The 17 Best Places for Brunch in West Village
Welcome to the West Village, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that truly captures the essence of New York, NY. With its culinary scene and historic charm, it’s no surprise that brunch in West Village is anything but ordinary.
From cute French bistros to tantalizing Mediterranean menus and beloved classic diners, this enclave offers an impressive array of eateries that will leave you craving more. So, join me as we dive into our next section of the “Best Brunch Spots in NYC” guide, where we’ll explore the mouthwatering world of brunch in the West Village. Bon appetit!
These Are The 17 Best Spots to Enjoy Brunch in The West Village
-
01
Cafe Cluny
French Restaurant in West VillageThere’s something about Cafe Cluny that just screams, “New York Brunch!” This classy spot, nestled between Eighth Ave and Greenwich Ave, is a staple of the West Village brunch scene.
Come the weekend between 10:00 am and 3:30 pm, and you just may find me digging into a breakfast sandwich filled with scrambled eggs or, on more adventurous days, the buffalo chicken dumplings. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, the French Toast with butter, maple syrup, and mixed berries is out of this world. Just a heads up, though – it’s as popular as it is good, so be sure to book a reservation ahead of time to secure your spot!
-
02
Jack's Wife Freda
Other Restaurants in West Village
I cannot rave enough about Jack’s Wife Freda. Not only is it picture-perfect, but it’s one of those places that makes your taste buds sing with joy. Located just a stone’s throw away from the Comedy Cellar, this restaurant serves up some of the best brunch in West Village all day long.
Be sure to try the Madame Freda, a mouthwatering pressed sandwich that’s as cozy as a hug from your favorite aunt. Or, for a sweeter option, go for the rosewater waffle, which is always a big hit. And for those who can’t resist a good cup of joe, their bottomless drip coffee is available until 4 pm and is a caffeinated dream come true! Just keep in mind that it’s a beloved brunch spot, so make a reservation and plan ahead.
-
03
La Bonbonnerie
Other Restaurants in West VillageNow, allow me to let you in on a little secret – La Bonbonniere. It’s a small, picturesque spot that feels like a step back in time. In the heart of West Village, just a few blocks from the famous Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment, this spot dishes up all-day brunch with serious nostalgic vibes. And did I mention that they have outdoor seating?
The French toast is something to write home about – trust me; you won’t leave a crumb on your plate. And if pancakes are your jam, go for the blueberry ones. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something savory, the Swiss cheese omelette at La Bonbonniere is always a crowd-pleaser. But don’t forget – this is a cash-only restaurant, so make sure to arrive prepared!
-
04
Hudson Clearwater
Other Restaurants in West VillageOur Highlight
Alright, my friends, let’s talk about Hudson Clearwater, one of the most versatile brunch spots in Greenwich Village. A couple of blocks from the Hudson River, this daily brunch nook serves food from 8 am until 4:30 pm, and is not only a vegan’s paradise, but a haven for foodies with dietary restrictions.
Hudson Clearwater serves everything from gluten-free lemon ricotta pancakes to vegan home-style potatoes. And don’t worry, meat lovers; they’ve also got classics like steak & scrambled eggs and fish sandwiches, too. However, what truly sets this spot apart is its enchanting garden-turned-patio, providing the perfect setting to indulge in their must-try cornflake French toast, which is a true culinary masterpiece. Trust me – you haven’t tasted food this good in Greenwich Village until you’re tried Hudson Clearwater!
-
05
Little Owl
American Restaurant in West VillageLet’s journey to Little Owl, an amazing spot tucked away in Greenwich Village, just a stroll from its sister restaurants, The Mary Lane, Market Table & The Clam. Open for weekend brunch from 9 am until 3 pm; it’s nestled right under the apartments that inspired the TV show Friends!
Now, when it comes to food, Chef Joey Campanaro serves a Mediterranean twist on traditional brunch dishes that never fail to impress. One of my all-time favorites at Little Owl is the Smoked Salmon Scramble, but if my sweet tooth beckons, I give into the Brioche French Toast with stewed berry sauce. And, of course, their Poached Egg served with fontina biscuits, breakfast patties, greens & hollandaise is always a great choice.
-
06
Tartine
French Restaurant in West VillageOkay, now let me tell you about Tartine, an absolutely great brunch spot in Greenwich Village. Just around the corner from the Village Vanguard and right up the road from the Magnolia Bakery, this corner bistro opens its doors for brunch on weekends from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Despite its no-reservation policy, believe me; it’s worth getting up early in the morning for, especially with their BYOB option. Tartine is famous for its Eggs Benedict – perfect hollandaise, fluffy poached egg, and crispy Canadian bacon. Pair this with a frothy, delicious cappuccino, and you’re all set. The staff and service here is just as wonderful as their breakfast, making you feel right at home in this charmingly cluttered spot.
