Searching for the best brunch in Brooklyn feels like flipping through a well-loved novel—you never know what surprise will pop up on the next page. From cozy cafés in leafy brownstone neighborhoods to lively spots bubbling with locals, Brooklyn’s brunch scene is a treasure trove. The endless options can feel overwhelming, but with the right guide, you can avoid bland eggs and limp toast. Brooklyn does brunch with flair, folding in fresh ingredients, inventive touches, and plenty of personality.
I once thought my weekend rituals couldn’t be improved—until I tasted challah French toast drizzled with local honey in Williamsburg and realized I was in for a lifetime of chasing brunch perfection. If you crave fluffy pancakes, crisp falafel, or that ideal avocado toast, you’re in the right place. This list highlights standout spots for every craving and mood. Whether you brunch for the conversation or the coffee, by the end, you’ll know where to head next weekend.
Where to find the best brunch in Brooklyn, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Brooklyn, NY:
- Recette
- Fandi Mata
- Five Leaves
- Cafe Mogador Williamsburg
- Tom’s Restaurant
- Sweet Chick
- Westville
- Junior’s Restaurant
- Time Out Market New York
- Pies ‘n’ Thighs
1. Recette
Recette, right on Havemeyer Street, has the knack for making brunch feel both special and easy. The space hums with Brooklyn’s energy, balancing stylish decor with a laid-back vibe. I once lingered over a table here longer than planned, tempted to sample “just one more” from their inventive menu.
What sets Recette apart is their focus on fresh ingredients and a menu that nods to both comfort and creativity. Think smashed avocado tartine layered on sourdough, or the softest shakshuka bursting with flavor.
Don’t miss their house granola or rich oat milk lattes—each bite and sip shows off Recette’s knack for polish without pretense. It’s an essential stop when you want more from brunch than just eggs and toast.
2. Fandi Mata
Fandi Mata feels like a hidden retreat tucked just off McCarren Park. Step inside and the atmosphere sweeps you up—lush plants everywhere, natural light, and a touch of Mediterranean ease in every detail. On my last visit, brunch stretched into the afternoon, thanks to warm service and plates that looked as good as they tasted.
Fandi Mata’s strength is its bold, eclectic menu that draws from Mediterranean roots. It’s hard to skip the za’atar roasted carrots or their crisp crispy chickpea fritters, both full of color and flavor. These dishes show off the kitchen’s talent for turning simple ingredients into something memorable.
The labneh toast with sun-dried tomatoes is my pick—fresh, creamy, and balanced. For something sweet? Their pistachio pastries are reason enough to return. Fandi Mata turns every meal into an inviting adventure, and brunch here always feels too short.
3. Five Leaves
Five Leaves sits at the edge of Greenpoint, radiating Brooklyn cool without trying too hard. Its bustling corner always draws a diverse crowd—locals, travelers, creative types—all hungry for a standout brunch. I’ve spent many late mornings here people-watching with a coffee and a plate that rarely disappoints.
What sets Five Leaves apart is its subtle Australian flair and a dedication to quality. The menu manages to be comforting and inventive at once. The ricotta pancakes deserve applause, light and fluffy with a hit of honeycomb butter that makes them irresistible.
For something savory, try the mushroom toast or the kale salad with poached eggs. Each dish reflects Five Leaves’ commitment to fresh flavors and relaxed, feel-good dining—exactly how brunch should be.
4. Cafe Mogador Williamsburg
Cafe Mogador Williamsburg is where brunch meets a touch of Marrakech. The tiled tables, warm sunlight, and aromatic spices set the mood before the first bite. My Sundays here usually start with their mint tea, sipped slowly while I consider the menu’s tempting choices.
Cafe Mogador’s reputation comes from its Moroccan-inspired flavors fused with classic brunch favorites. Their famous eggs with spicy stewed tomatoes (shakshuka) always impress—bright, rich, and deeply satisfying.
For a little variety, add the grain bowl or mezze platter, packed with freshness and color. Dishes come thoughtfully plated, each flavor shining. Whether you’re after tradition or adventure, Mogador proves brunch doesn’t need to be predictable.
5. Tom’s Restaurant
+1 718-636-9738
Tom’s Restaurant has a spirit that’s as warm as the coffee pot never far from your table. Generations of Brooklynites have gathered here, drawn by old-school charm and a knack for making every guest feel at home. I once watched a server pour hot syrup with a smile that made even rainy mornings feel like a treat.
Tom’s stands out with classic diner comfort and the kind of hospitality that makes you want to linger. The cinnamon-walnut pancakes are a standout—fluffy, spiced just right, and impossible not to finish.
