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Guide to New York

Babka lunch spots

A babka that holds its own as a proper lunch, rather than just being a sugary afterthought to a meal.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Breads Bakery – Brooklyn image 1
Breads Bakery – Brooklyn image 2
Breads Bakery – Brooklyn image 3
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Bakery offers great views of Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline with plenty of outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays quiet and dependable, making it a good spot to relax after a walk. Food includes rich chocolate babka and savory sandwiches, enjoyed in a beautifully designed, unflashy setting.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich chocolate flavor and perfect balance, not too dense. Babka pizza offers a savory and slightly sweet taste with a bit of a kick, often toasted to perfection.

Offers a potato bureka and chocolate babka for lunch. Good spot to grab food and enjoy a picnic nearby. Serves coffee alongside baked goods.

People are saying

"The chocolate babka is rich with good chocolate flavor."

"The chocolate babka is rich with good chocolate flavor."

"I grabbed a delicious sandwich and coffee at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

A slice of chocolate babka costs $5.95.

2

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended as they sell out.

3

The menu includes pastries, sandwiches, salads, and coffee.

02
Greenwich and Delancey image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small, intimate space with old Manhattan design creates a cozy, warm atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and inviting, suited for relaxed dining. High prices reflect artisanal kosher deli quality and careful preparation.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, chocolate swirls and soft texture. It delivers a sweet, satisfying bite every time.

Stops for lunch happen on a whim here, making it a casual choice. The spot suits both lunch and dinner occasions.

People are saying

"I had the best pastrami sandwich I have ever had."

"The pastrami sandwich at this lunch spot is the star."

"I enjoyed the chocolate babka; it was ridiculously good."

Good to know

1

The deli is glatt kosher, ensuring strict adherence to dietary laws.

2

Prices are higher due to the quality of ingredients and labor.

3

This deli offers artisanal and authentic kosher options.

03
Agi's Counter image 1
Eastern European restaurant

Cozy space with a cottage core aesthetic features velvet curtains, soft lighting, and hanging lamps creating a warm, intimate vibe. Sunlit front counter and sidewalk tables add to the comfortable, homey atmosphere. Unique orange wines and carefully crafted dishes complement the thoughtful design.

Savory babka stands out with its creative flavors like spanokopita, often enjoyed with an egg on top. The bread is consistently delicious, and a spiced chocolate version appears during the holidays.

Great little diner offers a solid spot for midday late breakfast or early lunch. Menu items and baked goods provide tasty options for a midday treat.

People are saying

"I had the best cheesecake ever, especially with blueberry compote."

"The tuna melt at this Lunch Spot is the best I've ever had."

"The savory babka here is so creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

Brunch items sell out early.

2

Crepes are served only during brunch.

3

The kitchen at Agi's begins to close for evening service around 3:30 PM.

04
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery offers a heavenly chocolate babka with thick swirls and a quick Pesto Mozzarella Sandwich for lunch. Cozy, Parisian vibe with comfortable booths and outdoor seating perfect for relaxing or working.

Chocolate babka features thick chocolate swirls throughout and looks more appealing than other desserts. It tastes delicious and is a heavenly treat that’s hard to resist.

Offers a quick lunch with a Pesto Mozzarella Sandwich that stands out. Pastries and coffee also complement the casual meal options well.

People are saying

"The pastries here are phenomenal and taste so balanced."

"The pastries here are flaky, buttery, and not overly sweet."

"The chocolate babka is rich, chocolatey, and one of the best."

Good to know

1

Gloves should be worn when touching food and removed before returning to the register.

2

Expect 8-10 minutes to get your order taken if there's one person ahead.

3

Prices are higher than at Starbucks and other local cafes.

05
Mama Mezze image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot shines with Nutella babka and lively, bright decor. Lunch serves family-friendly meals full of flavor. Outdoor seating and upbeat music create a warm, energetic vibe perfect for social dining.

Nutella babka stands out with its rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor and soft, twisted texture. It also appears in a sundae form, combining the babka with ice cream for a sweet treat.

