The 11 Best Restaurants in the East Village Right Now
Which restaurant in the East Village is the best?
Are you looking for the best restaurants in the East Village? Then you’ve come to the right place – because I’m going to show you the hottest and most authentic places where New Yorkers hang out. The choice of restaurants in East Village is unsurprisingly large – so there’s bound to be something for you! After all, it’s one of the neighborhoods in Manhattan known for its bars and restaurants.
To help you quickly and easily see which spot is near you, find all East Village restaurants on an interactive map.
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!
My Favorite Restaurants in the East Village
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01
Cathedrale
French Restaurant in East VillageOur HighlightThe imposing Cathedrale restaurant will be doing Thanksgiving their way this year (located in the MOXY East Village). Their menu will include favorites such as autumn squash with pomegranate vinaigrette, rotisserie heritage turkey, brussels sprouts, golden raisin chestnut stuffing, pumpkin pie, and much more.
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02
A10 Kitchen
American Restaurant in East VillageLooking for a budget-friendly brunch spot in the East Village? A10 Kitchen, located right by Tompkins Square Park is where it’s at! I cannot stress enough that the prices are unbeatable for this part of town. In fact, all of their dishes are under $20 and the crafty cocktails won’t set you back more than $15.
And hey, if you’re planning a boozy brunch with pals, you can all chip in for a pitcher of their scrumptious brunch cocktails, talk about a steal! As for food, you can’t go wrong with their classic offerings. My personal favorite? The B.E.C Sammie. This delicious breakfast sandwich is served on brioche bread with crispy bacon, perfectly fried eggs, and Irish cheddar cheese.
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03
Angelica Kitchen
Vegetarian Restaurant in East Village
Fresh, vegan food has been served here since 1976. Many of the ingredients are organically grown and Fairtrade certified.
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04
Balade
Other Restaurants in East Village
Are you looking for a more exotic meal? Check out Balade, a cozy Lebanese spot tucked away on 1st Avenue. This 2020 OpenTable Diner’s Choice awardee will lure you in with a chic vibe and a unique brunch menu served all day on weekends.
The Hummus Shawarma platter, featuring hummus, beef shawarma, tomatoes, scallions, parsley, sumac, and tahini sauce is a must-try. But if you’re in the mood for something unconventional, don’t miss their Lebanese-style pizza or pita pizza. Just a short stroll from the iconic St. Marks Place, Balade is definitely among the best brunch restaurants in the East Village.
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05
Bar Primi
Italian Restaurant in East Village
The Bar Primi is a small pasta shop that offers brunch, lunch and dinner with great Italian wines. Of course the typical Italian desserts are not missing. Everything is handmade – from the pasta to the sauce – and the authentic interior makes you feel as if you have made a little detour to Italy.
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06
Beetle House NYC
American Restaurant in East Village
Created to honor and celebrate the horror culture, Beetle House NYC is a year-round Halloween-themed party. With pieces and props inspired by the works of Tim Burton, Alfred Hitchcock, Bram Stoker, Washington Irving, Edgar Allen Poe and others, Beetle House is a must-see as one of the main Halloween theme restaurants in NYC.
If you’re just stopping by for drinks, there’s no need for reservations – just slide up to the bar and order your Coco Skellington or your The Beetle’s Juice. If you are stopping by for the $55 prix-fixe dinner, which includes main courses like Edward Burger Hands and Sweeney Beef, it’s best to call in advance to reserve your spot.
Take a look at the incredible decorations and make your reservation at Beetle House’s official website.
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07
Cafe Mogador
Other Restaurants in East VillageMy next East Village bruch spot is the ever-popular Cafe Mogador. Serving up Moroccan-inspired brunch since 1983, it’s quite a staple in the neighborhood. Fancy something light? Their Tuscan kale salad, packed with parmesan, apples, and sunflower seeds, is a winner.
More of a sweet brunch person? You can’t go wrong with their buttermilk pancakes, whether you prefer them plain, loaded with bananas, or topped with blueberries. To finish off your meal at Cafe Mogador, try their Espresso Martini – trust me, it’s the perfect brunch cocktail!
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08
David's Cafe
American Restaurant in East VillageNestled in the heart of East Village, David’s Cafe crafts a brunch experience that’s hard to resist! Whether you’re a fan of classic dishes like scrambled eggs or crave a unique twist, such as the orange blossom pancakes, there’s something for everyone. And did I mention that they offer a delightful selection of mimosas and sangrias?
