When it comes to celebrity sightings, New York City is second only to Los Angeles. And while red carpets and film premieres make headlines, it’s the weekend brunch scene that quietly brings out some of Hollywood’s biggest names. From cozy Greenwich Village cafes to sleek SoHo hotspots, the Big Apple’s brunch culture has become a magnet for actors, models, musicians, and media moguls.
Here’s a guide to where the stars really go for their avocado toast and mimosas—and why these spots are more than just photo ops.
Balthazar – SoHo’s Timeless Classic
Tucked into the heart of SoHo, Balthazar has long been a staple for both tourists and celebrities alike. Its French bistro atmosphere, impeccable service, and rich menu offerings (hello, eggs Florentine and warm madeleines) attract everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Jake Gyllenhaal. Don’t be surprised if you’re sipping your café au lait next to a director taking weekend meetings over croissants.
Jack’s Wife Freda – The Cool Kid’s Brunch
With its stylish crowd and Mediterranean-influenced menu, Jack’s Wife Freda in the West Village and SoHo is a regular haunt for young stars like Timothée Chalamet and Zoë Kravitz. The vibe is casual but curated, and dishes like green shakshuka and rosewater waffles offer just the right balance of comfort food and Instagram appeal.
Sadelle’s – A-Lister Bagel Heaven
Brunch at Sadelle’s in Nolita is practically a rite of passage for New York-based celebrities. Known for its tower of smoked fish, fresh bagels, and retro-glam interiors, this is where you’ll find Blake Lively, Rihanna, and even Beyoncé making low-key appearances. The house-cured salmon and caviar service don’t hurt, either.
The Polo Bar (for Brunch… If You Can Get In)
Though more famous for dinner, Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar occasionally serves a legendary weekend brunch—and it’s notoriously difficult to snag a table. Celebrity sightings here are as common as monogrammed napkins. Think Taylor Swift, Leonardo DiCaprio, and even A-list politicians. The setting is posh but never pretentious, and the burger alone is worth the wait.
Cafe Cluny – West Village’s Cozy Hideaway
Nestled on a quiet corner in the West Village, Cafe Cluny is the kind of place where stars like Anne Hathaway or Paul Rudd go to blend in—sort of. The crowd is effortlessly chic, the portions are generous, and the French-American menu is unfussy in the best way. For those in the know, the banana pancakes are a brunch staple.
So next weekend, skip the tourist traps and head to one of these star-approved brunch spots. Just be prepared to act cool when your favorite actor walks in—because in New York, celebrity sightings come with a side of pancakes.
