Insider Pages Reviews for Clinton St Baking Co & Rest

5 Stars: Awesome coffee and homemade biscuits!! (by Flushingsfinest08)

Flushingsfinest08 — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:00:00 GMT

I have been to this restaurant about four times, and love it each time more. The wait time is unbelieveably long, so I stick to going on weekday mornings - on the weekends the wait time can be upwards of an hour. The restaurant is super small so it is a litlle cramped, but the food is so worth it. The coffee is really good and the biscuits are so fresh, they just fall apart. I usually have a breakfast sandwich. I definitely recommend it.

5 Stars: give the owners a break! great food means trouble! (by nbagel)

nbagel — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:00:00 GMT

I have been reading all your reviews and can sympathize with all you say. Great food means wait time. All the hype means high expectations. Doesn't mean they cannot fullfill them but in a small place it does require several people working their butts off with no time off. You cannot duplicate the owners - they work hard but cannot always be there. We expect everyone to do the same job and cook as well but....
at a point everything suffers. Hopefully the owners will downsize (maybe dinner) and focus their attention on what needs the most. Obviously breakfast, brunch & lunch. And why on weekends are they not open until 10? Did I read this wrong because I own a bagel restaurant and am open at 6 am. HOT breakfast early. In that, I feel they are setting themselves up for trouble. Open earlier and there will not be those 2 hour wait times. Sounds like they are doing great but maybe need to re-evalute how they are doing it. Don't live in the moment but plan for the future! Love what they are doing and hope they can look ahead!

4 Stars: Weekday Dinner (by joshprosen)

joshprosen — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Sure, Brunch is alll Hype at Clinton St. But my buddies and I like it for dinner after work- Beer and Burger Special is a great choice. Reviewer said bad looking hosts, but we sit at the bar because of some especially cute and friendly bartenders.

3 Stars: Improve service, please!!! (by clintonStreetResident)

clintonStreetResident — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:00:00 GMT

We've been customers from the neighborhood for more than 7 years and I have to say we now think twice before walking down to Clinton Street Baking Company. For example, today we went to Le Gamin on 5th Street which was really good.

WHY:
The hostess on Sundays is rude and has a really short fuse with customers. Yes the place is mobbed on Sundays but that's no reason not to use words like 'please' or 'thanks'. Smiling occasionally is nice too (two or three sundays ago she didn't smile once the entire time we were there). Sometimes people have come a long way to enjoy the food and this hostess treats people badly. While we waited we were able to watch her become really nasty with some woman (not from New York and admittedly annoying) who was just asking how much longer she would have to wait.

The host on Friday night isn't much better--having loud personal telephone conversations in the waiting area at the front of the restaurant is tacky and when people are waiting to be seated it's really bad service. We felt like we'd entered a 'wise-guy joint' with this host. No one is looking for 5 star service but these people are rude!!!

What's worse is that neither of these two is particularly good looking so the attitude comes off really really badly. I hope the hosting staff isn't an indicator of where things are going at this place--it used to be a neighborhood place where you wanted to go...now it's like anywhere else downtown with decent food (actually the food is always amazing--hats off to the kitchen!!!) and nasty (though not good looking) hosts. 3 stars is generous..it's probably more like 2.5 because no matter how good the food the attitude of the hosts ruins the dining experience.

1 Stars: Undercooked chicken (by lauragleecontact)

lauragleecontact — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Hi My boyfriend ordered the stuffed whole chicken, and the stuffing was clearly bad... let's just say we weren't well for about 5 days. Another friend who is trained as a chef ordered chicken on a different occasion, and when she bit into it it was bloody. BEWARE!!!

I was sad to find out this because until that day, it was a very pleasant place to go. I think I will have to avoid it from now on :(....

3 Stars: Good but not great. (by L. C.)

L. C. — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:22:00 GMT

Perhaps i wasn't too hungry that find morning when I was lucky enough to get a seat at the Clinton St. Baking Co. My sister had just flown in from SF and she requested this brunch place that is usually brimming with people. I actually can not recall what I ordered but I do remember there was a nice fluffy biscuit on top of the goodness on my plate. I'll come back for the biscuit.

2 Stars: OVERRATED....is an understatement! (by shireen1)

shireen1 — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Ok, the "good reviews" are obviously from people who have never been to IHOP. My friend and I had the Blueberry Pancakes, the Banana Pancakes, Buttermilk biscuits, bacon and egg. I'm not sayin' the food was horrible, but definitely not worth a 2-hr wait and a $60 bill!.....I believe 85% of the patrons waiting in the cold for two hours, are there for no other reason than obtainng the braggings rights of sayin you've been to "the one and only CHSB" (i know thats what i waited in line) But, was highly disappointed. If you have a craving for pancakes and eggs go to IHOP, same food, alot cheaper and a lot less hype.

3 Stars: Highly Overated...Go to IHOP instead (by Acg104)

Acg104 — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Finally got to Clinton St. after months of being too tired to wait on the line that I had been made aware of by all of the other reviews. Anyway, so as expected my friend and I waited for an hour and a half before we were seated (We went on Saturday morning by the way). Anyway, ordered the buttermilk biscuit sandwich with eggs,bacon and hash browns as well as the banana walnut pancakes..my friend had the same,but the blueberry pancakes. Not that anything was bad ( except for the biscuit which was pretty dry), but nothing was spectacular as I expected it to be. Pancakes were good, not great and I had a hard time eating them because the syrup looked like Buckley's cough syrup.

