DineGuides

Brunch in Upper East Side

12 restaurants in Upper East Side. Part of our New York Brunch guide.

Cafe D’Alsace
#1Brunch
6 photos

Cafe D’Alsace

French·$$
📍 1703 2nd Ave

This Upper East Side spot is a neighborhood institution, serving Alsatian classics with a French flair. It's a versatile choice, equally adept at hosting lively weekend brunches and intimate date nights. The kitchen consistently delivers well-executed dishes, making it a reliable destination for a satisfying meal.

🍽️95Food
88Vibe
👋96Service
🔊65Noise
💬

Everything was amazing. The food, the service

💬

Sonia was wonderful, warm, and genuinely kind

💬

Extremely loud, was hard to have a conversation

Ideal for
Weekend brunch loversSpecial occasion diners (anniversaries, birthdays)French cuisine enthusiasts
Sojourn Social
#2Brunch
4 photos

Sojourn Social

American·$$
📍 1708 2nd Ave

This Upper East Side spot is a neighborhood favorite, buzzing with energy and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion. It shines with its dog-friendly patio, extensive cocktail list, and a vibe that's both elevated and fun.

🍽️88Food
95Vibe
👋92Service
70Wait
💬

Right on 2nd Ave where the hustle & bustle awaits

💬

Staff is kind and the back room warmly lit

💬

Warm, stylish, and intimate without feeling cramped

Ideal for
Happy hour cocktails and group outingsDog owners and pet-friendly brunchesDate nights and special occasions
Maya
#3Brunch
6 photos

Maya

Mexican·$
📍 1191 1st Ave

Maya offers a vibrant Mexican brunch and happy hour with a lively atmosphere. The restaurant shines with its creative cocktails and a menu that caters to various tastes, including vegetarian options. It's a popular spot for groups and dates, known for its energetic vibe.

🍽️88Food
85Vibe
👋88Service
🔊65Noise
💬

Parking is complicated in this area

💬

So dark that it was hard to have a conversation

💬

Quality, food and service is always consistent

Ideal for
Brunch groups seeking unlimited food/drinks valueCelebration brunches and birthday dinnersHappy hour crowds (weekday before 5pm)
Playa Bowls
#4Brunch
6 photos

Playa Bowls

Other·$$
📍 1471 2nd Ave

This is a bright, casual spot that feels like a surfer shack transported to the city. It's a go-to for healthy, customizable bowls with a wide variety of bases and toppings.

🍽️88Food
88Vibe
👋85Service
🛡️65Safety
💬

Conveniently located on 2nd Ave

💬

Found white clear circle object in it

💬

Always the same, always consistent

Ideal for
Health-conscious UES dinersBrunch/casual meal seekersBeach vibes atmosphere fans
Boqueria Ues
#5Brunch

Boqueria Ues

Spanish·$
📍 1460 2nd Ave

This Spanish tapas spot captures the lively spirit of Barcelona with its vibrant atmosphere and extensive wine list. It's a versatile choice, equally suited for a romantic dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family.

🍽️90Food
85Vibe
👋85Service
🔊65Noise
💬

Everything we ordered was excellent

💬

Our server Eric was lovely

💬

We come here at least once a week

Ideal for
Groups seeking lively Spanish tapas experienceBrunch and happy hour budget dinersRepeat visitors comfortable with crowds
San Babila NYC
#6Brunch

San Babila NYC

Italian·$$
📍 1355 2nd Ave

San Babila NYC brings a slice of authentic Italian cafe culture to the Upper East Side, offering everything from morning espresso and pastries to evening pasta dishes. The space itself is beautifully designed, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

🍽️92Food
90Vibe
👋75Service
🔊60Noise
💬

Staff needs serious training. They have no idea

💬

Conveniently located close to 72nd Street stop

💬

Asked us to move to the bar

Ideal for
Date nights seeking upscale Italian ambiancePasta enthusiasts wanting handmade qualityDinner visits (more polished than brunch)
Effy's Cafe on York
#7Brunch
4 photos

Effy's Cafe on York

Mediterranean·$$
📍 1688 York Ave

Effy's Cafe on York is a neighborhood fixture, serving up kosher dairy favorites with a casual, welcoming vibe. It's a go-to for families and locals seeking fresh, tasty meals without breaking the bank. The friendly atmosphere makes it feel like a true community hub.

