The Upper West Side boasts an impressive array of brunch spots, with everything from trendy cafés to elegant brasseries. Many of these spots are within walking distance of The Lucerne Hotel, placing you near the area's stellar food scene. Indeed, brunch on the Upper West Side is an event that every traveler and visitor to the city should enjoy at least once. To make this experience unforgettable, we've curated a guide to the area's most cherished brunch spots, handpicked by a local expert and sure to delight.

Nice Matin

Perhaps you don't want to venture far to enjoy brunch on the Upper West Side, especially if weather conditions turn for the worse. The good news is that The Lucerne Hotel is adjacent to an elegant and modern French eatery, which ranks among the finest restaurants on the Upper West Side. Whether you're craving a Croque Madame, Moroccan Spiced Salmon, or Pommes Paillasson, the Nice Matin has you covered. But don't leave without trying at least one of the delectable beverages on the menu, such as the Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka, Tanteo Chipotle Tequila, or Tito’s Handmade Vodka. 

French Roast

If you crave the best in continental European cuisine, start your Upper West Side brunch adventure at French Roast. This New York restaurant has been renowned for its timeless flavors and top-notch customer service since 1995. Several of its delicious specialties include Croque Monsieur, Plat Du Jour, and Zucchini Noodles. And like every self-respecting French bistro, its patisserie offerings are on point, with Butter Croissant, House Baked Muffins, and Pan Au Chocolate on the menu. This popular bistro is just a 10-minute walk from The Lucerne Hotel.

Sarabeth's

Brunch on the Upper West Side is synonymous with Sarabeth's. This celebrated establishment is renowned for its homemade specialties, gluten-free options, and lavish cheesy omelets, though vegan choices are limited. Several choice picks from the brunch menu include the Classic Ham Benedict, Lemon & Ricotta Pancakes, and Signature Avocado Toast. There are also a few delectable cocktails on the menu that you should try, such as the Blood Orange Coconut Margarita, Southern Reverie, and Tiramisu Martini. Sarabeth's is only a block away from The Lucerne Hotel and is a 2-minute walk along Amsterdam Avenue. 

Haven

Haven is a lively eatery and watering hole serving inventive, gourmet fare and artisanal cocktails. Chef Brian Staub's crew orchestrates unforgettable gastronomic experiences with premium ingredients and bold pairings. The warm ambiance and impeccable service make Haven a great Upper West Side brunch option. Try the nourishing Breakfast Club, Nova Flatbread, or Yogurt Granola Berries, all of which showcase the eatery's signature taste. Haven is across the street and only a minute's walk from The Lucerne Hotel. 

Maison Pickle

Few eateries blend elegance and an exuberant ambiance so seamlessly as Maison Pickle. It builds on the legacy of Ouest, a pioneering fine dining spot that defined chic dining on the Upper West Side. However, Maison Pickle presents diners with a unique retro-chic experience that serves French dip sandwiches, steaks, and American bites alongside great cocktails and wines. Several brunch favorites customers adore include the Gruyere Fondue with Bacon, Lyonnaise Omelette, and Porchetta French Dip. It's also worth trying several signature cocktails, such as the Maison Martini, Smoke and Fire, and The Razzle. To reach Maison Pickle from The Lucerne Hotel, it's only a 7-minute walk along W 79th St. and Broadway.

Miriam

If you're looking for a brunch spot that feels like a find, head to Miriam, a cozy neighborhood favorite just a 5-minute walk from the Lucerne. Originally a Brooklyn staple, Miriam’s Upper West Side outpost brings Mediterranean flair to classic brunch dishes, with a menu available every day, not just weekends. That’s a big plus if you're on vacation and not keeping track of what day it is. Think shakshuka, burekas, in-house pancakes, and brunch cocktails, all served in a bright, relaxed setting that never feels too fussy.

The Grand Feast

The hunt for the best brunch on the Upper West Side spot can be elusive. Few places capture the essence quite like The Grand Feast, an upscale American eatery specializing in creative brunch specialties with a classic blend. Here, you can enjoy a thoughtfully prepared and hearty American breakfast, chicken & waffle, and salmon burger. The Grand Feast is also renowned for its high-quality hot beverages, so don't leave without ordering an Americano, hot chocolate, or mocha. Getting to the restaurant from The Lucerne Hotel is a breeze with ride-hailing, as it's just a 5-minute ride along Amsterdam Avenue.

Brunch in Style on the Upper West Side

With all these phenomenal options, brunch on the Upper West Side can be an unforgettable experience you'll want to savor in fine style. And you can be near all these amazing brunch spots when you book a room at The Lucerne Hotel, one of the premier accommodations on the UWS.