22 Best Picks For Brunch Near Central Park – Local Favorites
Are you looking for places to brunch near Central Park, but don’t know where to start? As a local to the NYC area, brunch is one of my favorite ways to catch up with friends. We’ve tried out dozens of delicious restaurants and rounded up the best choices right here.
If you are a local or looking for something to enjoy on a week long trip (or less), brunch is a meal you simply cannot go wrong with. These options are a perfect way to enjoy an afternoon after visiting some of the highlights in Central Park.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Eggs Benedict or something unconventional, we’ve got something for everyone – ranging from cafes, diners, breakfast joints and more. To make sure you get the most out of your weekend brunches while visiting NYC’s iconic hot spot, read on to find out where all these amazing options are!
Brunch Near Central Park South
Central Park South is not only known for its stunning views of Central Park but also for its vibrant neighborhood. Here you will find incredible shopping and restaurants. It is the perfect place to visit after spending a morning in the southern end of Central Park.
Jams
Location: 1414 Sixth Avenue, New York, NY
Brunch at Jams is a solid choice, though the menu might not be the most thrilling. The atmosphere exudes a cozy coffee shop vibe within a stylish hotel setting. The added bonus of being near Central Park makes it a convenient stop to refuel before or after a walk.
Sunday brunch extends until 4pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy. As far as the menu goes, you’ll find your typical brunch staples with a few stand out dishes. The kale salad is delicious as is the huevos rancheros and french toast.
Sarabeth’s
Location: 40 Central Park South, New York NY
Sarabeth’s is a gem that shines brightly in the heart of New York City, particularly for brunch enthusiasts. It is one of my personal favorites, but that may be due to the fact that its one of the first places a friend took me when I moved here.
While the restaurant is known to be bustling and requires some patience due to its popularity, the wait is definitely worthwhile. The staff is well-versed in the intricacies of the menu, and their attentiveness and professionalism shine. They go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Red Eye Grill
Location: 890 7th Ave, New York, NY
Red Eye Grill mixes comfort with class and upscale. Located near the southern end of Central Park and has a larger sized venue with high ceilings. The menu has fairly standard brunch offerings, but they are known for their steak and seafood so we recommend trying one of those dishes.
For standout menu options, try the steak and eggs or dancing shrimp. Opt for the bottomless mimosa and bellini then complete your meal with a slice of NY style cheesecake.
Brunch Near Central Park North
The northern end of Central Park is unique with its options for unique flavors and a range of options. Located in Harlem, there are so many great options to choose from when in this area.
Maxwell’s Central Park
Location: 1325 5th Ave, New York, NY
Maxwell’s is a great choice for a relaxing atmosphere with nice deals on mimosas. The ambiance of the restaurant has a casual and cozy vibe with a rustic flare. Their weekend brunch special includes a mimosa and meal priced under $20.
The pancakes are an excellent choice along with the crab cake eggs benedict. Wonderful option if you are looking for a spot on the north end of Central Park.
La Fonda
Location: 169 E 106th St, New York, NY
La Fonda Boricua, situated in the heart of East Harlem, has been a cherished culinary institution since its transformation from a modest luncheonette in 1996. With roots deeply embedded in Puerto Rican culinary traditions, this restaurant has become synonymous with homestyle Puerto Rican cooking in New York City.
The brunch menu is priced well and the unlimited mimosas come in a variety of flavors that offer an enjoyable meal for groups. The Puerto Rican style cuisine offers a unique menu that stands out from your typical brunch expectations. Definitely worth a try for an enjoyable meal near Central Park.
Brunch Near Central Park West
Brunch options near Central Park West are perfect to enjoy after a long morning visiting the American Museum of Natural History. There is plenty of options in this area and something for everyone to enjoy.
Thyme & Tonic
Location: 474 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
The menu at Thyme and Tonic offers an array of choices that caters to diverse dietary preferences. It’s a vegan and gluten-free menu that doesn’t compromise on taste. Even non-vegan eaters can find appealing options like eggs and salmon.
Among the selections, the cheddar scramble with avocado and the smoked salmon latke stand out as top-notch picks. The breakfast cocktails (and bottomless option) are a must, completing that true classic brunch experience.
What sets Thyme and Tonic apart is not just its scrumptious food but also its charming decor and ambiance. The covered seating area, adorned with a pretty pastel color scheme and tables fashioned from barrels, creates an enchanting setting. It’s a space that’s not just Instagram-worthy but also elevates the overall dining experience.
The Smith
Location: 1900 Broadway, New York, NY
Another favorite with locations throughout the city, brunch at The Smith Restaurant is a must-try experience. Known for its classic American brunch, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday meal. Arrive early or make a reservation to avoid the crowds, as it gets busy.
The menu offers a range of options, from Eggs Benedict to Avocado Toast, all executed well. The service is attentive, making the dining experience pleasant. If you’re a fan of pancakes, don’t miss out on trying their exceptional stack with mascarpone, orange, hazelnut, and maple syrup.