🍽️88Food
88Vibe
👋78Service
70Wait
💬

Fresh and tasty food with excellent service

Ideal for
Brunch and breakfast lovers seeking Mediterranean flavorsKosher-observant diners and familiesRegulars seeking neighborhood community feel
Green Kitchen
#8Brunch

Green Kitchen

American·$$
📍 1619 2nd Ave

This casual Upper East Side spot is a lively hub for brunch and beyond, offering a wide range of options that cater to various dietary needs. It's a place where families, groups, and even solo diners can find a comfortable seat, and the full bar ensures a good time for all.

🍽️86Food
90Vibe
👋75Service
🔊55Noise
💬

Hot chick sandwich - both were really great

💬

Absolutely no way our party could hear each other

💬

Relaxed, and the service was friendly

Ideal for
Weekend brunch celebrations with friendsCocktail-focused dinnersLarge group events and special occasions
The East Pole
#9Brunch

The East Pole

American·$$
📍 133 E 65th St

This cozy Upper East Side brownstone offers a lively brunch scene with a full bar and outdoor seating. It's a versatile spot, welcoming for dates, families, and groups, with a casual vibe that makes everyone feel at home.

🍽️75Food
80Vibe
👋85Service
🔊65Noise
💬

Some dishes were excellent, others were bad

💬

Waiter said sure then never brought soy milk

💬

3 small stairs down to front door

Ideal for
Brunch enthusiasts on weekendsDate nights or special occasionsGroups with advance reservations
The Red Grill
#10Brunch

The Red Grill

Mexican·$$$
📍 1701 2nd Ave

This casual Mexican spot offers generous portions and a lively atmosphere, especially with its full bar. It's a reliable choice for families and groups looking for flavorful, no-frills Mexican fare.

🍽️82Food
75Vibe
👋68Service
60Wait
💬

Went to this place for bottomless brunch , and it couldn't have been better! Our server was fantastic and drinks were amazing!!! Can't beat it for the price.

💬

The food is really great, but I wouldn’t recommend delivery. It has taken well over an hour to get the order each time

💬

I am so glad to seethe numerous vegetarian options. The veggie fajitas were flavorful, the rice is good and the churros!!

Ideal for
Group diningFamilies with kidsWeekend brunch
La Goulue New York
#11Brunch

La Goulue New York

French·$$$
📍 29 E 61st St

This classic French bistro offers a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dates and lively group gatherings. While the menu boasts traditional French elegance, it also surprises with well-executed sushi and a notable wine selection.

🍽️85Food
85Vibe
👋70Service
💬

We had dinner at La Goulue with my girlfriend and it was a wonderful experience.

💬

I have been to this establishment a few times. Food, staff, ambience is outstanding.

💬

Little loud and tables are slightly small. But food was delicious (portions sizes are mid to small size) and the service was stellar!

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch
Yefsi Estiatorio
#12Brunch

Yefsi Estiatorio

Greek·$$$$
📍 1481 York Ave

This Greek spot offers a vibrant atmosphere, especially in its charming back patio. It's a place that shines with authentic flavors and a welcoming vibe, making it a solid choice for those seeking a taste of Greece.

🍽️80Food
85Vibe
👋75Service
🔊55Noise
💬

This place is an absolute delight. The ambience, the food and the service everything was just perfect.

💬

This is my favorite to go restaurant (when my daughter's not with us and want to go to a more Instagram-able restaurant. Best part is super close to our home)

💬

My husband and I both had a wonderful brunch experience at Yefsi Estiatorio.

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningWeekend brunch

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