But it’s not just the food that’ll win you over – their newly opened outdoor seating area offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a walk in nearby Tompkins Square Park. Just be sure to swing by for brunch from 12-3:45 pm Thursday through Friday or 11 am-4 pm on weekends. Believe me! David’s Cafe is a spot you’ll want to tick off your NYC brunch list.
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09
Divya's Kitchen
Vegetarian Restaurant in East Village
Of course, when in East Village, you absolutely cannot miss brunch at Divya’s Kitchen. Open every day starting at noon, this spot serves healthy, flavorful dishes rooted in the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda.
Whatever you do, don’t skip their custom breakfast bowls, where you can pick from a variety of options like basmati rice, roasted sweet potatoes, and sauteed leafy greens. Sauce it up with their cilantro mint or carrot tahini. Just don’t forget to pair your bowl with a cold brew coffee that includes an added splash of oat milk, and you’ve got yourself a balanced, satisfying brunch!
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10
Esperanto
Other Restaurants in East VillageLocated in the Lower East Side, Esperanto has been serving its vibrant Latin fusion since 1999. With outdoor seating, live music, and flavors inspired by Central and South America and the Caribbean, it’s the go-to spot in the East Village for a lively brunch experience.
If you add Esperanto to your list of brunch spots, make sure to try their Ovos Rancheros – fried eggs on a crispy corn tortilla with pico de gallo, black beans, and a side of home fries and mixed greens. And if you’re looking for a boozy brunch, Esperanto has you covered with an array of drink deals to make the experience even better. Choose from options like 2 brunch cocktails, 3 brunch cocktails, or even a pitcher of your chosen drink. Either way – you can’t go wrong at this stop!
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11
HAGS
Other Restaurants in East VillageHAGS is a unique vegan-friendly establishment that offers an equally unique fine-dining experience. Their motto is “by Queer people, for all people” and they keep that promise by making sure their restaurant is accommodating for everyone that may enter. The interior is decorated in a style that can only be described as “fun”, and that’s how many people report their entire experience at HAGS to be. From beginning to end.
In terms of food, they offer two different 6-course options. One is labeled as “omnivore” and the other is labeled as “vegan”. But each has dishes that are as delicious as the other.
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12
Hearth
Other Restaurants in East Village
Another East Village spot that I regularly visit is Hearth. With a focus on sustainable, clean eating, it’s where brunch is not just a meal, but an experience. Their whipped ricotta toast with poached apple and candied pepitas is heavenly, as is the Cacio e Pepe Polenta.
And for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with the Apple Crumb Muffin. Just make sure you wash it all down with The Beekeeper, a zesty gin and lemon cocktail. When you brunch at Hearth, you’re not just filling your belly, you’re nourishing your soul – as the name would suggest!
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13
Lamia's Fish Market
Sea Food Restaurant in East VillageWhen looking for boozy bottomless brunch in NYC, dive into the aquatic charm of Lamia’s Fish Market, nestled in NYC’s vibrant East Village. Known for its unique sea-themed interiors, this multi-level spot gives you a tantalizing taste of the ocean with their upscale Mediterranean seafood.
Here, your adventure begins with two hours of endless cocktails like Mermaid Sangria and Passion fruit mimosas. And what’s better is that each $59 brunch ticket also gets you an entrée of your choice. My recommendations? Try the Blueberry French Toast or the Eggs Benedict for an amazing brunch experience. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to click some Insta-worthy pictures!
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14
Lil Frankie's
Italian Restaurant in East Village
Next up on our brunch tour is the legendary Lil Frankie’s. As part of Frank Prisinzano’s esteemed restaurant family, this East Village restaurant is like that reliable friend who never lets you down. From their renowned pizzas and pastas to classic breakfast delights, there’s something for everyone! Of course, if I could only choose one entree, it would be the mouthwatering eggs Florentine with sautéed spinach, but you may prefer Molly’s French Toast – either way Lil Frankie’s has you covered.
But wait, it gets even better. Brace yourself for their incredible drinks deal – a three-for-one extravaganza featuring mimosas, Bloody Marys, screwdrivers, Bellinis, or Proseccos. It’s like a birthday gift you never knew you needed! Just remember that you must make a reservation for Lil Frankie’s brunch and it’s cash only!