My recommendation? Skip the wait and catch IHOP on a good day.

4 Stars: super place (by sethgg)

sethgg — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:00:00 GMT

convenient and delicious and fun and convenient and delicious convenient and delicious and fun and convenient and delicious

5 Stars: Best Fried Chicken (by rosebud158)

rosebud158 — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Yes, their brunches are amazing and the wait is epic but I like to go there for dinner. The fried chicken is juicy, never dry! The fried green tomatoes are cooked in a delicate cornmeal and are a wonderful complement. Steer away from the crab cakes, small and didn't taste fresh.
The baked items are always good so save room for dessert, all are amazing. Usually a biscuit with a side of jam is all I need to end a perfect meal there.

3 Stars: Would not recommend (by gm16)

gm16 — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:00:00 GMT

I discovered this place because of city guide. However after having brunch there this past Sunday I would say that this place is definitely overrated. We ordered a Spanish omelet and a Vanilla waffle that was topped with pecans and pears. We would recommend the Waffle but not the Spanish omelet. Most around us were ordering the Pancakes. Quite honestly, for the reviews and ratings on this site, I was expecting good food, but we both felt that we could have had this anywhere else for the same cost. Most menu items average between $12 - $18.

5 Stars: most amazing brunch (by Zibbyg15)

Zibbyg15 — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Totally worth the wait! I went here and was told there was going to be an hour and a half wait but i ended up waiting only about 45 minutes. People complain about the wait, but if you are with people you enjoy then it really shouldnt be a problem. I had never been there before but had heard great things about their eggs and in particular their bisucits! Im from texas and always enjoy a DELCIOUS biscuit and frankly, the biscuits here were better than the ones in Texas. Also, their choc. chip scone and choc banana muffin were delicous. I went on a sat. morning around 11 and only waiting 45 minutes wasnt bad. I chatted with my boyfriend, went in and got the muffin adn scone and just relaxed. It WASNT THAT BAD PEOPLE!!!!!!! I highly recommend this place. THe eggs were also amazingly declious. Cooked perfectly and just the correct amount of things inside. people need to stop complaining, enjoy their company, and try Clinton St. Baking Co. IT IS THE BEST!!!!!

4 Stars: Fantastic! I can't believe the bad reviews (by blanchita121)

blanchita121 — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:00:00 GMT

I went to CSBC this past Sat. morn alone -- arrived at 9:20 and was third in line. I didn't realize they don't seat until 10am. I watched the line form and a hostess came out to take everyone on the line's name. When they call you in for your table at 10, all the water and silverware are at your seat. I found the service excellent and very friendly, as was the hostess. No one tried to rush my party of one, either, which can happen. In fact, I asked the hostess and a bus boy questions and was answered very politely and warmly. All of my food came out piping hot with my AMAZING blueberry/maple/butter pancakes emitting steam that could burn your tongue if not careful. Pancakes were so fluffy -- if you like IHOP, then go there! The cheesy grits were warm and gooey with all the comfort of home. The bacon is done properly and nice and thick. I truly can't wait to go back. The couple next to me said the fried green tomatoes were fantastic -- they looked that way too -- good and crunchy outer coating. I love you CSBC!

1 Stars: AVOID! (by blave)

blave — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Not so sure what the rave about this place is compared with any other diner on the street. I ordered the special, Truffle Fried Egg, what a disappointment! Oily! Not seasoned! And something I could have made better at home! We also had the pancakes, which were ho-hum...The biscuits were so dry I had to drink a few glasses of water just to get down the bites...Pancakes were like anything you could order from International House Of Pancakes!

Check out better places in the city where you can get a much better brunch menu and better space to eat, without the 1.5 hour wait.
For good biscuits and gravy go to the Comfort Diner.
For good bread and service go to the Blue Water Grille.
For great cheese and fondue brunch go to Artisinal.
For awesome food and brunch in general go to Balthazar.
The Noho Star is a great place in the area which serves better food and less of a wait.
Penelope's for their Penny Sandwhich!
Any meatpacking restaurant like Pastis or Vento.
Serafina or Waldorf (Peacock Alley) for eggs Benedict.

You see with all these choices there is no need to go here! Be warned!

2 Stars: Not worth the hype - Hour and half wait for cold eggs and a rude hostess..... (by emanyc)

emanyc — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 09:00:00 GMT

NOT WORTH WAITING AN HOUR AND A HALF FOR COLD EGGS.....This place must have gone down hill from when other recomended it. We got there at 10:30 and were finally seated at 12:00 after speaking to the rude red head hostess that sat three sets of people in front of our party of two. Once we were seated and ordered the food arrived it and it was cold I mean really cold. Not worth the hype! Don't waste a sunday morning here.

5 Stars: Perfect (by DumpyBumpy)

DumpyBumpy — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:00:00 GMT

This place is perfect. Go early to avoid line up.. It opens at 10 during wkend, we'd go at or before 930 to make sure we can be seated right at 10. I really dont want to tell anyone, but their dinner is even a better deal. Go early on a weekday to avoid lineups.

3 Stars: smallest place on earth (by vav11238)

vav11238 — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Read all the reviews here and was excited about having brunch last Sunday. Sadly, I hadn't read that it is one of the SMALLEST places becasue if I had, I wouldn't have waisted my time. Be aware that the establishment is TINY...and unless you've already eaten and aren't starving then this might be the place for you to go....otherwise pick one of the other thousands of restaurants in NYC.

