-Tasty options for a fun weekend.

Who doesn't love brunch? This delightful weekend meal is an excuse for us to
relax, destress and reconnect with friends and family.
It's something that we look forward to all week. The thought of indulging in a nice brunch meal, while enjoying the company of people we care about, helps to get us through the fast-paced lifestyle that comes with being a New Yorker.

And, now, with sunshine and warmer temperatures fast approaching, we can look forward to enjoying our brunch, not only indoors, but al fresco, as well.

The majority of the city's restaurants and cafes have set up some very appealing
outdoor options to dine in, from semi-enclosed party tents decorated with plants and flowers to Parisian-style sidewalk cafes.

Today's new breed of chefs has designed menus that offer a fresh approach to brunch with an emphasis on local ingredients and a delightfully different spin on the traditional, mouth-watering brunch dishes that you know and love.

Over the past decade or so, the neighborhood of Hell's Kitchen has come into its own as a foodie haven. You can find just about any cuisine you desire here. Innovative brunch dishes are no exception.

And, if you and your friends are looking for an attractive bottomless brunch offering,
you'll find those deals and a whole lot more on tap at Hells' Kitchens's vast array of pubs, upscale bars and restaurants.

So, start making those weekend brunch plans and make the Hell's Kitchen area a must-see, (and taste!), destination on your foodie itinerary.

Sesamo -Hell's Kitchen

On their website, the team behind Sesamo states that; " We are NOT your grandmother's Italian restaurant. After just one visit, a typical Italian Nonna would most definitely agree. But, in a good way."

Taking a bold and cutting-edge approach, Executive Chef Sandy Hall and mixologist Russell Pangilinan have blended traditional Italian cuisine with some well-curated Asian flavors, giving you the best of both worlds.

Proud to source local ingredients whenever possible, chef Hall has put together a menu that is both accessible and challenging to the palate. Yes; these are flavor blends that are different. But, once you've tried one of these Asian-Italian fusion dishes; you'll be back for more!

One of the hallmarks of Italian dining is the emphasis on hospitality. Here at Sesamo, you'll feel genuinely appreciated as the staff sees to it that you and your party enjoy a night to remember.

The welcome mat at Sesamo includes some very nice offers including a $32 Bottomless Brunch deal with two full hours to sip to your heart's content.
When you are doing brunch at Sesamo, be sure to take advantage of their delightful outdoor cafe seating complete with greenery everywhere and rustic wooden tables.

Their brunch menu certainly does include something for everyone. But, two must-try dishes are the Veggie hash with two poached eggs, seasonal veggies, sweet potatoes, scallions and Hollandaise sauce. The chef's Mushroom Toast is incredible. It is topped with a bevy of braised Shiitake and Crimini mushrooms, fresh mozzarella and a heavenly fried egg.

Happy Hour takes place Monday through Friday from 12 PM till 7 PM at the bar only. Magnificent Bobba Tea cocktails can be had for just $10 while a mere eight dollars will get you a red or white sangria or a soothing glass of wine. Select beers are available for six bucks.

Now, let's get to chef Hall's tantalizing menu.

You may choose from an intriguing variety of small plates such as calamari Fritti, made with herbs and Szechuan flour, lime juice and tomato sauce. The chef's take on Italian Roasted Broccolifeatures a tempting peanut sauce and scallions. Octopus is dressed with kumquat agrodolce and is accompanied by daikon root "fries".

If you love pasta, chef Hall has eight options to keep you happy and satiated. The Bucatini is a literal flavor bomb with fava beans and leaves, chilis, snap peas, mint, lemon juice, shiso, wine and a touch of butter. Who could ask for more?
Forget the standard watery, tomato sauce, when you order Sesamo's divine Spaghetti and meatballs. The pasta and savory meatballs are spiced up to another degree with tien tsin chili amidst an intoxicating, made from scratch marinara sauce.

There's only one risotto dish on the menu. But, it's a good one. Dressed in squid ink, Chef Sandy's risotto is paired with fish balls and seasoned with Bonita flakes.

There is no need to have the same old, same old at brunch or dinner when restaurants like Sesamo's offer tastes that are unique, even to a city as diverse as New York.

