22 flavorful breakfast places in Upper East Side New York City
If you're an early riser in the Upper East Side, start your day at one of the many delightful breakfast places that the neighborhood has to offer. From cozy cafes to upscale bistros, there's something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for fluffy pancakes, a classic egg sandwich, or avocado toast, these breakfast spots in Upper East Side are sure to satisfy.
- 1. Cafe Luka
- 2. The Mansion
- 3. Inès
- 4. Midnight Express Diner
- 5. Hutch and Waldo
- 6. Viand
- 7. Gracie Mews Diner
- 8. Effy's Cafe on York
- 9. Le Pain Quotidien
- 10. Upper East Café
- 11. Cafe d’Alsace
- 12. Le Moulin
- 13. B. Cafe
- 14. The Penrose
- 15. Sojourn
- 16. maman
- 17. Barking Dog
- 18. Maya
- 19. EJ's Luncheonette
- 20. Quality Eats
- 21. The East Pole
- 22. Sant Ambroeus Madison
1. Cafe Luka
Offers live music on weekends

The ambiance of the establishment is characterized as artistic, clean, comfortable, and charming, having earned a high level of approval from its guests. Moving on to the culinary aspect, the food served is highly regarded for its freshness, delicious taste, and consistency. The portion sizes are generous, and the staff is commendable for their friendliness.
In summary, the establishment offers an artistic, clean, comfortable, and charming atmosphere, which has received excellent ratings from guests. The food served is fresh, delicious, and consistent, with generous portions, and the staff is well-known for their friendliness.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
2. The Mansion
A historic mansion transformed into luxury apartments in a prime New York location

The Mansion's breakfast menu is diverse and features several delicious dishes. Among the most popular options are their fluffy pancakes and perfectly cooked omelets. The kitchen staff takes great care in preparing each dish, ensuring high-quality meals that are sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. Inès
Host provides excellent communication and recommendations for local attractions

If you're looking for the perfect place to have breakfast in NYC, look no further. The ambiance of this spot in the heart of the city is truly delightful. One of the standout features of this breakfast place is the delicious food. The croissants, in particular, are absolutely amazing and are sure to start your day off on a high note.
In addition to the great food, the coffee at this breakfast spot is also top-notch. It's the perfect way to kickstart your day and get a little caffeine boost to help you tackle whatever the day may bring. Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a great breakfast spot in NYC. Whether you're a tourist or a local, you're sure to enjoy the delicious food and inviting atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
4. Midnight Express Diner
A classic NY diners with a cozy and casual atmosphere

Midnight Express Diner offers a delicious breakfast with two standout choices. Their omelettes are generously sized and filled with a variety of ingredients, making them a great option for those looking for a hearty meal. If French toast is more your style, the diner's version is a must-try treat.
Whether you're in the mood for an omelette or French toast, Midnight Express Diner is a recommended breakfast spot. Their omelettes are a satisfying choice for those who want a filling meal, while the French toast is a delightful treat that should not be missed. With two popular options, there's something for everyone at this beloved diner.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
5. Hutch and Waldo
Known for their prime dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list

The staff at this establishment are commended for their friendly and prompt service. They are known for being quick, creating a positive and efficient dining experience for customers.
The food served is delicious, fresh, and varied. Popular menu items include the breakfast burrito and brekkie sando. Customers have raved about the quality of the food, praising its freshness and taste.
6. Viand
A carefully curated selection of the finest gourmet foods from around the world.

Viand Coffee Shop on 61st Street is a charming establishment known for its delicious breakfast offerings. Two standout items are the fluffy pancakes and customizable omelettes. This quaint coffee shop is a popular brunch spot in the upper east side, offering excellent coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.
If you're looking for a fantastic brunch spot, Viand Coffee Shop on 61st Street is the place to be. Their coffee is exceptional, and the Alsace omelette and brioche French toast should not be missed. The shop is a local favorite in the upper east side, providing a cozy setting for a delightful brunch experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
7. Gracie Mews Diner
A long-standing diner with a classic ambiance and friendly staff

The breakfast offerings at this establishment are a highlight for many visitors. The omelettes are renowned for their light, fluffy texture. Additionally, the pancakes have garnered much praise for their delicious taste. The service is also a positive aspect, with staff members being both quick and friendly in their attendance to customers' needs.
My own experience ordering breakfast from this location was incredibly satisfying. Upon arrival, the food was still hot and fresh, indicating prompt and efficient delivery. Out of all the options, the French toast stood out as a particularly noteworthy choice. Therefore, I would highly recommend giving it a try for anyone considering ordering breakfast from this place.
TOPICS
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
8. Effy's Cafe on York

