Looking for the best brunch on the Upper West Side (UWS)? This local has you covered. I currently live in the UWS and have spent countless mornings catching up with old friends at various Upper West Side brunch spots.
What’s more, visiting friends and family often ask about the best brunch on the Upper West Side (while staying with yours truly), so I finally sat down and rounded up my favorites. So this one’s for you, mom!
Fair warning though – most of these UWS brunch spots are popular for good reason and people come from all around New York City for a bite. I suggest making reservations whenever possible (some places are first come, first served).
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Best Brunch Upper West Side
Maison Pickle
Maison pickle offers a quintessential American brunch on the Upper West Side. Expect enormous servings, beautiful presentation and a full array of adult beverages. Beloved by locals, no list of the best brunch in the Upper West Side would be complete without Maison Pickle, which is why I’m listing this joint first.
On our first visit to Maison Pickle the waitress told my husband and I that “skinny people are easier to kidnap – so our portions aim to reduce that risk”.
Even still, we found ourselves unprepared for the mountain of (delicious) food presented to us by our cheery waitress.
I had the Hot Honey Chicken n French Toast and couldn’t have been more satisfied. The chicken was perfectly spiced and had a great kick without being overwhelmingly spicy. And yes, the dish paired beautifully with the Bloody Mary, in case you were wondering.
The large portions ensured we had leftovers the next day (and day after, for that matter), which was fine by us. So not only is this some of the best brunch on the UWS, it’s also enough food for two full meals! Hard not to love that.
Address: 2315 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Jacob’s Pickles
Jacob’s Pickles is the brainchild of the mastermind behind Maison Pickle. This is a more casual eatery that specializes in serving some of the best southern comfort-food brunch on the Upper West Side. Swing by for all the classics, like fried chicken and waffles, and delicious craft cocktails.
The fried chicken is particularly great and I never pass up an opportunity to order it. It pairs with all the side dishes nicely, and the mac & cheese is nothing short of incredible (seriously some of the best I’ve had in NYC). It’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu, which is why it’s our go-to brunch spot on the UWS for out of town guests.
Note: Jacob’s Pickles is one of the most popular brunches on the Upper West Side and reservations are required. Make reservations in advance, getting a table during the weekend feels like an impossible task, so plan ahead.
Address: 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Bluestone Lane
Bluestone Lane is known for serving colorful and healthy brunch on the UWS and having some of the friendliest service in town. As such, this popular Upper West Side brunch spot is always full of people making lively chatter and sipping coffee (their coffee is worth the trip alone).
Having to wait in line is practically guaranteed during the weekends, but the delicious Aussie brunch is worth the wait. I’m partial to the grain bowl, while my husband can’t resist the breakfast burger.
Address: 417 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Barney Greengrass
I’m reluctant to mention Barney Greengrass because the place is already so popular among locals, but I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t mention it on this list of the best Upper West Side brunch spots.
Dating back to 1908, Barney Greengrass is an Upper West Side institution famous for their knock-out smoked fish. No, seriously, U.S. Presidents requested it directly. They churn out some of the best bagels and lox in New York City and the UWS is lucky to have them.
My husband and I have a tradition of starting every Saturday morning by splitting a bagel from Barney Greengrass, we enjoy them so much we return on a weekly basis! The lox is sublime, perfectly salted, it offers a velvety texture that perfectly complements the soft bagel and satisfying capers.
Address: 541 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Café Luxembourg
Café Luxembourg is a chic French-American bistro that serves some of the best French-inspired brunch one the UWS. Locals come for the delicious fare and return for the exceptional service. The menu is extensive (without being overwhelming) and ensures that everyone at the table will find something to love.
I can’t resist the Smoked Salmon Benedict (so good!) while my husband swears by the omelette. The flavorful dishes make it hard to stay away too long, and I find myself gravitating to this UWS brunch spot on a monthly basis.
One of my friend’s remarked at how charming the cafe is. She said she felt like the main character in a romantic comedy, half expecting Meg Ryan to pop in. Personally, I think she’s watched When Harry Met Sally one too many times, but hey — no judgement in that department.
Address: 200 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023
Maman
Ask any local about their favorite brunch in the Upper West Side and the honest ones will mention Maman. Offering a whimsical and charming vibe, this is one of the best Upper West Side brunch spots to meet an old friend.
