Brunching
If you live in Manhattan, you’ll rarely be asked by a friend if you want to grab breakfast or lunch with them on the weekend. That is politically incorrect to us city slickers. It’s kind of the same thing when you hear someone order a “medium” non-fat latte at Starbucks instead of a “grande.” We call weekend meals between 11am and 4pm brunch.
Everyone has a different preference when it comes to picking a place for brunch. Some look for restaurants that offer unlimited mimosas for a set price while others flock towards the places that serve a basket of complimentary mini muffins.
Although it depends on my mood, I tend to select brunch places with a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff and a menu that includes eggs benedict (which is what I often times order.) With that said, I never really know what I am going to order until I sit down and take my first sip of coffee, but it usually involves eggs.
One of the best things about living in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, are the great restaurant options that are available. When brunching in an unfamiliar territory in Manhattan or when I'm looking to explore possibilities, my go-to source is the "brunch & weekend" section of NewYorkMag,com
Here are some of my favorite places to brunch in Hell's Kitchen...
Although these places are all unique and charming in their own way, they all have one thing in common- and that is location. Not only are they all located on 9th Avenue in Hell's Kitchen, but they also all happen to have scored a corner spot on one of the streets in the neighborhood.
1. Southern Hospitality : Knowing that one of the Founders & Co-creators of this Memphis-BBQ inspired restaurant & bar is Justin Timberlake, should be enough to gain your interest. The brunch menu is truly unique and the $15 unlimited Mimosa and Beliini offer, help make this spot one of my faves. (645 9th Avenue & 45th Street)
2. The Delta Grill : Cajun & Creole cuisine sure makes a brunch menu stand out from the rest. I adore this cozy spot and especially look forward to ordering the cheesy grits with my meal. The live entertainment and basket of mini-muffins are complimentary. (700 9th Avenue & 48th Street)
3. Marseille : This French bistro is my go-to "fancy" brunch spot. It's the perfect place to bring a date (that you like) but also a good choice when the parents are in town. The restaurant's menu also has Italian, Greek and North American influences. Although you will adore the inside of the restaurant, I try to score a table outside during warm weather. (630 9th Avenue & 44th Street)
4. Vynl : I wouldn't be able to sleep at night if I didn't include this place on my list of brunch recommendations. Since the Chelsea location closed a few years ago, this Vynl is the last one of its kind still standing. Recently re-locating to the lot next door to the original HK address, some of the previous character of the former Vynl, (such as the giant round window facade and Dolly Parton themed bathroom) weren't included in the move; but Vynl still boasts the same charm and friendly staff that we all learned to love over the years. The neighborhood and brunch wouldn't be the same without this place. Although I miss Dolly, girls can now enjoy a Beyonce themed bathroom where the boys get Michael Jackson. (756 9th Avenue)
5, Georgio's Country Grill: This one is a new favorite of mine. Not the obvious choice to be considered a fave- as it is basically a diner without table booths (which makes a huge difference.) This perfect corner spot makes a great choice for brunch on a rainy day. The menu includes some tasty options you may not find at a diner, such as crab cake benedict and whole-wheat or multigrain pancakes. (801 9th Avenue & 53rd Street)
What are your favorite go-to brunch places in Hell's Kitchen?? Comment below!