For some reason, great brunch places are very difficult to find. So, in an effort to prevent you from resorting to french toast sticks from BK, I'm reviewing multiple brunch places each week. Here are the latest to consider:
1. Sunburnt Cow
Rating: almost addictive.
It's located in the heart of Alphabet City, and you'll know from the bartenders' and wait staff's accents that this place really is Australian. The menu is pretty limited, but the food is surprisingly fresh and delicious. But the bigger surprise is the bottomless mimosa for only $4 more than your meal. It's a hip, divey place, so the free-flowing alcohol can contribute to a little rowdiness. Order the burger or any of the eggs benedict dishes.
2. Cook Shop
Rating: almost addictive
Brunch here is innovative without being fussy, delicious while still filling you up. The ricotta beignets and the frittata are both stellar, but the stuff that really causes your entire body to pulse is the bacon. Sourced from one of Meyer’s many farm connections, it is sliced perfectly thick and possibly the best bacon you’ll find in the city.
3. Macao
Rating: safe
What macao has going for it is an uber cool space in the heart of Tribeca. It's dark and edgy with hints of sophistication on the walls and in the decor. And the barely noticeable sign out front adds to my suspicion that they're aiming for a piece of the emerging Speakeasy-seeking crowd. The space is more fun than the food, but it's certainly safe enough. The sausage and potato hash and the scallion pancakes are probably the best bets on the menu. Don't expect extacy, but it's a fun place to take friends who are looking for something different for brunch.
4. Dovetail
Rating: addictive
All the flavors are there at the Dovetail brunch, and I still swear their French toast is the best I've ever had - crunchy and perfectly gooey at the same time. The food will be some of the best and most interesting fare you'll find for weekend brunching. I only have two complaints: 1. the space is not cozy, and 2. Shouldn't brunch be casual? When I called ahead they suggested that business casual attire was appropriate. I showed up in jeans and tennis shoes, and I was fine, but still...I prefer my brunch to be a bit more laid back. Still, the food here is exceptionaly, and if you're a hard core foodie, this place is a don't miss.