5 Stars: Make the Most of the wait...It's worth it! (by sfcrew)

sfcrew — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:00:00 GMT

I have been to CSB several times but the SF-Crew made its first stop there a couple of weeks ago, and I suggest enforcing a no complaint rule b/c you WILL need to wait on a wknd. However, I'm sure all members of my crew will concur IT'S WORTH THE WAIT! You just need to be creative. We waited 2 hrs, but during those hours we made the most of it...we went to a cute place down the street and had a couple of mimosas, had a photo shoot, and brought back hanging out on the stoop. I recommend dining with people you want to spend time with. However I digress, the truth is I doubt you will find a better brunch place in NYC, there's a reason people wait two hours, and at this place I can assure you it's not for their health! The maple butter sauce is possibly one of the best things I have ever tasted and their pancakes are like none other. The best way to experience the true deliciousness that is the CSB is with a quality spltzy's (you and your dining partner(s) share your meals). The wait staff was extremely accommodating; after our 2hr wait they gave us double Bellini?s/Mimosas to thank us for being patient. I would classify CSB as an event instead of a brunch b/c unless you go there during the week, which I have yet to do, you are going to wait. So make the most of it and enforce the no complaint rule, b/c once you taste the maple butter sauce you will realize what the hypes all about!
-SF Crew

3 Stars: NOT WORTH THE WAIT, AVOID WEEKENDS (by bellaime)

bellaime — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 09:00:00 GMT

I would def recommend this place but only once to see what the freaking hype is about, but it is not worth the wait especially if you have to deal with a bitchy hostess with a power trip. The service is barely average, the hostess was not nice ( excuse my language but she was just awful, miserable and not pleasant). As a hostess, you the first impression people have about the restaurant, you should make the feel welcomed since they are spending their hard earned money to eat there my money is paying your bills. It was so bad, people did not want to go up and ask her how much longer.

Got there at 10.40 ( restaurant opens at 10) i still had to wait 2 hours, plus she got mad because i asked her for a menu and asked how much longer while we were waiting. She basically told me with the biggest attitude i just told you 15 minutes ago, it would be an hour and a half, next thing she starts seating others that came after me. I was ready to leave but the people i came with were dying to eat here based on the reviews. Even the bartender came by and said you have been here forever, the lovely guy offered carrot cake while we waited and checked to see how much longer. He was the only nice thing about the place.

Do not get me wrong, the food is pretty good but you can find places that serve brunch that just as good. Try it once but get there at 9.30. If you are hungry def, don't go there. The food is def not worth the attitude and the wait. If you must have it, go on a weekday. Food is meant to be enjoyed especially if i am spending my cash there, and the hostess left a very poor taste in my mouth. I will never ever go back there. there are tons of restaurant in that area that are just as nice. I worked hard all week and i just want to enjoy a meal and not feel rushed after waiting 2 hours to eat.

4 Stars: Good brunch, Don't think I'll wait again (by jameslar)

jameslar — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:00:00 GMT

Have heard a lot of hype about this place, so we finally tried it out for brunch. Food was good and flavorful and service was adequate for a brunch. Just don't think I will wait in line again that early in the morning. Maybe it is just me

5 Stars: Awesome brioche french toast (by superjailbird)

superjailbird — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:00:00 GMT

Service was not bad at all, although we went at 2:30 pm on a Saturday. I got the Chef's omelette (brunch special), with smoked trout and caviar, very good.

The avocado salad consisted of 3 ingredients: greens (like you get from a bagged salad), a few thin slices of red onion, and avocado slices. No flavor, unimpressive, nothing luxurious about it!

You should definitely try this place; just don't order avocado salad.

5 Stars: the BEST BREAKFAST EVER (by melanie l.)

melanie l. — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 15:35:00 GMT

clinton st baking company is a must if you are going to be in new york. this was the best breakfast that i've EVER HAD. everything is fresh, including the scones and biscuits, straight from the oven. the mixed berry scone was so good, i had to take one to go.

2 Stars: Soso Dinner, Medicore Service (by frparker1)

frparker1 — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 09:00:00 GMT

I've eaten at Clinton Str Baking Co a few times for breakfast and brunch, this was my first time having dinner. The food, Crab Cakes, Coleslaw and Sweet Potato fries was the absolute worst. The crab cakes and fries were burnt. The coleslaw wasn't great but it was the main attraction. The biscuts served were extremely hard, almost like a pretzel with very little taste. The waiter was inattentive, in our hour in the resturant we didn't get a single refill of water or nor did he ever come to check out how we were doing. It was not busy and he only had two tables, so he had time to make the effort. When I did get his attention to tell him about the fries, he looked at me like I was stupid and said it was sweet potatoes so it was darker than white potatoes when fried. Wow! So I'm a dummy and don't know the difference in color! The worst was I heard him (I was sitting directly in front of the kitchen's open window) tell the cook that the fries were burnt and she responded "too bad," and "don't give them any discount, it's not my problem." At the very least, they could have taken the cost of the single side of fries of the ticket but it's about the dollar not the service apparently. I've always had decent service in the mornings and usually stick to pancakes and breakfast type foods--and have been very satisfied. The poor service isn't worth the trek over to Clinton Street, when there are better places for a foodie to eat on the Upper West and Upper East side when in town.