Though prices might lean toward the higher side, the quality of the food and the ambiance make it worth the cost. Overall, The Smith is a charming place for a satisfying brunch, especially if you’re looking to enjoy a classic American brunch experience in a pleasant setting.
Jacob’s Pickles
Location: 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY
Southern flavors and upscale comfort is what you can expect at Jacob’s Pickles. Ambiance here is not too noisy or crowded, ensuring an enjoyable experience. Reservations are recommended since it can fill up fast due to its popularity
The menu at Jacob’s Pickles doesn’t hold back on indulgence, offering hearty and filling dishes that satisfy everyone’s appetites. Known especially for inventive pairings like chicken and pickles, you cannot go wrong with any of your choices. Their drink selection is equally impressive, making for the perfect addition to your meal.
Osteria Cotta
Location: 513 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
Osteria Cotta is a great spot for weekend brunch (make reservations in advance though!). For an enjoyable experience try snagging a table in their covered outdoor seating area that is heated in winter. Sip on mimosas or bloody marys while enjoying the atmosphere and charm of this restaurant.
This is a great place to enjoy with friends thanks to their bottomless beverage option where you can enjoy unlimited drinks for 1.5 hours. Some notable dishes include the brunch calzone, panini, pappardelle, and truffle pizza.
The Viand Diner & Bar
Location: 517 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
The Viand diner for brunch hits all the right notes. It’s a place where service excels and the food is delicious. For those that appreciate a classic diner experience, the Viand is for you. It has a special neighborhood charm, where you’ll find friendly regulars, sharing the space as you savor your meal.
The corned beef hash stands out as a highly recommended choice, delivering a flavorful punch to your morning meal. While it may lean toward the pricier side (for a diner) the value is evident in the generous servings. This is an excellent option near Central Park to sip on morning cocktails and your favorite meals.
Good Enough To Eat
Location: 520 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
Good Enough To Eat offers a bright and airy indoor dining area, as well as an inviting outdoor patio, ensuring there’s a spot everyone can enjoy. The service is characterized by attentiveness and warmth, making for an enjoyable experience.
One standout feature of Good Enough To Eat is its generous portion sizes, providing excellent value for your money. They specialize in classic breakfast fare, and while they may not reinvent the wheel, they excel in executing the basics to perfection. The French Toast, for instance, is not a groundbreaking creation, but thoroughly enjoyable and one of the best I’ve had.
The Milling Room
Location: 446 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
The Milling Room offers a stunning atmosphere with its high ceiling and skylight windows. As you step inside, the beauty of the restaurant immediately captivates. From the almond French toast to the flavorful huevos rancheros, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.
The carefully crafted cocktails also add a pleasant surprise. In all aspects, The Milling Room offers a beautiful setting with a delicious meal and morning cocktails to enjoy.
Maman
Location: 152 Columbus Ave, New York, NY
Maman Restaurant is a spot for a decent brunch experience with familiar classics that hit the mark. They are known for their skillfully crafted lattes and charming decor. While the breakfast dishes and specials stand out, their iced cappuccino takes the spotlight, offering a delightful sip that complements the brunch options.
What sets Maman apart is its charming and inviting ambiance. Aesthetic-wise, it’s a cozy spot, making it an excellent choice for everyone and a cozy place for leisurely brunch with friends..
Tavern on the Green
Location: West 67th St, New York, NY
Tavern on the Green is a quintessential New York City dining experience, known for its chic ambiance and delicious offerings. While brunch comes with a premium price tag of $95+, it offers a four-course extravaganza in a stunning Central Park setting.
The meal begins with a basket of assorted fresh bread. The menu features an appetizer, entree, and dessert, ensuring a well-rounded and indulgent brunch experience. Among the tempting selections, figs, salmon, and a decadent chocolate lava cake stand out as memorable choices. For those with a hearty appetite, the French toast and breakfast pizza make for satisfying options.
For a picture-perfect view of Central Park, request a table in the center room with its all-white decor. This vantage point offers a scenic backdrop to accompany your exquisite meal.
What truly elevates Tavern on the Green beyond its exceptional cuisine is its enchanting atmosphere. The restaurant’s extravagant Christmas decor adds to the charm, making it an especially enchanting destination during the holiday season.
Cilantro
Location: 485 Columbus Ave. New York, NY
Cilantro is a place to go when looking to mix up your brunch routine for something different. The menu offers your favorite options, with a Mexican spin on flavors and choices. It is reasonably priced, not breaking the bank with options on add on your favorite brunch cocktails.
The eggs Benedict is delectable, but the side of plantains beckons as a must-try. The warm atmosphere, coupled with the manager’s personal touch is loved by both locals and visitors alike.
Brunch Near Central Park East
After a busy morning at the MET or a relaxing stroll through Central Park brunch with friends is the perfect way to enjoy a weekend afternoon. There are so many incredible options to choose from to suit everyone’s style and taste.
