What's for Brunch?

There are about a million different options in New York City for brunch. Long gone are the days when french toast and waffles were your best options. Most restaurants today have dedicated brunch menus and enticing "drink included" specials to lure you in on an otherwise sleepy Sunday morning. Here are some of my most recent brunch discoveries that are worth noting.

Crispy Soft Shell Crab Sandwich (top photo) from Perilla
For Mother's Day, B and I took my parents to this quiet little restaurant in West Village for brunch. My mom ordered the soft shell crab sandwich, which comes with a fluffy old bay-seasoned brioche bun, celery seed tartar sauce and crispy spiced fries. I tried a bit of the lightly fried soft shell crab and found the soft, flaky texture to be highly enjoyable; the shell was delicate like rice paper.

Truffle Grilled Cheese (middle photo) from Rye House
Ever since we celebrated Kentucky Derby day a few weeks ago at the Rye House in Chelsea, I've been subconsciously pining for the grilled cheese sandwich that CT ordered. When I got the chance to revisit, I couldn't think of anything else I wanted more. This perfectly grilled sandwich exudes a heavenly scent of truffles and pungent cheese. The melding of Manchester Goat cheese with Fontina gave the sandwich a savory nutty, woodsy flavor. The sandwich also came with a nice salad of arugula, mushroom, and thin slices of sunchoke.

Farmer's Market Egg White Omelette (last photo) from Isabella's
On my second visit to Isabella's on the UWS, I ordered a healthier choice than my previous entree: Crab Cake Benedict. On the outside the omelette looks tame, but actually explodes in vibrant colors and fresh veggie flavors when you dive in (see image below). The salsa of diced tomato, red onion, pepper and vinaigrette complimented the egg white very well. I also loved the single strip of smoked turkey bacon (the second slice inside of the omelette was a unnecessary). Not only is brunch at Isabella's a great experience (and deal), its prime location makes it easy to move on to other activities afterward. Located at 77th and Columbus, it's across the street from the UWS Flea Market, a few steps from weekend farmers markets, and a block away from the American Natural History Museum and Central Park.