Lunch offers memorable meals that satisfy family gatherings. The food stands out for its quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The food here is excellent and delicious."

"You have to try the babka, it's so yummy and chocolatey."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to call ahead on busy nights.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially during dinner hours.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $20.

06
Russ & Daughters Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Interior mimics an old-school diner with retro vibe and classy servers in white lab coats. Atmosphere feels warm and homey yet somewhat sterile and quiet while ordering. Known for classic bagel and lox, it draws those seeking a historic Jewish deli experience.

Chocolate and cinnamon babka French toast stand out with their sweet, indulgent flavors. The babka French toast pairs well with bagels and offers a delicious twist on a classic breakfast.

Lunch features simple dishes served on a repurposed wooden plank, giving a rustic feel. Options focus on good fish and include both dine-in and take-away choices.

People are saying

"The bagels here are awesome, especially with the smoked salmon."

"You have to try the chocolate babka French toast with berries."

"The salmon platter at this Lunch Spot was fantastic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is necessary to avoid a wait of over an hour.

2

Expect to wait on busy weekend mornings; arrive early to get on the list.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect long waits on weekends.

07
Cafe Ornithology image 1

Jazz club offers live jazz every night and vinyl jazz during the day, creating a chill, cozy atmosphere with custom woodwork and a small bookstore in the back. The crowd enjoys middle eastern comfort food like hummus alongside top-notch music. The vibe suits dates, music lovers, and casual hangouts.

Nutella babka stands out with its rich, sweet flavor. Vegan babka options add variety to the babka selection.

Full coffee and tea service runs all day with a small lunch menu starting at 1 pm. Weekends bring lunch and brunch options alongside the cafe offerings.

People are saying

"The jazz here is excellent, performed by professional musicians."

"You can enjoy live jazz music and drinks here."

"The babka here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Dinner at Café Ornithology starts at 6:30pm with live music at 7:30pm and 9:30pm.

2

There is a $10 per person artist cover to watch performances at both the café and the bar.

3

Café Ornithology features an intimate show at 11pm and a jam session at midnight.

08
Susan Lawrence Gourmet Foods image 1

Outdoor patio offers a quiet, lovely setting for sitting. Interior presents a beautiful cafe with a wide selection of pastries, cakes, and baked goods. Prices are more affordable than expected with options for dine-in, takeout, and frozen foods.

Chocolate Babka stands out with rich, delicious flavor. Other babkas and baked goods vary from just OK to tasty samples.

Black bean tacos and kale salad stand out as fresh lunch options. The spot serves straightforward, satisfying meals during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I loved their coffee; it was great."

"I felt like I was in heaven after trying the cupcake desserts."

"I've never had a Chocolate Babka this delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for dine-in or takeout.

2

Expect a variety of pastries, cakes, and gourmet foods available daily.

3

Prices are generally affordable compared to other cafes in the area.

09
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys image 1

Bagel shop with an old school vibe and bright, inviting interior filled with crowded tight tables and loud music. The atmosphere feels comfy and vibrant, attracting a mix of regulars and newcomers. Walls display numerous photographs, adding to the authentic and classic feel.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, sweet flavor that captivates attention. Loaves come in generous sizes and sometimes include samples that offer a delightful surprise.

Lunch includes an avocado sandwich and spreads like fish spread. The fish spread can affect the meal experience.

People are saying

"These authentic New York bagels are made with love."

"You have to try the babka; it's worth going for."

"The onion bialys here are really good."

Good to know

1

The bagels are priced at $2, which is more expensive than other places.

2

The price for a bagel and cream cheese is $5.25.

3

Both dine-in and delivery options are available.

10
Mile End Deli image 1
Sandwich shop

Cozy space blends Montreal deli style with a laid-back Brooklyn vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer comfort, though indoor areas can feel tight. Atmosphere stays quiet and chilled, making it a neighborhood staple with a welcoming feel.

Cinnamon babka comes with a kind gesture from the staff, sometimes offered on the house. The chocolate babka stands out as a solid choice, paired well with iced lattes that are also delicious.

