NYC Brunch

My husband and I will be in NYC in July, staying at the W New York, and I am already planning on dinners at Babbo and Craftsteak, and I know I want to do brunch at Balthazar one morning. I was pretty much decided on brunch at Mesa Grill (I know I DO love Iron Chef America), but I am having second thoughts. Is there anywhere else you guys might suggest for brunch on a Saturday morning (its my b-day so I want it to be nice).
We also have lunch on Friday, so I am open to suggestions for that too.

I don't think it would qualify as bruch, but I love the East-meets-West tea at Takashemaya. This is a super upscale Japanese store and in the basement they have this exquisite, elegant tea room and in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, it really is a wonderful respite. It is on 5th Ave right next to the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon.

They do a combo of Englsih tea sandwiches along with sushi style "sandwiches" (rich with different fillings) and and fresh fruit and other little surprises like truffles and buttery cookies. And the tea selection is incredibly well thought out. I found it lovely and probably one of the more memorable, quiet but thoughtful light meals I've had in a long time.

Have fun in New York!

bjt

I always loved a place called "Good" at 89 Greenwich Avenue (not Street) in the West Village when I lived in New York. Their lemon ricotta pancakes are one of the best things I have ever eaten in my life, light and airy served with fresh strawberries.

You'll get white table cloths and she she specialty drinks to go with your brunch.

Geez, I hope it is still there after all of this praise