BRUNCH IN NYC LIKE A CONNOISSEUR
When it comes to brunch, no one does it better than New York. Is there a finer way to celebrate Sunday scaries than by dining al fresco with one (or two) glasses of mimosa?
Here are a few brunch options in the Big Apple that stand out for their unique riffs on classic dishes, bottomless cocktails and atmosphere you just can’t do without. Whether you opt for a club-infused brunch à la Bagatelle or rubbing shoulders with New York’s elite at Cipriani, you can’t go wrong.
CATCH
This globally inspired seafood restaurant in the Meatpacking District is a 400-seat, tri-level venue that offers something for everyone. Despite other locations in Los Angeles, Dubai and Playa del Carmen, there’s something iconic about CATCH NYC. Known for its night life and food scene, brunch-goers will not be disappointed by the warm and inviting atmosphere paired with fresh seafood. Choose from an impressive raw bar, featuring Seafood Towers or Oyster Shoots, or go for the Truffle Sashimi and Tartare Trio on the restaurant’s cold menu. If you aren’t big into seafood, classic breakfast and lunch options are available. The one thing everyone can agree on? Getting lost in the cocktail menu, which features cheeky creations, wine and beer, as well as an extensive whiskey list and tequila and cognac.
Guests can choose to dine al fresco on CATCH Roof or on any level for an interactive and fun experience they’ll relish.
CATCH NYC, 21 9th Ave., 212-392- 5978, catchrestaurants.com
CIPRIANI
The more casual offspring of the iconic Harry Cipriani, Cipriani has five venues in New York that allow restaurant-goers to experience authentic Italian dining in a sophisticated yet casual setting, including Cipriani Club 55, Cipriani Dolci, Cipriani Le Specialità, Cipriani Downtown and Harry Cipriani. Known around New York as an impeccable brunch spot no matter which locale you choose, Cipriani is also notable for its glamorous visitors such as models, celebrities, high-level executives and socialites. Cipriani’s chic Italian fare has something for everyone. And why wouldn’t you want to be seen rubbing shoulders with some of the city’s most distinguished folk?
Cipriani Downtown, located in the heart of Soho, is a more casual version of Harry Cipriani and offers Italian classics for lunch and dinner seven days a week. The partylike atmosphere keeps customers coming back, as do the extensive art pieces showcased throughout the restaurant.
In addition to New York, Cipriani has locations in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Ibiza, Monte Carlo, Miami, Mexico City, Moscow and Venice.
Cipriani Downtown, 376 W. Broadway between Spring and Broome Sts., 212- 343-0999, cipriani.com
BAGATELLE
Bagatelle is the day club you didn’t know you needed in your life. Located in the heart of the Meatpacking District, Bagatelle is arguably more rowdy on Saturday and Sunday mornings than it is on a Friday night. Serving Mediterranean-style fare in a chic white setting with abstract contemporary art, Bagatelle attracts the world’s jet-setters, foodies and celebrities. The 10-year-old flagship location is a New York institution that offers an unmatchable ambiance. Opt for the Seafood Tower - Prestige (oysters, 10gr caviar, king crab, lobster shrimp, clams and ceviche) or go the landlubber route with Gnocchi Truffés à la Parisienne de Nicolas. You’ll enjoy whatever you choose, especially when paired with rosé bottle service or one of the restaurant’s well-conceived cocktails.
Bagatelle also has locations in St. Tropez, St. Barth, Dubai, Miami, Ibiza, Monte Carlo, Rio de Janeiro, Punta del Este and São Paulo.
Bagatelle NYC, 1 Little W. 12th St., 212-488-2110, bagatellenyc.com
STANDARD GRILL
You won’t have to venture too far from the Meatpacking District when you visit the Standard Hotel on the High Line. The modern hotel is arguably most popular for its five food and drink venues: the Standard Grill, the late-night Le Bain, the Standard Biergarten, the Standard Plaza and Top of the Standard. When opting for a chic brunch spot, the Standard Grill deserves a spot at the top of your list. Blending a traditional steakhouse with new American cuisine, the airy and vintage-inspired hotspot will satisfy your tastebuds and leave you wanting more. Fresh seafood, cured meats, cheeses and organic breakfast dishes are mouthwateringly good. Our recommendation? The Squash Carpaccio with lemon-truffle or the Challah French Toast with vanilla mascarpone and hazelnut crumble.
Come for the food, but stay for the drinks. If you want to make a day of it, the Standard Grill’s punchbowls are a no-brainer, as are the creative Bloody Mary’s. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Standard Grill, 848 Washington St., 212-645-4100, thestandardgrill.com