Contact Info and Hours

764 Tenth Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10019
(212) 265-2755
www.sesamorestaurant.com

Hours :
Monday to Friday 12 PM to 11 PM
Saturday and Sunday 11:30 AM to 11 PM

Jasper's Taphouse and Kitchen-Hell's Kitchen

This cozy pub is the perfect weekend getaway when you and your love are looking for a couple of hours break from the hamster wheel of running errands and work, work, work!

The ambiance is chill with exposed brick and discreet lighting. There's a cool chalkboard menu hanging over the bar, which lists the day's selection of craft beers. In addition
to 20 rotating suds, Jasper's offers a full selection of premium whiskey, bourbon and rye as well as some nifty cocktails.

You won't go thirsty here, at whatever time you come by; brunch, lunch, or when darkness falls, for drinks with your buddies from the office.

Currently, Jasper's is offering a Ninety-minute Bottomless brunch deal for $ 25, with the purchase of any brunch entree. Choose from a Mango Mimosa, Classic Mimosa, Bloody Mary, or Jasper's House Lager.

Stand-out brunch dishes range from the outrageous fried chicken and red velvet waffle platter to the All-American Breakfast which consists of two eggs in any style, sausage, bacon, home fries and mixed greens. Now, some might say that the greens are just on the plate to soothe one's conscience. But, they taste great and really add something to the meal.

Another popular brunch selection is the Huevos Rancheros. Your plate is loaded up with a couple of eggs, sunny-side-up, black beans, sweet plantains, chorizo, avocado, queso fresco and home fries. Come hungry because the portions are HUGE!

Be sure, however, to leave room for the kitchen's signature brunch dessert, the famous Brownie Skillet. Indulgent beyond measure, this dish features a golden flapjack drizzled with maple syrup and topped with a double-chocolate brownie and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Decadence has a new name, that's for sure.

Unlike most establishments, Jasper's even holds court for Happy Hour on the weekend. Yes, you heard that right!
The happiest of times takes place on weekdays from 12 PM to 8 PM. On
Saturday and Sunday, special offers abound between 4 and 8 PM as well as 11 PM until they "turn out the lights ".

A pint of Jasper's House Lager is available for 6 bucks while Margaritas are ready to move at the unbelievable price of just eight dollars. Pro tip: try either the Raspberry Margarita or the Spicy Jalapeno variety. You won't be disappointed. The aforementioned $8 also brings you a selection of well mixers and shots.

Don't miss the boat when it comes to Happy Hour cocktails. They've got a few thirst-quenching libations just made to tickle your fancy for just $9!
Choices include the Copper Dog Old Fashioned; made with Copper Dog Whiskey, bitters and simple syrup. You'll also adore the Jameson Orange Mule, whose ingredients are Jameson Orange, bitters and Ginger beer.

Contact Info and Hours

761 Ninth Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10019
(212)957-1000
www.jaspersnyc.com

Hours :
Monday to Friday 12 PM to 2 AM
Saturday and Sunday 11 AM to 2 AM

Hold Fast Kitchen and Spirits-Hell's Kitchen

If you are heading over to a Broadway show, Hold Fast is THE place to fuel up with a delightful brunch experience. Located only steps from the Theater District, this charming gastropub hits all the right notes from exemplary service to delicious food and an enticing drink list.
Heck, the owner himself has been known to check on tables to make sure that everyone is as happy as can be. The service is personal, which can be a rarity in the hustle and bustle" get 'em in and get 'em out" NYC dining scene.

The vibe here certainly plays a part in attracting a loyal clientele. Hold fast is situated downstairs on the bottom floor of an old New York brownstone. That alone gives the place considerable character.
Things get even better, though, with you've got to see it to believe it outdoor dining structure that redefines the word cozy. When you reserve a table for brunch or dinner, do everything you can to snag a table here.

With the purchase of any brunch entree, you can take advantage of their amazing 2 for $14 Drink Special. Mix or match a Mimosa, Bellini, Screwdriver, Bloody Mary, or a Michelada.
When date night beckons, look into the Oyster Bay Perfect Pairing. Romance will be in the air, as the two of you catch up on your day over a delectable bottle of Oyster bay wine and the kitchen's incredible meat and cheese board.
Worth noting is Hold Fast's Daily Special which is a beer and a shot of house liquor for ten dollars.

