April is here, the sun is shining, the weather is getting warmer and the people are getting vaccinated. After over a year of being kept at home from the virus, and a few months of having to dine indoors, it’s time to get back to what a New York City girl loves most: brunch. TikTok has put a couple of new restaurants on the map, so I’m adding to the list by sharing the best NYC brunch spots to check out this spring and summer. Happy brunching!
A Note on Brunch in NYC:
It is indeed still a panoramic, and as a result restaurants in NYC are still following strict protocols on capacity. That means it is less likely that you’ll be able to get a seat at any of these spots by just walking in. For the more popular spots on this list, you may even need to book weeks in advance. Keep this in mind as you make your way to the best NYC brunch spots this spring and summer!
For a Taste of Brazil: Berimbau Brazilian Kitchen
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Berimbau serves up delicious Brazilian food in the West Village and it’s got the decor to match. Their roadside seating, pictured above, is spacious and clean—you wouldn’t event think you’re dining outside! There is even a cute little wall that doubles as a photo taking wall if you’re into it!
For Classic Chic Vibes & Stellar Cocktails: Dante
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Dante is a historic café and restaurant that has been open in 1915. While the Italian options on the menu are delicious, it’s the cocktails that stand out. Conveniently located in the West Village, you may even consider brunch at another spot on this this list and then heading over to Dante for a drink.
For Bougie Birthday Brunch Vibes: RH Rooftop
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RH Rooftop restaurant sits atop a furniture and hardware store but it is the opposite of what you’d think when you hear that. The restaurant is filled with beautiful crystal chandeliers and manicured hedges. It serves American food in the Meatpacking district and overall provides the perfect backdrop for a special occasion brunch.
For IG Worthy Scenes & Drinks: Loulou NYC
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If you’ve been active on TikTok, you’ve probably already heard of this spot, but LouLou is a French bistro in Chelsea serving up beautifully crafted drinks with an even more beautiful floral scenery.
For Feel Good, Eat Good Vibes: Kokomo
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Head out to Williamsburg to have Caribbean food and hear island music at this Black owned restaurant. I went there for my birthday dinner and the verdict? The food was spectacular, and the music was great, so I can only imagine how live it would be during the daytime for some brunch! I might have to head over and try their Sweet Plaintain Pancakes. Oh, and if you’re in the mood for bottomless brunch, keep in mind Kokomo only serves that on Fridays!
For Stellar Views: Electric Lemon
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Electric Lemon is another rooftop restaurant that’s above the Equinox hotel in Hudson Yards. It’s got stellar views, especially at golden hour and very unique architecture. Come for the sunset views, but stay for the amazing farm to table menu.
For Upscale Loungy Feels & Beautiful Plates: Nomo Kitchen
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Nomo Kitchen is IG famous at this point because of the garden archway entrance that you”ll find when you enter the Nomo Hotel where this restaurant is located. But besides being able to get the classic “blogger in NYC” shot for the gram, at Nomo Kitchen you’ll have really great food off of their Mediterranean inspired American menu.
For No Frills Brunch with a Laid Back Experience: Dudley’s
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For a give it to me straight style brunch on the Lower East Side, Dudley’s has you covered. Their menu is pretty extensive so you’ll probably find what you’re in the mood for and most importantly you’ll leave full and satisfied.
For When You Want to Spill the Tea: Ladurée
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In the mood for a catch up with your girls to spill on the tea that they’ve missed? Ladurée is a classic Parisian spot for brunch that will give you the tea party vibes to match the occasion. You probably know them for their macarons and so after you have brunch in their gorgeous garden, take some to go!
For When You Just Want to Turn Up: Poco
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It might be the case that when Woodland closed, the height of the NYC party brunch movement went with it. But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. Poco has got you covered with the bottomless brunch and live music. Though I will say, just like Woodland, you come to these types of places for the atmosphere, not necessarily for the food or aesthetic.
That’s it for the best NYC brunch spots to check out this spring and summer. Of course, there are plenty of other options across the city, so if there is one you absolutely recommend, leave it in the comments!
” After ten days they looked healthier and better fed than all the young men who ate the king’s food. ” Daniel 1:15
