Khoollect explores: New York’s top five brunch spots

Whether you’re a Big Apple local, or dreaming of a vaycay to this bustling part of the world, it’s difficult to imagine ever tiring of the ever-evolving city of New York. We called on Khoollector, New York City dweller, blogger and regular bruncher, Jackie of York Avenue to share her top five brunch spots in her hometown. Here’s where she suggests you head for our favourite meal between breakfast and lunch:

• Freeman’s Restaurant: Tucked away at the end of an unmarked alleyway in downtown New York City, Freemans Restaurant serves up beautiful, fresh, farm-to-table food in a rustic, stylish space. It may be one of the most Instagrammed eateries in NYC – chances are if you follow a lot of New York ‘grammers, you’ll recognise the restaurant’s twinkle-lit, robins-egg blue front door from your feed. Freeman’s has a crumbling, vintage-y vibe; mounted wall antlers, reclaimed wood, and weathered oil paintings dominate the space, along with colourful flowers to add some levity. The granola, topped with fresh fruit and drizzled with honey, is a perfect sweet starter, while the Full English Breakfast is sure to satisfy even the biggest of appetites.
• Butchers Daughter: If you’re looking for a brunch spot that’s on the healthy side, but still feels a bit indulgent, look no further than Butchers Daughter. Located on the corner of Kenmare and Elizabeth Street in the Nolita section of downtown Manhattan, this restaurant offers up a plethora of fresh and delicious food in a bright, laid-back setting that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to California. I highly recommend the 7 Minutes in Heaven smoothie, a deliciously creamy blend of coconut, dates, almond butter, and vanilla, along with the 7-Grain French toast – a perfect balance between wholesome and decadent! They are also able to make anything on the menu vegan.

• Bluestone Lane Upper East Side: Bluestone Lane is a coffee shop based out of Australia, and the focus here is on fresh ingredients combined in interesting ways – not only does it taste great, but you’ll walk out feeling light and energised (convenient, since the cafe is located right next to Central Park and several museums!). Standout dishes include the Avocado Smash, with heirloom cherry tomatoes, feta and sunflower sprouts; the gluten-free banana bread topped with fresh ricotta and honey, and the Collective Granola with Greek yogurt, citrus curd, and seasonal fruit. In addition to delicious food, Bluestone Lane serves a plethora of signature cold-press juices and Australian coffee favourites, such as the Flat White and the Piccolo. Best of all might be the location – the Upper East Side Bluestone Lane is housed inside a 19th century church, and much of the historic architecture remains intact. The cafe features sandstone arches, sea-green subway tile, crisp white accents, and beautiful light-washed wood, all of which combine to create a unique atmosphere that brings together the sea and the city.
• Tipsy Parson: On the other end of the spectrum, we have Tipsy Parson, a spot in Chelsea that focuses on the very best in decadent, indulgent, delicious Southern cuisine. If you’re craving comfort food, Tipsy is the place to go – the menu features rich, creamy mac and cheese, buttermilk biscuits, Belgian waffles … the list of indulgences goes on! The food is high-quality and the decor is just as good – from the charming bookshelf wallpaper to the cherry-red bench out front and the cosy window seats, Tipsy is a place I visit again and again, and it never disappoints!
• Sarabeth’s Upper East Side: If you like pancakes for brunch, there’s one place you have to visit in New York City: Sarabeth’s, where the buttermilk pancakes are fluffy, light, and perfectly satisfying. Sarabeth’s has a few locations across the city, but the Upper East Side is my favourite. It’s tucked away in the charming uptown neighbourhood of Carnegie Hill (just a few steps away from an adorable little bookstore), and the interior is airy, awash with natural light, and evokes that New York City townhouse atmosphere. The buttermilk pancakes and Four Flower juice make for a perfect sweet brunch, while the Maine Lobster roll and Farmer’s Omelette offer plenty for the savoury crowd.

For more New York City recommendations, be sure to pop over to Jackie’s blog, York Avenue, and follow along on Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.