Brunch has transitioned from fad to tradition for New Yorkers. For the perpetually nocturnal college student, rising late and combining breakfast and lunch in one sweet and savory meal is ideal. But with every block littered with restaurants and cafes, it can be hard to find the perfect place to spend a cozy Sunday morning. If you are growing bored of Palladium brunch — although how can you with those chocolate fondue fountains? — check out some NYU students’ favorite places for brunch in the area.
The Grey Dog
Only a few blocks from Union Square, college students in the area frequent The Grey Dog. The cafe-style restaurant offers a variety of comfort foods, including challah French toast ($12.95), grilled cheese ($7.25) and chicken tenders ($8.95). The atmosphere is youthful, with artwork by local artists displayed on the walls and available for purchase, making the restaurant feel intimate and neighborly.
“Grey Dog rocks because it has something for everyone,” CAS sophomore Alyssa Fein said. “Every weekend and every day of the week, the line to order is literally out the door, spilling out onto the sidewalk. It’s so cozy and inviting and the food is well-priced and always good.” (90 University Place)
Delicatessen
If you are looking for something a bit trendier, try the stylish comfort food at Delicatessen. Delicatessen is most famous for its macaroni bar, with mac ‘n’ cheeses ($11-18) made next-door in their sister restaurant, Macbar. Other menu items include a burrata omelet ($16) and skillet cheddar corn bread ($8). Reservations are recommended because the restaurant tends to become crowded during brunch hours.
“[Delicatessen] has incredible food and is a fun, trendy place to spend time with friends,” LS sophomore Rachel Frank said. (54 Prince St.)
Sullivan Bistro
If trendy is not your style but great taste and reasonable prices are, Sullivan Bistro is the best option for you. The quaint bistro, which looks like it could be your grandmother’s kitchen, is just a five-minute walk from Bobst Library. It is reliably crowded on Sunday mornings, so be sure to arrive early. The dishes are large enough to keep you full for hours and cheap enough to keep your weekend budget on track. Sullivan Bistro has a variety of omelets including the gourmet omelet with goat cheese, sun-dried tomato and basil pesto ($12). The menu also offers banana and blueberry pancakes topped with honey butter ($10) and three types of eggs benedict: classic, salmon and Portobello ($10-$11). Another highlight is the free caramel bread basket, which is addicting enough to fill you up before your food comes.
“[I love Sullivan Bistro] not necessarily for the service or particularly inviting ambiance, but because it’s typical brunch food at a typical brunch place,” Tisch sophomore Charlotte Clifford said. “Also for their sweet caramel bread and their Hershey kisses at the door.” (169 Sullivan St.)
A version of this article appeared in the Monday, Feb. 25 print edition. Sarah Myers is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].