Brunch in New York

Rating:

The Lodge is one of the best spots in Williamsburg to ogle hungover hipsters in their bloodshot, flannel, unshaven Sunday best. Catering to hard-drinking late risers, brunch is served until 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays and includes 2-for-1 Bloody Marys.

If you arrive before noon, expect to have the place almost completely to yourself. Otherwise, expect very slow, inattentive service – the staff is more interested in socializing amongst themselves than catering to your every whim.

The blueberry pancakes ($9 when available) are a revelation – among the best we have ever tasted. Fluffy, not too heavy, and loaded with antioxidant goodness. Vegan-friendly dishes like the tofu veggie scramble ($10) are made with care. A $10 omelet includes a generous four fillings from among a long list of options, but is otherwise largely unmemorable. Three varieties of eggs benedict are offered – traditional ($9), avocado ($11), and Alaskan ($12, recommended).

The décor is self-conscious urban rustic-meets-ski lodge, with the required wide plank wood floors and antler chandeliers. Nothing you haven’t seen before, but it’s certainly a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. The adjacent general store offers everything on the menu for takeout, along with bottled drinks and snacks, and brunch delivery is available (but order with caution – brunch food does not travel well). In the warmer months, patio seating is available and the interior dining room has an open-air vibe. In the winter, there have been complaints of drafty windows and insufficient heating.

This is not the place for hipster resistors – you will be outnumbered and annoyed. There is a kid’s menu offered, but overindulged children and the high maintenance adults who love them should not expect any extra attention, save dirty looks from neighboring tables when the kid starts screaming. All told, The Lodge is one of the better options for North Brooklyn locals, but not recommended as a destination brunch.

318 Grand St
(between Havemeyer St & Marcy Ave)
Brooklyn, NY 11211

(718) 486-9400