Clinton St. Baking Co.

I went to college in the Boston area, which, in my book, is the Land of Brunch. All of the college students and all of the young couples flock to well-known brunch establishments anxious to nurse their hangovers and nourish their young with greasy eggs and a cup of joe. With that weekend morning ritual comes another ritual: the wait. I have stood outside in snow, wind, sun, and rain, just to get into my favorite brunch place. Some how I lost a piece of that when I moved back home to Long Island. I still have my favorite brunch places in Huntington (I'm sure I'll be writing about them here), but something is different about the experience. Maybe it's because I get to wait indoors for a change.

Boston Commons, November 2011

One Sunday morning, back in May, I trecked my way into the city to visit my friend, and fellow Tufts alumnus, Erin. I told her that I specifically wanted to make it into the city in time for brunch (which, let's be honest, could be any time before 5pm). Erin seemed to know exactly where we should go: Clinton Street Baking Co.. Clinton St. has been featured on the Martha Stewart Show, and is well-known in the city as being one of the best brunch stops.

But it comes with a catch...the wait.

Erin was nice enough to get there a little earlier and wait in line, but the hostess immediately told her there was an hour and a half wait. We nestled into a coffee show across the street (which is a great tip for anyone going to Clinton St.) and waited it out. The wait was every bit of an hour and a half, but it was also every bit worth it.

Clinton St. Baking Co., Erin Kestenbaum Photography

Erin and I ordered Banana Walnut Pancakes and Huevos Rancheros to share. Both of which were amazing. Clinton St. is known for their pancakes and I have to say I agree with what everyone says. They were light and buttery at the same time, and the walnuts were lightly toasted just enough to enhance their nuttiness. The pancakes were served with maple syrup heated with melted butter, the perfect finishing touch. The recipe for Clinton St.'s pancakes are available online, but I don't recommend looking at the recipe if you're watching your waistline. Some things are better left a mystery.

In summary:
Clinton St. Baking Co.
4 Clinton Street (btw. East Houston & Stanton)
New York, NY 10002


5-stars...but only if you have lots of time on your hands
The coffee shop across the street is a great place to wait.