There’s nothing quite like a scrumptious meal in the heart of NYC. Because, as some of us know, this city truly knows how to serve a feast! And let me tell you, though the food is delicious any time of the day, SoHo brunches are where it’s at! If you’ve never experienced brunch in NYC, think creamy avocado toasts, flavor-packed acai bowls, and so much more. But here, SoHo’s picturesque streets and vibrant art scene serve as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience.
This SoHo Brunch guide is just a small slice of the entire New York brunch scene. So, be sure to check out my comprehensive Brunch in NYC guide to level up your food game even further. Now, are you ready to discover what makes SoHo brunch the talk of the town? Stick with me, and we’ll explore mouthwatering dishes and hidden gems, all part of the unique vibes SoHo has to offer. So, grab your fork and come with an appetite – we’re about to brunch SoHo style!
01
Shuka
Other Restaurants in SoHo
Our first stop is Shuka, a charming Eastern Mediterranean jewel, and in my opinion, one of the top spots for a SoHo breakfast. Open for brunch every weekend from 10:30 am-3:30 pm, this welcoming restaurant feels like a weekend gathering at a friend’s place – if your friend was an outstanding chef, that is!
The magic of Shuka starts with its casual, inviting environment. Here, the staff goes the extra mile to ensure your brunch experience is not just good, but absolutely memorable. As for the food, well, it’s downright divine. The kitchen team at Shuka really knows their way around the grill. Expect to find meats cooked to perfection, with kebabs so tender and juicy they’ll make your taste buds dance.
Shuka stands out among other SoHo brunches, particularly if you’re planning a big get-together. Their Shuka Feast, priced at $57 per person (with the whole table participating), offers an array of shareable dishes like rich, creamy hummus, perfectly grilled kebabs, and an assortment of vibrant vegetables.
02
Jack’s Wife Freda
Vegetarian Restaurant in Lower Manhattan
Next up is the beloved Jack’s Wife Freda. Now, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill brunch spot. Open every day, all day, Jack’s Wife Freda delivers a heartwarming combination of South African and Israeli cuisines that’s as unique as the SoHo neighborhood itself.
From the moment you walk in, you’re part of the family. You feel the rich heritage of the owners reflected in every detail, from the bustling atmosphere to the food itself. It’s like a love letter to their South African and Israeli roots, right in the heart of NYC.
Now, let’s talk dishes. Their Rosewater Waffle is unbelievable! It’s topped with Lebanese yogurt, mixed berries, and a sweet honey syrup – a perfect blend of textures and flavors. And for the savory lovers, you must try Jack’s Breakfast. It’s a hearty meal of grilled skirt steak, two eggs (any style you like), roasted tomato, fingerling potatoes, pickled onions, and a side of sourdough toast.
03
Sidney’s Five
American Restaurant in SoHo
Next on my list of go-to SoHo brunches is a vibrant spot known as Sidney’s Five. Open for brunch from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays; this place makes weekends in the city a real treat.
If there’s one thing you should know about Sidney’s Five, it’s their martini menu. Yes, that’s right, they even have a morning martini! They serve up an elegant version with gin, lemon, Cointreau, and orange marmalade that’ll make your day. It’s like sunshine in a glass! Pair this with their buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh peaches, whipped peach butter, and rosemary maple syrup – it’s weekend decadence at its best.
Now, if you’re like me and love a good classic breakfast, you must try The Blue Plate Special. For $22, you get two eggs, home fries, sourdough toast, and bacon. It’s simple, satisfying, and every bit as delicious as a SoHo breakfast should be.
04
Sant Ambroeus
Italian Restaurant in SoHo
Another favorite of mine for a delightful SoHo brunch experience is Sant Ambroeus. Open for brunch every day from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, this authentic Italian spot has been delighting New Yorkers with its traditional charm and scrumptious menu for years. Perhaps the best part is that stepping into Sant Ambroeus feels like being swept off to Milan. The ambiance, the carefully crafted cappuccinos, the chandeliers – it’s like a slice of Italy nestled right in the heart of SoHo.
When it comes to their brunch menu, two dishes stand out for me. First, the Avocado Toast: a perfectly ripe avocado, two poached farm eggs, and a kick of peperoncino, all served on sunflower seed bread. It’s as tasty as it is Instagram-worthy. Alternatively, you might want to try the Sant Ambroeus Eggs Benedict. It features two organic poached eggs, a rich hollandaise sauce, and a homemade roll. You can opt for ham, spinach, or go all out with a smoked salmon substitution. Whether you visit for brunch or dinner, it’s a little piece of Italy in NYC that you won’t want to miss!
