When the weekend rolls around in Brooklyn, there's a unique ritual that locals embrace with fervent enthusiasm: brunch. But not just any brunch—we're talking about finding the best brunch spots in Brooklyn with outdoor seating. Because while the food itself is paramount, the ability to soak in the borough's vibrant atmosphere, enjoy a bit of sun, or simply savor the fresh air adds an entirely different dimension to the experience. From quaint garden patios to bustling rooftop terraces with skyline views, Brooklyn offers an unparalleled array of alfresco dining options that transform a meal into a memorable occasion.
At a Glance: Crafting Your Perfect Outdoor Brunch Experience
- Prioritize the Vibe: Decide if you want skyline views, a secluded garden, or lively street-side people-watching.
- Reservations are Key: For popular spots and prime outdoor tables, booking ahead is almost always a necessity, especially on weekends.
- Weather Watch: Brooklyn weather can be fickle. Check forecasts and call ahead to confirm outdoor availability, especially for uncovered spaces.
- Explore Beyond the Obvious: Hidden gems with charming patios often offer a more relaxed experience than high-traffic areas.
- Consider the Occasion: Is it a romantic date, a family gathering, or a casual catch-up? The setting should match the mood.
- Pace Yourself: Outdoor brunch is meant to be savored. Plan for a leisurely meal and enjoy the atmosphere.
Why Outdoor Brunch Reigns Supreme in Brooklyn
It's no secret that Brooklynites have a special relationship with brunch. Data suggests residents here consume brunch more frequently than in any other NYC borough, turning this mid-morning meal into a premier social event. And when the weather cooperates, the preference for outdoor dining is almost universal. There’s something inherently appealing about a sun-drenched table, the gentle hum of street life, or a refreshing breeze carrying the scent of blooming flowers. It's an extension of Brooklyn's diverse and dynamic character, a chance to connect with the city and its culinary scene simultaneously.
For a broader exploration of how Brooklyn caters to every palate and preference, including options for different times of day and dining styles, you might find our comprehensive guide on Brooklyn restaurants for any occasion helpful. But for now, let's zero in on those coveted outdoor brunch tables.
Decoding Brooklyn's Outdoor Brunch Scene: Types of Alfresco Experiences
Not all outdoor seating is created equal. Understanding the different types can help you pinpoint the perfect setting for your weekend indulgence:
- Rooftop Retreats: Offering panoramic views, often of the Manhattan skyline or the water. These spots typically boast a lively, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a celebratory feel.
- Secret Gardens & Charming Patios: Tucked away from the street, these provide a more intimate, serene, and often beautifully landscaped environment. Ideal for relaxed conversations and a sense of escape.
- Street-Side Seating & Dining Sheds: Found directly on sidewalks, these are fantastic for people-watching and soaking in the neighborhood's energy. Dining sheds, remnants of pandemic innovations, often offer a cozy, semi-private feel.
Spotlight on Standouts: Your Curated List of Outdoor Brunch Havens
Here’s a breakdown of Brooklyn’s top contenders for outdoor brunch, complete with their unique charm and menu highlights:
Rooftops with a View: Elevating Your Brunch Experience
For those who believe a great meal is best enjoyed with a stunning backdrop, these spots deliver:
- Alma (Brooklyn): Mexican with a Manhattan Backdrop
Perched two flights up, Alma offers a vibrant Mexican brunch experience with incredible views of the Manhattan skyline. Their rooftop setting makes for a lively atmosphere, especially when the weather is fine. Dive into their terrific fish tacos, enchiladas, or classic breakfast burritos. The Vegetarian Breakfast Burrito, with its vegetarian chorizo, scrambled eggs, pico de gallo, cheddar, and black beans, is a standout. Don't forget to sample their diverse selection of tequilas and mezcals to complement the food and the view. - Brooklyn Cyclones Sunday Rooftop Brunch (Maimonides Park): Baseball & Bites
Talk about a unique brunch! This isn't just about the food; it's an experience combining baseball, brunch, and endless drinks (beer, mimosas, Bloody Marys) from a rooftop perch. Starting at 1:30 pm, you get unparalleled views of the game, the ocean, and the iconic Coney Island rides. While the menu includes crowd-pleasers like Cyclones Brunch Sliders and hash browns, the real draw is the festive, one-of-a-kind setting. It's perfect for groups looking for something truly different. - Sunday in Brooklyn (Williamsburg): Rustic Chic with a Rooftop Garden
Despite its name, Sunday in Brooklyn is open for brunch and dinner every day, and its weekend brunch from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm is a magnet for locals and visitors alike. This rustic, cozy spot, with exposed beams and white marble tabletops, boasts a fantastic third-story rooftop garden that's available when the weather permits. Known for their Instagram-worthy pancakes, avocado toast, and innovative Black Cod Pastrami, it's a place where the food is as beautiful as the setting. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular spot, especially if you're eyeing that rooftop table.
