New York City boasts a lively and varied food scene, though dining out can often come with a hefty price tag. However, if you’re seeking a delectable yet budget-friendly brunch experience in the city, you need not resort to mundane bagels or greasy diners.
Below are five top-notch affordable brunch destinations in NYC, where you can relish a fulfilling meal for less than $20.
Scramble
Indecisive about whether to opt for Thai, Mexican, or eggs? Scramble has you covered with its diverse menu. You won’t have to make a tough decision, as they offer affordable favorites from various cuisines. Standouts include $8 sliders and 25 mini dumplings for just $10 from the Thai selection.
Tacos are priced at $5.50, and the classic brunch option of two eggs with home fries and toast is available for $12. Scramble provides a wallet-friendly and crowd-pleasing solution for friends who struggle to agree on a dining choice.
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Le Paris Dakar
This café, combining French and Senegalese influences, offers freshly made crêpes right before your eyes. Opt for a simple filling of lemon, butter, and sugar; indulge in sweetness with Nutella, banana, strawberries, and whipped cream; or savor a savory choice with egg, cheese, and smoked salmon.
Their Parisian-style sandwiches, crafted on crusty bread, come with options like brie and butter or chicken, Swiss, and béchamel. Complement your meal with a glass of bissap, Senegal’s “national drink,” made from hibiscus and fresh mint, providing a sweet and sour flavor reminiscent of cranberry juice.
While the cozy space may not accommodate large groups, it’s an ideal spot for an affordable brunch date.
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Hamburger America
George Motz’s smashed patties are gaining recognition on numerous top burger lists, and rightfully so. They’re particularly perfect for an affordable weekend brunch. A single burger, adorned with fried onions and melty American cheese, comes in at just $7.25.
(Note: fries are not included, they’re an additional $4.25.) Other options include a hot ham or tuna sandwich for $7, and crucially, a Miller High Life beer for $6. Take a seat at the lively counter, witness the burgers being expertly smashed, crack open a cold one, and savor a Sunday morning all for under 20 bucks.
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Jackdaw
During brunch at Jackdaw, you can enjoy a budget-friendly morning buzz with their two-for-one $11 cocktails. Whether you prefer cold brew martinis, boozy “brunch punch,” or Bloody Marys with your choice of vodka or tequila, Jackdaw’s lively atmosphere on a Saturday at noon offers a variety of options.
Indulge in classic brunch dishes such as French toast stuffed with bananas and cream cheese, breakfast burritos with bacon or sausage, or a fried chicken sandwich with Cajun fries – all priced at just $16 each.
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Sugar Freak
For just $21.95, you can enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited drinks at this New Orleans-inspired restaurant in NYC. The deal includes mimosas, hurricanes, and a refreshing drink called sparkling S.H.I.T. (which stands for sugar honey iced tea).
Sugar Freak offers one of the more affordable boozy brunches in the city. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to order an entree, priced at $17.95.
Options include jambalaya with three eggs cooked to your liking, a Sugar Freak breakfast featuring biscuits, eggs, fried chicken, and grits, as well as shrimp, sausage, cheese grits, and other delicious Creole-style dishes.
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To Conclude
New York City provides a variety of budget-friendly brunch choices, ranging from international delights at Scramble and Le Paris Dakar to traditional American dishes at Hamburger America and Jackdaw.
Whether you’re in the mood for a lively brunch with drinks at Sugar Freak or a fast and tasty bite, this compilation caters to every budget and taste, demonstrating that a delightful brunch experience in the city can be affordable.