Montreal Jewish style deli food shines with corned beef Reuben and matzo ball soup as solid lunch choices. Smaller sides like cucumber salad and potato salad add variety to the midday meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the Smoked Meat Breakfast Burrito."

"This lunch spot's smoked meat sandwich is incredible."

"I liked the chocolate babka."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for a seamless experience.

2

Expect to pay around $22 for a sandwich.

3

The menu includes poutine and authentic Jewish meats.

11
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Bakery offers 100% gluten-free options with vegan and dairy-free choices in a small, chic interior. The space feels crowded and chaotic, with tight seating and a confusing layout. Noise levels rise as the place fills, creating a busy atmosphere.

Chocolate babka stands out as a desserty bread that works well for gluten free diets. Gluten free babka and bagels offer good flavor and justify their price.

Quick gluten-free options stand out for lunch, especially the salad with fried feta. Convenience makes it a solid choice for a fast midday meal despite the long lunch rush wait.

People are saying

"I thought the gluten-free bagels were the best I've ever had."

"I found the gluten-free babka to be the best I have ever had."

"You have to try the bagels; they're divine."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is entirely gluten-free, making it suitable for people with coeliac disease.

2

The grill is turned off daily around 3:00 PM, so arrive before then.

3

On Sundays, expect a lot of people at the bagel shop.

12
Breads Bakery - Union Square image 1

Bakery buzzes with a fresh bread aroma and lively locals. Chocolate babka offers a rich, decadent flavor that impresses. Spacious back seating creates a relaxed lunch experience with great meal options and quick grab-and-go choices.

Chocolate babka stands out for its rich, decadent flavor and addictive quality. Loaves are breathtaking and consistently meet high expectations despite a higher price point.

Spacious seating in the back supports a relaxed lunch experience. A variety of great lunch options exist, though the spot also suits grab-and-go meals well.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries here to be delicious and fresh."

"The chocolate Babka is rich, gooey, and incredibly chocolatey."

"The breads and pastries here are fantastic, especially the croissant."

Good to know

1

Breads Bakery offers sandwiches, salads, bakery items, and coffee.

2

The caraway rye bread is only available on weekends.

3

They sometimes have items on the menu only for that particular month, like the cheesecake babka in May.

13
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with old-world charm and an edgy omni-deli ambiance filled with the aroma of specialty cheeses and coffee. Crowded with serious shoppers, the atmosphere can feel tense but remains a local institution known for its unique bakery and extensive gourmet cookwear upstairs.

Chocolate and cinnamon babka come freshly made in house with a rich, soft texture. The babka pairs well with espresso grind coffee and stands out as a heavenly treat among other baked goods.

Offers paninis and ready lunches with a variety of mezes. Provides good deals for lunch options.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"The grocery store has a huge variety of specialty items and fresh food."

"This lunch spot has great ready-made sandwiches and pastries."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

14
Thai Diner image 1
Thai restaurant

American diner setting blends with Thai-style decor featuring plants and art, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy, multi-season space that welcomes dogs and service animals. Crowd tends to be cool and lively, with dim lighting and a mix of indoor and outdoor areas.

Thai tea babka French toast stands out for its rich yet balanced flavor. It pairs well with other breakfast items like the Thai breakfast sandwich and offers a decadent twist on traditional babka.

Lunch offers a wonderful experience with consistently lovely meals. Early lunch visits highlight a perfect balance of flavors and quality.

People are saying

"The diner food here is flavorful, comforting, and perfectly executed."

"The egg sandwich and fried rice at this Lunch Spot were excellent."

"The Thai tea babka French toast was truly incredible."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves brunch items daily before 5pm.

15
K'Far image 1
Israeli restaurant

Upscale Israeli restaurant offers a chic and cozy atmosphere with beautiful interior design featuring lots of light and greenery. The space includes a comfortable lounge and outdoor seating, creating a relaxed vibe. Drinks include creative cocktails and Israeli wines, complementing a menu with Middle Eastern and Western fusion flavors.

