A recent trip to the U.S. proved that brunch is becoming more and more popular in New York, especially in Williamsburg and Bushwick, the two most gentrified parts of Brooklyn. With an array of vintage stores, organic juice bars, pop-up artisan shops and a steady hipster population, it was only a matter of time until brunch became a thing there. It’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it – here are my 6 go-to cafes for the best brunches in Brooklyn and indulge in my favourite pastime.
ALLSWELL
Address: 124 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11211
A rustic gastropub with a rotating seasonal menu to bring the freshest farm-to-table ingredients and innovative flavours. You can choose to sit at the bar or the large wooden centre table if you’re feeling social. The size of the Bloody Mary’s are generous, the pancakes are fluffy and the eggs are poached to perfection. Pair that with the cool, casual vibes and the friendly, well-dressed staff and you have quite the unbeatable union. I loved this spot so much I had to visit twice during my short stay to try as many items off the menu!
SUGARBURG
Address: 519 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11211
A local favourite right outside Lorimer Street subway station on the L Train, much of the charm of Sugarburg comes from their friendly, welcoming staff who always remember your face. This brick-walled hangout offers a dedicated brunch menu so you know they take this seriously, from the classic Eggs Benedict to the more adventurous Reloaded Buttermilk Pancakes with bourbon maple syrup. I tried the Fried Chicken Po-Boy, and Fried Chicken and Waffles, a winning mix of flavours that jump from being sweet one minute and salty the next. Their coffee is also top notch.
CAFE GHIA
Address: 24 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11237
This locally-owned European cafe in Bushwick was recommended to me by a true Brooklynite as a popular spot that serves brunch every day of the week. The menu is seasonal and some items are only available on weekends but I got to try the Mofongo, which is mashed fried green plantains with bacon, avo, garlic and topped with an over- easy egg. The Lumberjack Stack, which is scrambled eggs and bacon piled with waffles, also goes down a treat.
TUTU’S
Address: 25 Bogart St, Brooklyn, NY, 11206
This cosy, relaxing tavern restaurant and bar serves up wholesome pub food and crafted cocktails. The menu is on a pricier side for brunch spots I tried, but I just couldn’t resist when I heard they serve Nutella French Toast. Need I say more?
BLISS CAFE
Address: 191 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11211
For all you veggie-lovers out there, head on over to Bliss for a simple, yet nourishing, selection of Mexican-inspired dishes, most of which are available with vegan options. The atmosphere is mellow and modest, which is actually rather refreshing considering its location being on the main drag of Williamsburg.
CAPRICES BY SOPHIE
Address: 138 N 6th St, Brooklyn, NY, 11249
If you have a sweet tooth, then the freshly-baked selection of delectable treats from this French pastry shop will be right up your alley. Their signature item is the ‘Capricieux’, a fluffy meringue rolled in flavoured cream and sprinkled with different toppings. Their molten lava brownies and orange almond cakes are also to die for.
If you only have a day to spare in Brooklyn and you want to swing by more than one of these spots, it’s worth noting that Allswell, Sugarburg and Tutu’s all double as bars by night. So start planning your brunch wishlist to tick off and be sure prepare your appetite!
CREDITS
Writer: Jemma Sadrugu
Photographer: Jemma Sadrugu
