Sarabeth's East, 1295 Madison Ave (@ 92nd)

Sarabeth's is a New York brunch institution. Famous for its jams which you can buy in stores across the country, it also has a fantastic brunch. I've been to a few of their locations, but the one on the upper east side is my favorite because there is a small area upstairs where you can get a table. Makes it more private and quiet, and is great if you're having an intimate breakfast party (or birthday brunch!).

On the weekends there will be a wait just about as bad as Balthazar, but it is certainly worth it. Sarabeth's takes a country home spin on its meals, you have a few options, but it's basic food dressed up and complimented with a fresh baked muffin or croissant. Great place for Mother's Day brunch, or a girls weekend. The staff is friendly, though a little overwhelmed at times, but will help you out with whatever you need. Stop in at any of their locations with an appetite and you won't be disappointed.

WHAT TO BITE? Country breakfast, $14.95, with a pumpkin muffin.

The Barking Dog, 150 E. 34th (btwn Lex & 3rd)

My dad and I ventured to the Barking Dog around St. Patrick's Day because I'm pretty sure he wanted some Irish food and I'm also pretty sure Mom was out of town and making Sheppard's pie for one is entirely too daunting a task.

You have to be a dog lover to like this place because plain and simple, they let dogs dine there too. With so many buildings in Manhattan no longer allowing dogs (or only allowing them to be a measly 20 pounds), it's nice to find a place where not only are dogs allowed, but are welcomed.

Service overall, especially on a busy Saturday brunch can be a little slow, and I've had friends tell of mixed reviews with the food, but I've always had a good meal. As crowded as it gets it's never too loud, and the Murray Hill location has some outdoor seating which is especially nice if you're with your puppy (and yes, they will forever be puppies).

WHAT TO BITE? Wild Mushroom Omelet w/ hashbrowns, $10.95. I forget if my dad liked his...

The Garage, 99 7th Ave. (btwn W. 4th & Bleecker)

For my mom's birthday one year, the family all headed down to the West Village for jazz brunch at The Garage. There are a lot of places in New York where you can have brunch, and there are a lot of places where you can listen to jazz. . . and there are a lot of places where you can partake at both at the same time. But nothing says summer in the city than sitting outside, with the widows open, listening to jazz and having a constant flow of alcohol to your table.

I've been back to The Garage numerous times with friends. It's delicious food, they take reservations, and it's an affordable boozy brunch. Whether I've sat at the bar, at a table inside, or out on the sidewalk, it has been a truly wonderful experience. It's also a great place to take out of town guests because you can walk off your breakfast in just about any direction, especially now that the West Side greenway is open!

WHAT TO BITE? The French Vanilla Bean Soaked French Toast, $15.95 (+$6 for unlimited mimosas, screwdrivers or bloody marys)