Burger + Barrel's Meaty New Brunch



Steak frites for brunch

Burger & Barrel just began brunch service, which makes shopping in Soho or seeing a matinee at the Angelika an even better weekend outing.

The brunch menu has appealing all American flair: Smoked salmon + egg 'pizza' ($12), a B+B bacon breakfast sandwich ($12), and even chef Josh Capon's signature Bash burger ($14) is available for brunch. Truth be told, I was not a fan of the Bash burger, despite all the raves. The bacon jam had a strange flabby consistency and tinny after taste.

But if you're craving some daytime beef, the classic steak frites ($27) delivers. A red wine shallot butter slowly melts atop a generous sirloin cut. No fuss. Just good taste.



A mound of short rib hash hides under eggs

The short rib hash ($14) is a standout. You'd never guess by the image. What's hiding under the fried eggs is a generous serving of soft, succulent short rib and cubed potatoes. Add a bit of creamy guac, pico de gallo, and crisp flatbread, and the flavors snap, crackle and pop.

25 W Houston (between Greene + Mercer Sts.)
212 334 7320
Brunch Sat + Sun, 11:30 am - 4pm
Brunch reservations recommended

The Best Hot Chocolate in Soho



Extra thick hot chocolate


It’s a good thing French confectionery MarieBelle in Soho sells edible treats and not priceless baubles. Otherwise, I’d be broke. Everything looks like an elegant gem, beautifully packaged and irresistible. One item worth every luxurious calorie is the prepared hot chocolate (you can purchase the cocoa mix too). Served in the tiny back room Cacoa Bar + Tea Salon, it’s a guilty pleasure to experience away from the maddening Soho crowd this holiday season.  Sit down and indulge. While they offer half a dozen tempting options including mocha and spicy blend, go straight for the dark 70% cacao. A small cup ($6.50) is more than enough, and so rich you eat it with a spoon. How’s that for pure indulgence?

484 Broome St., between Wooster and W. Broadway, 212 925 6999

Treats galore