Croft Alley

This Beverly Hills import has been attracting lines of brunching New Yorkers hoping for a little taste of sunshine (or at least a celeb sighting) ever since it opened. Owner Michael Della Femina, whose grandfather grew up right around the corner of the NyC location, found a space that feels like the perfect fit: bright enough to nod to Croft’s Los Angeles roots, while welcoming all the freezing New Yorkers who can’t get through breakfast without opening their laptops.

The vibe: Despite the long brunch lines, the counter service keeps things moving. Still, nobody seems to be in much of a rush. It works just as well for a quick, healthy-ish bite before hot Pilates as it does for a long, slow morning with nowhere to be. 

The food: This is the kind of food you imagine Californians eating: think ripe avocado slices bursting from breakfast burritos and cozying up to heirloom tomatoes; actually good gluten-free banana pancakes sweetened with honey; and fried chicken, turkey sausage or tuna salad wrapped up in cups of crisp butter lettuce. 

The drink: Grab a latte or matcha for a midmorning pick-me-up, then grab another on your way (finally) into the office. 

Time Out tip: Their L.A. location is famous for its Chinese chicken salad with cabbage slaw, Jidori chicken (the Kobe beef of poultry!) and creamy peanut dressing, so don’t miss it. Table pancakes and table salad? We’re in.