▷ The 16 Best Places for Brunch in East Village | NYC Guide 2024 (2024)

01

Nestled in the heart of East Village, David’s Cafe crafts a brunch experience that’s hard to resist! Whether you’re a fan of classic dishes like scrambled eggs or crave a unique twist, such as the orange blossom pancakes, there’s something for everyone. And did I mention that they offer a delightful selection of mimosas and sangrias?

But it’s not just the food that’ll win you over – their newly opened outdoor seating area offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a walk in nearby Tompkins Square Park. Just be sure to swing by for brunch from 12-3:45 pm Thursday through Friday or 11 am-4 pm on weekends. Believe me! David’s Cafe is a spot you’ll want to tick off your NYC brunch list.

02

Next up on our brunch tour is the legendary Lil Frankie’s. As part of Frank Prisinzano’s esteemed restaurant family, this East Village restaurant is like that reliable friend who never lets you down. From their renowned pizzas and pastas to classic breakfast delights, there’s something for everyone! Of course, if I could only choose one entree, it would be the mouthwatering eggs Florentine with sautéed spinach, but you may prefer Molly’s French Toast – either way Lil Frankie’s has you covered.

But wait, it gets even better. Brace yourself for their incredible drinks deal – a three-for-one extravaganza featuring mimosas, Bloody Marys, screwdrivers, Bellinis, or Proseccos. It’s like a birthday gift you never knew you needed! Just remember that you must make a reservation for Lil Frankie’s brunch and it’s cash only!

03

As we continue on, San Marzano is a must-visit spot on 2nd Avenue. It stands out as one of the most affordable restaurants in the East Village. Here you’ll find brunch favorites like eggs Benedict, omelettes, and paninis, all priced under $15. But prepare for a potential wait, as this place gets packed, especially with NYU students taking advantage of the $14 unlimited mimosas.

To make the most of your visit, I suggest arriving early to snag an outdoor table on 2nd Avenue, as this alone will take your brunch experience at San Marzano to the next level! And when it comes to food, I highly recommend trying their Lump Crab Benedict with poached eggs, avocado, and hollandaise. But remember, San Marzano only serves brunch from 11 am to 4 pm on Fridays, weekends, and holidays, so plan accordingly!

04

Located in the Lower East Side, Esperanto has been serving its vibrant Latin fusion since 1999. With outdoor seating, live music, and flavors inspired by Central and South America and the Caribbean, it’s the go-to spot in the East Village for a lively brunch experience.

If you add Esperanto to your list of brunch spots, make sure to try their Ovos Rancheros – fried eggs on a crispy corn tortilla with pico de gallo, black beans, and a side of home fries and mixed greens. And if you’re looking for a boozy brunch, Esperanto has you covered with an array of drink deals to make the experience even better. Choose from options like 2 brunch co*cktails, 3 brunch co*cktails, or even a pitcher of your chosen drink. Either way – you can’t go wrong at this stop!

05

Noreetuh isn’t your ordinary brunch spot in the East Village. It’s a modern Hawaiian restaurant where you’ll find brunch that embraces Hawaii’s Japanese, Polynesian, and American influences. Here, renowned Chef Chung Chow, an alum of Per Se, makes magic in the kitchen every Saturday and Sunday, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.

One of the must-try dishes? The Mochiko Chicken Loco Moco – a feast of fried dark meat chicken, graced with rich gravy and served with fried eggs and Hawaiian macaroni salad. Tip: order the King’s Hawaiian rolls as a side. Not to mention, they also sport an award-winning wine list, craft beers, and specialty sakes! Just remember, last call is at 2:15 pm, so don’t miss out!

My tip: Noreetuh has recently launched an exciting new co*cktail program! Created by Courtney Smith and Ye Htoo Khaing Win, the menu now features unique Hawaiian-inspired tiki co*cktails. For example, the Hawaiian Firefly combines jalapeños and rosemary with Casamigos Blanco, Aperol, lime juice, passion fruit puree and agave syrup, shaken and then served in a short tiki glass with a sprig of rosemary and a slice of jalapeño. Sounds delicious, right? But you can also order an Amaretto Colada or a Hawaiian Rose. All of these co*cktails are also served with brunch.

06

If Mexican cuisine is what you’re craving for brunch, then Rosie’s in East Village is a restaurant you can’t afford to miss. This airy corner joint flaunts retractable glass walls for sun-soaked days, offering all-day brunch with their own authentic Mexican touch.

For me, the standout dish here is the Huevos Rancheros, which is served with eggs prepared sunny side up, black beans, queso fresco, and two types of salsa. For drinks, don’t pass up the Rosie’s Margarita – a punchy blend of mezcal, tequila blanco, and lime with a pasilla-salt rim. Just be sure to check out their all-day brunch menu beforehand, and get ready to experience the best brunch East Village NYC.

07

Are you looking for a more exotic meal? Check out Balade, a cozy Lebanese spot tucked away on 1st Avenue. This 2020 OpenTable Diner’s Choice awardee will lure you in with a chic vibe and a unique brunch menu served all day on weekends.

The Hummus Shawarma platter, featuring hummus, beef shawarma, tomatoes, scallions, parsley, sumac, and tahini sauce is a must-try. But if you’re in the mood for something unconventional, don’t miss their Lebanese-style pizza or pita pizza. Just a short stroll from the iconic St. Marks Place, Balade is definitely among the best brunch restaurants in the East Village.