Gardens & Patios: Serene Escapes for a Leisurely Meal
When you crave a more tranquil or aesthetically pleasing outdoor setting, these garden and patio spots offer a delightful retreat:
- Café Mogador (Williamsburg): Moroccan Charm in a Back Garden
An outpost of an East Village favorite, Café Mogador in Williamsburg charms with its colorful tiles, reclaimed wood, and—most importantly for our purposes—a lush back herb garden. This provides a serene, verdant escape from the city bustle. Their signature Middle Eastern dishes, like the lamb tagine with dried apricots and prunes, or various Middle Eastern egg preparations, are perfectly suited for a leisurely brunch. The Greek salad with za'atar croutons is also a fresh choice. - Celestine (John Street): Mediterranean by the Manhattan Bridge
Nestled by the waterfront on John Street, Celestine offers a Mediterranean-inspired brunch with captivating views of the Manhattan Bridge. Their outdoor seating allows you to truly appreciate the unique DUMBO scenery. Open for weekend brunch only, it's an ideal spot for sharing mezze like whipped labneh, muhammara, and hummus. For something heartier, try their chicken schnitzel sandwich. Don't overlook their donuts for a sweet finish. Reservations are highly recommended here to secure a table with a view. - Claro (Gowanus): Oaxacan Flavors on a Charming Patio
While some lists might update, Claro, known for its Oaxacan Mexican cuisine, offers a truly delightful brunch experience on its charming patio during warmer weather. Their focus on homemade tortillas and mezcal shines through. The short rib chilaquiles (often part of a three-course prix fixe brunch) and Quesadillas De Verano are highly recommended. It’s a place to savor authentic flavors in a relaxed, inviting outdoor setting. - French Louie (Atlantic Avenue): Chic French-American in a Garden Patio
French Louie on Atlantic Avenue is a chic, twinkly destination that serves inventive French-American fare for weekend brunch. Its modern setup includes chocolate-leather banquettes indoors, but the real gem is its terrace seating and a beautiful garden-like patio. Imagine enjoying Crème Brûlée French Toast, their titular egg dish, or scrambles in this sophisticated, lush outdoor space. Pair it with one of their traditional spiked morning beverages for the full experience. - Oxalis (Washington Ave.): Minimalist Elegance with an Outdoor Patio
While Oxalis is noted for moving after December 31st from its current location, its reputation for a unique, minimalistic, and stylish dining experience with plants and an outdoor patio makes it worth mentioning for its historical offering. They presented a weekly family-style menu featuring diverse regional cuisines for brunch, with thick-cut bacon as a popular side. Keep an eye out for their new iteration for future outdoor brunch possibilities. - Vinegar Hill House (Between Navy Yard and DUMBO): Rustic Charm on a Stunning Patio
Vinegar Hill House, tucked between Navy Yard and DUMBO, is renowned for its stunning patio and a menu featuring seasonal rotations. Their indoor and outdoor ambiance perfectly blends rustic charm with sophisticated comfort. For brunch, their phenomenal pancakes are a must-try, as are the yogurt and granola with sourdough toast, and their addictive breakfast sandwich. It's a picturesque spot that feels like a true escape within the city.
Street-Side & Sibling Spots: Embracing the Neighborhood Vibe
These locations offer great outdoor options that put you right in the heart of Brooklyn's vibrant street scenes or offer a cozy, community feel:
- Agi's Counter (Crown Heights): Hungarian-Austrian Jewish Delights Al Fresco
Opened in 2021, Agi's Counter brings a chic café vibe with a cozy, homey ambiance to Crown Heights. Inspired by the owner's grandmother, it serves Hungarian-Austrian Jewish food with exceptional pastries and a daily brunch. Their outdoor seating is a delightful spot to enjoy the wide-ranging "country club plate" (cured salmon, chicken liver mousse, smoked trout salad, whipped farmers cheese, pickled green tomatoes). And if it's Sunday, don't miss the legendary Hungarian donut. - Henry Public (Cobble Hill and Brooklyn Heights): Olde Weste Charm with an Outdoor Shed
Henry Public is a trendy yet classic bar that extends its Olde Weste/saloon charm to its outdoor dining shed. With rustic wooden interiors indoors, the outdoor shed offers a comfortable, characterful space to enjoy brunch until 4 pm on weekends. Their breakfast sandwiches, fresh salads, and substantial bacon egg and cheese are popular choices. The Hamburger with cheese and Berkshire bacon also comes highly recommended. - Rule Of Thirds (Greenpoint): Japanese Soufflé Pancakes & Outdoor Dining
Rule Of Thirds in Greenpoint is celebrated for its culinary artistry, particularly its light, airy, melt-in-your-mouth Japanese soufflé pancake. This spot offers both indoor and outdoor dining, making it a fantastic option for weekend brunch. Beyond the pancakes, you can also find Karaage (fried chicken thigh), smashed potato, and rice with a poached egg. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking a unique, delicate brunch experience outdoors. - Sisters (Clinton Hill): Local, Organic Goodness with Outdoor Seating
Sisters in Clinton Hill is a quaint café focusing on local, organic ingredients, with natural light pouring in from a skylight indoors. Crucially for our guide, they offer weekend brunch with inviting indoor and outdoor seating. Their savory French toast with pulled pork is a standout, as is their signature fried chicken sandwich and the classic egg breakfast sandwich. It's a reliable choice for quality, fresh food in a relaxed, community-oriented setting.
