The 17 Best Waffles In New York City

2 min read 31-12-2024

New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an impressive array of breakfast options. But amidst the bagels, croissants, and pancakes, one golden, crispy treat reigns supreme: the waffle. From classic Liège waffles to innovative, gourmet creations, NYC offers a waffle for every palate. This list highlights seventeen of the best places to indulge in this delightful breakfast (or anytime!) staple.

The Crème de la Crème

These establishments consistently receive rave reviews and offer exceptional waffle experiences:

Clinton St. Baking Company: A Lower East Side institution known for its fluffy, buttermilk waffles served with a generous pat of butter and a side of syrup. Expect a queue—it's worth the wait.
Jack's Wife Freda: This trendy spot offers a unique Israeli-inspired menu, including their delectable sweet potato waffles, a delightful departure from the traditional.
Russ & Daughters Cafe: A Lower East Side landmark, Russ & Daughters Cafe pairs their equally famous bagels with some surprisingly excellent waffles that stand on their own.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Waffle Delights

These spots elevate the humble waffle to an art form, showcasing inventive toppings and flavor combinations:

Sunday in Brooklyn: Their inventive waffle creations, often featuring seasonal fruit and unique sauces, are a testament to culinary creativity.
Buttermilk Channel: Located in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood, Buttermilk Channel serves up delicious buttermilk waffles that are the perfect complement to their brunch menu.
Balthazar: This classic French brasserie offers elegant and perfectly executed waffles that enhance the overall luxurious dining experience.

Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites

These are smaller establishments, often with a loyal local following, that still deliver exceptional waffle experiences:

Cafe Mogador: This Moroccan restaurant offers surprisingly amazing waffles alongside their famous tagines.
Five Leaves: Their ricotta hotcakes (essentially waffles) are a highly sought after item on their menu and are an absolute must-try for any serious waffle aficionado.
Sarabeth's: A classic New York City brunch spot, Sarabeth’s offers consistently high-quality waffles, making them a reliable option across their multiple locations.

For the Adventurous Waffle Lover

These locations push the boundaries of traditional waffle flavors and textures:

Maman: This charming French bakery boasts beautifully presented and deliciously flavored waffles.
Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Yes, you read that right. Van Leeuwen offers waffle cones that are as good, if not better than many of the city's waffles.
Dough Doughnut: This popular doughnut shop also serves up delightful waffles. It is not a prime spot for waffles, but they are surprisingly delightful.

Liège Waffle Legends

The irresistible caramelized pearls of Liège waffles make these a must-try:

Wafles & Dinges: This food truck turned brick-and-mortar location offers authentic Liege waffles, characterized by their uniquely crispy exterior and chewy interior.
J.G. Melon: This burger joint's waffle fries are a legendary side dish worthy of exploration.

Waffles with a View

These places offer a fantastic waffle experience paired with a stunning NYC backdrop:

The Smith: With multiple locations across the city, The Smith provides a chic setting for enjoying their delicious waffles.
La Parisienne: This charming French cafe serves up classic French waffles in a beautiful atmosphere.

A Wildcard Entry

This spot deserves a mention for its unique take on the waffle:

Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream: Though primarily an ice cream parlor, Morgenstern's occasionally features unique waffle cones that are not to be missed.

This list represents a diverse selection of New York City's waffle offerings. Your perfect waffle awaits! Enjoy exploring these culinary gems and discovering your own favorite.