Good bakery for brunch by Union Square?

[missy52]

I will be spending the day in the city this Sat and plan on seeing a play at the union square theater but want to hang around for a few hours before the play. I would really like to try a good bakery for breakfast in the area or by Penn station where I am coming in. After the play I plan on eating at Crispo which I hope is a good choice for an anniversary dinner.

If there are other great places to eat in the area for brunch please feel free to give recommendations as a bakery is not a must but would be preferred. Also is Crispo a good place to go for a 4 year anniversary?

Any advice would really be appreciated.

[missy52]

Thanks for all the comments. I had a wonderful time at Crispo and cant wait to go back again sometime soon. The food and service were great and I enjoyed everything. We went there for opening at 5pm and left at around 7, we were never rushed even after paying our bill.

We also went to Petite Abeille for brunch and I must say I enjoyed it there also. The place is so CUTE. I cant wait to go back next time I am in that area of the city.

Thanks to all!

[Lucia]

I second City Bakery and Petite Abeille
I really enjoy Crispo. It can be loud but I think it's intimate and romantic, and food is very good.

[GoddessofFood]

Yes. I second City Bakery. I also like Le Petit Abeille on 17th street. Their croissants stands up to some of the best and the waffles are very light and satisfying.

[Pan]

Crispo on Saturday is pretty loud, so be warned. The food there is very good and they have some wines I enjoy.

[iluvcookies]

Le Pain Quotidien has a location on Broadway and 11th street on the corner. Excellent baked goods and sandwiches, table service is in the back. Might be a bit crowded on a Saturday. Also, Max Brenner on Bway just below 14th... fantastic chocolate everything!

[Lemon Curry]

71 Irving Place is a nice little cafe; since its small and partially underground, and a little out of the way from Union Square, it's not as packed or busy as other places. Good coffee, some pastries, and quiches and sandwiches and stuff. Its near 19th st.

[persimmon]

I'd try city bakery for brunch. It gets a little crowded, but it is totally worth it.
Another option might be tisserie, right on Union Square. Not as exceptional, but a nice cozy place.
i've only been to Crispo once but really enjoyed it. It's not super fancy, which sometimes makes things a little more romantic because you can relax. the food -- while not always surprising -- was consistently yummy.