I have compiled a list of some of the best brunch spots in Upstate New York, in no particular order. You can thank me later.
1. The Iron Roost (Ballston Spa, NY)
The Iron Roost is the epitome of brunch spots. Want some bougie waffles? This is your go-to place. Want something else? The menu has so many different options that there is no way you won’t be able to find something you love.
#SpoonTip: Order a side of their seasoned home fries for a savory twist.
2. Innovo Kitchen (Latham, NY)
Innovo Kitchen, located in the Galleria 7 Commons, is a great place to go on a Sunday morning. Their ever-changing menu keeps things interesting, and the food is always delicious! If you’re in the 21-club like me, they have a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar as well as bottomless mimosas!
3. Iron Gate Cafe (Albany, NY)
Iron Gate Cafe is the place to go if you want to satisfy your Eggs Benedict craving. The pepper jack hollandaise is to die for, so make sure you give it a try. Eggs benny not your thing? No worries, they have pretty much every other brunch item you can think of, including a delicious Vegan menu.
4. MORE Perreca’s (Schenectady, NY)
Three words. Eggs. In. Purgatory. This Italian version of shakshuka is one of Perreca’s most popular dishes and is definitely a favorite among many. If you’re not a fan, no worries as they have so many other options, so you are pretty much guaranteed to find something you like.
5. Ravenous (Saratoga Springs, NY)
Ravenous in Saratoga is a cute little crepe spot where you can get a variety of different crepe flavors. They have savory and sweet, with all of your favorite fillings. Want to be a bit adventurous? Try the poutine!
6. Uncommon Grounds (Saratoga Springs, NY)
For those of you who don’t know, an everything bagel with lox, capers and cream cheese is easily one of my favorite foods. Uncommon Grounds has all of the above, plus so much more, all for a reasonable price. They have arguably some of the best bagels I have ever had, and I’ve gotta be honest, I’ve tried a lot of bagels. They have an assortment of lattes and coffee as well, so don’t forget to grab one of those to complement your bagel.
7. Union Cafe (Schenectady, NY)
At Union Cafe, you really can’t go wrong. Anything you order will be absolutely delicious. Their Greek salad is to die for and so is their hollandaise sauce. Pick literally anything on the menu and I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.
8. Café Madison (Albany, NY)
Out of all the places that I have mentioned on this list, Café Madison has one of the largest menus with the most variety. They have something for everyone, no matter what variety of tastes the people in your group may have.
9. Zen Asian Fusion Lounge (Schenectady, NY)
Okay, so I know this might be a little strange seeing Zen on this list of brunch places, however not many people know that on Sunday’s from 12:00pm-2:30pm, you can get unlimited sushi and mimosas! Name a better duo, I dare you.
10. The Tailored Tea (Latham, NY)
The Tailored Tea is hands-down one of the cutest places around. They have delicious scones, a wide variety of tea, and lots of other yummy foods on their menu. It’s almost always packed, so if you can get a seat, lucky you!
#SpoonTip: Order a side of cream cheese and some jam for your scone. It only makes it taste that much better.
I hope this list helps you learn about some new places to check out, or reminded you of some of your old favs. Bon appétit!