Penelope image

Penelope

Restaurant Bar Breakfast restaurant Sandwich shop American restaurant Brunch restaurant Lunch restaurant Wine bar

Neighborhood hot spot serving American comfort-food staples in a country-chic setting. People often mention brunch, Penelope, good, delicious, breakfast, service, coffee, pancakes, great, toast,


Address

159 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016

Website

www.penelopenyc.com

Contact

(212) 481-3800

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (1.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: brunch (24) Penelope (15) good (13) delicious (13) breakfast (12) service (12) coffee (12) pancakes (12) great (11) toast (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 Steve D. 5 months ago on Google • 470 reviews
    Hmmmmm. An interesting one to review. I love a breakfast diner in Manhattan - plenty to choose from, let's be honest. This place doesn't quite capture the 'diner' vibe, for me. Food was good (ish). I chose smoked salmon on croissant, poached eggs on top. All very delicious. Home fries, however, were not good. Lots of paprika and onions, boiled potatoes, hadn't really seen a hot griddle, or any oil, at least not today, more like a microwave on this morning, and I didn't like those at all, I'm saddened to reveal. I won't go back here, and it's not the food. It's the service. I didn't find it friendly. I didn't feel welcome. Bottomless house blend coffee ought to mean hot fresh coffee coming round for top ups continuously. But the staff are more interested in themselves and what's on their cell phones than doing this. When I asked the server who brought my plate of food for a top up, he acknowledged a yes, went over to the bar, told the waitress, who then came over to me to ask if I wanted more coffee. She hadn't brought any with her. It felt like I had the audacity to suggest it in the first place. Not a relaxing, chilled, welcoming vibe. Easy to fix. But I'm not sure they would get what I mean. They don't seem to understand the New York diner 'vibe'. One more thing. If it says bottomless coffee is $4 on your blackboard, why does it say $4.50 on my check? (Plus tax of course)
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica B. 9 months ago on Google • 151 reviews
    I loved it here. It was peaceful and warm inside. Everyone was polite and welcoming. I never felt rushed to leave. I know people get breakfast and brunch so I got something else entirely and it was delicious. I loved the décor and the size…it’s a touch bohemian. I was visiting from out of town so the restaurant is in easy walking distance from many hotels in the Chelsea/Manhattan area, if you’re looking for a wonderful place to dine. I also had a lemonade and a peach Bellini. The Bellini was out of this world. Not only was it delicious, it was pretty to look at. The pricing is very reasonable considering the generous portions you receive. My experience here was lovely.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Srida S. 2 years ago on Google
    Decent pancakes. Lovely decor! The bowls and brunch items are my favorite! Also love the home fries!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sharon C. 8 months ago on Google • 77 reviews
    We stumbled upon this cafe because it was close to our hotel, but the breakfast was so delicious, we went twice during our visit to NY. The food, atmosphere and environment were all 10/10. The best part was that the price of food didn't break the bank unlike other restaurants we went to. Highly recommend!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tara R. 8 months ago on Google • 22 reviews
    We visited here for brunch a few weeks ago, blueberry pancakes , chicken cutlet sandwich, and fries. The drinks were nice as well. As we walked in, I noticed a bouquet of 🌻 sunflowers, I absolutely love them. Cute, quiet place , we'll visit again soon
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kassandra F. 10 months ago on Google
    I went here early to try food and beverage and I was beyond impressed. The ambiance was amazing. They are dog friendly. The service was exemplary -- much love to Franco !!!! The beverages were so creative and delicious !!!! I couldn't choose a favorite !!! Best morning ever -- I will be back over and over and over.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nate R. 1 year ago on Google
    Very good service, excellent food and priced moderately. We sat outside and, well it’s NYC in the summer. So, not the best choice, but it didn’t detract from our dining experience. We come for brunch and though we don’t eat meat there we’re still plenty of choices. I would suggest a meat alternative as an option, but still we enjoyed what we ordered.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adam 1 year ago on Google
    Food was good, very good quality. Slightly pricey but was very delicious and well made. The coffee was also good. Definitely a nice little find. Nice cafe in the area can't complain.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Love Food b. 2 years ago on Google
    We really enjoyed our breakfast this morning. The french toast was exquisite, beautiful combination of the tender bread loaf with the sweet maple syrup compliment by delicate fruit. The scrambled eggs in croissant was lovely too! Customer service was outstanding, friendly and welcoming.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Javier K. 3 months ago on Google • 1856 reviews New
    Good brunch and diner food. Fast service and friendly and attentive staff. Really nice diner ambiance, though a bit crammed (it's NYC!)