-
07
Boucherie West Village
French Restaurant in West Village
Craving fancy and delicious French food? Look no further than Boucherie, conveniently located just a short walk from the Christopher St Station. With daily brunch from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, you’ll have ample time to relish their French classics with a creative twist.
Indulge in the Le Croque Madame, a delectable delight that transports you to a cozy Parisian café. And don’t forget to treat yourself to their legendary Bloody Marys – they’re simply unforgettable. For those with a sweet tooth, the Pain Au Chocolat is an absolute must-try. Regardless of what you choose, at Boucherie, every bite is a celebration of their French culinary tradition!
-
08
Baker & Co
Italian Restaurant in West Village
If you’re looking for a restaurant with innovative dishes in Greenwich Village, then your answer is Baker & Co. Situated just a few blocks from Washington Square Park, this restaurant is a trendy fusion of a modern Italian eatery with a rustic, cozy feel.
If you want to try Baker & Co.’s brunch, then you’ll need to stop by on Saturday and Sunday between the hours of 10:30 am and 3:45 pm. Known for their devotion to fresh and seasonal ingredients, I’d highly recommend the Nutella French toast or the savory Crab Eggs Benedict. Trust me, one bit of their food, and you’ll see why it’s rated as one of the best brunches in West Village, New York.
-
09
Elephant & Castle
American Restaurant in West VillageJust around the corner from the Nordstrom Local West Village store is Elephant & Castle, arguably one of the finest brunch spots in the West Village. They are open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am until 4:30 pm and have been serving up unassuming American fare since 1973.
On my visits, I usually opt for their scrumptious Eggs & Apple Benedict, which is expertly served on a bed of French toast. It’s an amazing creation that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, thus earning it a well-deserved reputation as a go-to dish for brunch enthusiasts in the West Village of New York City.
-
10
Claudette
French Restaurant in West VillageNestled on the corner of 5th Ave, right by the iconic Washington Square Park, is Claudette. This spot serves up one of the tastiest brunches in West Village with Mediterranean-inspired French cuisine every Friday through Sunday.
If you’re lucky enough to stop in and eat, be sure to try the Eggs Benedict with lox, it’s my brunch staple that hits the spot every time. And don’t overlook the pastry basket; it’s a yummy assortment that’s ideal for sharing during a leisurely brunch with friends. However, one of the things that truly sets this restaurant apart is its abundance of natural light, creating a warm and lively ambiance. Of all the things you do, you don’t want to miss the unique experience of Claudette.
-
11
The Grey Dog
Café in West Village
Located near Washington Square Park, The Grey Dog not only serves tasty food but they offer brunch all day, every day. One of the main reasons that I like it is because this restaurant offers simple, satisfying meals without burning a hole in your pocket.
If you ask me, their drink menu steals the show with options like the Grey Dog Spritz and spicy pineapple margarita. And when you pair that with the Fried Chicken, and waffles served with maple butter and spicy chili syrup, then you’ll understand why it’s counted amongst the best brunch spots in Soho West Village.
-
12
Buvette
French Restaurant in West Village
Tucked away on 42 Grove St, Buvette serves up daily brunch in the heart of Greenwich Village and provides a distinctly Parisian flair that’s hard to resist. The moment you enter, you’re whisked away to a charming Paris café thanks to its laid-back ambiance.
Amid the tempting brunch menu options, the succulent Croque Madame is a clear standout, with velvety prosciutto that melts in your mouth. And sure, Buvette’s popularity might result in a slight wait, but I assure you, this tantalizing French culinary adventure is genuinely worth your patience. So, brace yourself for this French delicacy in your New York City brunch itinerary that’s undeniably worth the hype.
-
13
& Son
Steak Restaurant in West Village
The & Son Restaurant is a steak speakeasy ( “steakeasy” for short) located in an old townhouse in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. Their menu features steak dinners that consist of several courses. With each course, you can choose between at least two options. In addition to delicious, top-quality steaks, there are also vegetarian options on the menu.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm you can stop by for brunch. How about a Lobster Benedict, for example? The lobster meat and boiled eggs taste just sensational with the hollandaise sauce! You’d rather have something sweet? Then try the French toast with berries and whipped cream! Add a few mimosas and the brunch is perfect!
