ZipPicks Awards
Best Breakfast in Soho
Best Sandwiches in Soho
Master Critic Review
Banter
8.1
An Australian-style café on Sullivan Street known for avocado-laden plates, ricotta hotcakes, and all-day brunch standards. It’s a favored stop for lighter-feeling, produce-forward breakfasts that still eat like a full meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smash avocado toast, Banter Big Breakfast, Ricotta hotcakes
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Aussie brunch hub balancing indulgent plates with fresher, veg-forward options.
Who should go: Brunch regulars chasing avocado, good coffee, and wifi.
When to visit: Weekday late mornings to avoid peak weekend waits.
What to order: Smash avo toast, Banter Big Breakfast, ricotta hotcakes.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for faster solo seating when the list is long.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally tough on Sullivan Street after 9am. Best luck on adjacent residential blocks before brunch peak.
Dress code: Casual and café-friendly; athleisure, denim, and relaxed layers all common.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at off-peak hours but buzzier during weekend brunch.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; closing hours are earlier and traffic is brunch-focused.
Weekday lunch: Typically a short wait or immediate seating before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—most bowls, toast plates, and hotcakes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—customizable bowls and avocado-focused plates can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly items including bowls and protein plates; no dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime dates—bright room, quick service, and lighter plates keep the meal easy and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Banter operates largely walk-in. Arriving before 11am on weekends or around 10:30–11:30am on weekdays minimizes wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for toddlers and older; high chairs are limited and space is tight, but service is welcoming and menu flexibility helps.
Best For
Better for: Produce-forward brunch, lighter Aussie-style plates, and solo seating with strong coffee.
Skip if: You want a long, celebratory brunch with cocktails or need large-group space—try bigger-format cafés nearby instead.