  • 5/5 Amy L. 4 months ago on Google • 123 reviews
    Had to make it to Penelope’s on our engagement replay weekend! Visited for brunch 7 years ago the day after we were engaged and had and wanted to relive that experience. Start to finish it was just as wonderful. I went with the crab cake Benedict special of the day which was served in a croissant while Josh packed an omelette full of goodies - spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, cheese and bacon. Both dishes came with a side of their breakfast potatoes and they brought a plate of biscuits with a delightful jam. Hands down hope, pray, call ahead - whatever your vibe - that the crab cake Bennie is being served the day you visit because it was da$n delicious. Our server happened to be the bartender and he was a pro managing a bar full of customers and drinks for the restaurant. Also as a side note they have two outdoor seating areas that are heated during the colder season. Everyone should give this restaurant a try - you won’t be disappointed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 I Am D. 2 years ago on Google
    J'adore ce resto! I still remember the first time I dined at Penelope NYC back in Nov 2004. I got my first real job in Manhattan and the recruiter to got me the job brought me for breakfast before walking me over to my new job. The familial ambiance of this place and I still remember the Pesto egg sandwich with coffee that I had and I was hooked. I love coffee and not every place can actually provide quality beans to their patrons but Penelope can. Their friendly service and quality good ole fashion American fare is a staple to the city. I have actually considered that if I ever live in NYC...I would make sure I am within walking distance of Penelope NYC so that I can be their regular :) I returned to enjoy my favourite breakfast here after an 18 month hiatus due to the pandemic. 5 out of 5 STARS !! Highly Recommended. You'll Keep Coming Back For More.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 VK 2 years ago on Google
    We came here for brunch on Sunday! We really enjoyed the overall experience. They have very nice sitting area inside or outside. We were sitting by the bar because of long wait. They have very interesting menu options. You must try their blueberry pancakes!! Their fresh squeezed OJ is the best! It would not be easy find such a fresh and naturally sweet OJ ! We also believing in supporting local businesses during this time. So, highly recommend this place. Service- Dine in Meal type- Brunch Price per person- around $20.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michelle Streffon T. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the best avocado toast I've ever had in my life. 10 outta 10, they knocked it out of the park. Service was great, the vibe here is wonderful, and everything we ate was delicious. I highly, highly recommend this spot for any foodie looking for a chill brunch.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 K F. 1 year ago on Google
    Came here for Saturday brunch. Seats were a little crammed, but the food was great! Biscuits were amazing—served warm and moist. Cocktails were on point. Blueberry pancakes and the croque madame were average. Penny Egg Sammy on croissant was good, but the scrambled eggs inside were bland.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Natalie Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Cozy little spot to pop in and grab a bite to eat. I only had the oatmeal with a glass of fresh OJ, both of which were great. However, I cannot attest to the other food on the menu. The service was great and the environment was warm and friendly. I would return to try out Penelope again!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shashank R. 2 years ago on Google
    Love this place. Randomly walked into it on a cold rainy new york day. I got the hot chocolate, which was on point and an eggs Benedict. I visited this place with my parents who are picky eaters and they too loved it. If I were to nit pick I would say the Cortado coffee was warm and not hot. However the server was more than happy to replace it with a hotter cup
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zach F. 2 years ago on Google
    The food here is beautiful, the atmosphere was very cozy, and the waitress was super helpful. She heard my fiance and I talking about wanting to get some things sweet and something savory and interrupted us to let us know what the best options for each of those tastes would be - she redirected us in the right direction I really appreciate that.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica M. 2 years ago on Google
    Came for the pot pie and fell in love with this place. The pot pie was delicious: flavorful & comforting. Nice looking menu. Will definitely be back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 T S. 2 years ago on Google
    I came here for brunch about 2 weeks ago and I was so surprised by so much that they had to offer. Penelope makes great drinks and has interesting menu options that are fit for everyone. I very much enjoyed the rosé lavender lemonade and the blueberry buttermilk pancakes! And now, the only type of mac and cheese I will eat is if it’s the same type of pasta that Penelope used!! But food aside, my favorite part of my experience is how cozy it is. Sitting inside, you would never guess you were in New York City! It has a nice and calm (almost Southern) feel to it that is hard to emulate anywhere else in the city. This was my first ever brunch experience, and I’m so happy that I got to experience it with Penelope. ✨
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jia S. 1 year ago on Google
    Does not take reservation, and was quoted 90 min when in reality it was closer to 25. The brunch dishes were all well made. Fish & chips crunchy outside, flaky moist inside. Was very pack during service, and a bit neglected but understandable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fanise C. 1 year ago on Google
    Came for a lunch with a friend on a Saturday and were lucky enough to be seated right away. For beverages, I had an iced vanilla latte and my friend had an iced tea. For food we both had the Baby Arugula and + Luna Sweet Tomato salad and it was perfect for a hot summer day. However, we saw several stacks of pancakes going by and agreed that it is the chosen entree for those that frequent Penelope. We will definitely be trying next time! The service was great and attentive and I’m excited for my next visit!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark G. 1 year ago on Google • 336 reviews
    The food here is beautiful, the atmosphere was very cozy, and the waitress was super helpful. We enjoyed our breakfast this morning. The french toast was exquisite, beautiful combination of the tender bread loaf with the sweet maple syrup compliment by delicate fruit. The scrambled eggs in croissant was lovely too!