-
14
Dante West Village
Other Restaurants in West VillageSituated on 551 Hudson Street, just a stone’s throw from Pier 45 on the Hudson River, Dante is an iconic restaurant with a history dating back to 1915. Though it wasn’t given a new lease on life until 2015, it was crowned the best bar in the world in 2019. Brunch here is available on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am until 4 pm and is a real treat that you should try at least once!
Though famed for their cocktails, Dante’s brunch menu is equally impressive. The breakfast brioche leaves one questioning what they excel at more – food or drinks. Of their tantalizing offerings, I recommend the daily selection of freshly baked pastries and the Avocado Toast with sourdough, which is a delightful combo of grilled halloumi and marinated bell peppers crowned with a soft-boiled egg. Just remember that they do get busy, so you may want to reserve a table or wake up early that morning!
-
15
Osteria 57
Italian Restaurant in Greenwich Village
Osteria 57 is an Italian restaurant in Greenwich Village. In a cozy ambience, traditional Italian fish and seafood dishes are served here, including fresh lobster from Maine. Homemade, gluten-free pasta is also on the menu, and even vegans will find something to their liking here.
Brunch is always served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. You should definitely try the frittata with asparagus and Parmigiano Reggiano!
-
16
Jane Restaurant
American Restaurant in West VillageJust across from Fiorello La Guardia Park on 100 W Houston St, you’ll find Jane Restaurant. This inviting spot has been mastering the brunch game since 2001. And the best part is that any time is a good time for brunch here because they serve up their scrumptious fare daily – weekdays from 11:30 am-4:00 pm and weekends from 9:00 am-4:00 pm.
Take my word for it, their French Toast, which is crafted from thick brioche slices soaked in creme brûlée batter and generously adorned with fresh fruit, is a sweet dream come true! Alternatively, if savory is your style, you can’t go wrong with their Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich. And be sure to make it a boozy brunch by adding a refreshing Bloody Mary or a Peach Bellini made with peach syrup and sparkling wine – it’s an experience that’s second to none among West Village brunch spots.
-
17
White Oak Tavern
Other Restaurants in West VillageThe final stop on our Greenwich Village brunch adventure takes us to White Oak Tavern. Situated right across from the Silver Center for Arts and Science on 21 Waverly Pl, it offers a comforting atmosphere that perfectly pairs with their flavorful menu. I will note, though, that White Oak Tavern only offers weekend brunch, so it’s served from 11:00 am-4:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
When here, opt for the enticing $30 all-you-can-drink boozy brunch, which lasts a generous two hours. But, don’t forget, it comes with a delicious condition – you must order a dish from their menu. My personal favorite? The hearty Steak & Eggs or avocado toast. Trust me, the combo of a few drinks and satisfying eats makes for a brunch experience you will want to revisit. So, gather your crew and make your weekend memorable at White Oak Tavern.
FAQ
Where to brunch in west village?
If you’re looking for a good brunch spot in the West Village, I highly recommend checking out Buvette. With its charming French ambiance and a tantalizing menu featuring dishes like croissants and crepes, it’s a food-lovers paradise. Moreover, their attention to detail and cozy atmosphere make it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch with friends or family.
When did Cafe Cluny open?
Café Cluny is a beloved restaurant in the West Village that opened its doors in 2004. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, this charming café offers a diverse menu with delectable brunch options. Whether you’re craving classic eggs Benedict or unique creations, Café Cluny has something to satisfy every palate.
Why is Jack's wife Freda named that?
Jack’s Wife Freda is another popular brunch spot in the West Village that is named after the owners’ grandparents, Jack and Freda. The restaurant aims to capture the warm, nostalgic feeling of sharing a meal with loved ones. With its friendly atmosphere and delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu, Jack’s wife Freda has become a local favorite.
What are your top 3 brunch restaurants in the West Village, New York, NY?
When it comes to top brunch restaurants in the West Village, three outstanding options stand out. First, there’s Buvette which offers a unique French-inspired experience with a cozy atmosphere and delicious menu. Then, there’s Café Cluny which offers an inviting ambiance and lots of brunch offerings. And finally, Jack’s Wife Freda, serves up delicious dishes while honoring the legacy of family and tradition.
Why is Jack's wife Freda famous?
Jack’s Wife Freda gained fame and popularity for its exceptional dining experience and high-quality cuisine. Beyond the culinary delights, what truly sets it apart is the heartfelt story behind its name. The restaurant pays homage to the owner’s grandparents, Jack and Freda, symbolizing the warmth, love, and cherished memories associated with shared meals. This heartfelt connection resonates with customers, contributing to Jack’s Wife Freda’s well-deserved fame.
You may also like this
