New York City, the city that never sleeps, also boasts a breakfast sandwich scene that's as vibrant and diverse as its population. From classic egg and cheese to gourmet creations, the options are endless. This guide highlights 16 of the best breakfast sandwiches in NYC to kickstart your day the right way. We'll explore various neighborhoods and styles, ensuring you find the perfect bite, no matter your taste or location. Whether you're craving a quick grab-and-go or a leisurely sit-down breakfast, this list has something for everyone.
Classic NYC Egg & Cheese Delights
These spots offer the quintessential New York breakfast sandwich experience: simple, delicious, and affordable.
1. Ess-a-Bagel (Multiple Locations)
Ess-a-Bagel is a NYC institution. Their egg and cheese on a bagel is a must-try. The perfectly toasted bagel, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese create a harmonious symphony of flavors. Their various bagel options allow for customization, ensuring you find your ideal breakfast sandwich. The consistently high quality and long lines are a testament to their popularity. Consider trying their bacon, egg, and cheese variant for a heartier breakfast.
2. Murray's Bagels (Multiple Locations)
Another bagel powerhouse, Murray's offers a similarly fantastic egg and cheese on a bagel. Their bagels are known for their chewy texture and fresh flavor. The simplicity of the sandwich allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through. Many consider Murray's to be a strong competitor to Ess-a-Bagel, often sparking friendly debates among New Yorkers about which is superior.
3. Halal Guys (Multiple Locations)
While not traditionally known for breakfast, the Halal Guys offer a surprising and delicious egg and cheese sandwich. This unexpected option offers a flavorful twist on the classic, incorporating the familiar spices of their popular chicken and rice platters. This is a great choice for those seeking something slightly different but still within the realm of classic NYC breakfast fare.
Elevated Breakfast Sandwiches: A Gourmet Experience
These locations elevate the humble breakfast sandwich to an art form, using high-quality ingredients and creative combinations.
4. Russ & Daughters Cafe (Lower East Side)
Russ & Daughters Cafe offers a sophisticated take on the classic, using their famous smoked fish and other gourmet ingredients. Expect a refined and flavorful experience that goes beyond the typical breakfast sandwich. Their bagel options are exceptional, and the overall presentation is a delight.
5. Sarabeth's (Multiple Locations)
Sarabeth's is a popular brunch spot with locations throughout the city. Their breakfast sandwiches showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients. Expect creative combinations that highlight local produce and high-quality meats. Their avocado toast with egg is also a worthy contender.
6. Jack's Wife Freda (Soho & West Village)
Jack's Wife Freda blends Israeli and Mediterranean flavors into their breakfast menu. Their breakfast sandwiches feature unique ingredients and spices, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. Their creative use of herbs and spices sets them apart from more traditional options.
Beyond the Bagel: Unique Bread and Bun Options
Step outside the traditional bagel with these inventive takes on the breakfast sandwich.
7. Clinton St. Baking Company (Lower East Side)
Known for their pancakes, Clinton St. Baking Company also offers delicious breakfast sandwiches on their perfectly fluffy buttermilk biscuits. The biscuit adds a unique texture and flavor that perfectly complements the savory fillings. This is a great option for those seeking a departure from the bagel.
8. Abraço Espresso (East Village)
Abraço Espresso is a cozy cafe with a loyal following. Their breakfast sandwiches are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and served on artisan bread. The focus on quality ingredients shines through in every bite.
9. Black Seed Bagels (Multiple Locations)
While technically a bagel shop, Black Seed offers unique bagel varieties beyond the classic. Try their everything bagel breakfast sandwich for a flavor explosion. Their innovative approach to bagel-making elevates this classic comfort food.
Breakfast Sandwiches with a Twist: Creative Fillings and Flavors
These places offer unique and adventurous combinations that will surprise and delight your tastebuds.
10. La Parisienne (West Village)
La Parisienne offers a Parisian flair to the breakfast sandwich, often featuring unique cheeses and cured meats. Their sandwiches are perfectly executed and offer a sophisticated twist on a classic.
11. Sunday in Brooklyn (Multiple Locations)
Sunday in Brooklyn is known for its creative and delicious brunch options. Their breakfast sandwiches often feature unexpected and delicious combinations of ingredients.
12. Shake Shack (Multiple Locations)
Shake Shack's breakfast offerings are a surprisingly tasty addition to their famous burger menu. They offer classic options but with the high-quality ingredients Shake Shack is known for.
Quick & Convenient Options: Grab-and-Go Breakfasts
Perfect for those on the go, these spots offer speedy service without compromising on quality.
13. Gregory's Coffee (Multiple Locations)
Gregory's Coffee is a popular chain offering breakfast sandwiches alongside their famous coffee. It's a reliable option for a quick and tasty breakfast.
14. Starbucks (Multiple Locations)
While not known for its culinary excellence, Starbucks offers a decent breakfast sandwich selection in a pinch. It's a widely available option for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Delicious Plant-Based Choices
NYC also caters to those seeking vegetarian and vegan alternatives.
15. Avant Garden (Multiple Locations)
Avant Garden is a fully vegan restaurant with delicious and creative vegan breakfast sandwiches. This is a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
16. by CHLOE. (Multiple Locations)
by CHLOE. is a popular vegan fast-casual restaurant with locations throughout the city. They offer a variety of vegan breakfast sandwiches made with plant-based meats and cheeses.
This list is just a starting point; many other fantastic breakfast sandwich spots are scattered throughout New York City. Exploring these diverse options will undoubtedly lead you to your new favorite morning meal. So, grab a coffee, and embark on a delicious breakfast sandwich adventure! Remember to check the opening hours and locations before your visit. Enjoy!
