Brunch alternatives

RECOMMENDED: All our listings for the best brunch in NYC

Long line at: Clinton St. Baking Company 4 Clinton St between E Houston and Stanton Sts (646-602-6263, clintonstreetbaking.com).
Typical wait: One-and-a-half to two hours

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Poco The prix-fixe deal ($24.95) isn't the only draw at this low-profile spot: Along with your choice of three cocktails, you'll feast on Spanish-inflected dishes like eggs Benedict prepared with a crispy corn arepa, spicy jalapeo chorizo and poached eggs with pimentn hollandaise. If you arrive before 1pm, the wait is usually 30 minutes sans reservation. 33 Ave B at 3rd St (212-228-4461, poconyc.com)

Antibes Bistro Though the rustic brick-walled space seats fewer than 80, you won't be left melting on the sidewalk if you roll up at noon without calling ahead. Tuck into caramelized brioche French toast drizzled with ginger-spiced syrup, or a stack of griddled mini pancakes with tart blueberry-maple sauce and silky crme frache. 112 Suffolk St between Delancey and Rivington Sts (212-533-6088, antibesbistro.com)

Long line at: Caf Habana 17 Prince St at Elizabeth St (212-625-2001, cafehabana.com).
Typical wait: 30 to 45 minutes

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Spring Street Natural Despite being located on one of Soho's main drags, this 30-year-old neighborhood stalwart rarely feels mobbed at peak brunch hours, thanks to its expansive dining room and sidewalk seating. Snag an alfresco table and enjoy hearty, vegetarian-friendly fare: Organic eggs, red bell peppers, spinach, asparagus and Brie make up the fluffy frittata ($9). 62 Spring St at Lafayette St (212-966-0290, springstreetnatural.com)

Eight Mile Creek Aussie pride reigns at this Nolita restaurant, staffed largely by hospitable expats from Down Under. Though dinner hours are busy, there's hardly ever a wait for leisurely daytime meals. Feast on a mincemeat pie ($8, with mashed potatoes and gravy $11). 240 Mulberry St between Prince and Spring Sts (212-431-4635, eightmilecreeknyc.com)