When it comes to breakfast in New York City, the options are as diverse and exciting as the city itself. From classic diners serving up fluffy pancakes to trendy cafes offering the world’s best cup of coffee (get the Elf reference?)

So without futher ado, here are some of the best breakfast spots in NYC (in my opinion)… enjoy!

Ess-a-Bagel has been a beloved NYC staple since it first opened its doors in 1976. Founded by Florence and Gene Wilpon, along with Florence’s brother Aaron Wenzelberg, the original location on 1st Avenue in the Gramercy Park neighbourhood quickly gained a reputation for its hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels that are fluffy and delicious. Within just two years, Ess-a-Bagel was voted the best bagel shop in the Tri-State area, setting the stage for its long-standing legacy. Today, with three locations – Ess-a-Bagel continues to delight customers with its extensive menu featuring over 20 types of cream cheese, delectable spreads, and choice meats. 

For a touch of sophistication with your morning meal, head to Sarabeth’s. Try their famous quiche with onions, ham, potato, and gruyere, or go for the smoked salmon benedict. With multiple locations, you’re never far from a delicious start to your day.

For a taste of Paris in New York, visit Buvette. A charming French spot in West Village. Feast on “Les Croques” or opt for familiar favourites like their Waffle Sandwich. It’s perfect for small groups and offers a cosy atmosphere.

Prepare for pancake perfection at Flipper’s. Their soufflé pancakes are fluffy, airy, and absolutely irresistible. Served with an array of fruits and toppings, these pancakes are a unique breakfast experience you won’t forget.

Situated in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Chez Ma Tante is a trendy European-inspired brunch spot founded by Canadian Aidan O’Neal and New Yorker Jake Leiber. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with an eclectic menu featuring dishes like oysters, terrine, and fancy sandwiches. Their pancakes are a standout, described as thick and fluffy with a hint of citrus zest, served with maple syrup and butter. The space features white-washed brick walls and a simple bar, creating a cool, minimalist Brooklyn atmosphere. Their Turkish coffee cake and Croque Madame are also highly recommended.

Sunday in Brooklyn is your favourite neighbourhood spot serving American staples. They offer reservations for Williamsburg. For weekend brunch, we are almost exclusively walk-in based and we only offer limited reservations.

Exploring New York City for lunch is an adventure in itself, from cosy cafes to grab and go dumplings in China Town. There’s something for everyone in this list.

Located in Midtown, The Polo Bar offers a classic American dining experience. Their Polo Bar Burger is a must-try, featuring USDA Prime Angus beef with all the fixings, served alongside hand-cut fries. For something lighter, the Watermelon Salad with heirloom tomatoes and feta is refreshing and vibrant. 

This Japanese brasserie is known for its luxurious seafood offerings. The Wasabi Lobster is a standout dish, combining rich flavors with a spicy kick. For sushi lovers, the Lobster Club Lunch, featuring lobster tempura hand rolls and assorted nigiri, is an exquisite choice 👌

A casual yet iconic spot, PJ Clarke Lincoln St is famous for its burgers and seafood. The Clarke Burger, made with fresh ingredients and served with crispy fries, is a local favorite. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their Lobster Roll, which bursts with flavour! 

For a taste of Italy in the heart of NYC, head to Café Paradiso. Their Pasta Primavera is light and fresh, perfect for lunch. Pair it with a glass of Italian wine for an authentic touch.

This French brasserie offers an elegant atmosphere along with hearty dishes. La Grande Boucherie‘s Steak Frites is perfectly cooked and comes with crispy fries that are hard to resist. Don’t forget to try their French Onion Soup, known for its rich flavour and gooey cheese topping.

Located within the historic New York Public Library, The Reading Room offers a serene dining experience. Their Seasonal Salad features fresh ingredients sourced from local farms, making it both healthy and delicious.

For Mediterranean flavours, visit Reyna New York. Their Mezze Platter allows you to sample various small dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush—perfect for sharing! The ambiance is lively, making it ideal for social lunches.

The dining experience at RH Guesthouse is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. Their Avocado Toast topped with poached eggs is both trendy and satisfying. Enjoy your meal surrounded by beautiful decor that feels like an upscale garden party.