  • 5/5 Zainab L. 8 months ago on Google • 122 reviews
    This pancake stack and (and, french toast) is one to devour! Definitely visit this cute brunch spot in NY - Kips Bay … that’s if you’re a brunch connoisseur! 🤗

  • 4/5 Giang N. 2 months ago on Google • 70 reviews New
    Had the avocado toast for brunch, with smoked salmon extra. It was decent, though the toast wasn't toasted, and I prefer the toast toasted. The matcha latte is also standard. Waitstaff was very friendly.

  • 5/5 Norlin C. 4 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    A random Google search for “best places for brunch in NYC” brought up Penelope’s place. It did not disappoint! Attentive service with delectable food, server promptly! The atmosphere was warm and cozy, which gave a classic homely Christmasy feel. Highly recommend Penelope NY.

  • 4/5 Lisa Steele l Fresh Eggs D. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice place for breakfast or brunch. Good selection of choices. The Crab Eggs Benedict was great. Huge portion of two crab cakes and two poached eggs. My friend had an omelet that looked tasty. The coffee was fine. Hash browns were fine. The biscuits with butter were outstanding. Warm, freshly baked. Not sure I would be compelled to go back, but there's nothing specific negative I could put my finger on. If you're looking for a quick breakfast, it's not a bad choice. Lisa Steele Author of The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook

  • 5/5 Kris 2 years ago on Google
    Love this place for brunch. I have been here twice and I enjoy it every time. I have tried the biscuits with jam, pancakes (these were amazing),the penny cobb salad and french toast. Not all at once ove course, but they were all delicious.

  • 5/5 Brigitte 2 years ago on Google
    Sunday brunch 9am sharp there’s already people. By 10:30am the place is packed. Ordered the farm stand. Blueberry pancakes are a must have.

  • 5/5 Gabrielle B. 4 months ago on Google
    Franco was on it! Best server I've experienced in a long time. The food was amazing and served quickly. I had the blueberry pancakes.

