For food lovers like myself, weekends are often dedicated to relaxing around a beautiful table with loved ones and enjoying the city. Nothing inspires or rejuvenates me after a busy week quite like experiencing a unique dish in a gorgeous setting. Lingering around a brunch table well into the afternoon with friends and family has become one of my absolute favorite weekend traditions. Here are some of my favorite spots for brunch in New York City that always seem to check all the boxes.

Colonie

Located on Atlantic Ave in charming Brooklyn Heights, Colonie is a neighborhood farm-to-table spot that’s not to be missed. Drawing inspiration from the history and beauty of the surrounding historic neighborhoods, Colonie strives to support the New York food community by using as many local farms as possible, while also providing a gorgeous, light-filled space to eat and drink. I love the Eggs + Grains dish, which changes out seasonally, Eggs in Purgatory, and the Anchovy Toast.
Area // Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn
Must Order // Eggs + Grains
Walk in only (line up 10 minutes before opening!).

The Osprey at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

I love any excuse to go over to the stunning 1 Hotel in Dumbo! The restaurant at the property, The Osprey, is located just off the lobby. The space is welcoming, gorgeously designed, and situated right off the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass. The Osprey serves traditional brunch dishes, such as eggs, toast, and bacon, but also seasonal salads and a great bison burger — all perfect with a glass of rosé.
Area // Dumbo, Brooklyn
Must Order // Fries + Harissa Aioli
Reservations recommended.

Miss Ada

Miss Ada is a small, inviting Israeli restaurant in the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant Fort Greene, using ingredients from local purveyors to create a unique twist on modern Mediterranean cuisine. In warmer months, guests can dine in Miss Ada’s sun-drenched backyard herb garden while enjoying hummus, poached eggs, and Israeli pastries.
Area // Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Must Order // Shakshuka
Reservations recommended.

Rucola

On a gorgeous tree-lined street in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, this is truly a spot where I could sit for hours. Rucola is a small neighborhood restaurant serving Northern Italian fare. It’s cozy, rustic vibe makes it feel super home-y and inviting — and if you get seated in the front window booth, you’ll probably be there for hours with an antipasti spread and a bottle of wine.
Area // Boerum Hill, Brooklyn
Must Order // Rigatoni + Sourdough Toast
Walk in or call ahead only.

Poppy’s

This woman-owned neighborhood cafe and market serves pastries, espresso, jarred provisions, prepared foods, and and a small section of curated home goods. Poppy’s has a spacious covered parklet with picnic and small cafe tables — the absolutely perfect quintessential Brooklyn street to have coffee and pastries on.
Area // Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
Must Order // Seasonal Frittata + Tahini Cake
Walk up cafe.

La Mercerie cafe at Roman and Williams Guild

Even as a Brooklyn lover, this one is worth going into Manhattan for! La Mercerie is a sun-drenched gorgeous French restaurant inside the ever inspiring Roman and Williams Guild. The unbelievably luxe space feels surprisingly approachable as its filled with welcoming velvet booths, organic branches and flower arrangements, and clinking glasses. The food is as fantastic as the space, and will make you feel Parisian for the afternoon. Definitely check out the gorgeous Roman and Williams Guild after your feast!
Area // Soho, Manhattan
Must Order // Buckwheat Crepe
Reservations recommended.

Le French Tart Deli and Bakery

The charm of this place just cannot be beat. Located close to DUMBO on Henry Street, this little French cafe and market is the perfect spot to grab an amazing pastry and cup of coffee from. There’s usually a fast moving line, and it’s 100% worth it. The shop also sells dried pasta, pantry goods, full sized cakes, and other prepared foods.
Area // Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn
Must Order // Spinach and Cheese Croissant
Walk up cafe.