Soho is one of the most vibrant and stylish neighborhoods in New York City, known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and café culture. On weekends, locals and visitors flock to Soho to indulge in one of its most popular pastimes – brunch. From classic French toast and omelettes to globally-inspired small plates, Soho is home to countless charming restaurants and eateries perfect for relaxing midday meals. This guide runs down 20 of the best brunch spots in Soho, where you can sip mimosas and coffee amongst the lively bustle of downtown Manhattan. Whether you crave upscale American fare, healthy takes on breakfast classics, or international influences, these top-rated venues are sure to satisfy your Saturday or Sunday hunger.
Old Fashion Café
Old Fashion Café offers hearty comfort food in a cozy nook along bustling Prince Street. Renowned for their fluffy pancakes, guests flock to this local favorite every weekend. Sit at the retro counter stools or snag a spot at one of the cheerful wooden tables.
Indulge in staples like buttermilk waffles or Belgian waffles topped with fresh fruit compotes and whipped cream. Don’t miss the homemade baked goods – the scones and muffins are a sweet pick-me-up any time of day. With friendly service and bottomless coffee, Old Fashion Café is the perfect neighborhood joint to linger over brunch.
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Odd Sister
Just steps from Broadway, Odd Sister serves globally-inspired small plates and sharable plates in a stylish yet laid-back setting. Brunchgoers nibble on rice bowls, naan sandwiches and other creative breakfast combos. Food lovers rave about the truffle scrambled eggs served with grilled levain bread or the shakshuka – a delicious baked egg dish in a spicy tomato sauce.
Coffee drinks are poured with care alongside fresh juices and floral cocktails that pair well with any platter. Odd Sister’s eclectic menu and upbeat vibe make it a top pick for an alternative brunch experience.
Shuka
This hidden gem serves vibrant Mediterranean flavors on its spill-over balcony along a serene side street. Brunch standouts include the shakshuka – a blend of poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce served with warm pita.
Those with a hankering for brisket can opt for the beef shawarma hash. Refresh with fresh squeezed juice or mint tea while taking in views of surrounding townhouses. Shuka remains an oasis away from the bustle, perfect for relaxing midday meals or nightcaps as colorful lanterns flicker with the setting sun.
Banter NYC
Offering global comfort foods and craft cocktails, Banter draws cheerful crowds with its sidewalk tables. At brunch, crepes like the lobster or brie and jam varieties fly off plates. Those craving something heartier choice from dishes influenced by Morocco, India and Peru.
With curries, fried chicken or shakshuka, there’s an eclectic array. And with creative cocktails plus beer and wine options, Banter is just as enticing for a midday drink as it is for satisfying any type of appetite.
Three of Cups Restaurant
This charming restaurant is named after a tarot card signifying friendship, abundance and celebration. True to its name, Three of Cups delivers an upbeat brunch experience with global flavors and craft cocktails. Dishes like ricotta pancakes, shakshuka and breakfast pita sandwiches satisfy varied appetites.
Bottomless mimosas and a wine-centric list pair perfectly. The cozy yet lively ambiance makes it easy to linger all morning with friends. Be sure to also check out the hand-crafted pastries from the in-house bakery. Three of Cups brings good vibes and delicious fare to fuel any weekend gathering in the heart of Soho.
Boqueria Soho
Inspired by the gourmet markets of Barcelona, Boqueria transports guests to Spain with its presentation of small plates, charcuterie and tapas. At brunch, partake in regional specialties like tortilla española, croquetas and churros alongside fluffy churros.
Or build your own picnic with an assortment of cheeses, jams, chorizo and more from the display counters. Mimosas and sangria help wash it all down. The bustling yet sophisticated setting makes it easy to linger for hours sampling from the rotating menu. Boqueria offers an authentic taste of Spanish culture any time of day.
Ruby’s Cafe – Soho
A cozy refuge just off busy Prince Street, Ruby’s Cafe serves comfort fare featuring local, seasonal ingredients. Guests cozy into plush booths or seats at the marble bar to sip coffee and nibble beignets, scones and other baked goods.
When it’s time for a main course, eggs Benedict with thick-cut ham or the ricotta pancakes will not disappoint. Fresh fruit-topped waffles and granola parfaits also hit the spot. Staff treat regulars and newcomers alike like family. It’s easy to linger all morning in Ruby’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Citizens Of Soho, A Breakfast Cafe
This bright neighborhood cafe is the place to mingle over coffee, cocktails and satisfying brunch fare. Dishes showcase high quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients with healthful preparations like smashed avocado toast or eggs with kale pesto. Sweets lovers can’t go wrong with banana bread, French toast or cardamom brioche.
