To Brunch or Not to Brunch, in New York that’s not a question.

Friend Friendship Dining Celebration Hanging out Concept

Take it from Carrie and the girls, in New York City the word ‘brunch’ is commonly used as a verb instead of a noun.  To brunch is to wind down after a long week, to catch up with friends, to unabashedly enjoy a cocktail in the morning.  We love brunching like we love desserts, so we don’t just reserve this special event for Sundays, we brunch on Saturdays as well.  In fact, there are so many restaurants that offer brunch that picking a perfect place to dine can be difficult for even the most savvy New Yorker.   Because of this we’ve compiled a list of our favorite brunch places that offer a unique experience and never disappoint, so you can Keep Calm and Brunch On!

For brunch on Broadway: Brooklyn Diner – Though the name may be misleading, this neon clad throwback is located in the heart of Times Square, sharing a block with the Casablanca Hotel.  Offering a nostalgic menu with specialties including Pastrami Hash with Two Fried Eggs, this old school staple is a sure thing.  And if you feel like brunch in bed, guests of Casablanca can get their order delivered to the hotel!

Brooklyn Diner- 155 West 43^rd Street 212.265.5400

For a family friendly brunch: Bubby’s – Their tagline “Diner classics served all day” says it all, but we just can’t stop talking about this High Line hot spot popular with the masses and celebrities alike.   From their Huevos Rancheros to their Sour Cream Pancakes, this menu will make your mouth water.  Not only do they offer a diverse kids menu, they offer a fun atmosphere with bright colors to delight the little ones.  And given its location on the High Line, we recommend walking the calories off and taking in the lovely view!

Bubby’s High Line- 71 Gansevoort Street 646.206.6200

For a seasonal brunch: Fig and Olive  – Croquettes and tartlets and quiche, oh my. This Midtown staple, highly recommended by Hotel Elysée, offers ‘farm to table’ dishes  that will surely delight your taste buds.  Because their menu revolves around local farms and orchards, you can visit year round to receive the freshest seasonal fare available accompanied by freshly squeezed juices and homemade ‘mocktails’.  The Crab Cake Eggs Benedict is a Summer favorite, but we’re excited to see what’s on the menu this Fall.

Fig and Olive- 10 East 52^nd Street  212.319.2002

For a literary brunch: Madison & Vine–  Located at the Library Hotel, this American Bistro offers amazing weekend brunch options right on Library Way.  For those eating light we highly recommend the Yogurt Parfait, but if you want to go big the NY Strip Steak & Eggs will always leave you satisfied.  And of course if you forget your book, visit the lovely front desk staff who will gladly lend you one.

Madison & Vine- 299 Madison Avenue  212.867.5535

For the quintessential New York brunch: Sarabeth’s –   If you’re looking for a traditional brunch or dining with family, walk a few steps over from Hotel Giraffe to this all time favorite.  Though Sarabeth’s started with just preserves and jams, it is now a famous brunch staple offering a diverse menu.  Our favorite dish is the Lemon & Ricotta Pancakes, pictured below, served up with fresh fig berries.  And if you fall in love with Sarabeth’s  like guests of Hotel Giraffe have, you can take a tour of Manhattan and visit their four other NYC locations during your stay, including one located right on Central Park South!

Sarabeth’s-  381 Park Avenue South  212.335.0093

Please feel free to contact our concierge team at the Hotel Elysee, Library Hotel, Casablanca Hotel, or Hotel Giraffe if you need any assistance booking brunch at any these delicious options or let us know if you would like some more of our top concierge picks as well.