Haute 5 Brunches in NYC

Le Bilboquet
Where it all began

A stay in New York by the power elite is not complete without a visit to Le Bilboquet. Adjacent to Roberto Cavalli, the tiny green awning storefront may seem a bit intimidating to the non initiated. However, owner Philippe Delgrange is perhaps the most charming host in all of New York. He will make you feel you have been there a hundred times before. It is the original brunch of New York, after-all the party started here.

Making his petite restaurant a haven for non publicity seeking celebrities, owner Philippe has forbidden paparazzi, reporters and Page 6 citations since the restaurants inception. Among many, Eric Clapton, F1 Driver Michael Schumacher, bike racer Jan Uhlrich, financier Ron Perelman (lives across the street) consider Bilboquet their New York lunch room.

Still one of the only restaurants in the world that has never had their name on the facilities, Le Bilboquet is known by those who count. In all corners of the World “where should we meet in NY” the answer is often “Bilboquet … of course.”

Le Bilboquet, 25 E 63rd St, (at Madison and Park) New York, NY 10065


Saturdays at Revel
Not your auntieʼs tea party.

Women grab your Herve Leger and over-the-knee boots! Men, grab your freshly pressed
Armani and freshly polished Churchs. Lightweights heed a fare warning. This brunch held every Saturday from 12pm – 8pm, by the fantastic duo Derek and Daniel Koch.

Reserve an afternoon for sparkler attired magnums of Don Perignon flowing from a tower of champagne flutes, 3-Liter Rose Bottles and endless toasts to joie de vivre. As the afternoon progresses DJ Serebe cranks the music to aspiring chair dancing heights.

Donʼt forget to eat, as Sunday morning could be harsh. House favorites are Tuna and Salmon Tartare and Lobster Tail with Spaghetti. The Koch Brothers are no stranger to accommodating celebrities, including Mickey Rourke, Anna Pacquin, and the Gypsy Kings. Table reservations only unless you care to stand as an onlooker over the velvet rope.

Revel, 10 Little W 12th Street (Meatpacking, between 9th Avenue and Washington)


Champagne Sunday at Vie dei Mille
Viva lʼitalia

A beautiful atmosphere fit for Jessica Alba and Kim Kardashian approved chocolate crepes, champagne flutes of fresh Bellinis under sparkling Venetian-style chandeliers, and table dancing euro music. Italian marble, distressed wood details and antique mirrors complete the 75-seat space.

Brunch, best from 3pm – 8pm, caters to a luxury yet casually attired European clientele. One may find among the table-dancing, Eastern European models, Norwegian oil moguls, and the jet setting social elite. Downtown Cipriani is typically a hot spot afterparty. Reservations strongly suggested.

Vie dei Mille, 357 West Broadway (Soho, Between Grand & Broome)

Balthazar
An afternoon in Paris

When arriving to Balthazar on a snow draped slushy Manhattan day, oneʼs woes are swept under the rustic welcome mat. A warm and embracing table with piping hot beef stroganoff, freshly baked rustic bread, and a side of sour cream hazelnut waffles awaits.

While the pulsating buzz of Keith Knilleyʼs gemstone about town may not be as strong as it once was, the crowd still remains. An all-time favorite among celebrities, local politicians, and the top tier of the media, publishing, and art world, Balthazar is a wonderful signature and traditional brunch.

Reservations necessary, otherwise expect to wait about two hours.

Balthazar, 80 Spring Street (Soho)

Fredʼs at Barneyʼs
For the ladies who brunch and the men that accompany them

Clad with armfuls of crisp orange Hermes, and black Barneys shopping bags, Fredʼs at Barneyʼs is a brunch for leisurely relaxation on a Fifth Avenue shopping day, especially during the holiday seasons.

Far more than just a department store ad-on, guests enjoy refined service, quality, and an extensive menu with highlights of Eggs Benedict and French Challah Toast, and Fresh Blueberry Pancakes. Celebs, such as Hugh Grant and Jerry Seinfeld are an accustomed regulars at this location along with an Upper East Side crowd. Reserve several days in advance.

Fredʼs at Barneyʼs 660 Madison Avenue (at 61st), 9th fl