ZipPicks Awards
Best Breakfast in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Brunch in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Slate Cafe - Nomad
7.5
Slate Cafe is a counter-service coffee shop just off Madison Avenue where breakfast sandwiches, toasts, and bowls rotate alongside strong espresso. It’s ideal for quick weekday breakfasts or laptop-friendly solo mornings that still feel more polished than a grab-and-go chain.
Must-Try Dishes:
Avocado Toast, Rose Berry Waffles, Breakfast Bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: Stylish coffee bar with better-than-average toasts, waffles, and bowls.
Who should go: Solo diners or remote workers needing breakfast and Wi-Fi.
When to visit: Weekday mornings before the commuter rush hits hard.
What to order: Avocado Toast, Breakfast Bowl, Rose Berry Waffles.
Insider tip: Grab a back table if you need an outlet and longer laptop time.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited in NoMad; nearby paid garages on 27th–29th Streets are the most reliable option. Expect $20–$30 for short stays.
Dress code: Casual-polished — athleisure, jeans, and work-casual all fit in comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate — espresso machine and steady foot traffic create background buzz, but conversation is easy at tables.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — breakfast and daytime café service only.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush, otherwise typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian toasts, bowls, and breakfast sandwich options.
Vegan options: Limited but available — a few plant-based toasts and bowls can be customized.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some bowls can be made gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for coffee-first dates — it’s relaxed, polished, and low-pressure, though better for daytime meetups than romantic lingering.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with open seating, but mid-morning weekday rush may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids — there’s no kids menu, but waffles and simple bowls work well for families with children over 6.
Best For
Better for: Quick healthy breakfasts, solo work sessions, and polished grab-and-go mornings compared to heavier sit-down brunch spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want a full-service brunch experience, bottomless drinks, or long, leisurely table service.