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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lincoln Square

Brunch spots

Brunch is the one time of the week where the meal can stretch on for hours.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Canto Upper West Side image 1
Canto Upper West Side image 2
Canto Upper West Side image 3
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Italian restaurant

Vaulted ceilings and brutal loudness fill the space with energy. Food shines with flavorful dishes like branzino and arancini. Brunch offers shakshuka paired with a frozen espresso martini, making it a lively spot for both meals and drinks.

Food comes out flavorful and cooked to perfection. Dishes like branzino and arancini stand out for their taste and quality.

Shashuka stands out as a brunch dish paired with a frozen espresso martini. Food tastes great and the drink selection impresses during brunch.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and lasagna, was delicious."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"Bellini's service made our Brunch feel so comfortable and personal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

The menu features pasta priced at $22-24 and a special pasta at $56.

3

Canto offers gluten-free pasta options for those with dietary restrictions.

02
Friedman's image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Small American spot blends Jewish and Chinese dishes with a strong gluten-free menu. Cozy, romantic vibe with live singing and relaxed all-day brunch featuring classic favorites. Welcomes families with thoughtful amenities and ample seating.

Food blends Jewish dishes and Chinese cuisine in a unique way. The menu offers an excellent selection of gluten-free items with consistently great taste and satisfying portions.

Offers a really good all-day brunch with several great options on the menu. Servers let you enjoy your meal without rushing, creating a relaxed vibe for classic breakfast and brunch dishes.

People are saying

"The gluten-free options here are amazing and spectacular."

"The French toast and chicken waffles at Brunch were delicious."

"The food here is amazing and mostly gluten-free."

Good to know

1

A reservation is highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options for various dishes.

3

This place gets busy during brunch time until 3 PM.

03
El Fish Marisqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Minimalist decor with abundant plants creates a cozy, warm vibe perfect for relaxed dining. Unique menu items shine with exceptional quality and flavor, especially the divine burger at weekend brunch. Tables spaced for comfortable conversation enhance the sensual, upscale atmosphere.

Food features unique menu items paired with great cocktails. The dishes consistently deliver exceptional quality and flavor.

Weekend brunch features a burger that stands out as divine alongside dishes like tuna tacos and grilled octopus. Brunch options pair well with other seafood and salads, offering a good variety.

People are saying

"The grilled oysters and artichoke cod were my favorite seafood dishes."

"The food here is delicious, with fresh ingredients and deep flavors."

"The brunch burger was a must and totally divine."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation if you can since the restaurant is usually full.

2

Brunch is available at this restaurant.

3

Happy hour at the bar is definitely a vibe.

04
Ella Social image 1
Restaurant

Small indoor space opens to a lovely outdoor patio with dog-friendly seating and tables close together. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and inviting to noisy and lively, supported by a throwback and Latin music playlist. Seating options vary from high-tops to low-tops, all comfortable and welcoming.

Food offers incredible tapas with a touch of home, blending exotic and refined flavors. Delicious dishes pair well with amazing wine and come with excellent service and a great atmosphere.

Brunch offers a delicious menu with a great atmosphere that suits both sunny days and evening meals. The experience feels fresh and satisfying every time.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, well-seasoned, and a great value."

"The brunch here is delicious, especially the shakshuka and eggs benedict."

"The Social here is great, with attentive servers like Geo and Martha."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Street parking is available nearby, but be prepared for limited spots.

3

Happy hour runs on Sunday afternoons with special pricing on select drinks.

05
Felice Columbus image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers romantic atmosphere with a beautiful long bar and a sexy basement lounge featuring plush seating and a full bar. Outdoor dining occupies much of the sidewalk with large sliding doors providing street views. The vibe stays chill with music enhancing the experience.

Classic Italian dishes stand out with authentic flavors and consistent quality. Service matches the food with excellent attention and a welcoming vibe.

Brunch features creative dishes like Crostone Con Avocado and a salmon bagel option. Drinks include Bloody Marys that pair well with the food.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is rich and decadent."

"The food here is excellent, especially the tiramisu and bruschetta."

"This Brunch French toast is the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a 15-minute wait past your reservation time during busy hours.

3

The restaurant can host large parties in a private event space.

06
Cafe Luxembourg image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant blends luxury Deco vibe with delicious food and radiant service for a great meal. Brunch shines with an excellent omelet and lively indoor seating, while outdoor dining offers a serene atmosphere with heaters and fans.

Delicious food pairs with radiant service for a consistently wonderful dining experience.