Practical Playbook: Mastering the Outdoor Brunch Quest
Securing a spot at the best brunch spots in Brooklyn with outdoor seating often requires a strategy. Here’s how to improve your chances:
How to Snag That Coveted Outdoor Table
- Be an Early Bird (or a Late One): Arriving right when brunch service starts (often 9 or 10 am) or closer to its end (after 2 pm) significantly increases your chances of getting a walk-in outdoor table. The peak mid-morning hours are the most competitive.
- Leverage Reservation Apps: Many popular spots use apps like Resy or OpenTable. Set alerts for your desired date and time, and book as far in advance as possible. Be flexible with your time slots if you can.
- Call Ahead, Specifically: Don't just ask if they have outdoor seating; ask about their policy for outdoor tables. Are they exclusively for reservations, or do they hold some for walk-ins? Ask about wait times for outdoor specifically.
- Embrace the Waitlist: If a spot uses a digital waitlist (like Yelp Waitlist), join it remotely before you even leave home. This can save you a significant amount of standing-around time.
- Consider Weekdays (If Applicable): Some places offer brunch menus on weekdays or have shorter waits for outdoor seating during the week. Check the hours for places like Agi's Counter or Ursula Brooklyn.
What to Consider Before You Go
- Weather Conditions: A beautiful outdoor brunch can quickly turn sour in unexpected rain or overly strong sun. Check the forecast. Does the spot have umbrellas or awnings? Heating for cooler days?
- Noise Level: Rooftop spots can be lively, and street-side seating might come with city noise. Garden patios tend to be quieter. Match the noise level to your preference.
- Shade vs. Sun: If it's a hot day, ensure there's adequate shade. If you love soaking up the sun, confirm there are unshaded options.
- Pet-Friendliness: If you plan to bring your furry friend, always check the restaurant's policy. Many outdoor patios are dog-friendly, but it's not a given.
- Accessibility: Consider if the outdoor seating is easily accessible, especially for strollers or wheelchairs. Rooftop spots, for instance, often require stairs.
Quick Picks for Specific Cravings (Outdoor-Friendly)
- Best for Pancakes: Rule Of Thirds (soufflé pancakes), Sunday in Brooklyn (Instagram-worthy), Vinegar Hill House (phenomenal).
- Best for Mexican: Alma (rooftop views), Claro (charming patio).
- Best for Views: Alma (Manhattan skyline), Brooklyn Cyclones (game/ocean), Celestine (Manhattan Bridge), Sunday in Brooklyn (rooftop garden).
- Best for a Secluded Garden Vibe: Café Mogador, French Louie, Vinegar Hill House.
- Best for Bottomless Options (Check Outdoor Availability): Kokomo (all-day Sunday "drunch", unlimited mimosas weekends, though outdoor not specified, often resort-chic implies it), Sweet Catch ($60 bottomless brunch, again, check outdoor explicitly). While the context didn't confirm outdoor for Kokomo or Sweet Catch, these are general bottomless recommendations where you'd inquire about outdoor availability.
Quick Answers: Common Questions About Outdoor Brunch
Q: Is outdoor seating always first-come, first-served?
A: Not necessarily. While many places reserve a portion of their outdoor tables for walk-ins, popular spots often take reservations specifically for outdoor seating, especially for their more desirable tables (e.g., rooftops or garden patios). Always check the restaurant's website or call ahead to understand their policy.
Q: Are outdoor brunch spots pet-friendly?
A: It varies greatly by restaurant and local health codes. Generally, service animals are allowed, but for companion pets, some patios might welcome well-behaved dogs, especially if the seating is street-side. However, it’s crucial to confirm directly with the restaurant beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Q: What's the best time to go for outdoor seating without a reservation?
A: Your best bet is usually right at opening time (e.g., 9 or 10 am) or later in the afternoon (after 2 pm) as the initial rush subsides. Peak brunch hours (11 am - 1 pm) are almost always the busiest and hardest to secure an outdoor walk-in table.
Q: Do all outdoor spots have heating or cooling for comfort?
A: No. While many restaurants, especially those with dedicated outdoor structures like dining sheds or established patios, invest in heating lamps for cooler days or fans for warmer ones, it's not universal. Rooftops might be more exposed to elements. Always dress appropriately for the weather and consider calling ahead if specific comfort amenities are important to you.
Your Next Outdoor Brunch Awaits
Navigating the vibrant brunch scene in Brooklyn, especially when seeking that perfect outdoor spot, can feel like an art form. But with this guide, you’re now equipped to choose not just a meal, but an experience. Whether you’re chasing Manhattan skyline views from a rooftop, seeking solace in a hidden garden, or soaking up the neighborhood buzz from a street-side table, Brooklyn's outdoor brunch options are diverse and enticing. Do your homework, make those reservations, and prepare to savor the flavors and the fresh air. Your ideal weekend ritual is out there, waiting to be discovered.