Soft, warm babkas come in lemon cheesecake, apple caramel, and walnut cinnamon flavors. Each is fluffy and filled with rich, unctuous fillings that stand out among the baked goods.

Lunch features delicious food served with attentive, hospitable staff. Seating at the bar offers a wonderful lunch experience.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here serve tender lamb shank and juicy chicken schnitzel."

"The food here is delicious, especially the pistachio sticky roll."

"The lemon cheesecake babka was soft, warm, and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Get there early for a drink at the Hoxton lobby.

2

The restaurant offers a prix fixed murder mystery brunch.

3

You should definitely make a reservation before coming here.

16
Bad Roman image 1
Italian restaurant

Modern decor combines with a lively, energetic atmosphere that suits groups celebrating special occasions. Bold, Instagram-worthy cocktails and a vibrant, whimsical design create a fun vibe. Seating by windows offers views of Central Park and Columbus Circle, enhancing the experience.

Garlic babka stands out as a staple and pairs well with dishes like filet mignon meatballs. It features prominently alongside favorites such as wedge salad and chicken rigatoni.

Lunch offers a fantastic food selection with a menu that blends brunch and lunch items, avoiding typical brunch-only dishes. It suits those wanting a solid meal before afternoon plans.

People are saying

"The truffle pasta here is out of this world."

"The food and service at this lunch spot are amazing."

"The Roasted Garlic Babka is a must order."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Bad Roman.

2

I recommend making a reservation at least a day in advance to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant is located on the third floor of a shopping center.

17
Martine's Fine Bake Shoppe image 1

Bakery offers a charming, cozy atmosphere with stunning display cases showcasing delicate pastries. Space feels spacious and bright with natural sunlight and wood accents. Regulars and friendly staff create a warm, welcoming vibe despite occasional busy chaos.

Chocolate babka stands out for its rich flavor and delicious texture. Options include cinnamon and Nutella babka, with delivery and shipping available for convenience.

Sandwiches stand out with interesting Middle Eastern flavors. Options suit both dining in and taking out for breakfast and lunch.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh, beautifully crafted, and bursting with flavor."

"This lunch spot's pastries are amazing and worth the price."

"I drove from NYC for their chocolate babka; it's the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The bakery is located close to the Metro-North Crestwood train station.

2

Waiting for a table is expected due to the bakery's popularity.

3

Customers should double-check that their orders are correct.

18
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

Cinnamon babka has a generous amount of cinnamon and a slightly underbaked texture that makes it similar to a cinnamon roll. Chocolate babka is also popular and often bought to take home.

Arriving just before the lunch rush means no queue. This spot fills up quickly for downtown lunch.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The pastrami sandwich at this lunch spot is fabulous."

"The cinnamon babka was a standout item."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

19
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich flavor and is often paired with cinnamon babka for variety. Both offer a deliciously sweet experience that pairs well with coffee cake and other baked treats.

Quick and satisfying lunch options focus on bagels and other tasty foods. Expect about a 20-minute wait during weekday lunch hours.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"The bagel had a dense bite with a great chew."

"This Lunch Spot's smoked salmon and schmears are a must-try."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

20
Ess-a-Bagel image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop offers crowded, chaotic atmosphere with long lines and limited indoor seating. The space feels cramped and noisy, with a distinctive aroma filling the air. Customers often find it hectic but appreciate the unique bagel options available.

Cinnamon and chocolate Babka come as rich, sweet cakes that work well for dessert. Every piece of Babka holds strong flavor, making it hard to leave any behind.

Bagel sandwiches with salmon and cream cheese stand out for lunch. The Tuna Turner sandwich offers a solid choice. Many options allow trying something different every day.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels were fresh and flavorful."

"Expect a long line at this lunch spot, especially during lunch time."

"I couldn't throw away a single piece of the chocolate or cinnamon Babka."

Good to know

1

Get there early on Saturday morning to avoid long lines.

2

You can order online to avoid waiting.

3

Arrive early as the lineup can be very long and stretch around the block.

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