The 12 Best Breakfast Spots in Brooklyn, NY (Local Picks for 2025)

Published April 24, 2025• Updated April 25, 2025• By Siavash - Urban Experiences Blogger
Photo of a coffee shop back patio in Brooklyn

Discover the top breakfast restaurants in Brooklyn with our local expert guide. From classic diners to trendy cafes, find the perfect spot for your morning meal.

Brooklyn isn't just a borough; it's a world unto itself, especially when it comes to food. And let's be honest, starting your day right often means finding that perfect breakfast spot. Whether you're fueling up for a day exploring Prospect Park, recovering from a late night out, or just seeking a cozy corner to enjoy a coffee and a pastry, Brooklyn's breakfast scene delivers with unparalleled diversity and character.

This guide is your insider's map to the best morning meals the borough has to offer. We've sipped the coffee, devoured the pancakes, and lingered over lattes to bring you a curated list of Brooklyn's breakfast champions. From health-conscious cafes in Bed-Stuy to Aussie-inspired brunch havens in Williamsburg and hidden gems in Bushwick, get ready to discover your new favorite breakfast ritual.

What Makes Brooklyn's Breakfast Scene Special

Brooklyn's breakfast isn't just about eggs and bacon (though you can find excellent versions of those, too). It's a reflection of the borough's incredible diversity. You can travel the world through morning meals, from Greek pastries in Bay Ridge to kosher delights in Williamsburg, and Latin-inspired plates scattered throughout. Each neighborhood boasts its own unique flavor, with cafes and restaurants often deeply rooted in their local communities.

What truly sets Brooklyn apart is the blend of tradition and innovation. You'll find time-honored diners serving up classic comfort food alongside trendy cafes pushing culinary boundaries with locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes. There's a palpable passion here – for quality coffee, for perfectly poached eggs, for creating welcoming spaces where neighbors can connect. It's this commitment to craft and community that makes exploring Brooklyn's breakfast scene such a rewarding experience.

Our Selection Criteria

Choosing the "best" is never easy, especially in a place as culinarily rich as Brooklyn. Our team of local experts used the following criteria to curate this guide:

  • Food Quality & Flavor: Delicious, well-prepared dishes using fresh ingredients are paramount.
  • Menu Variety & Creativity: Offering a range of options, from classic staples to unique signature dishes.
  • Coffee & Beverage Program: Excellent coffee is non-negotiable for a top breakfast spot. Tea, juices, and other beverages were also considered.
  • Atmosphere & Ambiance: The vibe matters – whether it's cozy, bustling, chic, or laid-back.
  • Service: Friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience.
  • Value: Offering good quality for the price point.
  • Uniqueness: What makes this place stand out from the crowd?

Each spot on this list has been visited multiple times by our local experts to ensure consistency and quality. Furthermore, we analyze large datasets of online reviews and user feedback, cross-referencing public opinion with our expert assessments to establish authority and provide recommendations you can trust.

The 12 Best Breakfast Restaurants in Brooklyn

Get ready to explore the borough's top spots to start your day.

Best for Specific Occasions/Categories

  • Best for Healthy Options: BKLYN BLEND, Cafe Volkan
  • Best for Weekend Brunch Vibes: Hole In The Wall - Williamsburg, SLIMAK CAFE
  • Best for Coffee Aficionados: Sips, Cafe Volkan, SLIMAK CAFE
  • Best for a Cozy Neighborhood Feel: Polly’s Cafe, Mary's Coffee Shop, Sips
  • Best for Dessert with Breakfast: Omonia Cafe, Safir Bakery & Cafe
  • Best for Late Night Bites (among these): Omonia Cafe (open latest)

When to Visit Brooklyn Breakfast Spots

Weekends, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, are peak times for most popular breakfast and brunch spots in Brooklyn. Expect potential waits, especially at trendy places like Hole In The Wall or SLIMAK CAFE. Weekday mornings are generally calmer, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience or for working remotely.

Reservations are often recommended or required for weekend brunch at more upscale or popular venues (check websites or call ahead). For most casual cafes, walk-ins are the norm. Many spots offer takeout and delivery, which can be great options during busy periods.

Getting Around Brooklyn for Breakfast

Brooklyn is well-served by the NYC subway system. Key lines connecting to the neighborhoods featured include:

  • Williamsburg: L, G, J, M, Z lines
  • Bushwick: L, J, M, Z lines
  • Bedford-Stuyvesant: A, C, G, J, M, Z lines
  • Crown Heights: 2, 3, 4, 5, S (Franklin Ave Shuttle) lines
  • Boerum Hill: F, G, A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, D, N, R, Q lines
  • Sunset Park: D, N, R lines
  • Bay Ridge: R line
  • Sheepshead Bay: B, Q lines

Street parking can be challenging, especially in denser areas like Williamsburg and Boerum Hill. Consider public transport, biking, or ride-sharing for easier access.

Enjoy exploring the delicious world of Brooklyn breakfast!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best breakfast spot in Brooklyn for healthy options?

BKLYN BLEND in Bed-Stuy is fantastic for healthy options, offering fresh juices, smoothies, and nutritious sandwiches. Cafe Volkan in Boerum Hill also has great healthy choices like acai bowls and organic dishes.

Where can I find a classic Brooklyn diner breakfast experience?

While this list focuses more on cafes, Mary's Coffee Shop in Bed-Stuy offers a cozy, classic vibe with comfort food breakfast staples. For a true old-school diner, you might explore areas like Bay Ridge or Bensonhurst.

Are there good breakfast places in Brooklyn for vegans/vegetarians?

Yes! Many spots cater well to vegans and vegetarians. BKLYN BLEND has dedicated vegan options. Cafe Volkan and SLIMAK CAFE also offer vegetarian and vegan choices, often highlighting fresh, plant-based ingredients.

What's a great spot for a weekend breakfast or brunch date in Brooklyn?

Hole In The Wall in Williamsburg offers a trendy atmosphere and great cocktails, perfect for a brunch date. La Cantine in Bushwick transitions into a wine bar, offering a chic French-inspired setting ideal for a relaxed weekend meal.

Do I need reservations for breakfast in Brooklyn?

Generally, reservations aren't required for most casual breakfast spots, especially on weekdays. However, popular brunch destinations like Hole In The Wall or La Cantine might require or recommend reservations, particularly on weekends.