For something quick and delicious, head to Tasty Dumpling in Chinatown. Their Pork Dumplings are juicy and flavourful—perfect for a quick lunch on the go!

A chic French cafe within the Design Within Reach showroom, La Mercerie serves delightful pastries alongside savory options like their famous Croque Monsieur, which pairs perfectly with a café au lait.

This contemporary spot offers globally inspired dishes; their Korean BBQ Tacos are particularly popular for lunch! The vibrant atmosphere makes it great for casual dining.

Located in Brooklyn, Colonie focuses on farm-to-table dining. Their menu changes frequently but look out for their delicious brunch options like the Eggs Benedict, which are always a hit!

For authentic Mexican cuisine, visit Claro, where you can enjoy handmade tortillas paired with various fillings. The Tacos al Pastor are particularly noteworthy!

New York City’s dinner scene is a vibrant tapestry of culinary delights, offering everything from classic establishments to innovative newcomers. Let’s explore some of the city’s most notable dinner destinations.

Founded by renowned chef Daniel Boulud in 1993, Daniel has become a beacon of French fine dining in New York. The restaurant’s elegant setting complements its exquisite cuisine, with standout dishes like the Black Tie Scallops and the Duck Breast à l’Orange. Daniel has consistently earned Michelin stars, solidifying its place among the city’s culinary elite.

Serafina, part of a successful restaurant group, brings a taste of Northern Italy to New York. Known for its thin-crust pizzas and homemade pasta, Serafina’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Try their signature Tartufo Nero pizza or the Ravioli ai Porcini for an authentic Italian experience.

Co-owned by actor Robert De Niro and celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Nobu 57 is a testament to innovative Japanese cuisine. Since its opening in 2005, it has been serving up fusion dishes that blend traditional Japanese techniques with Peruvian influences. The Black Cod Miso and Rock Shrimp Tempura are must-try dishes that have become synonymous with the Nobu brand.

A true New York landmark, Tavern on the Green first opened its doors in Central Park in 1934. After a significant renovation in 2014, it continues to charm diners with its magical setting and American cuisine. The restaurant’s Crystal Room, with its sparkling chandeliers, offers a unique dining experience. Their Rack of Lamb and Central Park Seafood Tower are popular choices.

Housed in a stunning Art Deco building, Eleven Madison Park has been at the forefront of New York’s fine dining scene since 1998. Under chef Daniel Humm, it earned three Michelin stars and topped the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2017. In 2021, the restaurant made headlines by transitioning to an entirely plant-based menu, showcasing innovative vegan creations.

Opened in 1994 by restaurateur Danny Meyer, Gramercy Tavern has become a beloved institution known for its warm hospitality and seasonal American cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to local, sustainable ingredients is evident in dishes like their ever-changing Vegetable Tasting Menu. The Tavern area offers a more casual dining experience, while the main dining room provides an upscale atmosphere.

Opened in 2006, Buddakan brings a theatrical dining experience to the Meatpacking District. The restaurant’s stunning 16,000-square-foot space, featuring a dramatic chandelier-lit dining hall, sets the stage for its modern Asian cuisine. The Edamame Dumplings and Char Siu Pork Belly are standout dishes that showcase the restaurant’s fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours.

Carbone, opened in 2013 by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick, pays homage to the Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20th century. The restaurant’s retro decor and tuxedoed waiters transport diners to another era. Their Spicy Rigatoni Vodka and Veal Parmesan have achieved cult status, often imitated but rarely matched.

When it comes to coffee in New York City, the options are as diverse and exciting as the city itself! From cozy neighborhood cafés to trendy roasteries, NYC is home to some of the best coffee shops in the world. Get ready to discover the perfect place to fuel your day in the city that never sleeps!

Serendipity 3, founded in 1954, is a New York institution famous for its decadent desserts and whimsical atmosphere. While not primarily a coffee shop, it’s known for its Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, a blend of 14 exotic cocoas. The café has been featured in numerous films and has hosted many celebrities over the years.

Maman, a French-inspired bakery and café, opened its first location in SoHo in 2014. Known for its rustic, homey atmosphere, Maman serves artisanal coffee alongside freshly baked goods. Their nutty chocolate chip cookie was named one of Oprah’s Favourite Things in 2017.

