Gentle Readers, last week was an overwhelming display of deliciousness. Team Practical Cook took the show on the road to New York, and we ate for all we were worth. One of the more challenging meals on the road is breakfast. Do you want to spend all morning eating questionable eggs from a buffet? No.
Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes from Veselka
We tried a variety of New York breakfast approaches, and we augmented with dry cereal in the room as a breakfast appetizer. Here’s our journey.
Photobombed by the statue at the edge of Central Park!
Day 1: Veselka
Home of my very favorite blueberry buckwheat pancakes. Plus pierogi!
Potato Pierogi from Veselka
We essentially brunched here. I have fond memories of Veselka breakfasts from my misspent youth, and who knew, they cater to kids too. These pancakes rocked, as did the corned beef hash. Simple comfort food done right, plus wiki sticks for the win.
Corned beef hash with eggs over medium, side of kasha from Veselka
Day 2: Cart Outside Central Park
Egg and Cheese on a Roll, Bagels with Cream Cheese
The Jrs’ First New York Bagel
The experience was great (the Jrs actually paid both times, very exciting), the food was average. When asked if I wanted salt and pepper on my egg and cheese I said yes, and apparently no one had affirmed in some time so great was the enthusiastic application. A good bit of the bagel went to the pigeons as well.
City pigeons meet bird lover and bagel fan.
Day 3: Bouchon
The Most Delicious Blueberry Muffin Ever (plus a Savory Scone, Ham and Cheese Croissant, and Broccoli Quiche)
The Most Delicious Blueberry Muffin Ever from Bouchon
This happened by accident in Rockefeller Plaza, as the original destination simply never opened the doors. I am not sorry. I didn’t think it was possible to make a blueberry muffin that good, it was magic and sunshine. The savory scone featured bacon, cheddar, and herbs, and the warm dishes were nice too. A huge hit with everyone.
Savory Scone from Bouchon
Day 4: The Takeaway Shop Next Door
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on a Roll, Bagel with Cream Cheese, Fruit, Milk
New York breakfast, takeaway shop.
Finally we tried to health it up a little bit. After much excitement in passing this place every day on the way to and from the hotel, the end result was less thrilling. My bagel was good, the Jrs are not sold on rolls versus biscuits. The fruit and milk were consumed though, and the idea that you could just grab and go was inspiring.
The Jrs take on the Big City!
In the end, I realized why I lean on Starbucks so often when I travel: predictable oatmeal and pumpkin bread. Add a latte to it and call it a meal. I couldn’t do that in NYC, seemed wrong. But we were never close to the greatest bagel or the dive-iest diner at the right time. I look forward to hearing your breakfast recommendations in NYC and beyond! Post a comment, send a Tweet, share your strategy!
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Coming up Friday: The Watermelon Semifreddo Recipe!! (For the summer win!)