Table d’Hôte
Location: 44 East 92nd St, New York, NY
Table d’Hote is a delightful French gem nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side. Despite its small size, seating around 25, it never feels overly crowded, making reservations often unnecessary. The simplicity of the brunch menu, offering around 10 carefully curated options, doesn’t divert from its crowd-pleasing nature. Instead, it ensures that each dish is prepared to perfection.
The Eggs Benedict is a standout choice but you also cannot go wrong with the Brioche French Toast. Paired with your favorite breakfast cocktail, it will be a perfect afternoon brunch after a morning spent in Central Park. .
Bluestone Lane
Location: 1085 Fifth Ave. New York, NY
Bluestone Lane is a perfect place to grab brunch near Central Park if you love coffee and love pets. They are doggy friendly and while you may night get your favorite breakfast cocktails, it is a spot you won’t want to miss.
Set in the historic Church of Heavenly Rest, the restaurant boasts breathtaking architecture that adds to the charm of the dining experience. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, a robust brunch menu and even better coffee and drink menu.
Match65
Location: 29 East 65th St, New York, NY
Brasserie65 stands out as a true gem that provides an incredible dining experience and delicious food. Everything from the steak, salmon eggs benedict to the freshly squeeze orange juice is amazing.
If the food and ambiance alone aren’t enough to draw you in, the restaurant staff is top notch. They are attentive without being intrusive and warm and friendly to elevate your entire meal.
The East Pole
Location: 133 East 65th St, New York, NY
The East Pole is a stunning brunch destination that exudes charm and sophistication. Start your meal with the delightful banana bread and follow it up with the Eggs Benedict. The huevos rancheros is another good choice, but may not align with traditional expectations and their unique flair on the classic dish.
This cute brunch spot captures the essence of a classic brunch outing. To ensure a seat, reservations are highly recommended, as the East Pole tends to be bustling with visitors.
Sant Ambroeus
Location: 1000 Madison Ave. New York, NY
This charming venue is an excellent choice for Sunday brunch. Seating is available for both those with and without reservations, offering indoor and outdoor options. The indoor has an airy and chic atmosphere. The menu offerings, like the avocado toast and the Sant Ambroeus panini, are standout choices.
The staff at Sant Ambroeus is not just courteous but also helpful, ensuring your dining experience is relaxed and unhurried. Overall, the food is truly fantastic, accompanied by a light and bright ambiance and quick service that make for the perfect brunch experience.
The Penrose
Location:1590 2nd Ave, New York, NY
The Penrose provides a casual atmosphere in a friendly setting, perfect for an afternoon brunch with friends. Their menu serves traditional classics with food that is locally sourced.
Begin your meal with an espresso martini or a spicy mezcal margarita, both crafted to perfection. Then, savor your meal with generous portions and delicious options. Some brunch highlights include the French Toast or shrimp and grits and you of course cannot go wrong with the Eggs Benedict (A personal favorite!)
Cafe d’Alsace
Location: 1703 2nd Ave, New York, NY
Cafe d’Alsace is a charming neighborhood gem that offers a delightful brunch experience on the Upper East Side. Its outdoor seating is a particular highlight, especially on sunny days. What sets this place apart is the unique Art Deco wallpaper and coy booths creating an inviting atmosphere.
Whether you have midday brunch reservations or spontaneously decide to drop by, Cafe d’Alsace has something to offer every palate. The menu features a variety of options, from classic omelets to the flavorful shakshuka.
Frequently Asked Questions!
What is the biggest brunch day?
Saturday and Sunday are typically when people enjoy brunch. With the weekend and work schedules off, it is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a long and casual meal with friends. Most restaurants will only offer a brunch menu on these days.
What time do most people eat brunch?
Brunch technically lasts around 10am-4pm. The most popular time to get brunch in New York City is around 1-2pm.
Is 11:30 too early for brunch?
Nope! While many New Yorkers opt to get lunch later in the day, closer to 1-2pm 11:30 is an excellent time to start your brunch and crowds will likely be a bit lower at this time as well.
What do I wear to brunch?
Brunch attire should match the ambiance of the restaurant to start. If you are heading to a more upscale restaurant you may want to opt for a dressier option. Outside of that, brunch attire can be anything that makes you feel confident and comfortable!
Final Thoughts: Brunch Near Central Park
Brunch is a special and beloved meal, especially in New York City and Central Park. Our post today looked at some great brunch options located near Central Park, giving a variety of food to choose from for vegetarians, meat lovers, and everyone else. Whether it’s understated and refined or loud music and bottomless mimosas, there are so many options to choose from.
Brunching allows you to take time out during your busy schedule to enjoy good food or have a drink with friends or family. Consider taking advantage of all that New York has to offer by making your way over to Central Park and experiencing classic NYC brunch!