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15
Little Rebel
Other Restaurants in East Village
Little Rebel is one of the hippest brunch restaurants in the East Village. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the serene Stuyvesant Square Park, you’ll immediately feel the rebellious spirit as you step in, thanks to the intriguing decor featuring iconic pop culture rebels.
Here’s my insider tip – go for their brioche French toast. Drenched in smoked maple syrup and topped with berries, it’s downright irresistible! But no worries, if you want something savory, Little Rebel also has many brunch plates to pick from! And if the sun’s shining, try to snag a seat on their upstairs patio, which is arguably the best spot for a New York City brunch. But what really sets Little Rebel apart from other brunch restaurants is their vibrant cocktail list, so why not pair your plate with a colorful James Dean or Tyler Durden? You’ll be living life on the edge in no time!
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16
Miss Lily's 7A
Other Restaurants in East Village
Now, let’s step outside of the box, and Imagine ourselves transported to a tropical Caribbean oasis, right in the middle of the East Village. Welcome to Miss Lily’s 7A, where their lively $65 bottomless brunch in NYC special includes a brunch entree and limitless drinks for two hours.
But let me warn you, don’t be surprised when you find yourself torn between Breakfast Roti and Jerk Chicken. The good news is, though, that you literally can’t go wrong. If you want a real taste of Jamaica, I recommend the Jamaican Rancheros or the Coconut Pancakes. Yet, no matter what you order, a boozy brunch at Miss Lily’s is a feast for both your palate and your soul!
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17
Motorino
Italian Restaurant in East Village
In the small and cute restaurant there are very, very tasty pizzas. The base is nice and crispy and the tomato sauce tastes especially good. If you like, you can also take your order with you.
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18
Noreetuh
Other Restaurants in East Village
Noreetuh isn’t your ordinary brunch spot in the East Village. It’s a modern Hawaiian restaurant where you’ll find brunch that embraces Hawaii’s Japanese, Polynesian, and American influences. Here, renowned Chef Chung Chow, an alum of Per Se, makes magic in the kitchen every Saturday and Sunday, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.
One of the must-try dishes? The Mochiko Chicken Loco Moco – a feast of fried dark meat chicken, graced with rich gravy and served with fried eggs and Hawaiian macaroni salad. Tip: order the King’s Hawaiian rolls as a side. Not to mention, they also sport an award-winning wine list, craft beers, and specialty sakes! Just remember, last call is at 2:15 pm, so don’t miss out!
My tip: Noreetuh has recently launched an exciting new cocktail program! Created by Courtney Smith and Ye Htoo Khaing Win, the menu now features unique Hawaiian-inspired tiki cocktails. For example, the Hawaiian Firefly combines jalapeños and rosemary with Casamigos Blanco, Aperol, lime juice, passion fruit puree and agave syrup, shaken and then served in a short tiki glass with a sprig of rosemary and a slice of jalapeño. Sounds delicious, right? But you can also order an Amaretto Colada or a Hawaiian Rose. All of these cocktails are also served with brunch.
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19
Prune
American Restaurant in East Village
A great restaurant that offers modern American cuisine. The ambience, the food and the staff are excellent.
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20
Rosie’s NYC
Mexican Restaurant in East VillageRosie’s Mexican restaurant in the East Village serves bold Mexican flavors redesigned in a modern way. Their tacos are made with corn tortillas that are black in color and always fresh, making for a tasty and colorful meal. Rosie’s is well known for their delicious veggie tacos called coliflor al mole, which is made with roasted cauliflower, plantain, house-made mole, and pickled onions. These tacos are full of exciting flavors. The crispy, delicata fried squash rings are also a favorite at Rosie’s. They are slightly sweet with a perfectly light outer layer of batter. There is also always room for dessert when it comes to their traditional churros con chocolate.
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21
San Marzano
Italian Restaurant in East Village
As we continue on, San Marzano is a must-visit spot on 2nd Avenue. It stands out as one of the most affordable restaurants in the East Village. Here you’ll find brunch favorites like eggs Benedict, omelettes, and paninis, all priced under $15. But prepare for a potential wait, as this place gets packed, especially with NYU students taking advantage of the $14 unlimited mimosas.
