FOOD: Boozy Brunch [NYC]

With nice weather comes boozy Sunday brunch.  There's nothing better than waking up late, taking a walk and ducking in for brunch to catch up with friends.  And cocktails that don't stop are perfect to cure whatever you got into the night before.  So here are a few of my favorite places that have great food and perhaps even better drinks.

Photo from fashfoodies.com
Pardon My French (103 Avenue B, between 6th and 7th--East Village)
Pardon My French used to be Casimir's but recently reopened with an improved menu and ambiance.  The brunch deal is still the same though--$25 for an entrée and 2 hours of endless brunch cocktails.  This French inspired brunch spot is perfect for just walking in.

Photo from untappedcities.com
Poco (33 Avenue B, between 3rd and 4th--East Village)
If French isn't really your thing, walk down Avenue B to 4th Street and check out Poco.  Same deal applies here but I find it tends to get a bit crowded.  So making a reservation might be a good bet here.  My recommendation is the lobster mac and cheese.  Super indulgent but always hits the spot.

Photo from calleocho.com
Calle Ocho (45 West 81st Street--Upper West Side)
Calle Ocho is the place to go when you're with a big group.  I went to a surprise birthday party here once and it was perfect.  Keep in mind that reservations fill up fast so it's best to make them way ahead of time, especially with a larger group.  But it's so worth the wait--and the trek uptown.  Endless sangria is the perfect hangover cure.