Essex, Lower East Side
Essex (and NoLita House) are always my go-to brunch spots when I have friends in town. And as I’ve had guests two weekends this month, I’ve been chowing down at Essex pretty frequently. $18 will get you an all-you-can-drink brunch, with your choice of mimosas, bloody marys, screw drivers, or bellinis. The food is pretty standard (minus some more unique Jewish dishes), but it tastes good and that’s all that really matters. You’re there for the drinks and the fun party atmosphere anyway.
Crispy Potato Pancakes with sautéed apples and honey cream sauce and spinach-shiitake-black bean hash. This won’t be a frequent order, but fun for trying something a little different every now and then.
Crabcake Benedict. Love this!