To make the most of your visit, I suggest arriving early to snag an outdoor table on 2nd Avenue, as this alone will take your brunch experience at San Marzano to the next level! And when it comes to food, I highly recommend trying their Lump Crab Benedict with poached eggs, avocado, and hollandaise. But remember, San Marzano only serves brunch from 11 am to 4 pm on Fridays, weekends, and holidays, so plan accordingly!
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22
Soogil
Other Restaurants in East Village
Soogil, nestled in the vibrant East Village of Manhattan, offers a culinary journey like no other. Chef Soogil Lim’s background in both French and Korean cuisine comes to life in this earthy yet sophisticated setting. Contemporary Korean dishes, enriched with French techniques, grace the menu, showcasing the chef’s remarkable talent and dedication to delighting diners.
With an exquisite blend of flavors and meticulous presentation, each dish at Soogil is a masterpiece. The staff, passionate about the food they serve, enhances the dining experience with their knowledge and attentiveness. If you seek a unique and unforgettable fusion of Korean and French cuisine, Soogil is the perfect high-end restaurant to indulge in fresh ingredients and innovative dishes in the heart of New York City’s dining scene.
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23
Superiority Burger
Burger Spot in East Village
At Superiority Burger you can get – besides the best vegetarian burgers in town – also the best ice cream! Brooks Headley was an award-winning pastry chef.
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24
Taqueria St. Marks Place
Mexican Restaurant in East VillageThis Mexican food is the real deal. Taqueria St. Marks Place boasts a 100% authentic menu without fajitas, nachos, or cheesy Mexican decorations. Instead, they serve traditional tacos with unique cuts of meat which are lengua (cow tongue), cabeza (cow head), and buche (cow stomach). These unique cuts make the best tacos in NYC. Each taco is a must-try and they all have a different texture. You can’t go wrong with any of these tacos whether you try the tender cabeza meat to the slightly chewy lengua. For those who are not feeling as adventurous there are also carnitas (pork), bistec (steak), and pescado (fish) tacos.
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25
The Ugly Duckling
American Restaurant in East VillageQuirkiness meets culinary delight at the Ugly Duckling in the East Village. Famous for their rubber duck theme, they serve a bottomless brunch like no other. Be like the locals and choose the Boujee Brunch on Saturdays from 3-7 PM, featuring 2 hours of delectable drinks and scrumptious food.
If you’re feeling bold, try the French Toast Fondue with banana & caramel topping or dig into the Insane Grilled Cheese, stuffed with mac & cheese, bacon, and roasted tomato sauce. This is one of those places where you’ll go for the food, but stay for the fun!
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26
Veselka
Other Restaurants in East VillageAnd don’t let anyone else tell you that your East Village journey is complete without visiting Veselka, the Ukrainian coffee shop. Nestled at the corner of East Ninth Street and Second Avenue, this iconic 24-hour diner has been serving heartwarming fare since 1954.
I highly recommend the signature brunch pierogi, a delightful mix of bacon, scrambled eggs, Vermont cheddar, and chipotle ketchup. If you’re an eggs benedict fan, their Salmon Latka version with smoked salmon, potato pancakes, and hollandaise sauce will wow you! Plus, their Eggnog French toast and hearty breakfast menu are available anytime, day or night.
Just a short walk from the vibrant Astor Place, Veselka is a must-visit brunch restaurant in the East Village. Just keep in mind that the brunch magic only occurs on weekends and holidays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
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27
Westville East
American Restaurant in East VillageNext up is Westville East, a comfort spot known for its fresh and straightforward dishes. Located in East Village just minutes from Tompkins Square Park, it’s the spot for your weekend brunch from 10 am to 4 pm.
Their menu, which is bursting with produce-heavy options, is a refreshing change. You can’t go wrong with their Avocado Toast topped with sunny-side-up eggs or the Breakfast Burrito stuffed with eggs and chorizo. Not to mention, they’ve also got good coffee, too!
And if you get there early, you might even snag a seat outside. You know, nothing beats sipping coffee and people-watching on a lazy Sunday, right? It’s a neighborhood favorite, and after just one brunch here you’ll understand why.
The Best Restaurants in the East Village on the Map
A map with all restaurants in East Village can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each restaurant on the map to find out everything you need to know.
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