4 Stars: Yummmmmmmoooooo (by hkgoddess)

hkgoddess — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 09:00:00 GMT

We are visiting New York and read about the Clinton St Baking Co and Restaurant.... and just HAD to check it out for ourselves. What a delightful treat!! The food was divine, and the place ever so quaint. The service was a little slow, but all in all, worth the wait. Best Huevos Rancheros I've ever had.... (get it with the chorizo)... and they have a lovely roasted beet and goats cheese salad.... the most amazing tastes ever...... yummmmmmooooo. Granted, we went at about 11:30 on a weekday (a rather cold and rainy weekday in August mind you!!) so we didn't have a long wait at all.... it's a small place, so be prepared. I don't know that I would be someone who could wait 2 hrs for any meal... so i'm happy that our first experience was such a memorable one. :)

5 Stars: Best breakfast ever... (by straesser)

straesser — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 09:00:00 GMT

Best breakfast I've ever had. The pancakes didn't taste like a "mix" but like a light cake, served with a mixture of melted butter and syrup. The fried green tomatoes were the best! Crispy on the outside and melted in your mouth. And the bisquits and ham tasted better than any other bisquits and ham I've had. My boyfriend and I were in heaven and thought that it was worth the 3000 mile trip just to eat there. Highly recommend. Try to go on weekday around 10:30 or 11:00 as you get a better chance of being seated immediatly. Otherwise expect a long wait--but oh so worth it. I wish we had this restaurant in our California home town.

4 Stars: Amazing brunch if you can stand the 2 hour wait (by nordr)

nordr — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 09:00:00 GMT

My friends and I went to this place on a Sunday around 12, which I knew from its reputation alone would mean epic wait times. Well we waited for 2 hours just as promised but it seems that the table seating is less than democratic. We watched again and again as the hostess turned away people because they "couldn't seat any groups of 4" and then 5 minutes later a group of 4 attractive girls walk in and put on the list with a promised 30 minute wait time! This place is trendy and overall the vibe was pretty snotty. Some people probably love that and are part of it while others don't care because the food is "that good." I had the scrambled egg sandwich on a buttermilk biscuit with bacon and tomato jelly. It was unreal. I also tried the pancakes which were perfect.

Overall if all you care about it food quality then this is a great place. Just don't be suprised when you wait for hours while everyone in the place gossips about what other people are wearing.

5 Stars: Best Brunch in NYC (by cmjustice21)

cmjustice21 — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 09:00:00 GMT

Their pancakes are amazing, the chorizo breakfast plate ......have it with the cheese grits and be in heaven ..everything it great ...be prepared for a long wait to be seated but believe me it is sooo worth it. :)

5 Stars: Worth the Wait (by echin)

echin — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 09:00:00 GMT

I went to Clinton St. Baking Company for brunch on a Saturday morning. My friend and I waited an hour and I have to say that this place is worth the wait. The food is delicious. The fresh menu is orginial and creative. Everything, from the orange juice to the jam, is homemade and extremely wholesome. I had the Spanish Scamble and it was just amazing. Go for brunch or breakfast!!

5 Stars: BEST Brunch/Breakfast/Lunch. Period. (by lalomar)

lalomar — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:00:00 GMT

Chef Neil's love of food is evident on every plate coming out of the kitchen. Simply my favorite NY restaurant. Consistently good. Hint: Go on a weekday and avoid the 1+ hr wait on weekends... lunch and dinner is largely unrated...and also terrific. This place is open 7 days a week! Just GO already.

5 Stars: like juniors cheesecake , clinton streets pancakes are a new york institution (by jkurtz1)

jkurtz1 — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 09:00:00 GMT

what makes a restaurant a great place for a native new yorker?

solid food at solid prices.

having said that , any real new yorker knows that clinton street is one of those places.

the blueberry pancakes are fast becoming a ny institution.

i have told dozens of friends that when you go dont look at the menu , just get the "pancakes"

very soon when people think of pancakes they will think of clinton street just like they think of juniors when they think of cheesecake.

p.s. - just get the pancakes

4 Stars: ....made Dad's day! (by cannonball44)

cannonball44 — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 09:00:00 GMT

i didn't want to do it...but my dad said all he wanted for father's day was the brioch french toast at clinton st. i stopped the brunch routine awhile ago because even half an hr before they open there is a line down the block! i need my maple butter sauce like the rest of the NYC, but cmon. but when dad made his wishes known, i took the fam ready to wait. the host told us an hour and a half, so we took off & returned in about 45.....to be greeted with a plate of mini pancakes for the crowd outside! we all stayed strong for dad. i checked in after an hour and was told there was one groiup ahead of us. we ended up waiting for about an hour 20, then the host got us from the bench across the street. our waitress came right over to take our order. i already knew i was having the huevos rancheros, and we all knew what dad was having. mom and sis had crabcakes benedict (it was a special but should be on the menu all the time!!!!) and granola. the waitress suggested we get fried green tomatoes because they were her favorite. i would come back for those alone (she told us they also have them at lunch and dinner--shhh!). but the best thing was that the food came right away! we barely waited once we sat down, which i remember from my old days in the line. we cleaned our plates and left with a smile as everyone thanked us on our way out. clinton baking, i was scared to do the sunday thing but the wait was worth it for dad.

