Freemans on the Lower East Side has been around for almost 15 years, but you may not even know about it. You wouldn’t ever stumble upon it as you’re walking down the street like other restaurants. Instead, you have to know exactly where to find it.
That’s because Freemans is located at the end of an unused alley off the Bowery. When two restauranteurs, Taavo Somer and William Tigertt, discovered it, they had an immediate vision for a hidden, colonial American tavern.
Artwork from the period lines the walls, along with reclaimed wood tables, exposed brick, and stuffed New England wildlife hanging up, so they’ve definitely hit the mark decor-wise. Their menu is full of elevated American cuisine, and it’s the perfect spot for weekend brunch.
You can go sweet with choices like French toast with strawberry cream, cinnamon syrup, and toasted walnuts, or banana buttermilk pancakes with vanilla glaze, candied pistachio and strawberries. Or, you can go savory with Mushroom Benedict on an English muffin with truffle hollandaise and mixed greens, or a full English breakfast including scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, thick cut bacon, sausage links, baked beans and mushrooms.
Plus, the alleyway has lots of colorful graffiti artwork, so you have multiple photo ops!
Address: END of Freemans Alley. Freemans Alley is off Rivington Street between Chrystie and the Bowery on the Lower East Side of New York City.
Hours: Weekday Brunch – Mon-Fri 11am to 4pm; Weekend Brunch – Sat-Sun 10am to 4pm; Afternoon Cocktails & Light Fare – Every Day 4pm to 6pm; Dinner – 7 days a week- 6pm – 11pm
Menu: See website here.
featured image source: Facebook / Freemans