05
The Dutch Restaurant
American Restaurant in SoHo
Our Highlight
The Dutch is a charming spot that has quickly become a staple in my SoHo brunch recommendations and for very good reason. Open for brunch every weekend from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, The Dutch has an alluring down-to-earth vibe that’s so quintessentially American. After all, as they proudly declare, it’s just an American joint that serves nice food, wine, and spirits.
Led by the team of Andrew Carmellini, Josh Pickard, and Luke Ostrom, who collectively bring over six decades of hospitality experience to the table, The Dutch is part of the NoHo Hospitality Group, known for their diverse, exciting establishments across the city.
Now, let’s talk food. Everything at The Dutch is prepared with a joyful approach to American cuisine. From fresh seasonal salads to flavorful curries and down-home fried chicken, their dishes are a vibrant celebration of what American food can be. But let me tell you, their Cornmeal Flapjacks are something special. Drizzled with blueberry syrup and paired with salted butter, these flapjacks are the epitome of brunch perfection. Sweet, savory, and undeniably decadent. Pair them with a side of half an avocado, sprinkled with Amagansett sea salt, and you’ve got a brunch dish that’s worth waking up for.
06
Sadelle’s
American Restaurant in SoHo
Ah, Sadelle’s, a veritable icon in the SoHo brunch scene and an all-day breakfast oasis that’s a testament to New York’s classic dining tradition. Opened in SoHo in 2016, it didn’t take long for this gem to acquire an almost legendary status. Why, you ask? Two words: Best. Bagels.
Sadelle’s has collected quite a heap of accolades over the years, from being named an essential brunch destination by Harper’s BAZAAR and Cosmopolitan, to their sticky buns being crowned as one of the Best Dishes of 2015 by The New York Times. Maybe this is why its popularity has propelled it to expand beyond NYC, with outposts now in Las Vegas, Miami, Paris, Boca Raton, and Dallas.
Now let’s chat about what you should order here. My personal favorite? The LEO omelet. This is no ordinary omelet, my friends. It’s an indulgent mix of house salmon, caramelized onions, and crème fraîche that will have you daydreaming about your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal. Don’t forget to add a side of their breakfast potatoes. They’re the perfect companion to that omelet and will round off your SoHo breakfast experience just right.
07
La Mercerie
French Restaurant in SoHo
If you fancy a chic Parisian-esque brunch experience right in SoHo, La Mercerie should be your next stop. This stylish café, nestled within Roman and Williams Guild, provides more than just a place to dine – it offers a delightfully immersive atmosphere. As you sit down for brunch amidst stylish homewares, you’d be forgiven for feeling as though you’ve taken a quick jaunt to a charming café on the streets of Paris.
La Mercerie’s brunch hours run every weekend from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, offering an array of scrumptious French fare. From crêpes and croques to croissants, they’ve got the staples down pat. However, my personal recommendation strays a little from the classics. Treat yourself to their Avocat-Crevettes. A delightful combo of new Caledonia shrimp, grapefruit, and avocado, all brought together with a French cocktail.
If I’m being honest, no SoHo breakfast experience at La Mercerie is complete without dessert. And when in a French café, what better way to round off your meal than with a classic Crème Brûlée à la Vanille? This vanilla custard dessert, with its perfectly caramelized sugar top, is the sweet finish your brunch needs.
08
Balthazar
French Restaurant in SoHo
Our Highlight
Brunch in SoHo isn’t complete without a trip to Balthazar, a timeless classic that’s been the heartbeat of the district since its inception in the spring of 1997. With its warm and bustling atmosphere, Balthazar transports you straight to a romantic brasserie in the heart of Paris. What’s more is that this place is a real treat for the senses, especially if you’re there between the brunch hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm on any given weekend.
The brunch menu features an extensive selection of fresh seafood and shellfish, along with freshly baked bread and pastries from the adjacent Balthazar Bakery. And if you’re wondering about quality, it’s worth noting that Balthazar comes recommended by the esteemed MICHELIN Guide, which is a testament to its consistent culinary excellence.
Now, onto what you should order! For your starter, the Warm Goat Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tart is a must. The balance of the creamy goat cheese with the sweet caramelized onions is pure heaven. For the main course, I cannot recommend the Wild Mushroom Ravioli enough. The ravioli, filled with an earthy blend of wild mushrooms and perfectly complemented by spring onions and morels, is a delightful indulgence.