1 Stars: Hostess and bartender ruined it all (by tsetsefly88)

tsetsefly88 — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:00:00 GMT

I know it's a very popular place, but it would be appreciated if the hostess and bartender treated their customers better. The tall red-head was curt and uncaring. One customer cut us in line and instead of mediating the situation, she told us to "battle it out ourselves". We decided not to make a stink and put ourselves back on the waiting list. While waiting for our table, we tried to order two lattes behind the counter. The guy behind the counter was too busy to deal with us. We ended up waiting for more than 10 minutes. The hostess saw all this and didn't try to help. Worse, another customer came up later to ask for coffee and was served immediately. I was so upset at the way we were treated that I walked out of the restaurant. I will never go back there again. The food is good, but is not worth the wait and not worth putting up with the horrible customer service. We ended up at Schillers -- food there was just as good, the waiters and hostess were so attentive!

2 Stars: not worth waiting in line for (by lillywilly)

lillywilly — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 09:00:00 GMT

i just don't get why people would actually wait in line for this???? yes, its good (not great) food. so why wait in a 2 hour line? hmmmm....

5 Stars: Best pancakes I've EVER had!!! (by mljilu)

mljilu — Tue, 08 May 2007 09:00:00 GMT

I was with family friends, we hauled 7 kids from Times Square area to this cute little bakery/restaurant on the lower east side... we waited 40 minutes for a table... kids were STARVING...but ALL of it was worth the wait and haul!! The pancakes were the BEST we had ever enjoyed (along with the maple butter)! My friend had fish tacos that were fresh and AWESOME!! The french toast was thick and tasty!! Having dined all over the country and appreciating AWESOME food you will not go wrong with your choice of this cute out of the way place!!!

4 Stars: Terrible Hostess (by jamh412)

jamh412 — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 09:00:00 GMT

The food was great but after waiting for an hour and a half I am not sure I even tasted my food, I was so hungry. What got me upset was the fact that parties of two that came in after us got seated right away. The hostess kept us waiting for the bigger table. We only had three people and she should have put two tables together to accommodate us since we were there first. Everyone that were there before and after us all got seated before we did. That was not nice!!

5 Stars: The BEST...period (by krystyna03)

krystyna03 — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 09:00:00 GMT

Why would any twenty-something set their alarm at 8:30 am on a Saturdayafter being out until 3 am? It's simple, brunch at Clinton Street. Either than the wait - hence going super early - everything I've eaten here is amazing. The pancakes are the best I've ever had, especially thanks to the maple butter. You cant lose if you order something with a biscuit, ie the classic eggs with tomato relish or the turkey with gravy. And most importantly, since you are getting up early, they pour some fantastic cocktails to start your day right. The spiked apple cider in the winter rocks......

Just go try it, really.

5 Stars: Most incedible pancakes ever. (by dromm)

dromm — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 09:00:00 GMT

This is an experience in culinary delights! My family each had something different; ( so we could all try ) and we were all satisfied and each thought it was the best brunch we had ever had. The staff was quick and friendly and the owners , Neil and DeDe, are real and down to earth.Don't miss out on this cute hot spot . We'll be back!

3 Stars: A BETTER BRUNCH...SOMEWHERE ELSE (by wwtraveler)

wwtraveler — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 09:00:00 GMT

2nd VISIT A TOTAL TURN OFF!
Our first visit was really great ( we were told an hour wait but got in sooner and the staff was friendly) so l coudn't wait to take a friend who is a pastry chef at one of NYC's best restaurants.
Turn off #!... THE HOSTESS. A tall,sturdy, curly redhead who miscalculated an estimated 1 hour wait by 40 mins. Yes she was busy refilling coffee and fielding hundreds of questions that usually began with " how much longer?". Her job wasn't easy but, she should drop "The Soup N@%i" attitude.
Turn off #2....Unlike our first visit, the food was just mediocre. The omelet was void of any kind of seasoning, served with a cold biscuit and equally flavorless hashbrowns...no salt, pepper...nada.
Turn off #3...$50.00 later, we walked out and were TOTALLY DISAPPOINTED. I have recommended many of my hotel guests to Clinton St. Baking Co. but regrettably I can't chance my reputation on poor food served with a heaping scoop of "attitude" to boot.

5 Stars: Awesome $10 burger & beer special - one of the best deals in the city (by wupower)

wupower — Sun, 17 Dec 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Their daily $10 burger & beer special from 6-8 p.m. can't be beat. One of the best burgers in the city, accompanied by house-made chips (yum yum) and a Guss' pickle, and topped off with a tasty Brooklyn lager. Awesome awesome!

4 Stars: why do it to yourself, guys? (by goodeatin344)

goodeatin344 — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 09:00:00 GMT

gotta say, every weekend i watch the crowds congregate outside and ask myself why. the food is fantastic, don't get me wrong, but i just don't understand waiting 2 hours to eat anywhere in this city. all you brunchies should ditch that wait time and swing by for pancakes and eggs benny at dinner, when you can walk right in and snag a table. i guess maybe the post below has a point about attitude, but on the other hand, i get my cuppa joe there every day and i've heard the nastiest things from customers as they demand to be seated. props to them for turning it out in such a small place. you'll find me there after dark with a big plate of blueberry pancakes!!

