Gertie

Gertie totally blew me away. Playful, colorful wallpaper wraps you up in such a lively energy, you just might want to hang around all day long. Their menu is big and full of extremely creative takes on Jewish diner classics, like babka and matzo ball soup. They also have delicious veggie sides (the aioli on the squash was out of control) and a long list of bagels topped with the most interesting ingredient combos. I got the “Yo, Gert!,” an unexpected combo of a sesame bagel topped with labneh, tahini, honey, and apples, and I was in heaven. They also make beautiful breakfast cocktails. Simply put, they’re doing something special. You’ll probably have to wait a bit if you try walking in, but it’s worth it.

Le Crocodile

Le Crocodile is the place you go when you want to feel pampered at brunch. The dining room is beautiful, the menu is full of delicious French classics, and the service is attentive. Given how casual most brunch places are in Williamsburg, Le Crocodile is a unique, fun place to go when you want something special. Try making a reservation a few days in advance, and then plan to order the salmon eggs benedict and almond croissant. Both are non-negotiable.

Lighthouse

Lighthouse is a light-drenched, airy restaurant perfect for amazing mediterranean-themed brunch. Even better than the food is the feeling of scoring a brunch reservation day-of or a day in advance, which is possible at Lighthouse (unlike many other brunch options in Williamsburg). Don’t miss the green egg omelette, eggplant labne, or heirloom tomatoes. They also serve one of my favorite Bloody Mary’s to date (an area in which I like to think of myself as an expert).

Reunion

When you want a casual, easy, delicious brunch and don’t have a reservation, Reunion is a fantastic option. They carry all the Israeli classics, like Shakshouka and Shwarma, and I regularly think (well, daydream) about their dips + pita. Similar to Lighthouse, their housemade Bloody Miriam (aka Bloody Mary) hits the spot. They’re also open for breakfast, brunch/lunch, and dinner all week long, which means you can look to Reunion as the equivalent of a ridiculously reliable friend.

Casa Ora

Casa Ora is a great option for a fun, semi-upscale Venezuelan-inspired brunch. Amazing arepas, a great cocktail menu, and a few delicious egg-centric dishes (think huevos rancheros). Make sure you start with their incredible guacamole and plantain chips. They have a cute outdoor setup in the front of the restaurant that’s perfect for a sunny day. Similar to Reunion, they get major bonus points for making brunch available on the weekdays too.

Juliette

Juliette is something special. No reservations allowed, but its another spot that’s definitely worth the wait. It’s always busy for brunch, guarantees lively vibes, and dishes out delicious French food. I highly recommend sitting on the roof if possible - you’ll feel like you’re on vacation right in the middle of Williamsburg. But you’ll probably also feel that way sitting inside the plant-filled dining room, so you really can’t go wrong.

baba cool

baba cool just opened in Williamsburg (the original is in Fort Greene) and it’s a perfect place to get a clean, nutritious brunch in a laidback environment. Couch seating in the sun-drenched backyard creates a particularly relaxed vibe, and there’s a bocce court if you’re looking to play a game while you wait for your food, coffee, or cocktail. The food doesn’t really have one cultural identity - it’s all just made of great ingredients that pair together really, really well.

Cafe Mogador

Cafe Mogador gets so much hype for its chill vibes and Moroccan-inspired menu, and I firmly believe it’s well-deserved. You’ll likely have to wait for a table (they don’t take reservations), but it’s the perfect opportunity to either explore some cute nearby shops or walk along the river a couple blocks away. The halloumi + egg dish is one of my favorites (think: eggs Benedict, sub the English muffin with halloumi cheese), and you’ll want to start the meal with a dip and pita. I’m a big fan of the labneh. I highly recommend the iced mint tea too - one of the best iced teas I’ve had!

Sweetwater

Sweetwater is the perfect option when you want to secure a fun brunch reservation and didn’t have a chance to plan a week in advance. The cocktail menu’s long, the lentil burger is delicious, and the crab cake eggs benedict will melt in your mouth. As far as atmosphere goes, you’ll want to check out the back garden. It’s adorable, overflowing with good vibes, and pretty big, so it’s perfect for a group. Inside has more intimate and dark French bistro vibes, so I’d recommend it for a cozy winter brunch (or dinner).