To finish off your brunch, be sure to treat yourself to the Pâtisserie’s Monkey Bread for dessert. This sweet, sticky, pull-apart bread is a perfectly decadent ending to your brunch experience.
09
The Grey Dog SoHo
American Restaurant in SoHo
If you’re looking for an all-day brunch spot in SoHo that gives you comfort food at its best without emptying your pockets, then The Grey Dog should be on your radar. This laid-back joint, with its casual ambiance, lets you kick back and enjoy brunch at your own pace, any time of the day, any day of the week.
The menu offers a great spread of all the brunch basics, prepared just the way you want, making every visit here satisfyingly simple. But where The Grey Dog really stands out is its drinks menu. Featuring unique concoctions like Spicy Pineapple Margarita and Grey Dog Spritz, this place isn’t just a top-tier brunch location; it’s also one of the most affordable in the city.
Now, what should you eat here? Well, my go-to choice is Grey Dog’s Breakfast. It’s got everything you want in a classic brunch dish – eggs done your way, your choice of French toast or pancakes, home fries, and your pick of bacon, sausage, or avocado. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that leaves you fully satisfied.
10
NoMo Kitchen
American Restaurant in SoHo
Next on our delicious journey through SoHo brunches is NoMo Kitchen, an eatery that masterfully fuses old-world charm with a modern twist. Nestled at 9 Crosby Street, it’s a wonderful blend of the nostalgia and modernity that defines this vibrant part of the city. This spot is as much a tribute to SoHo’s rich history as it is a celebration of its current status as a thriving hub of art, culture, and gastronomy.
Available from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Fridays through Sundays, NoMo Kitchen’s brunch is an enchanting experience. The menu weaves together flavors from America and beyond, serving up dishes that speak to the global character of SoHo itself. And trust me, the surroundings are just as delightful as the food – imagine dining in a sun-dappled greenhouse, a vibrant reflection of SoHo’s dynamic spirit.
Now, allow me to tempt you with my favorites. I suggest starting with the Salmon Toast, a harmonious blend of Catsmo gold smoked salmon, soothing crème fraîche, zesty pickled mustard seed, and sharp red onion. And if you’re up for it, add an egg – it takes the dish to a whole new level.
For your main dish, opt for the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. These fluffy discs of delight are adorned with mixed berries and candied pistachios, doused in maple syrup, and finished with a generous dollop of ricotta sauce. It’s a sweet symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing praises.
11
Le Coucou
French Restaurant in SoHo
With Daniel Rose as chef, Paris comes to New York! The Michelin-starred restaurant Le Coucou serves French cuisine at a very high level. Located in the beautiful Soho district, it is the ideal place if you are looking for a romantic restaurant in New York.
In addition to the classy Parisian ambiance, you can watch the open kitchen crew at work. The menu includes French classics such as halibut, lobster, and fillet of beef with foie gras.
12
12 Chairs Cafe
Café in SoHo
The name of the 12 Chair comes from the beginnings of the once small café, which only had 12 seats. Here you will find delicacies from Israel with a successful mix to the Russian cuisine. Sounds confusing, but it is super delicious. Very popular both for brunch and dinner.
13
Citizens of SoHo
Café in SoHo
Our next stop brings us to Citizens of SoHo, where the warmth and charm of an Aussie neighborhood cafe meld seamlessly with the bustling energy of New York City. Open for brunch all day, Citizen’s embodies the feeling of a close-knit community amidst the sprawling metropolis, where locals gather over steaming cups of coffee and delightful meals.
Citizens first opened its doors in Chelsea in 2016, born from the shared vision of co-founders Justin Giuffrida and Andrew Geisel. Justin, from Melbourne (the world’s cafe capital), and Andrew, from the sunny Gold Coast, dreamt of bringing an authentic Australian cafe experience to the Big Apple while working together in an NYC coffee shop.
For food recommendations, I urge you to try their Famous Smashing Avo, a gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly dish that features avocado tossed with feta and lime, served on a thick-cut multigrain toast and garnished with pickled onion, radish, pumpkin seeds, and beetroot hummus.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet indulgence, their Banana Bread French Toast is a must-try. It’s an elevated take on the classic, featuring maple banana bread French toast adorned with caramelized bananas and mascarpone. Drizzles of miso butterscotch and sprinkles of black sesame soy powder add a unique flavor twist, and a garnish of fresh mint leaves provides the perfect finishing touch.