Brunch features an excellent omelet and a solid Sunday breakfast. Tables fill up quickly on weekends, but seating at the bar is available with a wait.

People are saying

"The French food here is fresh and comforting."

"The brunch here is sublime, with exquisite service."

"The food here is excellent, especially the steak frites."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch to secure a table.

2

The restaurant has a cutting fee for cakes brought in by guests.

3

Vaccine and ID are required to dine inside.

07
Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar image 1

Live music and open mic nights create a vibrant entertainment atmosphere. The interior shows an older, dated design with a tight, awkward layout that challenges movement. Seating is close-packed and varied, including small booths and stools without backrests.

Food here is delicious and fresh, prepared with love and care. Drinks complement the meals well, creating a consistently tasty experience.

Sunday brunch offers a wonderful variety of options and a lively atmosphere with music. Reservations are common, especially for weekend brunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The jumbo shrimp and crabmeat appetizer was so delicious."

"The food here was pretty good, especially the jerk wings and plantains."

"The brunch here is delicious, with great drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to ensure a spot at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant has a $15 cover charge per person for entertainment on Friday nights.

3

You must have cash for the door cover charge.

08
The Smith image 1
American restaurant

Massive American restaurant with tight seating and heated outdoor patio offers plenty of space indoors and out. Loud noise level and high energy fill the space, creating a bustling atmosphere. Frequented by diners who appreciate vibrant ambiance despite the volume.

Food features excellent quality and consistent great taste across visits. Service complements the dining with amazing attentiveness.

Brunch features seasoned filet mignon and a vegetarian BAHN-MI sandwich. Biscuits stand out as a key part of the American brunch. The cappuccino is notably strong and well-made.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, is rich and creamy."

"The brunch food here is flavorful, fresh, and well-presented."

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table due to high demand.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait for outdoor seating during peak hours.

3

The late night happy hour menu is available after 10pm.

09
maman image 1
Coffee shop

Space combines charming French countryside style with a stylish New York nook and features lovely floral decor and indoor plants on walls and ceiling. Atmosphere varies from cozy and inviting to crowded and chaotic with loud, jittery music and occasional messiness. Outdoor seating offers a comfortable terrace with sun exposure, enhancing the experience on warmer days.

Food features fresh ingredients and European flavors with a focus on breakfast dishes. Meals come with a cozy atmosphere that complements the delicious offerings.

Offers a French cafe vibe with solid breakfast and brunch options. The Mediterranean Breakfast Bowl stands out, and it suits both casual brunches and quick coffee stops.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, especially the honey lavender latte."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The brunch pastries here are French-inspired and delicious."

Good to know

1

Maman is a laptop-free environment, so leave your laptop at home.

2

Expect over an hour wait for a salad during busy times.

3

The kitchen closes at 4pm, so no savory items are available after that.

10
Old John's Luncheonette image 1

Old school diner with outdoor booths featuring individual enclosures and built-in air conditioning and heating creates a quintessential New York experience. Atmosphere blends modern and vintage styles with a cozy yet lively vibe. Cocktails stand out as amazing, complementing the spirited setting.

Food comes freshly prepared to order with excellent quality and delicious flavors. Prices stay reasonable while maintaining consistent excellence in every dish.

Brunch offers a quiet setting ideal for catching up with friends and features reasonable prices with good food. Expect a wait during busy times, but the casual ambience makes it worth it.

People are saying

"This diner's food tastes amazing, especially the pancakes."

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The brunch here is delicious, especially the smoked salmon."

Good to know

1

Make reservations to avoid a wait time.

2

Customers should be prepared to wait on weekends or make a reservation.

3

The kitchen closes at 10 PM.

11
Il Violino image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with large windows offers people watching and a cozy atmosphere. Outdoor section features live jazz music and civilized seating. Warm, inviting vibe attracts families despite occasional noise.

Italian cuisine stands out with excellent food and classic flavors. Meals are consistently delicious and paired with attentive service.

House smoked lox stands out as a tasty option on the brunch menu. The set brunch includes high-quality mimosas and excellent coffee, though prices lean toward the higher side.

People are saying

"It's a cozy place with a warm, charming atmosphere."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The service during Brunch felt like family, attentive and classic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Dinner reservations fill up quickly, so book in advance.

3

Expect high prices, with pasta dishes costing around $40.

12
Rosetta Bakery image 1

Brightly lit space with modern decor and indoor and outdoor seating offers a welcoming atmosphere filled with tempting aromas. Crowds create a busy vibe, and loud pop music plays throughout. Comfortable seating and views of midtown add to the experience.