But, getting back to brunch, let's look at a few of the amazing offerings. The Creme Brulee French Toast is to-die-for. And the whipped cream is homemade; not from a can, by the way. This filling plate comes with a side of home fries. It will hold you right through till dinner time.
On a somewhat lighter note is the Avocado Smash, which consists of multi-grain toast, creamy avocado, crispy chickpeas, roasted tomatoes and cilantro.
Their Brunch Burger is not just out of this world but from a galaxy far, far away! Sandwiched between a Brioche bun is a mound of juicy beef, topped with bacon, scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese. Now THAT is the ultimate wake-up call.

You may also choose from specially-priced $15 brunch cocktails if you would prefer to order your drinks ala carte.
"Barrier Expressions" is the perfect cocktail for early, (or relatively early), risers. House-made cold brew is superbly blended with Spring 44 Vodka, and Cafe Borgetti Espresso Liqueur.
Refreshing and buzz-worthy is "Don't Forget Your Mask", comprising Grey Goose Essence Strawberry and Lemongrass vodka, Tio Pepe Fino Sherry, and fresh lemon juice and sparkling wine.

Sure, we could go on and on. But, you get the idea. Hold Fast is a place not to be missed. The vibe is always welcoming.

Contact Info and Hours

364 West 46th Street
New York, N.Y. 10036
( 917 ) 261-6691
www.holdfastnyc.com

Hours :
Monday to Friday12 PM to 2 AM
Saturday and Sunday11 AM to 2 AM

Nittis-Hell's Kitchen

This contemporary Italian restaurant is a sight to behold. When you're not being enthralled by the artful presentation of food on your plate, you'll be captivated by the amazing decor that surrounds you.

That the space pops so grandly should come as no surprise. Not when you discover that the magnificent dining room was designed by the two brothers who are behind the fashion brand BOND, whose clients include the musical group The Weekend.

Arben and Kuj Durollari, together with their father Will, have come up with a destination place for lunch, dinner, or just-drinks. Want to impress on a first date? Then make your reservation at Nittis ASAP!

Combining vintage and modern elements, Arben and Kuj decorated the premises with a variety of art deco pieces that they found in an antique shop in the Fashion District. A vintage cash register from way, way back in the day sits atop a glass pastry display case while gold statues decorate both ends of the gorgeous black marble bar.
Long, plush red velvet banquettes are set against the floor-to-ceiling windows that can be opened to create an "outdoor cafe"- like setting.
Throughout the evening, (or at brunch!), you'll be treated to some great music in the background, ranging from classic Dean Martin hits to the sounds of A$AP ROCKY.

Will Durollari comes from a family of culinary professionals. The nickname "Nitti" was given to Will by his grandmother, hence the name of the restaurant.

The menu was created by Will and his son Arben in tandem with executive chef Andrea Napolitano. It is mouth-watering!

Let's get right to their fabulous brunch. The family's take on a classic BLT sandwich sees fresh-baked Italian garlic bread substituted for your run-of-the-mill bread. But, don't fret, there's PLENTY of bacon here to go with the juicy tomato slices and mound of fresh arugula.
The outrageously good Nitti-style French Toast consists of brioche bread that's dipped in their secret batter, rolled in crunchy cornflakes and then grilled to perfection. This irresistible dish is topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar and vanilla bean gelato.

Also on the brunch menu are Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, a very special Bananas Foster Waffle, an Avocado and toast soft scramble and Tagliatelle Carbonara.

The bar offers a very tempting list of brunch cocktails, most of which are specially priced at just $12 or $14. They are SO worth the money.

The Bellini is made with a bountiful pour of Prosecco and house-made peach puree. There's a refreshing taste of heavenly peaches in every sip.
Also, fruit-forward is the delightful Roman Mojito, which is made with Averna amaro, rum, fresh lime juice, mint and a bevy of muddled oranges.
The mixologist's Apple Tini has a nice little edge to it, thanks to the agave. But, the artful blend of Vodka, Cointreau, apple liquor, lime juice and muddled apples is one heck of a taste sensation.

Contact Info and Hours

523 Ninth Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10018
(212) 517-0939
www.nittisnyc.com

Hours :

Monday to Friday 11 AM to 2 AM
Saturday 10:30 AM to 2 AM
Sunday 10:30 AM to 12 AMvv