Cozy up at the marble counter to watch the open kitchen in action or claim a spot on the sidewalk to take in SoHo’s vibrant street scene. Citizens is the kind of reliable spot locals and visitors return to again and again for friendly service and consistently delicious meals.
Balthazar
A SoHo icon since the 1990s, Balthazar still attracts the fanciest brunch crowds on the weekend. Dine in grand style beneath sprawling skylights beside fellow fashionable foodies. Start your day with lauded baked goods like buttery croissants or seasonal tarts fresh from the oven. Then sample classics like steak frites or salmon BLT alongside flutes of bubbly.
For bigger appetites, share plates of fancy charcuterie and artisanal cheese. Balthazar brings Parisian panache to brunch with flawless service in energetic yet elegant surrounds. It’s truly a special occasion experience.
The Grey Dog
A fixture on a quiet downtown corner, The Grey Dog transports guests to an English pub with its cozy ambiance and hearty fare. Regulars flock here for weekend rituals like sausages and eggs, bangers and mash or fish and chips. Sip a pint well with porridge, oatmeal or yeast spreads.
Relics and wood details lend authentic Old World charm transporting guests to the British Isles. Free-flowing coffee and tea, along with creative cocktails also please patrons. With its welcoming staff and commitment to quality comfort cuisine, The Grey Dog is a dependable weekend haven.
Fanelli Café
A classic neighborhood joint since the 1870s, Fanelli Café charms with its old New York charm and casual atmosphere. Cash-only diners linger for hours over bottomless coffee, played alongside corned beef hash, buttermilk pancakes and other stick-to-your-ribs fare.
During warmer months, grab an outdoor seat under strung lights to watch the evening unfold beside locals chatting over wine and beers. While a tad slower paced than other trendier spots, Fanelli remains an essential piece of Soho’s history and a perfect daytime hideaway for brunch or dinner.
Chobani SoHo
Fuel up for a day of shopping at this bright, healthful café from the famous Greek yogurt brand. Morning meals center around nourishing superfood bowls, smoothie bowls, overnight oats and more featuring Chobani’s creamy yogurt. Salmon toast, avocado and grain salads also satisfy.
Fresh juices quench thirst, while cleansing boosts energy. Helpful staff guides choose options tailored to dietary needs. Bonus perk: the spacious seating and people-watching out front amid Soho’s bustle. Chobani makes fueling up delightfully simple.
Sadelle’s New York
Located in a former bank building, Sadelle’s exudes luxury with its stunning architecture and elaborate spreads. Bottomless mimosas and bloody marys flow freely as patrons graze from the charcuterie carts and live paella station. Fuel up with dishes like truffled egg sandwiches or short rib hash before treating yourself to pastries at the bakery counter.
Impeccable service only heightens the lavish experience. While quite pricey, Sadelle’s transports guests to an opulent world away from busy Soho streets. Few locales rival its over-the-top brunch scene in NYC.
Jack’s wife, Freda
This upbeat café is a consistent hit for creative breakfast and lunch fare. Colorful cocktails and global coffee drinks kickstart mornings as orders come in for dishes like shakshuka, potato pancakes or steak and egg tacos.
Vegetarians feel sated by the signature chickpea scramble. Outdoor seating on busy Houston Street provides prime people watching. Friendly staff and DJ spun tunes keep the vibes lively. With artful presentations and tasty eats, Jack’s Wife Freda makes brunching fun and vibrant.
Maman
Serving rustic French fare alongside contemporary art exhibitions, maman draws in gallery hoppers and foodies alike. Cozy forms or sit at shared tables to dine on dishes like Belgian waffles, croque madame or salade lyonnaise.
Housemade pastries and tarts transport guests to Paris. An informal yet sophisticated setting and transportive menu make maman ideal for enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch with art appreciation part of the experience.
12 Chairs Cafe
Tucked within a historic building along a charming Soho side street, 12 Chairs Cafe invites guests to unwind over creative fare. Hungry patrons fuel up on ricotta pancakes, frittatas and shakshuka alongside Prosecco or lavender lemonade. An eclectic menu full of global influences keeps brunch exciting.
