New York City, a concrete jungle where dreams are made of, also boasts a breakfast sandwich scene that's anything but concrete. From classic bagels with lox to inventive gourmet creations, NYC offers a breakfast sandwich for every craving. This guide dives into 16 of the best breakfast sandwiches the city has to offer, guaranteed to jumpstart your day the right way. This list covers various neighborhoods and styles, ensuring you'll find a perfect breakfast sandwich in NYC no matter where you are.
Classic NYC Breakfast Sandwiches
This section focuses on the quintessential New York breakfast sandwiches, the ones that have stood the test of time and remain beloved staples.
1. Ess-a-Bagel's Everything Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese
Ess-a-Bagel, a New York institution, is known for its perfectly baked bagels. Their everything bagel with lox, cream cheese, and tomato is a must-try for any visitor. The NYC breakfast sandwich experience here is legendary.
- Why it's great: Perfectly chewy bagel, high-quality lox, and a generous schmear of cream cheese.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
2. Murray's Bagels' Classic Bacon, Egg, and Cheese
Murray's Bagels provides a solid, no-frills breakfast sandwich in NYC. Their bacon, egg, and cheese is a testament to simplicity done right. A great example of a classic, affordable option.
- Why it's great: Fresh ingredients, perfectly cooked eggs, and a satisfyingly crispy bacon.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
3. Absolute Bagels' Nova Scotia Salmon Sandwich
Absolute Bagels offers a slightly elevated take on the classic lox sandwich. Their Nova Scotia salmon is known for its delicate flavor and buttery texture, making it a luxurious breakfast sandwich NYC option.
- Why it's great: High-quality salmon, fresh toppings, and a delicious bagel.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
Gourmet Breakfast Sandwiches in NYC
These options elevate the humble breakfast sandwich into a culinary experience, showcasing innovative ingredients and techniques.
4. Sarabeth's Farm Egg Sandwich
Sarabeth's is known for its upscale brunch fare, and their farm egg sandwich is no exception. The sandwich features farm-fresh eggs, artisanal bread, and high-quality ingredients. It's a sophisticated NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: High-quality ingredients, perfectly cooked eggs, and a delicious bread.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
5. Jack's Wife Freda's Israeli Breakfast Sandwich
Jack's Wife Freda's offers a unique twist on the classic breakfast sandwich with its Israeli-inspired version. Expect interesting flavors and unexpected combinations. This is a truly unique breakfast sandwich in NYC.
- Why it's great: Unique flavors, creative combinations, and a satisfyingly filling sandwich.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
6. Russ & Daughters Cafe's Smoked Fish Sandwich
Russ & Daughters Cafe is a New York institution, known for its high-quality smoked fish. Their smoked fish sandwich is a must-try for anyone who appreciates fine ingredients. A classic elevated into an extraordinary NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: High-quality smoked fish, fresh toppings, and a delicious bagel.
- Location: Lower East Side, Manhattan.
Diverse and Unique Breakfast Sandwiches
This section explores breakfast sandwiches that step outside the traditional mold, offering diverse flavors and styles.
7. Clinton St. Baking Company's Breakfast Sandwich
Clinton St. Baking Company's breakfast sandwich is a popular choice, known for its fluffy pancakes and creative fillings. This is a unique take on the classic breakfast sandwich in NYC.
- Why it's great: Fluffy pancakes, creative fillings, and a satisfyingly filling sandwich.
- Location: Lower East Side, Manhattan.
8. Abraço Espresso's Breakfast Sandwich
Abraço Espresso offers a simple but satisfying breakfast sandwich, perfect for a quick bite on the go. Their coffee is also exceptional, making it a great spot for a caffeine fix. A reliable choice for a straightforward NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: Fresh ingredients, perfectly cooked eggs, and a delicious bread.
- Location: East Village, Manhattan.
9. Black Seed Bagels' Everything Bagel with Smoked Salmon
Black Seed Bagels is another popular spot for bagels in the city, known for its unique everything bagel. Their smoked salmon sandwich is a must-try. A solid example of a great breakfast sandwich NYC style.
- Why it's great: Unique bagel, high-quality smoked salmon, and fresh toppings.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
International Flavors in NYC Breakfast Sandwiches
This section highlights breakfast sandwiches inspired by cuisines from around the world, adding a global dimension to the NYC breakfast scene.
10. Los Tacos No. 1's Breakfast Tacos
While not strictly a sandwich, Los Tacos No. 1's breakfast tacos are a delicious and filling option. These aren't your typical tacos. They feature creative fillings and unique flavors.
- Why it's great: Unique flavors, creative fillings, and a satisfyingly filling meal.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
11. Xi'an Famous Foods' Spicy Cumin Lamb Hand-Ripped Noodles (Breakfast Version)
Xi'an Famous Foods offers a unique spin on breakfast with their spicy cumin lamb hand-ripped noodles (although technically not a sandwich, it's a delicious and hearty breakfast option). A bold choice for a truly unique breakfast sandwich in NYC alternative.
- Why it's great: Bold flavors, creative combinations, and a hearty meal.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Sweet Treats and Unique Breakfast Sandwiches
Sometimes you crave something a little different. These entries showcase sweeter and more unique breakfast sandwich options.
12. Dominique Ansel Bakery's Croissant Sandwich
Dominique Ansel Bakery is famous for its Cronuts, but their croissant sandwiches are equally delicious. These offer a sweet and savory combination. An unforgettable NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: Flaky croissant, unique fillings, and a sweet and savory combination.
- Location: SoHo, Manhattan.
13. Magnolia Bakery's Banana Pudding Sandwich
Magnolia Bakery is known for its banana pudding, but their banana pudding sandwich is a hidden gem. A unique and undeniably sweet breakfast sandwich NYC experience.
- Why it's great: Sweet and creamy filling, fluffy banana bread, and a nostalgic flavor.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
Beyond the Usual: Unique NYC Breakfast Experiences
These entries are for those looking for something truly unusual and memorable.
14. Momofuku Noodle Bar's Pork Buns (Breakfast Style)
Momofuku Noodle Bar's pork buns, while not a traditional sandwich, offer a savory and satisfying breakfast option. The sweet and savory flavors work incredibly well. A bold choice for an unconventional NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: Delicious pork, sweet and savory combination, and a hearty meal.
- Location: East Village, Manhattan.
15. Mighty Quinn's Barbecue Breakfast Sandwich
Mighty Quinn's Barbecue, known for its smoked meats, offers a unique breakfast sandwich featuring their signature BBQ flavors. Expect big flavors and hearty ingredients. This is a hearty and bold breakfast sandwich in NYC.
- Why it's great: Smoked meats, unique BBQ flavors, and a hearty meal.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
16. Shake Shack's ShackBurger (Breakfast Style - Egg Added)
While not explicitly a breakfast sandwich on the menu, many locations offer the option to add an egg to a ShackBurger in the morning. This makes for a savory and indulgent way to kick off your day. A fun, unconventional NYC breakfast sandwich.
- Why it's great: Juicy patty, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and a fried egg add a new dimension.
- Location: Multiple locations throughout NYC.
This list provides a diverse range of options for your next NYC breakfast sandwich adventure. Remember to check websites for hours of operation and locations before heading out. Enjoy your culinary exploration of New York City's fantastic breakfast sandwich scene!
