ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Long Island City
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Long Island City
Master Critic Review
Vert Frais
8.3
A high-visual, Japanese-meets-French cafe that’s built for weekend brunch photos but actually delivers when you order smart. The soufflé pancakes get the hype, yet the savory plates are what make it feel like a full meal instead of a dessert stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Matcha soufflé pancake, Omurice, Matcha French toast
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Aesthetic café brunch with soufflé pancakes and real savory depth.
Who should go: Friends who want brunch photos and substance.
When to visit: Arrive before opening on weekends.
What to order: Soufflé pancakes, omurice, one specialty latte.
Insider tip: Do one sweet + one savory—two sweets gets heavy fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive on weekends; nearby paid garages around Court Square are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Stylish casual — brunch-chic fits the room. Jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished.
Noise level: Moderate — lively brunch energy but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes during peak brunch hours without arriving early
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait outside of noon–1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetarian-friendly savory dishes plus pastries and pancakes.
Vegan options: Limited — a few customizable items, but not a full vegan lineup.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some naturally gluten-free plates, but cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the visual wow factor breaks the ice, and sharing one sweet and one savory dish keeps things interactive without feeling heavy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but timing matters — arrive before opening on weekends or aim for a late weekday brunch for the best chance.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids — pancakes are a hit, but the tight space and high-energy brunch crowd make it less ideal for strollers or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: High-impact brunch visuals paired with genuinely well-executed savory dishes — stronger balance than most dessert-forward café brunch spots.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, relaxed brunch or classic American breakfast plates — this is more scene-driven and curated.