The Long Island Brunch Scene

What Sundays could look (and taste) like in these LI suburbs

If you’re considering suburbia, there’s no doubt you’ve spent more than a little time wondering what your future weekends could look like. But it’s also likely you’ve wondered about one key weekend detail: BRUNCH.

In the city, brunch is part of the culture. The good news, though? If you’re considering Long Island as your next step, the brunch scene is thriving – and, even better, growing by the minute. As restaurant groups consolidate and newcomers pop up by the month, the brunch landscape is better than ever. And as you’re exploring, adding these Long Island brunch spots to your list can give you a truly insider view of what life could be like in the ‘burbs. Here’s where locals head when it’s time to dig in. 

Port Washington

Port Washington runs on two completely different brunch modes. While there are countless options for brunch, two stand out among locals and visitors. 

At Louie’s Prime Steak & Seafood, Sunday brunch is now an epic buffet, and it leans hard into that. You’re not just ordering an omelet (though they have that, too). Here, you’re working your way through a raw bar, carving stations, hot breakfast, pasta, sushi, and endless desserts. With lobster tails, shrimp, oysters, prime rib, and more, hitting this hotspot feels like a holiday meal more than a casual Sunday. You’ll see families with grandparents, groups celebrating birthdays, people settling in for two hours without thinking twice.

This Long Island brunch spot is also one of the easier “special occasion” brunches to bring kids to, because no one is worried about ordering for them – they can just eat what they want. The cocktail menu is also impressive, with everything from classic mimosas and bellinis to several takes on the espresso martini, Palomas, spritzes, and more. 

Then you have La P’tite Framboise, which couldn’t feel more different. This classic French café brunch offers an incredible menu, including omelets, croque monsieur, crepes, and good coffee, done in a smaller, quieter space. This spot has tons of regulars, who hit the weekend brunch week after week. One visit and you’ll no doubt emerge with a favorite (or two) that could easily become part of your future weekend rituals. 

Manhasset

Manhasset’s brunch scene flies a bit more under the radar than nearby Port Washington, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s less about big, buzzy brunches and more about the kind of spots that quietly become part of your weekend routing. And given how close the two towns are, many locals naturally fold Port favorites like Louie’s and La P’tite Framboise into the mix.

One standout Long Island brunch spot that’s in Manhasset, though, is Herb & Olive. The menu leans Mediterranean in a way that feels lighter than most brunch spots. You’ll see dishes built around fresh vegetables, olive oil, eggs, and simple proteins, with a focus on clean flavors and thoughtful combinations. Come for the shakshuka, avocado toast with a twist, and clean, creative egg dishes.

Another popular Long Island brunch spot for grab-and-go breakfast and settling in for a weekend brunch is a familiar face for city transplants: For Five Coffee Roasters (right across from the Manhasset train station). With a more modern, café-style experience, this isn’t a traditional sit-down brunch – it’s faster-moving, a little buzzy, and built around strong coffee and a surprisingly deep menu. People come in for things like avocado toast with jammy eggs, huevos rancheros, smoked salmon toast, or the “Avodaise” eggs Benedict, along with pastries and their viral cookie-in-a-cookie lineup. And because of its proximity to the train, this is a perfect spot if you’re hopping in for the sub-40 minute ride to midtown after brunch. 

Roslyn

Roslyn leans into a more formal version of brunch, and you feel that immediately. One of the most sought-after spots is the historic Hendricks Tavern, where the menu goes well beyond standard brunch fare. Yes, you’ll find eggs and pancakes, but you’re just as likely to see people ordering steaks, seafood towers, lemon ricotta pancakes, homemade doughnuts, and massive salads. The cocktails follow suit – the menu is more martinis, Bloody Marys, and wine over lighter brunch drinks.

It’s also one of the more occasion-driven brunches on this list, so plan to make a reservation at least a week or two in advance.

Right around the corner is Thyme, another favorite. The menu still leans elevated, but you’ll see more flexibility – think lighter plates, Mediterranean influences, and a mix of groups, families, and couples. If the weather’s good, outdoor seating becomes part of the draw, especially with the pond right there.

Thyme offers a fixed-price brunch that includes a brunch cocktail or drink – blood orange margaritas, cucumber vodka Bloody Marys, sangria, and more – plus fresh-baked scones and an entree. We’re partial to the Thyme Benedict with mushrooms and potato cakes, and the crab cake burger. There’s also a kids’ menu if you’ve got diners under 10 in your party. 

Cold Spring Harbor

Cold Spring Harbor is all about where you sit and how long you want to stay. At Sandbar, Sunday brunch leans coastal with seafood-heavy options, lighter plates, and drinks that match the setting. Plan to dig into local favorites like oysters, lobster rolls, and fish dishes, along with classic brunch staples. The real draw is the harbor – this restaurant offers beautiful views and a location that’s convenient for exploring downtown post-brunch. 

