Are you looking for a fun and boozy way to start your day in New York City? Look no further than the bottomless brunch scene in NYC! This popular trend combines the best of both worlds: a delicious brunch spread and unlimited alcoholic drinks. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bottomless brunch in NYC, including where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of your experience.
Table of Contents
- What is Bottomless Brunch?
- The Best Bottomless Brunch Spots in NYC
- West Village
- Lower East Side
- Upper East Side
- Williamsburg
- What to Expect at a Bottomless Brunch
- Tips for a Great Bottomless Brunch Experience
- Bottomless Brunch Alternatives in NYC
- Is Bottomless Brunch Worth It?
- The Bottom Line
- FAQs
1. What is Bottomless Brunch?
Bottomless brunch is a popular weekend tradition in NYC, where restaurants offer a prix-fixe brunch menu paired with unlimited alcoholic drinks for a set time period, typically 90 minutes to two hours. The concept originated in Europe and has since spread across the globe, becoming a staple in NYC’s dining scene.
The main appeal of bottomless brunch is the unlimited drinks. Most restaurants offer a variety of brunch cocktails, including mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys. Some places also offer beer, wine, and spirits. The food is also a major draw, with many restaurants offering a range of brunch classics like eggs Benedict, pancakes, and avocado toast.
2. The Best Bottomless Brunch Spots in NYC
NYC is home to countless bottomless brunch options, but we’ve narrowed down the best spots by neighborhood.
1. West Village
- Jeffrey’s Grocery: This cozy spot is known for its fresh seafood and inventive brunch cocktails. Try the “Morning Glory Fizz” or “Rattlesnake” for a unique twist on classic drinks.
- Buvette: This French-inspired restaurant offers a charming atmosphere and a delicious brunch spread. Don’t miss the “Mimosa Kit” with fresh-squeezed orange juice and a bottle of bubbly.
- Cafe Cluny: This quaint bistro offers a relaxed atmosphere and a classic brunch menu. Pair your meal with a “Bellini” or “Grey Goose Le Fizz.”
2. Lower East Side
- Poco: This lively spot offers a bottomless brunch with unlimited mimosas and sangria. The brunch menu features Latin-inspired dishes like churro French toast and huevos rancheros.
- Dirty French: This trendy restaurant offers a French-inspired brunch with bottomless drinks for an additional fee. The menu includes classics like croque madame and quiche Lorraine.
- The DL: This rooftop lounge offers a bottomless brunch with an impressive view of the city skyline. The brunch menu features a mix of American and Latin dishes, like chicken and waffles and shrimp ceviche.
3. Upper East Side
- The Penrose: This upscale gastropub offers a boozy brunch with a variety of cocktails and a delicious food menu. Don’t miss the “Hemingway Daiquiri” or “Sloe Gin Fizz.”
- Jones Wood Foundry: This British-inspired gastropub offers a cozy atmosphere and a brunch menu with classic dishes like fish and chips and bangers and mash. Pair your meal with a “Bloody Mary.
4. Williamsburg
- Llama Inn: This Peruvian-inspired restaurant offers a unique bottomless brunch experience with unlimited pisco sours and other cocktails. The menu features dishes like ceviche and grilled octopus.
- Sunday in Brooklyn: This trendy spot offers a seasonal brunch menu with bottomless drinks for an additional fee. Don’t miss the “Froze All Day” cocktail or the “Big Poppa” fried chicken sandwich.
3. What to Expect at a Bottomless Brunch
When you arrive at a bottomless brunch spot, you’ll typically be seated at a table and given a set time period for your unlimited drinks. The server will take your drink order and bring you your first round of drinks. Throughout your meal, they’ll continue to refill your drinks as needed.
It’s important to note that some restaurants may have restrictions or rules around bottomless brunch. For example, they may limit the number of drinks you can have or require everyone at the table to participate in the bottomless option. Make sure to check the restaurant’s policies before you go.
4. Tips for a Great Bottomless Brunch Experience
To make the most of your bottomless brunch experience, here are a few tips:
- Arrive early: Bottomless brunch spots can get busy, so arriving early can help you snag a table and avoid long wait times.
- Pace yourself: Unlimited drinks can be tempting, but it’s important to pace yourself and drink responsibly.
- Order food: While the drinks may be the main draw, don’t forget to order food to soak up the alcohol and keep you satisfied.
- Bring cash: Some restaurants may require cash for the bottomless option, so it’s always a good idea to bring some just in case.
5. Bottomless Brunch Alternatives in NYC
If bottomless brunch isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there are plenty of other brunch options in NYC. Here are a few alternatives:
- Drag Brunch: If you’re looking for a unique and entertaining brunch experience, check out a drag brunch. These events feature drag performers and a brunch menu.
- Dim Sum Brunch: Dim sum is a popular Chinese brunch tradition, featuring small plates of dumplings and other dishes. Head to Chinatown for some of the best dim sum in the city.
- Boozy Brunch: If you’re looking for a boozy brunch without the time limit, check out a restaurant that offers a separate brunch cocktail menu.
6. Is Bottomless Brunch Worth It?
Bottomless brunch can be a fun and festive way to start your weekend in NYC. However, it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the cost. Bottomless brunch can be pricey, with some restaurants charging upwards of $50 per person. If you’re someone who doesn’t drink much or doesn’t like brunch food, it may not be worth it for you.
7. The Bottom Line
Whether you’re a brunch aficionado or just looking for a fun weekend activity, bottomless brunch in NYC is a must-try experience. With so many options to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to drink responsibly and enjoy!
8. FAQs
- What is the typical price range for bottomless brunch in NYC?
- Prices can vary widely, but expect to pay at least $30-$40 per person for bottomless brunch.
- Do I need to make a reservation for bottomless brunch?
- It’s always a good idea to make a reservation, as bottomless brunch spots can get busy on weekends.
- Are there any restrictions or rules around bottomless brunch?
- Some restaurants may have restrictions on the number of drinks