Effy's Cafe on York is a great spot for breakfast, known for providing fresh and delicious offerings. One of the highlights of their menu is their bagels, which are always fresh and complemented by excellent coffee.
The café's breakfast menu is particularly noteworthy, with the Mediterranean breakfast platter being a standout option. This platter is a delicious and satisfying choice, filled with fresh and flavorful ingredients that are sure to impress. Whether you're in the mood for a quick cup of coffee and a bagel or a more substantial breakfast, Effy's Cafe on York is an excellent choice.
9. Le Pain Quotidien
Communal tables and rustic decor create a unique and welcoming ambiance

A breakfast sandwich, consisting of an egg, avocado, and cheese, is a delicious and satisfying option to start the day. For those looking for a quick lunch, a ham and cheese croissant sandwich is a convenient choice. The restaurant's service is known for being friendly and efficient, which has resulted in many customers leaving positive feedback.
The breakfast sandwich features nutritious ingredients such as avocado and egg, while the ham and cheese croissant sandwich is a tasty choice for lunch. The service at this establishment is noteworthy for its friendliness and speed, which has contributed to a large number of customers leaving favorable reviews.
10. Upper East Café
Offers a relaxed and comfortable environment for a satisfying brunch experience

The author had a positive experience at the establishment, initially considering a churro waffle but ultimately choosing a burger. They found the meat to be fresh and the fries to be enjoyable, making it a recommended dining option for those in the area. The speed of the food service was also noted as a positive aspect.
The restaurant is engaged in social media and offers multiple channels for customer communication, including a phone number (+1 917-475-1721) and a community platform. According to available reviews, the restaurant has received predominantly favorable feedback, with 8 super positive ratings, 8 good ratings, and only 1 poor rating from a total of 20 reviews.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
11. Cafe d’Alsace
Traditional Alsatian cuisine in the heart of New York

A delightful breakfast experience is to be had at this establishment. The shakshuka dish is packed with flavor, making it a standout option. The service is commendable, with staff providing prompt and friendly attention to guests.
For those looking for breakfast item recommendations, the French toast and crab omelette are must-try options. The ambiance is another highlight, as the cozy setting adds to the enjoyment of the morning meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
12. Le Moulin
A charming French bistro in the heart of NYC

Le Moulin is a charming French cafe that offers a welcoming atmosphere, delicious pastries, and excellent service. The cafe is known for its flaky and buttery croissants, as well as its rich and decadent cakes. However, the real star of the menu is the quiche, which is made fresh daily and features a variety of seasonal ingredients. The cappuccino is also a must-try, as it is perfectly brewed and has a rich, velvety texture.
The staff at Le Moulin are friendly, efficient, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that guests have a great experience. They are polite and courteous, even when the cafe is busy, and are always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions that guests may have. The service is a true highlight of the Le Moulin experience, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
13. B. Cafe
Offers a variety of tea blends and brewing methods

The service at this establishment is friendly, professional, and exudes a Belgian joie-de-vivre. The waitstaff are quick to provide assistance, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. During the weekend, we had the opportunity to try their brunch menu. We were impressed with the variety of options available and enjoyed everything we ordered.
The standout dishes from our brunch experience were the waffles, frites, and Belgian beer. The waffles were delicious and cooked to perfection, while the frites were crispy and perfectly seasoned. To complement our meal, we ordered Belgian beer, which was a perfect pairing and added to the overall experience.
14. The Penrose
Renowned architectural design and art installations.

The Penrose is a popular brunch spot that offers a variety of delicious options. Some of the top choices include egg benedict, which can be ordered with either smoked trout or country ham, and scrambled eggs with spiced beef, Irish cheddar, and potatoes. If you're looking for a full Irish breakfast experience, The Penrose has got you covered with a plate that includes sausage, bacon, black pudding, fried eggs, baked beans, potatoes, toast, and grilled tomato.
Whether you're in the mood for something light and elegant or a hearty, filling meal, The Penrose has something for everyone. Their egg benedict is a favorite among patrons, and the spiced beef scrambled eggs offer a unique and flavorful twist on a classic breakfast dish. And for those who want to go all out, the full Irish breakfast is a can't-miss option, with its generous helping of savory meats, eggs, and potatoes. No matter what you choose, you're sure to leave The Penrose feeling satisfied and content.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
15. Sojourn
Located in a historic district with beautiful architecture