Blank Street Coffee, a relatively new player in New York’s coffee scene, has rapidly expanded since its 2020 launch. Known for its compact stores and focus on technology, Blank Street aims to provide high-quality coffee at accessible prices.

Cafe Atelier is a hidden gem in New York’s coffee scene, offering a unique blend of coffee and art. While specific details are limited, it’s likely that this café provides a creative atmosphere alongside its coffee offerings.

From iconic bakeries to hidden gems, NYC is home to a wide array of sugary delights that cater to every palate. Whether you’re craving Levain Bakery’s famous chocolate chip cookies, the legendary banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery, or the innovative cronut from Dominique Ansel, there’s something for everyone. So without further ado, here are some of the must-try desserts and the stories behind these beloved spots.

Lafayette Grand Café & Bakery, opened in 2013 by acclaimed chef Andrew Carmellini, is a French-inspired bakery and bistro. Known for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite pastries, Lafayette’s croissants and macarons are particularly popular.

Milk Bar, founded by pastry chef Christina Tosi in 2008, is known for its innovative and playful desserts. Signature items include Cereal Milk soft serve, Compost Cookies, and Crack Pie (now called Milk Bar Pie). Milk Bar has since expanded to multiple locations across North America.

As an Irishman, I’m excited to dive into the diverse world of drinks that this city has to offer! I’ll highlight some of the best spots to enjoy a drink, whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly crafted martini, a refreshing mojito, or just a good ol’ pint of Guinness in an Irish pub. With countless venues to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and specialties, you’re sure to find the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. 

Dowling’s at The Carlyle, located in the iconic Carlyle Hotel, offers a sophisticated cocktail experience. Named after Robert Whittle Dowling, who owned the hotel in the 1930s, the bar maintains an air of old New York elegance.

The King Cole Bar in the St. Regis Hotel is famous for being the birthplace of the Bloody Mary in America. The bar features a stunning mural by Maxfield Parrish and has been a favorite of New York’s elite since 1932.

The Champagne Bar at The Plaza Hotel offers a luxurious drinking experience with views of Fifth Avenue and the Pulitzer Fountain. The Plaza, opened in 1907, has a rich history and has been featured in numerous films and books.

The Gold Room probably refers to a luxurious bar space, possibly within a hotel, though exact details are not provided in the search results.

The Campbell, formerly known as The Campbell Apartment, is a historic bar located in Grand Central Terminal. Once the private office of 1920s tycoon John W. Campbell, it now serves classic cocktails in a beautifully restored space.

Nubeluz is likely a rooftop bar offering skyline views and craft cocktails, though specific details are not provided in the search results.

Thyme Bar probably specialiSes in herb-infused cocktails, offering a unique drinking experience, though exact details are not available in the given information.

In 1860, the Japanese consulate, comprised of 77 samurai, made its first voyage to the United States. During this journey, they made their way to New York City, where they frequented the legendary Jerry Thomas’ bar, located on Broadway. In Thomas’ 1862 publication of “How to Mix Drinks,” he gives the recipe for his Japanese Cocktail, which was created for the Japanese diplomat, Tateishi Onojirou Noriyuki. Shingo Gokan’s The SG Club in Tokyo imagined the kind of American bar that these worldly samurai would have opened upon returning to Tokyo. Sip & Guzzle represents the next chapter of this vision and imagines if the samurai did open that bar and took everything they learned, the best of New York and Tokyo, and came back to to where it all started.

Perched 16 stories above the intersection of Broome and Bowery, The Highlight Room is a glamorous rooftop bar that evokes a 19th-century pleasure garden, with a majestic tree spreading its branches across the room and outdoor terrace. Encased in glass windows on all sides, The Highlight Room offers unparalleled views of the New York skyline and a festive atmosphere perfect for any occasion.The Highlight Room is likely a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city, though exact details are not available in the given information.

Brandy Library, opened in 2004 in Tribeca, offers an encyclopedic selection of spirits, particularly brandy and whiskey. Known for its knowledgeable staff and tasting flights, it’s a must-visit for spirits enthusiasts.