14
Little Prince
French Restaurant in SoHo
Our Highlight
15
Fanelli’s Cafe
Bar in SoHo
Located in the historic SoHo district of New York City, Fanelli Cafe is one of the city’s oldest bars, situated opposite The Mercer hotel.
The property at 94 Prince Street, where Fanelli Cafe currently resides, first appeared in the city’s tax assessment records in 1846. In 1847, Herman Gerken leased the wooden building on the site and opened a grocery store. By 1857, Gerken replaced it with a five-story brick building that still exists.
The SoHo area underwent significant changes in the mid-19th century, transitioning from a residential neighborhood to a district lined with fashionable hotels, upscale stores, and brothels. Post-1870, the district became a hub for wholesale trade, featuring cast iron warehouses characteristic of today’s SoHo, an acronym for “south of Houston Street.”
16
Ruby’s Cafe SoHo
Other Restaurants in SoHo
Next up on our SoHo brunch tour is Ruby’s Cafe, one of my faves, that serves brunch until 4 pm daily. Since its establishment in 2002, Ruby’s has become a food lover’s paradise, renowned for its fresh local ingredients, Australian culinary influences, and arguably some of the best espresso coffee in New York City.
The cafe is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and their eclectic menu stands out even in the diverse culinary scene of SoHo. Though Ruby’s Cafe is home to the famous Bronte Burger, there’s plenty more to relish in this welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
Speaking of which, let’s dive into the recommendations! Start your brunch off with the B.L.A.T. It’s a delightful blend of bacon, lettuce, avocado, and tomato, kicked up a notch with housemade bacon jam and mayo on sourdough. Just don’t forget to add an egg for a hearty finish. To top off your meal the right way, treat yourself to Ruby’s homemade Banana Bread, a perfectly sweet indulgence served with a unique passionfruit butter that you won’t find anywhere else.
17
Flipper’s
Other Restaurants in SoHo
It’s time to flip the script a bit and dive into something a bit more unique for our next SoHo brunch escapade. Flipper’s serves brunch all day and really takes the humble pancake and transforms it into a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will make you feel like you’re biting into a dreamy cloud. Originating from Japan in 2016, Flipper’s graced the NYC culinary scene in 2019, introducing the city to the magic of Japanese-souffle-style pancakes. And let me tell you, they’ve fast become a favorite, captivating the hearts (and stomachs) of New Yorkers and visitors alike.
When it comes to Flippers, I cannot help but gush over the Blueberry Cream Cheese Pancakes. Imagine generous dollops of cream cheese melting into warm, fluffy pancakes studded with fresh blueberries. Pure bliss! If you’re in the mood for a classic, the Eggs Benedict is a winner, too, masterfully executed with a Flipper’s twist.
And don’t even think about leaving without trying their signature Flipper Boba tea – the Brown Sugar Fresh Milk. It’s the perfect sweet finish to a heavenly meal. Remember, they don’t take reservations, so try to drop by early on a weekday. Trust me, this little piece of pancake paradise is worth getting up early for!
18
Dominique Ansel Bakery
Café in SoHo
Alright, my fellow brunch enthusiasts, buckle up because our next stop is none other than the world-renowned Dominique Ansel Bakery. Located right in the heart of Soho, this spot is an absolute must for any self-respecting foodie. True magic happens here! Opened by Dominique Ansel in 2011, the bakery is a playground of creative culinary delights. From the DKA (Dominique’s Kouign Amann) to the Frozen S’mores, Blossoming Hot Chocolate, and the iconic Cronut®, it’s a place where imagination meets flavor in the most delectable ways.
And what’s better is that you can enjoy these treats any time, as they serve brunch all day! So, whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or settling down in their lovely outdoor garden seating, this bakery is always ready to serve up a little slice of heaven.
Now, let’s talk about my personal favorites. Kick off your visit with a robust cup of espresso, perfectly paired with a flaky, savory Ham & Cheese Croissant. And for the pièce de résistance, you absolutely must try the Raspberry Pistachio Tart. This masterpiece is a vanilla sablé tart shell cradling a delicate pistachio dacquoise and whipped pistachio ganache, brimming with fresh raspberries and raspberry jam. It’s a symphony of flavors that is nothing short of sensational.
Continuing our delightful brunch journey through SoHo, next up is the elegant and oh-so-French Ladurée. Born in Paris and now gracing the streets of New York, Ladurée is a masterclass in the art of French pastry, with a special focus on their world-renowned macarons.