5 Stars: Great food but crazy crowded (by robota)

robota — Thu, 09 Nov 2006 09:00:00 GMT

I live in the neighborhood so every weekend I pass the mass of people waiting out in front to eat brunch.
The food is really good but I just don't understand the willingness to wait in a huge line. One time when I was across the street at the Italian sandwich place I counted the people waiting to go in. There were 23. And the place isn't all that big to begin with. Better off going for dinner sometime or even their lunch menu on a week day is tasty and far more manageable a crowd.

4 Stars: Great food, terrible wait (by irvinsha)

irvinsha — Mon, 30 Oct 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Let's get it out of the way. The food is amazing. This may be one of the best brunch places that I've ever been to, hands down. For months, I raved about it and tried to get other people to go with me. However, as attentive readers may have noticed, the wait is INSANE. I have never been able to get anyone to back with me because it just takes way too long to get back in. Still, I'll always have the memory of the delicious, delicious meal. Sigh.

5 Stars: BEST BRUNCH, BEST PANCAKES, and just EXCELLENT food! (by bellster11375)

bellster11375 — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Brunch is WELL WORTH the wait. Award-winning pancakes, sinfully yummy cider, GOOD-sized portions... there's something here for EVERYONE. Only down side: they don't take reservations! If you want to check it out during the week, they have great burgers - and happen to serve pancakes then as well. The space is cozy, not much room, but WHO CARES?! The food is fresh, delicious, and creative. It's classic American/comfort food. Thumbs up EVERY TIME!!

4 Stars: be prepared to wait... but then to be impressed! (by nyclau)

nyclau — Thu, 07 Sep 2006 09:00:00 GMT

i went during the week (on a tues, i believe) but the place was still packed. i had to wait about 15-20 minutes, but it was certainly worth the wait! the orange juice was fresh squeezed and the pancakes were to die for. (you can choose between banana walnut and blueberry.) the special--poached pear waffles--was dry and not good, but the pancake portion was large enough for my friend and i to share. the food isn't very cheap, but the quality is superb, so it's certainly worth the price! just make sure you go when you're not in a rush. ALSO, the place has delicious pastries and muffins. (get the blueberry crumb muffin--you won't regret it!)

4 Stars: go during the week (by gingerleggo)

gingerleggo — Tue, 15 Aug 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Worth the wait, yes? but why wait at amateur hour brunch when you can get in for b-fast during the week or have those pancakes at dinner?

still my fave place, but like all good ny institutions (barney greengrass, serendipity, etc) you need to be clever about when you go.

5 Stars: Hands-down, BEST pancakes on the planet! (by defyinggravity05)

defyinggravity05 — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 09:00:00 GMT

I honestly wish I could explain in words how absolutely phenomenal the pancakes at Clinton Street Baking Co. are, but alas, such words to serve justice to the pancakes have not yet been introduced to the English language. In any case, the pancakes are wonderfully thick but light, and absolutely fantastic with bananas and walnuts. The maple butter is a great substitute for traditional maple syrup as well. This truly is the PERFECT pancake... You MUST try it! (And their fresh-squeezed orange juice is quite tasty as well) Also, if possible, I highly recommend going during the week, as it is much less crowded than the pandemonium that ensues during the weekend. It IS worth the wait though :)

5 Stars: Yummy, Delicious, Tasty, & Hearty! (by beansandsprouts)

beansandsprouts — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 09:00:00 GMT

I highy recommend this place. Besides their awesome freshly baked biscuits please try the country fried chicken with honey dip and cole slaw. I was absolutely impressed. It was the best fried chicken I ever had! I can't wait to go back again.

5 Stars: Great for brunch or dinner (by sytwix)

sytwix — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 09:00:00 GMT

For brunch, their pancakes and French toast are great, but I prefer the eggs Benedict with smoked salmon.

If you go for dinner, try the appetizers but don't over order since the portions are often quite generous.

For takeout I recommend the berry scones and biscuits (rich but worth it).

5 Stars: Wish there were more places like this (by bevhillsdavid)

bevhillsdavid — Tue, 27 Jun 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Stop whatever you're doing and go directly to Clinton Street. I can not understate how delicious the food is at this establishment. I've recently switched from being predominantly a brunch customer to going mostly for dinners. Their consistency at dinner and surprisingly low tarif has revived my faith in humanity. For the longest time there hasn't been a place that so reliably delivers great food at any meal. My husband laughs every time he asks where I'd like to eat, because he knows the answer already.

PS - it may not immediately jump off the page, so I'll recommend that you try the artichoke and goat cheese brulee salad.

3 Stars: Something's fishy! (by helloerika)

helloerika — Wed, 24 May 2006 09:00:00 GMT

While my date and I had enjoyed a lovely dinner at Clinton Street Baking Co earlier this winter, our second visit last night proved overwhelmingly disappointing- guaranteeing we will never return. Beware - for diners (such as ourselves) who tend to prefer fish over shellfish , there is only one spring menu fish entree. The menu would lead you to believe there are two: a coriander crusted filet and an entree of fish tacos. But beware, when they're out of the first selection suddenly fish tacos = scallops and shrimp, not a flounder in sight. Plus, the waitress totally ignored our table - never asked how we were doing. Even the blueberry pie couldn't keep us there a minute longer. And BTW- two crab-cakes does not a "crab-cake meal" make, CSBC&R!!

