Let’s take you through a virtual tour of some of the absolute best, untainted, and unarguably the most popular breakfast places in NYC. From those on-the-go sandwiches to an elaborate Japanese fare, you can find it all here in NYC. By Shubhanjana Das
1. Barney Greengrass
A quintessential NY institution, Barney Greengrass is a household name in the city amongst everyone who loves breakfast but find themselves missing it often. You’ll find the shutters down on Monday but it opens on 8:30 am everyday to serve some of the best omelettes, egg sandwiches, and pastrami salmon. Mouthwatering? We feel you. Take it on the go or sit yourself down for it, the food is delectable, nonetheless.
2. Okonomi
The best part about being in NYC is its true-blue cosmopolitan spirit. From the people to the cuisines that different ethnicity and nationalities have brought to the states, it’s an absolute delight to experience and witness. One of the best ways to start your day in NYC and to celebrate its diversity is by sitting yourself down for a Japanese breakfast spread at Okonomi. It is a sunny, cosy, and warm breakfast joint in the morning and a ramen place called Yuji by night. The drill is, however, the menu is more or less offering little variations, perfect for those who are getting an introduction to Japanese food. If you’re in a hurry, come sometime later, for this breakfast needs time.
3. Zai Lai
Let’s roll you in on some insider information for breakfasts in NYC. Zai Lai at Turnstyle Market is an underground place which opens its doors at 8 on weekdays. Perfect for the foodies on the go, this place twists Taiwanese creations to fit them into the breakfast spread that can be had on the go. What’s on offer? Egg sandwiches on sesame flatbread, rice porridge with pork belly, sous vide egg, bamboo, pickled cucumber and much more.
4. Boqueria
Bang in the heart of Times Square, Boqueria is hard to miss, especially if you are on an empty stomach, scouring for some filling breakfast. They start very early at 6:30 am to serve the Spanish breakfast goodness in the form of tortilla Española, fried egg English muffin sandwich with in-house chorizo, Mahón cheese, and sautéed kale, the classic churros with chocolate alongside a satisfying menu of coffees.
5. Pershing Square Cafe
Okay, let’s get down to some serious business, shall we? Some things are better left unaltered and pancakes for breakfast are one of those. At Pershing Square Cafe adjacent to Grand Central, pancakes are taken very seriously. Even though their diner menu is solid, the fluffy, buttery pancakes are the absolute winners. Pick from blueberry, strawberry, banana, or chocolate chip options.
Related: Padma Lakshmi’s Top Recommendations For First-Time Travellers To NYC
