NYC's 6 Best Outdoor Brunches
We've already brought you our picks for the best brunches in New York City. Why not sit outside for the traditional city meal on a weekend morning? From trendy restaurants to more budget-friendly locales, there are plenty of places in the Big Apple to grab a patio seat and enjoy this midday meal. Here are five of our favorite spots to indulge in eggs benedict, banana pancakes and a Bloody Mary—and maybe even a cityscape view.
The Americano
518 W. 27th Street
(212) 525-0000
hotel-americano.com
On the scene for less than a year, this West Chelsea eatery has revamped their brunch menu for spring. The backyard patio is filled with greenery, and the brunch menu is filled with bloody marys. There are 4 different types of the traditional brunch drink to choose from: The Classic, The Bloody Libby (made with Martin Millers Gin), The Spicy Bloody Maria (served with a pickled jalapeno), and the Michelada Maison (Modelo Especial, Clamato, Fresh Lime, Valentina). An ideal haunt to hit before heading to the High Line.
Isabella's
359 Columbus Ave at 77th Street
New York, NY 10024
212.724.2100
isabellas.com
Reviews & More Info
This chic, ever-popular Upper West Side haunt serves up some of the best Mediterranean-style food in the city. The brunch menu is extensive has something for everyone, from a breakfast burrito to a jumbo egg sandwich to chocolate hazelnut crepes. Come on Sunday and enjoy a complimentary coffee or cocktail with your meal. Large glass doors open up to outdoor café seating on the patio, which receives plentiful sunshine. While you sip on your bellini, you'll also have a view of the Museum of Natural History. Isabella's is a brunch hotspot, so we suggest you arrive before you're hungry. You may even spot a celeb or two.
Wally's Square Root Cafe
584 Myrtle Avenue
718-230-7077
squarerootcafe.com
Looking for a more casual, down-home spot to get your fill of hearty, carb-y favorites? Try this Brooklyn joint. Wally's is a neighborhood corner spot that serves up their fantastic breakfast menu all day long. You can pick up their "Not French Toast" which is made with sweet brioche, or their "Green Eggs & Ham," eggs scrambled with pesto and spinach placed over ham and grilled challah. They also serve Brooklyn's own, Kitten Coffee.
LIC Market
21-52 44th Drive
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 361-0013
licmarket.com
Brunch is wildly popular at this quaint, Long Island City restaurant with a cozy, country feel. Their market, selling homemade jam in mason jars, will leave you wondering: Are you sure we're still in New York City? LIC Market's rotating menu serves local and seasonal ingredients. The decent prices and delicious fare make the inevitable wait for a table well worth it.
Sunburnt Cow
137 Avenue C
New York, NY 10002
(212) 529-0005
Reviews & More Info
This Australian cookhouse is a deliciously affordable hangout for the post-grad crowd. Out on their backyard deck, you'll experience Sunburnt Cow's energetic vibe and eclectic décor. It's the perfect place to enjoy their Endless Brunch—for $18, you get your choice of a brunch dish plus all-you-can-drink Moomosas, Moo Marys and other breakfast cocktails. Brunch hours are Saturday and Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Keep in mind brunch is cash only.
River Café
1 Water Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(718) 522-5200
rivercafe.com
Reviews & More Info
The exquisite brunch menu is just one reason to head down to this famously classy Brooklyn restaurant. The food is delicious with impeccable presentation and manageable portion size. The Wagyu Steak Tartare and the Maine Lobster Omelette will have your taste buds running amok. If you're looking to take a special someone on a romantic brunch date, this is the 'it' spot to truly impress. Now that it's getting warmer, the two of you can take advantage of the outdoor seating. You can even walk around the gorgeous backyard gardens after your meal. Prices are expensive, but hey, the unbelievable view of the river, Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline is included!
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Brooke Sager contributed to this report. She is a New York City-based lifestyle writer and publishing professional.