Those craving something lighter can nibble on fresh salads or toast topped with seasonal picks. Ambiance feels plucked from Europe with its arched windows and intimate nooks. Free-flowing coffee served with friendly smiles completes the transportive experience. 12 Chairs stays a delightful neighborhood retreat away from bustling city streets.
The Dutch
Casual yet cheerful, The Dutch packs patrons inside its narrow storefront for creative breakfast sandwiches, bowls and small plates. Bubbles flow freely as diners linger over dishes like the shrimp and grits or Dutchie Benedict crafted from housemade breads and Dutch cheeses. Artful displays of fresh flowers and pastels lend charm.
Outside, sidewalk tables provide the perfect Soho perch for people watching with a piping hot coffee in hand. Staff welcomes regulars and newcomers alike with warm smiles. Whether joining the festive scene or popping in for a quick bite, The Dutch delivers hospitality and tasty fare fit for any hour.
La Mercerie
Nestled on a tranquil side street, La Mercerie transports guests to a Parisian sidewalk café. Sit outside under festive string lights or inside amid comfortable banquettes and dark wood detailing. Indulge in dishes like crepes, croissants and tartines prepared with ingredients imported from France.
Sip cappuccinos or kir royales as jazz standards play. Brunch flows seamlessly into evening with candlelit tables perfect for lingering through dinner over wine, charcuterie and outdoor games like boules. La Mercerie’s effortless charm and authentic flavors make it easy to while away an entire weekend day within its romantic ambiance.
Soho Diner
Bright, cheerful colors and classic 50s décor give Soho Diner vivid vintage vibes. Crowds gather around the café and counter for casual fare like pancakes, biscuits and gravy, or breakfast quesadillas.
Those craving something heartier opt for steak and eggs or chicken fried chicken. Bottomless mimosas provide plenty of bubbles, and specialty cocktails add flair.
Locals consistently return for speedy service and satisfying portions at reasonable prices. With an upbeat, carefree atmosphere, Soho Diner serves up a delicious respite from bustling city streets.
NOMO Kitchen
NOMO Kitchen injects healthful fare into Soho’s brunch scene with its commitment to nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavor combinations. Diners fuel up on acai and green powder loaded bowls featuring nourishing grains, seeds and toppings.
Those craving something heartier opt for avocado toast loaded with a rainbow of vegetables or shakshuka featuring organic eggs. Fresh juices provide a cleansing pick-me-up, while kombucha flows freely for added probiotic benefits.
Industrial-chic decor accented with natural wood and greenery creates a bright, calm ambiance. Staff readily suggest dishes to meet customers’ varying dietary preferences, from paleo to vegan. NOMO Kitchen makes wholesome eating satisfying and stylish.
FAQ’s
What is the best time for brunch?
The best times for brunch are typically Saturday and Sunday, from around 10am to 3pm. This allows you to sleep in a bit but still have most of your day ahead of you after your meal.
How much is brunch in NYC?
Brunch prices in NYC can vary significantly depending on the location and type of restaurant. On average, expect to pay $15-30 per person for a basic brunch at a casual cafe or diner. More upscale or trendy spots usually range between $30-50 per person depending on drinks and tips. Some very high-end places with fancier menus can charge $50+ per person.
Is brunch only a weekend thing?
Traditionally, brunch is thought of as a weekend activity taking place on Saturdays and Sundays. However, many restaurants, especially in large cities, now offer brunch on other days as well to meet demand. While weekends tend to be the most popular and busiest times, brunch can certainly be enjoyed during the week at some establishments.
What time is brunch in New York?
Most New York brunch places serve between 10/11am and 11 a.m. and 3pm on weekends. Some may start serving earlier, like at 9am, while others go a bit later, until 4pm. But the typical brunch serving window in NYC is considered to be between 10am-3pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday “brunch” hours sometimes run a bit shorter, often closing at 2 or 2:30pm.
Conclusion
Soho is truly a foodie’s paradise, offering countless outstanding options for weekend brunch. Whether you want classic American comfort foods, international influences, healthy dishes or lavish spreads – you’re sure to find it within this bustling downtown enclave. From neighborhood gems to fine dining institutions, each restaurant on this list brings something unique to the table. They exhibit the trendsetting diversity that has cemented Soho’s status as a culinary destination. So the next time you’re looking for a leisurely weekend meal in surrounded by boutique shops, art galleries and cultural attractions, be sure to reserve your spot at one of these top-rated brunch spots. Their tasty dishes, vibrant vibes and attentive service will make your morning one to remember amid beautifully downtown Manhattan scenery.