3 Stars: average (by theresax)

theresax — Sun, 16 Apr 2006 09:00:00 GMT

had dinner last night w/ a group of 7 and we didnt wait too long to be seated considering it was a Saturday night. service was so so but I think there were really only to waiters but they were trying their best. I ordered the house green salad and the spicy shrimp w/ cheese grits. I didnt care for the salad much, very plain, only greens, hence green salad. the shrimp was ok but the spicy sauce it was in tasted more like a tangy bbq sauce? the cheese grits were bland. my bf ordered the butcher plate which I thought wasnt too bad but you'd be better off skipping it, probably much better at a tapas place or something. he also ordered the pork chop which was pretty tasty. a friend had the crab cakes and sweet potato fries which I really liked, wish I wouldve ordered that.

4 Stars: If you have the time it's worth the wait (by sumptiousny)

sumptiousny — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 09:00:00 GMT

I went here for Brunch last Sunday after having heard so much about it and also seeing the crowds abound outdoors while passing. The friend joining me insisted all menu items were fantastic and told me Clinton St Bakery was her favorite brunch place. I had the Eggs Benedict - food was tasty and home-made biscuits were absolutely delicious - coffee came in those huge bowl-like cups. Portions are substantial and service is average. You're probably looking at about an hours wait during weekend Brunch hour but if you can wait it's worth the time.

5 Stars: Very Long Wait but worth it (by nic1120)

nic1120 — Mon, 13 Mar 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Myself and 2 friends showed up around noon on a Sat and didn't sit till 2pm. The food and service were great but the wait was brutal. Just get there early.

4 Stars: Pancakes to die for (by sgourmandp)

sgourmandp — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Great neighborhood place. Would recommend, if possible, going on the weekday to avoid long lines. The pancakes are all good- but go with a big appetite...there is a lot of food. Lunch is good as well.

5 Stars: User review by bollynn (by bollynn)

bollynn — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 09:00:00 GMT

On the weekends add your name to the long list and go grab a bloody mary down the street because the food is well worth the hour long wait you will encounter during peak brunch hours. The southern breakfast includes great cheddar grits and although weird to say some of the best bacon you may have ever had. No self-respecting Clinton St. patron hasnt tried their famous pancakes and biscuits, which are more like an experience than a part of the meal. Couple any item on their breakfast menu with one of their lethal Mexican coffees and you cant ask for a better start to your day. Drop by on Tuesday nights for half off bottles of wine and sample one of their homemade desserts with ice cream straight from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. Overall it is hard to make a bad choice no matter what the hour.

5 Stars: Worth the wait! (by mphnyc)

mphnyc — Sat, 21 Jan 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Well, no secret that a brunch here on Saturday or Sunday will be a long wait - but once you bite into those pancakes, it will have been worth every minute. Service was fine, and although it's a bit loud and crowded, the ambience is quite good.

Try the blood orange mimosa, the cafe con leche, and of course those pancakes!!

4 Stars: Goodass pancakes (by jsac)

jsac — Sun, 08 Jan 2006 09:00:00 GMT

Yes, the wait is long and ridiculous as times, especially as you watch others gobble down their food. But they make possibly the best pancakes ever and decent french toast. The other foods are OK, but just go and order the blueberry pancakes and you wont be disappointed.

1 Stars: 3 hours for eggs??? (by jdubbyya)

jdubbyya — Mon, 28 Nov 2005 09:00:00 GMT

yes, we waited 3 hours.... we were told 1.5 hour wait... and after that another 20 mins, then another 20 mins, etc. i can't believe we waited 3 full hours to be seated... for brunch! i was starving... even when they did send out some dollar sized pancakes to nibble on. the hostess was way off in her wait estimation. the banana walnut pancakes were actually very good, but the rest of the dishes are average.... i heard the place was good, but i wouldn't wait 3 hours again for anything. don't go with more than 2 people... we had 4 and the 2 seaters went fast but the 4 tops took 3 hours.

5 Stars: Worth the wait (by withrope)

withrope — Mon, 21 Nov 2005 09:00:00 GMT

The blueberry pancakes are perhaps one of the best things I've ever eaten. My coffee was always full, and food came out fast. Waited an hour and 45 minutes for a table, and did so with a smile because I'd heard such good things. The hostess was darling and sweet and apologetic for the long wait, and the waitress was perfectly lovely. They sent out silver-dollar pancakes while we were on line outside, which is a nice touch and quite a teaser. If my hips could stand it, I'd eat those pancakes every Sunday for the rest of my life. The whole experience was delightful.

5 Stars: Absolutely Fabulous (by lila81)

lila81 — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 09:00:00 GMT

This place is my favourite spot for brunch! The only thing is that you have to wait a long long time before having your table. Waitresses smile, service is fast, the food is amazing and the portions are huge! I tried the French toast and the pancakes, that are really excellent. Eggs Benedict are very good too.
If don't want to wait too long and live in the neighbourhood, just try the take away option.

5 Stars: the favorite place for Brunch (by chloesdream)

chloesdream — Mon, 31 Oct 2005 09:00:00 GMT

as I've been told that It's such a great place for brunch.though It takes so long to have a table but it's so worth it! try spanish scramble and pancake! the best thing is salmon egg benedict! I'm so happy to find a good place on clinton st.

3 Stars: Eh - I've had better (by calyandra)

calyandra — Sun, 11 Sep 2005 09:00:00 GMT

Decent spot to grab some breakfast/brunch. Very small space so don't arrive too late. Having food allergies I am somewhat limited to choices. I must say the pancakes looked VERY good. I would stick to standards like pancakes, waffles etc. Egg dishes are kind of standard - nothing to rave about. The atmosphere was your typical LES crowd musing over their difficult lives while clutching gucci bags. Overall the food was ok. I could probably make the same stuff at home. Ah well. Cash Only brunch.

