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Jack's Wife Freda – SoHo
Master Critic Review
Jack's Wife Freda – SoHo
8.7
Since opening in 2012, Jack’s Wife Freda’s SoHo original has become a benchmark for all-day New York brunch, blending Israeli and South African influences into dishes like green shakshuka and rosewater waffles. Heavy review volume and steady lines make it one of the neighborhood’s most reliable, crowd-pleasing breakfast choices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Green Shakshuka, Rosewater Waffle, Mediterranean Breakfast
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: All-day bistro and local institution for Mediterranean-leaning brunch in SoHo.
Who should go: Visitors and locals wanting an iconic, lively New York brunch.
When to visit: Early weekdays or off-peak weekend slots to avoid long waits.
What to order: Green Shakshuka, Rosewater Waffle, Mediterranean Breakfast.
Insider tip: Counter and two-tops turn faster—good bets when the list looks intimidating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in SoHo; expect metered spots to be scarce during peak brunch hours. Closest reliable option is nearby paid garages within a 3–5 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual but stylish; typical SoHo brunch attire. Jeans and sneakers are common, but many guests lean polished for photos and social occasions.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak brunch; conversational at two-tops, but group tables and the tight room add bustle.
Weekend wait: Dinner isn’t the main draw and often sees lighter crowds, but expect 15–30 minutes during peak weekend evenings.
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes during prime lunch hours; walk-in friendly if you arrive early or late in the window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong coverage—shakshukas, salads, egg dishes, and the rosewater waffle offer multiple satisfying vegetarian choices.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—certain salads can be modified, and a few sides combine well for a full meal.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be made gluten-free, including shakshuka and several breakfast plates; gluten-free bread is typically available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its bright, buzzy room and photogenic dishes create an easy, upbeat atmosphere. Not ideal if you want extended privacy, but perfect for a casual, lively first meet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but timing matters. Weekday mornings are easiest, while weekends often require joining the waitlist. Counter seats and smaller two-tops turn over the fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with children 6 and up. The space is tight and can be loud at peak times, but staff is accommodating and the menu has approachable items like waffles and eggs.
Best For
Better for: Lively, quintessential New York brunch energy with Mediterranean-leaning dishes that feel more distinctive than standard American breakfast fare.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, spacious dining rooms, need extensive vegan options, or want a no-wait experience on weekends.