By Maria Del Russo

Whether you're visiting this spring, interning there this summer, or living in the city right now, take note: weekend brunch in New York City and its outer boroughs is amazing. There is nothing more satisfying than sleeping until noon, then going out and getting eggs washed down with champagne and orange juice. Here are three of my favorite brunch spots in Manhattan and Brooklyn, based on food and drink, not just ambiance.


Miller’s Tavern
2 Hope Street, Brooklyn
Your search for the best cappuccino outside of Italy is over. Hiding within this tiny restaurant with a small bar, minimal tables and taxidermy hanging on the walls, lives a cappuccino that will literally knock your socks off. If coffee isn’t your drink of choice (though I beg you to try it – you’ll fall in love), Miller’s Tavern boasts $4 mimosas and Bloody Marys all day, every day. For food, try one of their varieties of Eggs Benedict. A favorite is the Eggs Miller’s: benedict with crab cakes substituting for the Canadian bacon.

The Heights Bar and Grill
2867 Broadway, Manhattan
Nestled in the heart of the Columbia University scene, this gem has one of the best Mexican-American brunches you’ll ever try. With every brunch menu item at $10.95 or under, you won’t break the bank. The breakfast burrito is HUGE, loaded with scrambled eggs, red rice, black beans, jack cheese and your choice of spicy spinach, bacon, chorizo or guacamole. And with $3 brunch drinks (frozens, drafts, champagne, mimosas and Bloody Marys), you can have a satisfying meal for a satisfying price.

The Cupping Room Café
359 W. Broadway, Manhattan
One of the more extensive brunch menus I’ve ever encountered, with a wide variety of omelets, waffles and pancakes to tickle your taste buds. A continual favorite is the Orgy French Toast, which is topped with raisins, nuts, fresh fruits and your choice of yogurt, ice cream, sour cream or fresh whipped cream. Is your mouth watering yet? The most delicious thing about The Cupping Room Café is the ambiance. It’s very French chateau meets jazz club. Expect to spend a little more then the previous two spots though, as this place is in SoHo.

The author is a local college student in Manhattan; this isn't from some tourist handbook!