The 15 Best Brunch Spots in Brooklyn You Need to Try

Published April 24, 2025• Updated April 25, 2025• By Siavash - Urban Experiences Blogger
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Discover the top brunch places in Brooklyn with our local expert guide. From cozy cafes to lively bistros, find the perfect spot for your weekend feast.

Ah, brunch. It's not just a meal in Brooklyn; it's a weekend ritual, a social institution, a delicious excuse to linger over coffee, cocktails, and creative plates. From sun-drenched cafes pouring perfect lattes to bustling bistros slinging Benedicts with a twist, Brooklyn's brunch scene is as diverse, vibrant, and endlessly exciting as the borough itself.

Whether you're craving fluffy pancakes, savory chilaquiles, fresh oysters, or a plant-based feast, there's a Brooklyn brunch spot calling your name. This guide is your insider map to the absolute best, curated by locals who've done the delicious research (multiple times!). Get ready to discover neighborhood favorites, hidden gems, and the places that make Brooklyn the undisputed king of weekend brunch.

What Makes Brooklyn's Brunch Scene Special

Brooklyn brunch isn't just about eggs and bacon (though we do that well too!). It's a reflection of the borough's incredible diversity. You'll find menus infused with global flavors – Ethiopian platters shared over injera, Mexican cafes serving authentic street food, French bistros with charming gardens, and Australian spots perfecting the art of the flat white and avocado toast.

Each neighborhood adds its own flavor. Williamsburg buzzes with trendy cafes and chic cocktail bars, Bushwick offers eclectic gems and hidden patios, Fort Greene boasts cozy neighborhood spots, and areas like Sunset Park reveal authentic local favorites. It's a scene driven by culinary innovation, where chefs aren't afraid to play with classics, source locally, and cater to every dietary need, from vegan delights to gluten-free goodness. It’s this blend of creativity, community, and downright deliciousness that makes exploring Brooklyn's brunch offerings an essential experience.

Our Selection Criteria

Finding the "best" brunch requires more than just good food. We've meticulously evaluated dozens of spots based on the criteria that truly matter for that perfect weekend experience:

  • Food Quality & Creativity: Delicious, well-executed dishes using fresh ingredients, with bonus points for unique menu items.
  • Ambiance & Vibe: The overall feel of the place – is it cozy, lively, romantic, good for groups? Does it feel like Brooklyn?
  • Brunch Menu Variety: A good range of sweet and savory options, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.
  • Drink Program: Excellent coffee is a must, plus creative cocktails, mimosas, or other brunch-worthy beverages.
  • Service: Friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable staff who enhance the experience.
  • Value: Fair pricing for the quality and portion sizes offered.
  • Consistency: Delivering a great experience time after time.

Each spot on this list has been visited multiple times by our local experts to ensure consistent quality and capture the true brunch vibe. 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 15 Best Brunch Spots in Brooklyn

Get ready to discover your new favorite weekend ritual. Here are the top brunch destinations Brooklyn has to offer:

Best Brooklyn Brunch for Specific Occasions

  • Best for Outdoor Brunch: Mominette Bistro (Garden), Aurora Brooklyn (Garden), Maison Premiere (Garden), Sea Wolf (Patio), Northern Bell (Patio).
  • Best Vegan/Vegetarian Brunch: Bunna Cafe (All Vegan Ethiopian), Pitanga (Vegetarian/Vegan options), Tabaré Bushwick (Vegan options available).
  • Best for Groups: Sea Wolf, Northern Bell, Sweet Science (call ahead for larger groups).
  • Best for a Date: Maison Premiere, Aurora Brooklyn, Mominette Bistro, Bunna Cafe, Tabaré Bushwick.
  • Best for Coffee Lovers: Café Miguel, Milk & Honey, SLIMAK CAFE, Hole In The Wall.

When to Visit & Practical Brunch Tips

Brooklyn brunch is most popular on Saturdays and Sundays, typically between 11 AM and 3 PM. Expect peak crowds and potential waits, especially at popular spots, between 12 PM and 2 PM.

  • Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for groups or prime times. Many spots use Resy or OpenTable, while others might take reservations via phone or email. Some cafes are walk-in only. Always check the restaurant's website or call ahead.
  • Weekdays: Many places on this list, like Sea Wolf, Pitanga, and Hole In The Wall, offer brunch menus or breakfast/lunch service during the week for a less crowded experience.
  • Timing: Arriving early (before 11:30 AM) or later (after 2 PM) can sometimes help avoid the longest waits at walk-in spots.

Getting Around Brooklyn for Brunch

Brooklyn is well-served by the NYC subway system. Key lines for accessing many popular brunch neighborhoods include:

  • L Train: Connects Manhattan to Williamsburg and Bushwick.
  • G Train: Runs north-south through Brooklyn, connecting Williamsburg, Fort Greene, and other neighborhoods.
  • J/M/Z Trains: Serve parts of Williamsburg and Bushwick.
  • A/C Trains: Access Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn.
  • R Train: Runs through Sunset Park and Bay Ridge (near Fort Hamilton).

Check the MTA website or app for specific station stops near your chosen brunch destination. Street parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so public transit or ride-sharing services are often the easiest options. Enjoy your Brooklyn brunch adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Brooklyn brunch spot for outdoor seating?

Several spots boast fantastic outdoor spaces! Mominette Bistro has a charming French-style garden, Aurora Brooklyn offers a large, leafy Tuscan-inspired garden, and Maison Premiere features an atmospheric New Orleans-style garden perfect for oysters and cocktails.

Are there good vegan or vegetarian brunch options in Brooklyn?

Absolutely! Bunna Cafe is a standout, offering incredible 100% plant-based Ethiopian brunch platters. Pitanga is another great choice with vegetarian/vegan acai bowls and Brazilian-inspired breakfasts. Many other spots like Tabaré Bushwick also offer marked vegan/vegetarian options.

Where can I find unique brunch cocktails in Brooklyn?

Maison Premiere is legendary for its absinthe program and classic cocktails. Sweet Science and Northern Bell are known for great cocktails alongside their food. Pitanga and Tabaré Bushwick also offer creative cocktail lists to pair with brunch.

What's the typical price range for brunch in Brooklyn?

Brunch prices vary. You can find casual cafes like SLIMAK CAFE or Pitanga in the $10-$20 range per person. Mid-range spots like Hole In The Wall or Black Iris are often $20-$30. More upscale options or places with specialties like oysters (Maison Premiere, Mominette Bistro) might range from $30-$50 or higher.

Do I need reservations for brunch in Brooklyn?

It's highly recommended, especially for popular spots on weekends. Places like Maison Premiere, Aurora Brooklyn, and Tabaré Bushwick often require or strongly suggest reservations. While some cafes might accommodate walk-ins, expect a wait during peak brunch hours (11 AM - 2 PM).