen offers options like cilbir (poached eggs in garlic yogurt) and menemen (eggs with tomatoes and peppers). You can go with friends, order everything, and “try” to share.

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