ZipPicks Awards
Best Breakfast in Lower East Side
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
Sonnyboy
8.3
Sonnyboy brings an Australian-style brunch playbook to Rivington Street, with strong coffee, hearty egg plates, and a social, buzzy room. It’s a go-to for groups and day dates who want something livelier than a quiet cafe but more food-focused than a bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Harissa Folded Eggs, Ricotta Hotcake, Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: An Australian brunch hangout with strong coffee, fun cocktails, and lively energy.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting a social, upbeat brunch.
When to visit: Late morning before peak weekend rush for more breathing room.
What to order: Harissa Folded Eggs, Ricotta Hotcake, Breakfast Burrito.
Insider tip: On nice days, request sidewalk seating to watch Rivington Street wake up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Rivington Street; expect metered spots and competitive weekend availability. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual-but-stylish brunch attire; athleisure and denim are common, but many lean trendy for photos and group outings.
Noise level: Moderately loud during peak brunch hours with energetic chatter; quiet enough for conversation on weekdays or at sidewalk tables.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — the restaurant is brunch-focused, but expect 30–60 minutes for prime weekend brunch slots without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait; walk-ins are usually seated within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several egg dishes, bowls, and the ricotta hotcake work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few bowls can be made vegan with modifications, but the menu leans heavily on eggs and dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes — multiple dishes can be prepared gluten-free; staff is accustomed to handling requests, though there's no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for daytime dates — the upbeat Australian café vibe feels relaxed and social, and outdoor seating offers a lower-noise option. Not ideal if you're looking for something intimate or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, but expect a wait on weekends. Late mornings on Saturdays and Sundays often run 30–60 minutes for walk-ins; weekdays are much easier with near-immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — the menu is approachable and the staff is accommodating, but the tight layout and lively noise may be less ideal for toddlers. Best for families with school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: A more social, stylish brunch experience than quieter LES breakfast cafés, with stronger coffee and livelier group-friendly energy.
Skip if: You want a serene breakfast, need extensive vegan options, or prefer a space with roomy seating — nearby café-style spots will serve those needs better.