10 Best Upper East Side Brunch Spots

Food & DiningNYC LifestyleCulinary Experiences

Jan 6

Eating on the Upper East Side of Manhattan is not a meal; it's an experience. The charming eateries lining the neighborhood seem to cater to every palate-whether classic American breakfasts or innovative culinary creations. If you are looking for a cozy place to catch up with friends or a lively one to celebrate any special occasion, the Upper East Side has everything you are looking for. Here's a carefully selected list of the top 10 best brunch spots you should not miss.

1. The Penrose

Located at 1590 2nd Ave, The Penrose is the neighborhood bar that turns into a weekend brunch heaven. It's famous for cinnamon French toast and this hot honey fried chicken sandwich; just the right combination of sweet and savory. And don't forget to pair with their ingenious breakfast cocktails. Start with the Bloody Mary.

If you are a seafood enthusiast, then Flex Mussels at 1431 3rd Ave is a must visit. This quaint eatery specializes in mussel dishes but does not shy away from the classic brunch dishes like omelettes and French toast. Don't miss their Shelly Benedictowitz, which is a unique seafood take on traditional brunch elements that makes for a refreshing twist on your typical brunch menu.

3. The Bar Room

Tucked away at 117 E 60th St, The Bar Room offers an elegant atmosphere perfect for brunching in style. With options like whipped ricotta toast and caviar-crowned tots, this sophisticated bistro elevates your brunch experience. Their signature Bar Room Burger is also highly recommended for those craving something hearty.

4. Hutch & Waldo

For Instagram lovers, Hutch & Waldo at 247 E 81st St is the place to be. This Australian-inspired café serves vibrant dishes made from seasonal produce, including their famous avocado toast topped with heirloom tomatoes and house-marinated feta. The ambiance of the café is inviting and perfect for leisurely weekend brunches12.

5. EJ's Luncheonette

You can dig into the classic diner feel at EJ's Luncheonette, 1271 3rd Ave. There, the only frills this place puts into its meals are the lines across its crispy bacon. It's cash only here, and the comfort food stretches from omelets to chocolate-chip pancakes. Good for comfort food when it feels right.

6. JoJo

Housed in a charming townhouse, JoJo is part of the Jean-Georges restaurant family and is particularly known for its housemade sodas that perfectly complement their brunch offerings. This cozy spot offers a warm atmosphere ideal for intimate gatherings or casual meet-ups with friends.

7. Quality Eats

Quality Eats stands out with its playful branding and delicious menu that offers both classic and inventive brunch items. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it is advisable to make reservations as this spot tends to fill up quickly during peak hours.

8. Sant Ambroeus Madison Avenue

This is the classiest of up-scale cafes one could go for refined brunch service. The fine décor, yummy pastries of Sant Ambroeus can go from light, dainty options to full-flavored dishes on the menu which makes it perfectly suitable for busy coffee stops, as well as meal stops.

9. Café d'Alsace

Café d'Alsace brings a taste of France to the Upper East Side with its delightful menu featuring traditional dishes like croque monsieur and various tartines. Located in a cozy setting, it's perfect for those who appreciate French cuisine in a laid-back environment.

10. Bluestone Lane

This Australian coffee shop chain has certainly left its mark on the Upper East Side, from the fun and healthy options available in its menu. This place is very popular for their avocado smash and great coffee. Thus, Bluestone Lane is the best destination for a refreshing brunch among health-conscious diners3.

Brunching in the Upper East Side not only satisfies your taste buds but also allows you to soak in the neighborhood's charm. After indulging in these delightful spots, consider hiring a Move Out Cleaning Service NYC if you're transitioning to new digs or simply want to freshen up your space after enjoying all that delicious food.

As you venture out to these incredible brunch spots, keep in mind that cleanliness is essential! If you are someone who wants your home to sparkle but do not want to give up on New York's great experience, feel free to reach out to Sparkly Maid NYC to get a customized cleaning solution that fits your requirements.

Conclusion: A Brunch Lover's Paradise Awaits

The Upper East Side truly shines in terms of brunch options, with everything from casual diners to upscale bistros. Each place on this list offers a different dining experience, reflecting the very diverse culinary landscape of New York City. So gather your friends or family and embark on a delicious journey through these top brunch spots—your taste buds will thank you! And don't forget, at the time you are cleaning after your brunch adventure, Sparkly Maid NYC will be there to keep that freshness feeling in your home!