Originally started as a French bakery and cafe in SoHo, Maman quickly became renowned for perfectly executed baked goods. But what really put them on the map was Oprah listing their nutty chocolate chip cookie as one of her favorite things.
I never miss an opportunity to order the quiche, chocolate croissant and their famous macadamia nut cookie. Plus, the coffee is always great (not to be underestimated at a bakery).
Address: 29 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Sarabeth’s
At first glance, Sarabeth’s is unassuming when strolling down Amsterdam Ave. Don’t let the small storefront fool you- this place serves some of the best brunch on the Upper West Side. If you’re looking to feel a little fancy (who doesn’t want that every now and then?) this is the spot for you.
The smoked salmon benedict is downright tantalizing and keeps me coming back often. Expertly poached eggs served over a fluffy corn-muffin and paired with citrusy greens, this brunch dish always hits the spot.
Serving New Yorkers since 1983, Sarabeth’s exceptional Upper West Side brunch doesn’t show signs of slowing anytime soon.
Address: 423 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
P.S. Sarabeth’s serves some of the best cappuccinos in New York City (according to my brother in law). Don’t miss an opportunity to give it a try!
Daily Provisions
Daily Provisions was opened by Danny Meyer, the mastermind behind Shake Shack (which has a cult-like following in NYC, mind). The bakery proudly boasts two locations (Union Square & Upper West Side, with a third location in the West Village slated to open soon).
This bakery is famous for crullers, no doubt, but the true star of the show is the great breakfast sandwich menu, which makes this one of the best spots for brunch on the UWS. Two clear standouts are the BEC (bacon, egg and cheese) and the smoked salmon everything croissant.
With a casual ambience, this is my go-to UWS brunch spot when I have a busy day or simply don’t want the whole charade of a sit-down restaurant.
Address: 375 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
The Smith
Serving a plethora of traditional brunch fare, The Smith is a hot-spot for locals and tourists alike. Expect to find all the classics like omelettes, avocado toast (I know, I know), french toast, etc. Essentially, if you’re looking for a traditional American brunch on the Upper West Side then you need not look further.
Located on Broadway across from the Lincoln Center, the extensive brunch menu attracts folks from all corners of the city. As such, reservations are a necessity at this Upper West Side brunch spot. The restaurant bustles with crowds regardless of the time of day! Try to snatch an outdoor table if you can, the people-watching opportunities are endless.
Address: 1900 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Amelie
Affectionately known as “La Petite Amélie”, this UWS brunch spot is smaller and more intimate than the original Amelie located in the West Village. Offering French-inspired brunch fare in a cozy setting, this is the place to go if you’re celebrating something special.
Brunch at Amelie is only offered on weekends (Friday thru Sunday) and runs from 12-3pm. Boasting a Bib Gourmand Michelin rating (prestigious award given to good value restaurants) this Upper West Side brunch spot warrants a visit.
The biggest struggle here (for me personally) is deciding between the Eggs Norweigan or trying something new. My struggle doesn’t last long though, because after two mimosas I’m usually ordering a charcuterie boarding and feigning surprise as brunch melts into an official lunch.
Address: 566 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
The Consulate
No list of the best brunch in the Upper West Side would not be complete without mention of The Consulate, one of the most charming restaurants in the neighborhood. Restaurant by day, and elegant bar by night, The Consulate offers an air of sophistication that will leave you feeling like Don Draper.
And since nothing is done halfway, allow me to share that the brunch menu pairs well with the aesthetic. This Upper West Side brunch spot offers unique twists on classics, like the burrata waffle (which is a must-order in my book). One of the more amusing items on the menu is the hangover burger (which can be ordered void of judgment at this classy joint).
Our server at The Consulate was also very kind and we all know that good service is not to be discounted!
Upper West Side Best Brunch (Post Overview)
In summary, here’s a quick overview of the best brunch in the Upper West Side.
- Maison Pickle
- Jacob’s Pickles
- Bluestone Lane
- Barney Greengrass
- Café Luxembourg
- Maman
- Sarabeth’s
- Daily Provisions
- The Smith
- Amelie
- The Consulate
BEST HOTELS IN THE UPPER WEST SIDE
- Mid-Range: Here’s my go-to hotel on the UWS & the crowd favorite
- Luxury: Mandarin Oriental
Regardless of whether you’re itching to satisfy a sweet tooth or searching for a hearty snack after a morning workout, there’s no shortage of great brunch on the Upper West Side in New York City!
Cheers!
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