ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Lower East Side
Best Breakfast in Lower East Side
Best Trendy Restaurants in Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
Clinton Street Baking Company & Restaurant
8.9
Clinton St. Baking Company is a Lower East Side landmark for American-style breakfast and brunch, known for towering pancakes and Southern-influenced plates. Open since 2001, it draws constant lines for dishes that balance comfort with well-executed technique in a compact, always-busy room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Blueberry pancakes, Buttermilk fried chicken & waffles, Latke eggs Benedict
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: A long-running brunch institution serving standout pancakes and hearty American plates.
Who should go: Brunch lovers willing to wait for top-tier pancakes
When to visit: Early weekday mornings or off-peak afternoons to avoid lines
What to order: Blueberry pancakes, fried chicken & waffles, latke eggs Benedict
Insider tip: Join the wait list early and consider a weekday visit for a noticeably shorter queue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Clinton and Rivington are scarce during brunch hours. Plan for garage parking 2–3 blocks away if arriving by car.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed; anything from jeans and sneakers to weekend brunch attire fits comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak brunch, with steady chatter and clatter; quiet enough to converse but not ideal for sensitive ears.
Weekend wait: Dinner service is limited and usually manageable with a 0–15 minute wait.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though a short queue can form around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good range of options including pancakes, egg dishes, salads, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited; most dishes include dairy or eggs, but a few sides and modifications can work.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-free upon request, though not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a casual morning or mid-afternoon date if you want comfort food and a lively neighborhood atmosphere, but less ideal if you want intimate conversation or quiet ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in. Expect long waits during brunch peak hours, so join the list early or target weekday mornings for the fastest seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly; staff is accustomed to families, portions are approachable, and weekend mornings often include strollers and young children.
Best For
Better for: Exceptional pancakes and American brunch staples executed with consistency; perfect for classic breakfast cravings.
Skip if: If you dislike waiting in lines, want a quieter dining room, or need extensive vegan options, consider alternatives with more space or broader dietary flexibility.