If you’ve ever watched Sofia Coppola’s “Marie Antoinette” or are a fan of “Gossip Girl,” you might already be familiar with these delicacies. Ladurée’s famous macarons were the chosen pastry for these hit shows, and it’s no surprise why – each macaron is a perfect blend of crisp, delicate shells and creamy, flavorful fillings.
But let’s not overlook their all-day brunch menu. You simply can’t visit Ladurée without diving into a sea of their French pastries. My top recommendation? The Rose Croissant. This is no ordinary croissant, my friends. It’s flaky and buttery, with a lovely crisp on the outside and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. What sets it apart is the subtle infusion and topping of rose syrup – it’s a sensory delight you won’t soon forget.
And if you’re in the mood for something extra special, order the Rose Raspberry Saint-Honoré. It’s a puff pastry filled with a dreamy rose raspberry cream that will make your taste buds explode.
20
Café Select
Other Restaurants in SoHo
Next on our SoHo brunch trail is Café Select, a spot that effortlessly blends Swiss charm with a dash of European train station flair. There’s a laid-back vibe here that’s pure magic, right down to the hidden late-night hangout spot nestled at the back.
Now, the charm of Café Select lies not just in its unique ambiance but also in its exquisite Swiss-influenced breakfasts. Imagine this: you’ve spent your morning exploring the delights of SoHo, and you’re in need of some culinary comfort. You find yourself at one of their chic French-style outdoor tables, sipping on a refreshing Mimosa or an Aperol Spritz and watching the world go by. Sounds dreamy, right?
But wait, there’s more. When it comes to food, you absolutely must try the Lobster Bisque. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s brimming with flavor, a decadent treat that feels like a warm hug. Then there’s the Rösti Norwegian – a delightful dish that’s the epitome of Swiss comfort food. Picture a golden, crispy rösti (a Swiss-style hash brown for the uninitiated) lavished with smoked salmon and crowned with a dollop of fresh herb sour cream. Mmmmm tasty!
21
Aurora SoHo
Italian Restaurant in SoHo
Ever been to Italy? Well, if you’re in SoHo, you don’t need a plane ticket because Aurora is right in the neighborhood, bringing you the rich flavors of Piedmont. Aurora got its start back in 2003 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn when Chef Riccardo Buitoni and his pals decided their neighborhood needed a place for authentic Italian comfort food. And boy, did they deliver!
By 2007, Aurora was ready to grace SoHo with its delightful charm. Ever since, it’s been the trusted local favorite, distinguished by its commitment to freshness. The irresistible aroma of bread baking? That’s all them. The silky, luscious gelato? Crafted in-house. Every ingredient, sourced locally or imported straight from Italy, is part of the authentic experience.
But let me share some insider brunch wisdom: you absolutely need to try the Parma Benedict. Prosciutto, poached eggs, and burrata, all gently laid on a fluffy brioche and topped with a luxurious truffle hollandaise. What a way to brunch! And their Truffle French Fries? Simply delectable. They serve this mouthwatering menu on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am until 3:30 pm. So, whenever you find yourself in SoHo between these hours, stop by Aurora—it’s an experience you’ll truly savor!
22
Boqueria SoHo
Spanish Restaurant in SoHo
Our Highlight
We close out our SoHo brunches tour with a visit to Boqueria. This Spanish Tapas Bar and Restaurant infuses a slice of Barcelona’s spirited bar scene right into the SoHo neighborhood, making it an essential stop on any SoHo breakfast tour. And there’s no better place to be on weekends from 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm than Boqueria. Why? Because for just $29 per person, you’ll be treated to an unlimited stream of Sangria or Mimosas flowing freely for 90 minutes. Now, if you’re looking to take your brunch experience up a notch, opt for their Deluxe package, priced at $45 per person. With the Deluxe package, you’ll not only enjoy endless Sangria and Mimosas but also get to savor options like Estrella, Bloody Mary, or Cava. It’s the ultimate way to sip and savor your way through the vibrant flavors of SoHo.
But we’re here for a SoHo NYC breakfast, right? Start with Dos Huevos y Más, featuring two eggs prepared to your liking, your choice of smoked bacon or chorizo, with a side of patatas bravas, toast, and a zesty salsa verde. Pair that with their addictive Patatas Bravas, and you’ve got a brunch fit for a king.
Round off your meal with a sweet touch – the Buñuelos Dulces. These anise fritters, accompanied by lemon curd and a sprinkle of citrus sugar, are just the dessert to top off your brunch. So, when you’re out and about seeking the best of SoHo brunches, don’t skip Boqueria – it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.