Great quality Italian food pairs with delicious pastries and great coffee in a cozy setting. Outdoor dining adds to the relaxed vibe while prices stay reasonable.

Brunch features a variety of impressive breakfast options and pastries. The spot serves consistently for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it a reliable choice for morning meals.

People are saying

"The pastries here are beautiful and tasty."

"I found the food here to be fresh and really tasty."

"The brunch service felt so personalized and thoughtful."

Good to know

1

Grab pastries to-go and enjoy them at a nearby park.

2

Prices are high, with a cup of tiramisu costing $10.

3

Expect to pay $9 for a sandwich that is only half filled.

13
Cafe Fiorello image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with heated outdoor dining that feels cozy despite a somewhat cramped space. Atmosphere is loud and lively, encouraging conversation but with high energy. Bar features expertly crafted cocktails and occasional treats like fresh baked cookies.

Delicious Italian food pairs with excellent service and well-crafted cocktails in a large, inviting setting.

Brunch features a lovely menu with a great selection. Pancakes stand out as a game changer during brunch.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing Italian food, especially the pasta."

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"I loved their brunch, especially the avocado toast."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

They allow dogs in the outdoor seating area when it's not crowded.

3

Brunch and an all-day Italian menu are available on weekends.

14
Friend of a Farmer image 1
American restaurant

Space combines rustic decor with bright skylights that fill the room with natural light. Atmosphere feels peaceful and homey, resembling a charming cottage with a warm, inviting vibe. Tables are spaced to maintain coziness despite the smaller size, creating a relaxed setting for meals.

Classic comfort food like chicken pot pie stands out with fabulous flavors. The food pairs well with a warm atmosphere and attentive service.

Brunch offers a friendly service and a nice patio to sit in. The atmosphere suits celebrations and casual meals with outstanding food.

People are saying

"The brunch pancakes were fluffy and light."

"It's so cozy and inviting inside, like a rustic farmhouse."

"I thought the food here was great."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait in a line for your table, but it moves quickly.

2

No reservations are accepted for brunch, so arrive early.

3

The brunch is pricy, with meals averaging around $30 each.

15
The Ribbon image 1
Fusion restaurant

Spacious fusion restaurant with beautiful decor and comfortable seating including outdoor options. Atmosphere feels cozy yet lively, with music and sports on TVs enhancing the vibe. Bar offers well-crafted cocktails alongside a menu featuring standout dishes like BBQ ribs and fried chicken.

Food comes out fast, fresh, and delicious with standout dishes like buffalo style cauliflower and brisket. Service matches the food with an exceptional level of care.

Brunch offers a well rounded menu with great food and attentive service. The atmosphere suits gatherings like birthdays or catching up with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the appetizers."

"I found the ribbon steak to be a masterpiece."

"I loved the homemade corned beef hash at brunch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to secure a table.

2

The restaurant offers a special Restaurant Week menu with three courses for $45.

3

Brunch is served until 3 PM on weekends with an unlimited buffet option.

16
Santa Fe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers an intimate, casual neighborhood vibe with cozy, stylish decor and a beautiful atrium featuring natural light from a skylight. The atmosphere stays quiet and easy, making it suitable for conversation. Outdoor seating on the street adds a relaxed option for drinks.

Food here bursts with bold flavors and comes with beautiful presentation. Dishes range from tacos to burgers and French toast, all served with consistent quality.

Sunday mornings bring a great time with friends here. Food quality for brunch is very disappointing despite the social vibe.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best and freshest."

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious."

"I've never tasted French toast like this, especially with the dulce de leche dip."

Good to know

1

The restaurant takes reservations.

2

The total cost for 3 burritos and guacamole is $124.

3

The only side of guacamole costs $17.

17
The Empire Rooftop image 1

Rooftop bar offers amazing views and spacious seating with plenty of room. Music is lively with a DJ on Fridays, creating an energetic atmosphere that can be loud for conversation. Multiple photo opportunity areas add visual appeal to the setting.

Food here is immaculate with dishes that get consistent praise. Staff stay attentive, quickly refilling drinks and clearing tables to keep the experience smooth.

The spot offers a separate brunch menu and handles large gatherings like post-wedding and post-bat mitzvah brunches for about 100 guests. Brunch reservations allow easy entry without wait.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of the city from the rooftop."

"The food here has amazing views."

"The Brunch view of New York City from the rooftop is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2pm to 6pm with discounted cocktails.

2

Reservations are required for events and should be made in advance.

3

Entry is denied without a valid ID, regardless of age.

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