Harbor Mist brings a more traditional menu, including eggs, pancakes, seafood, and pasta, with a similar pacing to Sandbar. People come in with families, order multiple rounds of coffee (and drinks), and don’t feel the need to rush out. The French toast is a fave, as is their classic fish and chips. 

Both spots work well for families – kids aren’t out of place, and no one expects a quick turnover.

Garden City

Garden City has a serious dining scene, and it’s tough to pick just a few to highlight. There are a few standouts, though, including the newest addition, Tatte. A popular spot with locations in Boston and DC, this Israeli-inspired cafe offers a fresh take on brunch classics. The menu changes seasonally but, right now, we’re loving the rich potato, mushroom, and bacon shakshuka, iced black sesame latte, and the halloumi and sunnyside-up egg sandwich. Hunker down in the cafe or grab brunch to-go – this unique menu is perfect anywhere, any time of day. 

A long-time local favorite is Waterzooi. The menu leans Belgian with a massive lineup of mussels, seafood, and rich sauces alongside creative brunch dishes like lobster eggs Benedict, croque madame, and their gelato-topped Belgian waffles. It’s especially good for groups or when you want something more substantial.

Nearby, Novita lands in a different category entirely. This is where brunch starts to blur into something more social. The menu leans Italian, the drinks come out early, and you’ll see more groups ordering multiple rounds. It’s one of the few places where brunch can easily tip into early afternoon drinks. And the menu? Choose from à la carte or a set $44 brunch that includes unlimited mimosas, bellinis, Bloody Marys, screwdrivers, coffee, and tea during your meal. The set menu is a two-course brunch, so you can sample both traditional Italian pastas, fresh meats and cheeses, and salads, as well as traditional brunch staples. 

Rockville Centre

Rockville Centre feels the most like a continuous downtown experience, and brunch feeds into that experience. We love Mojo RVC, which leans Latin – their huevos rancheros, Latin-inspired plates, and margaritas, sangria, and espresso martinis are the perfect way to kick off a weekend day. This brunch definitely leans a bit louder and more social, making it a perfect spot for families and groups. 

At The Caffé on Park, things are a bit more low-key. This Long Island brunch spot offers classic breakfast plates, good coffee, smaller tables, and more of a neighborhood feel, all around. Don’t miss the homemade gelato on your way out. 

Merrick

Merrick’s brunch scene is more under-the-radar, but it holds its own.

Open during the warmer months, SALT mixes classic brunch with more modern, slightly elevated options. You’ll see creative takes on eggs, seafood dishes, and cocktails that go beyond the basics. For kids, the cookies and cream pancakes are a must-try, as are the chicken and waffles with honey sriracha. Right on the water, SALT is a go-to all summer long. If you’re planning to stop by, be sure to make a reservation. Everyone wants an outdoor spot on a beautiful weekend day, so waits can get long. 

Off the Brook Bistro & Cocktails offers a more intimate version of brunch. With more of a pub vibe, this neighborhood favorite serves up an eclectic menu including lots of omelets, Nutella waffles, and breakfast burgers. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, check out some of their unique brunch bites – we’re loving the PBJ French Toast, BEC French Toast, and crab cakes Benedict, plus the brunch cocktail menu. 

Huntington

In Huntington, brunch is an event. While they don’t take reservations, it’s worth waiting it out at The Shed. Biscuits Benedict, make-your-own frittatas, and brioche French toast are served all day, along with a creative cocktail menu and loads of Southern-inspired lunch items.  

Hatch shifts the tone slightly with a more curated menu and a design-forward space that feels more elevated than your typical brunch spot. The menu leans creative but still approachable, with standout sections like their “Hollandaze” lineup of inventive eggs Benedicts and their must-order Flight of the Pancakes, where you can mix and match any three from their expansive list of flavors. 

Why Check Out the Brunch Scene?

The reality: there’s a lot more to life in the suburbs than brunch, of course. From schools to kids’ sports to commutes and neighborhood vibes, there’s so much to weigh when you’re planning a move. But hitting up these Long Island brunch spots does give you a sense of how people spend the weekends and what the foodie scene looks like overall. Because, like in the city, brunch is an opportunity to slow down and reset (often with a cocktail or coffee in hand). So as you’re planning your town tours, be sure to add a brunch stopover or two to your list. And if you need help zeroing in on the perfect restaurant? Just ask your Suburban Jungle Strategist. We’ve got lists, local insights, and menu must-tries for every corner of the NYC suburbs. 

For more insights, visit Suburban Jungle’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.

Curious what your weekends could look like in the suburbs? Let’s talk. Schedule your free strategy call with Suburban Jungle now.