Maialino, another breathtaking gem from the infamous restauranteur Danny Meyer, is one of the most charming places in all of New York City. Perhaps the fact that it borders the exclusive Gramercy Park with windows overlooking the cherry blossoms blooming during spring is a big reason. FYI key access into the park is only granted to residents living nearby or hotel guests. The menus are Roman-style offering classic trattoria pasta dishes such as: Cacio e Pepe and Spaghetti alla Carbonara. Brunch is surprisingly affordable, and the sweet bakery stand showcasing all of the treats impossible to say no to sits in the center of the restaurant. Think Olive Oil Muffins, Pumpkin Cranberry Bread with Whipped Cream Cheese and make sure you order the Toffe Glazed Brioche which tastes like an upscale and less overwhelming Cinnabon. The Baked Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce is the perfect Italian brunch dish, and the seasonal vegetables included in the Contadino egg dish steal the show. Sunchokes, Carrots, Brussels Sprouts and Celery Root lay beneath the poached eggs and taste caramelized. Out of all DM’s restaurants, I think this is the most suitable, lively and comfortable atmosphere for a younger crowd to venture to without having to wait for parents to pick up the tab. Beautiful floral arrangements and a kind and thoughtful staff are what makes Maialino a timeless restaurant and leaving you begging for more. This is the place where you want to be a regular Sunday bruncher.
Contadino: Poached Eggs, Brussel Sprouts & Buttercup Squash
Amatriciana: Baked Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce & Guanicale
Brioche Caramellato: Toffee Glazed Brioche