5 Stars: delicious spot for brunch! (by liwolfenet)

liwolfenet — Fri, 12 Aug 2005 09:00:00 GMT

While we were waiting, we were given complimentary mini pancakes which are some of the yummiest pancakes I have ever had. The eggs benedict on their famous biscuits is delicious as are their waffles and french toast. The food is most definitely worth the wait.

5 Stars: Mouth Watering... (by hehmin)

hehmin — Tue, 26 Jul 2005 09:00:00 GMT

first we each got a glass of reisling and a pancake with a dolop of cream cheese/sour cream mix topped with caviar and chives (not on the menu) I had the hallibut (one of the specials that day) it was placed on top of gaucamole, cream, and a lime vinagrette... on top of the hallibut was a good spoonful of a tomato mixture...RECOMMENDED...my husband got the fried chicken which came with coleslaw and "spicy" honey and awesome jalapeno cornbread... my father in law got the pork tenderloin... they gave him a steak knife but he didn't need it.. the pork was so tender it practically melted in your mouth...for appetizers we got the fried green tomatoes... a definite yum!!... and after eating all of that... none of us had room for dessert... we went there before for brunch which was great as well... they're eggs benedicts are to die for!!

5 Stars: Clinton Rules! (by kashmindersingh)

kashmindersingh — Mon, 25 Jul 2005 09:00:00 GMT

This place is an amazing joint! From amazing eggs to their deserts. We dropped in here by chance on a weekday and had the specials. Oh...my....god. Smoked Salmon eggs are awesome. Loved the cream cheese in the middle. My wife loved the salad...and guess what I did to. (not shamed to admit it) FRESH!
so we decided to try it for brunch on a weekend. Yes the wait is long (they said 1 1/2 hours), but we were seated in 25 minutes...NOT BAD! This time we ordered different specials...LOVED IT again. Service is fast and with a smile. I tip 25% here. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
(p.s. love the laid back ambiance)
(p.s.s. CASH only so pack your pockets. ATM is nearby though)

5 Stars: User review by funnyhaha001 (by funnyhaha001)

funnyhaha001 — Sun, 17 Jul 2005 09:00:00 GMT

As expected, we had a wait. However, we didn't expect it to be an hour and a half! So we made the best of it and were seated exactly at the 1 1/2 hour mark. We ordered the eggs bene and huevos rancheros. The food was served very quickly and was delicious!! We'd recommend both. If you are looking for very catering service, you may be disappointed. Although the server didn't check on us, we enjoyed everything. Overall was a great experience and one of our favorite brunch spots.

5 Stars: best neighborhood dinner (by dlahman)

dlahman — Thu, 19 May 2005 09:00:00 GMT

Dinner, drinks, dessert. Fried chicken and fish tacos are the best. Good for dates with lovers or friends. Bring a large group..it's quiet from 6-8.

5 Stars: warm maple butter...yum.. (by imafoodjunkie)

imafoodjunkie — Sat, 07 May 2005 09:00:00 GMT

absolutely delicious! especially there pancakes with the warm maple butter...and i don't even like pancakes! their omeletes/egg dishes are also wonderful. looking forward to expand my experience there beyond breakfast/brunch.

5 Stars: fantastic little spot (by abgrover)

abgrover — Fri, 06 May 2005 09:00:00 GMT

I used to live on that block and would make a point to stop in as often as possible...even if it was to take out a biscuit.
Those biscuits are unparallelled!

4 Stars: outta this world (by elsewhere)

elsewhere — Mon, 12 Jul 2004 09:00:00 GMT

They have some ice cream, I forgot the name of it, but it was rated the best Ice Cream in New York. And they're the only restaurant who has it. Delicious. Not to mention the full bar which can help cure your hangover with a delicious brunch. I had a group of 10, and this place was great. You just gotta get there at the right time on the weekends, cause it gets busy.

4 Stars: more than a bakery (by benjam26)

benjam26 — Mon, 12 Jul 2004 09:00:00 GMT

clinton st. baking company was a great find on clinton and houston st. Small place, but has a full bar, delicious ice cream, and an outstanding weekend brunch. The wait is long if you don't get there just as brunch starts.

5 Stars: Homemade heaven (by dianavon)

dianavon — Wed, 23 Jun 2004 09:00:00 GMT

Everything is homemade and now that dinner is served I'm totally hooked. The fried chicken and Key Lime Meringue pie make life worth living. Not bad for a little humble spot on the lower east side! Rush before the rest of the city figures it out.

5 Stars: Wonderful and hearty (by silvanakim)

silvanakim — Sun, 15 Feb 2004 09:00:00 GMT

Great hearty brunch (yummy blueberry pancakes, eggs benedict). Estimate when you'll get hungry, and get there 30 - 40 minutes before estimated time... there will definitely be at least a 25 minute wait.

4 Stars: sunday brunch (by newwind)

newwind — Sun, 15 Jun 2003 09:00:00 GMT

my mother and i walked into this place with no idea, and had a very nice sunday brunch there...we thought it was another downtown diner, so we were pleasently surprised at the quality of food. It got very crowded when we were about to leave, so id say get there early for brunch.