  • 1/5 Kathy A. 2 months ago on Google • 5 reviews New
    It was such an unpleasant experience today. I used to go there before the pandemic and missed the food so went there to have a brunch with my friends but today was the worst and never want to go back ever again! The waiter was so rude and raciest! There was only one table taken so we asked to sit near the window but said that’s for three people table so asked another table which is for two but said no again so we sat where he commended us to sit. Also we had morning coffee and would go a grab a coffee again after my brunch so said we don’t need drink. Actually he forced us to have then gave us a look when we denied. Also while we were having the meal, he was keep standing in front of our table and keep asking we are done. The worst part was this. The window seats which is for three people, there was two white people sat there! Even though he rejected us the table for three. So I looked there and all the window seats only for white people! I can’t believe he is working at Penelope! I usually tip 20% but this time I only did 12%. Still it wasn’t worth it!

  • 5/5 Julia T. 2 years ago on Google
    Went on a busy Sunday, but the food packed so much flavor. I had the croque madame and my friend had an order of pancakes. The serving sizes are large, so definitely go on an empty stomach. We sat outside, which was standard table top seating, the inside is a more intimate space.

  • 5/5 linda t. 2 years ago on Google
    Stumbled upon this spot while walking in NYC and so pleased by the wonderful breakfast ! Had some delicious blueberry pancakes 🥞 and came back for an avocado toast … both great ! 🥰

  • 3/5 Maddy A. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s an okay brunch place. It has a nice ambience and is always super crowded. I was personally disappointed with the food, which was bland and could have used more seasoning/sauce. The ingredients were fresh and the dishes cooked well, but the flavors were lacking. Additionally, this was some of the slowest service I have recieved at any NY resturant. Prices were very reasonable but I think it is overhyped and was disappointed by the food.

  • 5/5 Ido S. 1 year ago on Google
    Went for brunch on Sunday . Since we were two we actually didn’t need to wait too long which was great. Their avocado toast is incredible and probably one of my favorite . I’d note that it took almost 25 min to get it

  • 5/5 Xavier C. 1 year ago on Google
    I totally love the idea of French onion soup burger. It literally hits my spot. Caramelized onion, cheese and double juicy patties. Who would say no to it!? And the blueberry pancakes are thick like sponge cake. Also, drinks are amazing, especially the vanilla cream one. Service is good. Price is affordable. Definitely will go back again and try something else. ❤️

  • 4/5 Shuo Z. 1 year ago on Google
    A very chic brunch place, the serving speed is relatively slow due to the high volume on Saturday. The Penelope's Hangover Bowl is relatively average, not very recommended. The Signature Blueberry Pancake is very good. Pancakes are soft with pulp in them, and the blueberry sauce is warm and delicious.

  • 3/5 Chris P. 1 year ago on Google
    Table of 4 got the Croque Madame Penelope greener than green bowl, and the Penelope's Hangover bowl. The Croque Madame Penelope was probably the only thing that was good. Fries and sandwich were good, quite heavy but this was expected. Only reason they would get 3 stars. The eggs were not seasoned on any of the dishes and the avocado was not fresh. All the other vegetables were fresh. Thought they would put maybe more effort into the greener than green bowl...pretty much just a salad. I had to ask for dressing because it came with nothing and had absolutely no flavour. Dressing was basic Italian vinaigrette, not housemade. Sourdough bread was sad and slightly stale. Penelope's Hangover bowl with poached eggs were overcooked. Potatoes were alright. The environment is SUPER tight. Barely space to move around and sit comfortably. Way too many tables. All of this for about $25-30 USD per person. Disappointed and would not recommend.

  • 5/5 Henk D. 2 years ago on Google
    Penelope… Since 2010 I am visiting it. In all fairness: it was better back than however they are improving! I believe it was closed in 2018 or so. Lunch and breakfast is superb, also the location is nice. You need to reserve here, in the weekend jam packed and longgggg waiting lists….. Coffee should be served warm and not medium but after making a remark this was quickly solved!

  • 5/5 Leanne M. 2 years ago on Google
    Very cute place and good service! They have so many great options on the menu and the price is great too! We sat outside which was lovely and we also didn't have to wait for a table. They also have amazing coffee, it's so smooth and delicious


Call (212) 481-3800 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed outside
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Quick bite
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Breakfast
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ No-contact delivery

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