08

And don’t let anyone else tell you that your East Village journey is complete without visiting Veselka, the Ukrainian coffee shop. Nestled at the corner of East Ninth Street and Second Avenue, this iconic 24-hour diner has been serving heartwarming fare since 1954.

I highly recommend the signature brunch pierogi, a delightful mix of bacon, scrambled eggs, Vermont cheddar, and chipotle ketchup. If you’re an eggs benedict fan, their Salmon Latka version with smoked salmon, potato pancakes, and hollandaise sauce will wow you! Plus, their Eggnog French toast and hearty breakfast menu are available anytime, day or night.

Just a short walk from the vibrant Astor Place, Veselka is a must-visit brunch restaurant in the East Village. Just keep in mind that the brunch magic only occurs on weekends and holidays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

09

Adding an Italian flair to the East Village brunch scene is Bar Primi, which is nestled on the cusp of the NoHo and East Village neighborhoods. Bar Primi serves brunch from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm every Saturday and Sunday, with this spot offering an authentic pasta experience that’s hard to resist.

Their breakfast spaghetti, a unique ensemble of kale, pancetta, and a poached egg, is a must-try. However, if you have a sweet tooth, the ricotta pancakes with Nutella, bananas, and walnuts will change your life! Oh, and don’t forget to kickstart your meal with their refreshing mimosas, available in orange, grapefruit, or blood orange. At just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant Lafayette Street, Bar Primi is one of the best brunch restaurants in this area.

10

Another East Village spot that I regularly visit is Hearth. With a focus on sustainable, clean eating, it’s where brunch is not just a meal, but an experience. Their whipped ricotta toast with poached apple and candied pepitas is heavenly, as is the Cacio e Pepe Polenta.

And for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with the Apple Crumb Muffin. Just make sure you wash it all down with The Beekeeper, a zesty gin and lemon co*cktail. When you brunch at Hearth, you’re not just filling your belly, you’re nourishing your soul – as the name would suggest!

11

My next East Village bruch spot is the ever-popular Cafe Mogador. Serving up Moroccan-inspired brunch since 1983, it’s quite a staple in the neighborhood. Fancy something light? Their Tuscan kale salad, packed with parmesan, apples, and sunflower seeds, is a winner.

More of a sweet brunch person? You can’t go wrong with their buttermilk pancakes, whether you prefer them plain, loaded with bananas, or topped with blueberries. To finish off your meal at Cafe Mogador, try their Espresso Martini – trust me, it’s the perfect brunch co*cktail!

12

On your brunch journey, make a stop at Cathédrale, tucked under the Moxy Hotel. Boasting vaulted ceilings and dim mood-lighting, this place features an ambience you won’t find elsewhere.

Check out their famous Potato Chip Omelette or take a culinary trip along the Mediterranean coastline with a plate of their Shakshuka. Then, sip on a mimosa, with a twist of spiced apple cider or classic orange juice, and you’re in for a perfect brunch! And don’t miss exploring nearby East Village landmarks such as Union Square Park after your meal, as it’s just a short stroll away.

13

Next up is Westville East, a comfort spot known for its fresh and straightforward dishes. Located in East Village just minutes from Tompkins Square Park, it’s the spot for your weekend brunch from 10 am to 4 pm.

Their menu, which is bursting with produce-heavy options, is a refreshing change. You can’t go wrong with their Avocado Toast topped with sunny-side-up eggs or the Breakfast Burrito stuffed with eggs and chorizo. Not to mention, they’ve also got good coffee, too!

And if you get there early, you might even snag a seat outside. You know, nothing beats sipping coffee and people-watching on a lazy Sunday, right? It’s a neighborhood favorite, and after just one brunch here you’ll understand why.

14

Of course, when in East Village, you absolutely cannot miss brunch at Divya’s Kitchen. Open every day starting at noon, this spot serves healthy, flavorful dishes rooted in the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda.

Whatever you do, don’t skip their custom breakfast bowls, where you can pick from a variety of options like basmati rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and sauteed leafy greens. Sauce it up with their cilantro mint or carrot tahini. Just don’t forget to pair your bowl with a cold brew coffee that includes an added splash of oat milk, and you’ve got yourself a balanced, satisfying brunch!

15

Little Rebel is one of the hippest brunch restaurants in the East Village. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the serene Stuyvesant Square Park, you’ll immediately feel the rebellious spirit as you step in, thanks to the intriguing decor featuring iconic pop culture rebels.

Here’s my insider tip – go for their brioche French toast. Drenched in smoked maple syrup and topped with berries, it’s downright irresistible! But no worries, if you want something savory, Little Rebel also has many brunch plates to pick from! And if the sun’s shining, try to snag a seat on their upstairs patio, which is arguably the best spot for a New York City brunch. But what really sets Little Rebel apart from other brunch restaurants is their vibrant co*cktail list, so why not pair your plate with a colorful James Dean or Tyler Durden? You’ll be living life on the edge in no time!

16

Looking for a budget-friendly brunch spot in the East Village? A10 Kitchen, located right by Tompkins Square Park is where it’s at! I cannot stress enough that the prices are unbeatable for this part of town. In fact, all of their dishes are under $20 and the crafty co*cktails won’t set you back more than $15.

And hey, if you’re planning a boozy brunch with pals, you can all chip in for a pitcher of their scrumptious brunch co*cktails, talk about a steal! As for food, you can’t go wrong with their classic offerings. My personal favorite? The B.E.C Sammie. This delicious breakfast sandwich is served on brioche bread with crispy bacon, perfectly fried eggs, and Irish cheddar cheese.