Sojourn, a popular restaurant, is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious brunch options. During the weekends, Sojourn offers a special brunch menu that includes a variety of mouth-watering breakfast dishes.
The brunch menu at Sojourn features a range of options, from sweet to savory, that are sure to satisfy any breakfast craving. Whether you're in the mood for something indulgent, like their decadent French toast, or something more traditional, like eggs and bacon, Sojourn's brunch menu has got you covered. With such a delicious selection of breakfast items, it's no wonder why Sojourn is a top choice for weekend brunch.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
16. maman
Family-owned restaurant with authentic Mediterranean recipes and warm hospitality.

Maman is a wonderful location to start your day with a cup of coffee and breakfast. One of their standout menu items is the nutty chocolate chip cookie, which is a customer favorite. In addition to their baked goods, Maman also offers a variety of fresh breakfast and lunch options. Their menu includes hearty salads, sandwiches, and savory quiches, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
The nutty chocolate chip cookie is a must-try at Maman, which is known for its selection of delicious baked goods. Along with coffee, Maman offers a range of fresh breakfast and lunch options such as hearty salads, sandwiches, and savory quiches. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal, Maman has something to offer.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
17. Barking Dog
Barking dogs can be integrated with home security systems for added protection

The breakfast spot in the Upper East Side is a must-visit for egg lovers, offering a standout eggs Benedict dish. The outdoor seating is an added bonus, making for a pleasant dining experience.
If you're in the Upper East Side and on the hunt for a great breakfast place, look no further. This establishment serves up delicious omelets and excellent coffee, making it the perfect spot to start your day.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- American Cuisine
18. Maya
Authentic Mexican food in an upscale setting

Drinks at this establishment include margaritas, mimosas, bloody maries, and bloody marias. The drinks are highly regarded for their taste and are considered a good deal given the variety available.
The brunch experience is positively reviewed, with customers praising the value for money. Bottomless options are available, making it an attractive proposition for those looking to enjoy a range of drinks during their brunch experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Dinner
- Seasonal Times
- Celebrations
19. EJ's Luncheonette
Retro diner atmosphere with a neighborhood feel

EJ's Luncheonette, located on the Upper East Side of New York, is a renowned establishment that has been serving the best comfort food since 1990. It has become an NYC iconic restaurant, attracting both locals and tourists from all over the world for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings. The restaurant's popularity has led crowds to flock to its first location on Amsterdam Avenue.
Celebrating its 27th year in business, EJ's Luncheonette is known for its exceptional comfort food, becoming a staple for New Yorkers and visitors alike. The restaurant's proximity to Central Park and popular museums makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of NYC's dining and cultural scene. With a menu that caters to all tastes, EJ's Luncheonette continues to be a top choice for anyone seeking the ultimate comfort food experience in NYC.
20. Quality Eats
Known for their brunch options and unique decor

The menu at this establishment provides a wide range of options, catering to a variety of taste preferences. Standout dishes include monkey bread with multiple butter options and unique brunch choices such as peanut butter and jelly bacon and caramel apple pancakes. The restaurant offers a cozy and high-quality dining experience.
Our group of five thoroughly enjoyed our brunch experience. The Moscow Mule and Negroni on tap, Hemmingway, monkey eggs with bacon, kale salads, Cesare salad, hamburger, tuna tartare, and eggs benedict were all delicious. The service was also commendable. For larger groups of five or six people, the cabin section is recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
21. The East Pole
Perfect for special occasions or a fancy night out

This location offers a great brunch spot with a diverse breakfast menu. Fresh and tasty options were enjoyed by all. The avocado toast and eggs benedict are two standout choices that are not to be missed.
During our visit, we enjoyed a fantastic breakfast experience. The avocado toast and eggs benedict were two dishes that particularly impressed. Everything we tried was fresh and bursting with flavor, making it a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
22. Sant Ambroeus Madison
A popular celebrity spot in NYC

Sant Ambroeus Madison offers a delicious and enjoyable breakfast experience. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant makes it an ideal spot to start your day. One standout dish is the avocado toast, which is a must-try for its fresh and flavorful ingredients.
In addition to the ambiance, the pastries at Sant Ambroeus Madison are a highlight. They are freshly baked and pair perfectly with a cup of coffee to get your day off to a great start. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this breakfast spot is not to be missed.