The vibe: Barking Dog opened its first location on the Upper East Side, quickly becoming a neighborhood fixture where locals and tourists alike could gather, with both their pups and kiddos in tow. Following its major success, a Hell’s Kitchen outpost opened its doors. Both locations lean casual and cheerful—think bright murals of dogs on the walls, sidewalk seating with water bowls for four-legged guests and a steady hum of chatter. It’s lively, a little chaotic—in the best way possible—and exactly the kind of environment where kids can feel at ease.
The food: The menu covers brunch from every angle. Eggs do most of the heavy lifting here and can be enjoyed in many ways—think: scrambles, Benedicts, and fluffy omelets—while sandwiches and salads are great for those craving something lighter. That said, it's the pancakes and waffles that are the true stars of the show here. You'll often find them stacked high and customizable with fruit, berries, chocolate chips or even ice cream on top. Portions are generous, flavors are classic and there’s always something to keep both picky and adventurous eaters happy.
The drink: Coffee flows endlessly to fuel parents through long mornings, although brunch staples like mimosas and Bloody Marys are also available. And while the drinks aren’t flashy, they do exactly what they’re meant to: keep things light and easy.
Time Out tip: Grab a sidewalk table when the weather’s nice. On the Upper East Side, kids will love watching the constant parade of neighborhood dogs. At the Hell’s Kitchen spot, it’s a perfect stop before or after a family matinee or a walk through Times Square.