Ever since moving to the Upper East Side in January, I’ve had so many people ask about my favorite places to eat around my neighborhood. But for some reason – maybe out of habit or just because I always go there for work + social life – I always end up dining out in the downtown area of Manhattan. I’m a sucker for the trendy things in life, what can I say?
So when someone from Atwood reached out to see if I’d like to come by for brunch, I was excited to give a more local restaurant a try.
Atwood Kitchen is located in Midtown East on 52nd and 2nd ave, so, far enough to be more “East” than “Midtown.” Right when I walked in I noticed that it felt like the downtown spots I usually love – cozy and inviting with exposed brick, warm lighting, and a large rustic communal table.
The brunch menu was full of comfort food favorites, but with a bit of a modern (and seasonal) twist. It took us a good 15 minutes to narrow it down, but we ended up ordering:
Blueberry Waffles – dried and fresh blueberries, Meyer Lemon maple syrup, powdered sugar
Broken Yolk BLT – semolina bread, garlic aioli, avocado, baby tomato salad
Spicy Pork Hash – white cheddar, fried eggs, pumpkin hash, spicy aioli
Buratta and Roasted Squash – rosemary marcona almonds, black garlic vinaigrette, arugula
Baked Eggs in Marinara Sauce – basil pesto, asiago, charred pepper and onions, ciabatta
(We actually didn’t originally order this, but the chef was kind enough to include it for us!)
All of the dishes were absolutely delicious and everything I hope for in a brunch – filling and hearty yet full of different flavors (the perfect combo of sweet + salty is a brunch must, of course). If I had to pick my favorites dishes they’d be the Spicy Pork Hash and the Blueberry Waffles.
I loved brunch at Atwood so much I already made plans to go back soon with a larger group of friends, as well as give their dinner menu a try.
Whether you’re a fellow uptowner or a downtowner looking for an excuse to take the M train, Atwood is a great place to start.
Atwood NY: 986 Second Ave. New York, NY 10022
Great for: brunch, groups