If you prefer savory, try the perfectly cooked omelets loaded with veggies. Tom’s proves you don’t need fads or flash for a memorable brunch, just good food and genuine care.
6. Sweet Chick
Sweet Chick delivers Southern comfort with a Brooklyn twist, where every meal feels like a celebration. The space is playful and upbeat, always buzzing with brunch-goers, families, and friends swapping stories over stacks of waffles. My first visit ended with a friendly debate about which side was best—the real answer is all of them.
What makes Sweet Chick special is their mastery of homestyle classics. The waffles and vegetarian “chicken” combination is a must, crisp on the outside and tender inside, showing off their knack for balancing texture and flavor.
For something different, order the maple-glazed carrot hash. Every plate comes out generous and full of flavor—proof that brunch should always taste as relaxed as it feels here.
7. Westville
Westville in DUMBO brings the feel of a friendly neighborhood spot, even while tucked beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s bright, busy, and filled with the aroma of fresh vegetables on the grill. My mornings here usually stretch late, mostly because it’s hard to choose just one dish.
Westville shines with its Market Plate—loads of fresh daily vegetables, all perfectly cooked and full of color. Every plate feels like a thoughtful, healthy feast, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just in search of good food.
The avocado toast and sweet potato fries are crowd favorites. For something light but filling, try the quinoa salad. Westville is proof that comfort food can be both nourishing and satisfying, with portions meant for sharing.
8. Junior’s Restaurant
Junior’s Restaurant is more than just an old-school Brooklyn staple—it’s a brunch destination with history in every slice. There’s a comforting buzz inside, and the diner booths play host to regulars and newcomers alike. I still remember the first time I came for brunch: the portions were generous, and the waitstaff treated me like I’d been coming for years.
Junior’s is famous for its classic New York brunch dishes. The cheese blintzes and golden pancakes always hit the mark—fluffy, warm, and made just right every time. Their home fries are crisp and perfectly seasoned, ideal for sharing across the table.
No stopping at Junior’s is complete without their legendary cheesecake. It’s the sweet finish you’ll crave before brunch even ends, a testament to why this spot remains a local favorite.
9. Time Out Market New York
Time Out Market New York bursts with the energy of a food festival—every weekend, every visit. The Brooklyn waterfront setting adds a sense of occasion, making it popular for brunch plans that turn into afternoon explorations. My last stop here, I wandered between stalls before settling in with friends and a killer view of the Manhattan skyline.
Its draw is the variety—city favorites, all in one place. You can mix and match brunch bites, from house-made pastries to creative veggie-forward plates. The crispy potato pancakes and avocado tartine from different vendors stand out for freshness and flavor.
With so much on offer, it’s the ideal spot to bring indecisive friends. Every craving gets its moment, all under one roof, without a single bland bite.
10. Pies ‘n’ Thighs
Pies ‘n’ Thighs delivers a down-home vibe that’s as inviting as warm cornbread. It’s always humming with chatter, tables packed with locals in search of a brunch that sticks to their ribs. My first visit ended with a second round of biscuits—no regrets.
The magic here is comfort food with real personality. The fluffy buttermilk biscuits are the main event, perfect with butter or jam and baked to just the right golden hue.
If you’re after something savory, go for the black-eyed pea salad or a side of collard greens. Each dish manages to feel homemade, generous, and unpretentious—a little slice of the South in the heart of Brooklyn.
More Things to Try in Brooklyn, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do most Brooklyn brunch spots open?
Most brunch places in Brooklyn start serving around 10 a.m., though some open their doors earlier. Weekends are especially popular, so showing up early gets you ahead of the rush.
Do Brooklyn brunch restaurants have vegan or vegetarian options?
Absolutely. Many Brooklyn brunch spots offer a range of vegan, vegetarian, and even gluten-free choices. Menus usually highlight these, and staff are happy to help with substitutions.
Should I make a reservation for brunch in Brooklyn?
For busy and well-known places, reservations are a smart move, especially for groups. Some smaller cafés accept only walk-ins, so it’s best to check before heading out.
What are classic Brooklyn brunch dishes?
You’ll find everything from fluffy pancakes and shakshuka to creative toasts and fresh salads. The local flair comes from using fresh ingredients and adding inventive twists to classic favorites.
Are there kid-friendly brunch options?
Yes, many brunch spots in Brooklyn offer kid-friendly menus and relaxed atmospheres. Places known for comfort food or classic diners are usually a safe bet for families.