I’m ashamed to admit that it’s been a while since I’ve tried a new place for brunch in the city. Usually, I’ve been sticking to the most convenient options for me (Eatery in Midtown), or the no-fail ones (Cafe Mogador in the East Village). It’s so nice to break out of that routine though, and upon the suggestion of my friend Sadia, we found another gem: Spoon. Spoon is the name of the family-owned restaurant, but they also have a takeout storefront they refer to as Tbsp (so cute).
The space is so cozy and feels like you’re eating in a country house (perhaps the point — owner Melissa Chmelar credits her mother’s country cooking as inspiration for most of the dishes). The farm-to-table concept results in really fresh, really delicious plates with seasonal organic produce delivered daily from upstate NY. We didn’t get to try too much of their sweet options (even though they sounded amazing — cinnamon brioche french toast!), but the eggs made all different ways were insanely good. 
Must try all:
Huevos Rancheros ($14): Corn tortilla with two lightly fried eggs, black beans, tomatillo salsa, crème fraîche, cheddar cheese served with a buttermilk biscuits. It never ceases to amaze me how many different variations there are of huevos rancheros but this was definitely one of the better ones I’ve had.
Baked eggs in a skillet ($12): Herbed Shitake mushroom and Russet potato hash, (option to get it with house-seasoned pork sausage…we got it without), fresh spinach, 2 eggs and a crisp Parmesan crust with whole grain. Think this might have been my favorite but a tough call because I really loved all the egg dishes for its own reasons.
Eggs Espana ($12): Pan tomate, shaved Manchego cheese, 2 perfectly poached eggs, and fresh pico de gallo served with seasonal greens. Has a bit of a pizza taste to it (can’t complain about that for brunch!).
“Best Ever Granola and House-made Yogurt” ($9): This is Spoon’s self-proclaimed best ever granola with house-made yogurt, fresh seasonal fruit and a wildflower honey drizzle. Don’t think I remember any honey on ours, and I can’t agree that it’s the best ever yogurt and fruit I’ve had. The yogurt itself was presented in a separate jar (points for creativity), and was invariably fresh but think it would have sold me more if it had more berries and wasn’t such a mess to mix with the overflowing bowl of granola.
Did I mention they serve Stumptown coffee here too?! Unfortunately, doesn’t come with the baristas from the neighboring Ace Hotel.
I should also note that this is a pretty nice option if you have kids you’re bringing along — they considered the little ones and have a “tbsp” menu for them too! Namely, grilled cheese, pb&j, and eggs with chips. Will be going back again for sure.
REPORT CARD
Meal: Brunch
Price: $$
(Out of three stars)
Ambiance: ***
Food: ***
Service: ***
Would I go back?: Yes!
Restaurant Info:
Spoon
17 W 20th St
btw 5th & 6th Ave
New York, NY 10011
646-230-7000
Flatiron
x
Shy
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