Planning to visit the Big Apple but not sure about the best drag brunch NYC has to offer?
If so then this ultra-rad local’s guide to the best drag brunch in New York City is for you. Not only am I a 30+ year NYC resident, but I go to drag brunch in NYC every chance I get.
So, I know all about the best drag brunch hot spots that you can go to if you want stellar food or amazing performances (or both in an ideal world).
That’s why, you should put the generic beyond belief guidebook down and check out this rad local’s guide instead.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
What is a Drag Brunch?
A drag brunch brings together three of the best things in life: epic food, Mimosas, and fabulous drag queens.
Essentially, these are seated events where you’ll dig into classic NYC brunch faves and sip cocktails while the sassiest queens perform.
Now, many picks for the best drag brunch NYC has to offer are between 2 and 3 hours long although others are drop-in style.
Furthermore, these performances can be anything from cabaret to lip-sync spectaculiars, to sparkling dance acts.
Of course, they’re pretty immersive on the whole. Plus, the queens will generally work the room – chatting with patrons and having photos taken.
Depending on the venue, you might pay an admission fee and then for the food and drinks that you’ll enjoy during the show.
Additionally, lots of the best drag brunches in NYC have deals that include bottomless booze. However, others work on an à la carte basis.
Of course, you can swap the alcohol for softs and mocktails if you feel so inclined. Some drag brunches are also geared more towards playful bachelorettes, others are very family-friendly.
On top of that, you’ll pay the usual tax and gratuities for the servers and bartenders.
Importantly, it’s optional but you really should tip the queens since they are amazing and do an insanely awesome job. Therefore, bring a stash of singles because they earn that money like WHOA.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Midtown Manhattan
1. Lips Drag Queen Show Palace
Now, locals will tell you that Lips Drag Queen Show Palace is hands down the best drag brunch in NYC if you’re looking for an ultra-rad party vibe.
Actually, this is a two-decade-strong drag joint in Manhattan. Plus, besides brunch, this ritzy place hosts karaoke nights. Yeah, I used to go here in my 20s and we had so much fun.
Now, the Broadway Drag Brunch is hosted by the glamourpuss, Ginger Snap on Saturdays and Sundays.
This is a Moulin Rouge extravaganza with tons of songs from the hostess and her crew of epic guests.
The all-you-can-drink package is $45 and includes 90 minutes of songs and unlimited Mimosas, bloody marys, bubbles, or soda.
A 20% gratuity charge and tax are applied to the bill. Plus, you’ll need singles to tip the queens.
In terms of the food, you have a choice of buttermilk pancakes, steak and eggs, omelets, and more.
However, this mega-popular NYC drag brunch sells out way in advance. So, be sure to prebook.
But, that’s understandable since this best NYC drag brunch is super interactive and singalongs are welcome. Overall, it’s a rad choice for an NYC bachelorette or NYC birthday party.
Even better, you can surprise the lady of the hour with an on-stage celebration. Just chat with your waitress and pay an extra $15.
Oh, and while there is no dress code, dressing up is encouraged.
Address: 227 E 56th St, New York, NY 10022, United States
Hours: Brunch shows start at either 12:00 pm or 2:30 pm.
Price: Brunch with a show starts at $45.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the E/F to Lexington and 53rd and walk from there.
2. Stella 34 Trattoria
So, the 6th floor of Macy’s isn’t where you’d expect to find the best drag brunch in New York City.
But, Stella 34 Trattoria is full of surprises.
Now, this is a posh bistro serving Neapolitan pizza and fine wine during the week. Meanwhile, Sunday is when the queens rock up and totally upstage the chef (sorry, kitchen crew).
Generally, there is a theme that changes weekly.
And, with themes like Harry Potter, Shrek, and Hocus Pocus, this is a top pick for a family-friendly drag brunch that is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.
In particular, the Rocky Horror Show drag brunch is always a favorite plus other shows are dedicated to starlets like Shakira.
Ordinarily, these brunch bonanzas are hosted by Shuga Cain from RuPaul’s Drag Race. So, she and her guests will work the room while you enjoy the best drag brunch NYC has to offer.
Also, costumes as per the theme are encouraged but not required.
Basically, you just have to reserve tickets on the etix website. Then, turn up early because table and bar seating is first come, first served. There are also two slots to choose from every Sunday.
Once there, you’re required to order an entree. And while there’s no minimum spend, cash tips are recommended.
Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States
Hours: Brunch is on Sunday at either 11:45 am and 2:30 pm.
Price: Tickets start at $20.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train to 34th Street/Penn Station and walk from there.
3. Peachy Keen
Dig out the flares, you’re going to funky town. See, just steps from Broadway, Peachy Keen hosts the legendary Sunday Getdown Drag Brunch.
This is the best drag brunch New York City has on offer for groovsters with a fondness for the ‘70s.
See, this restaurant is aglow with bold colors, nostalgic cocktails, and funky disco vibes.
Plus, Hanukah Lewinsky is a regular at Peachy Keen. She’s joined by huge names from the world of drag plus pumpin’ DJs.
You’ll also love that this 3-hour-long drag brunch is totally free to attend. And while walk-ins are welcome, you’re advised to reserve a ticket in advance.
Now, once you’ve sat down, the menu features a wide array of sharing plates (the crab and corn beignets are top-notch) or comfort food classics.
Therefore, we’re talking hamburgers, burritos, French toast, or a pancake stack. Essentially, there is something for everyone.
But, the cocktails and mocktails deserve a special mention with names like “Peach, Please?”, “Disco Sally?”, and “How about a Groove Is In The Heart?”
Address: 325 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Hours: Sundays from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
Price: Free to attend but entrees start at around $19.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the subway to Times Square and 42nd Street and walk from there.
4. Lucky Cheng’s
Here’s a fun fact: Lucky Cheng’s is the longest-running drag restaurant in NYC. It even has its very own speakeasy that sits right on the cusp between Midtown and Hell’s Kitchen.
This is also one of the best drag brunches in NYC that features cabaret, lip-smacking food, and awesome cocktails served by drag queen waitresses.
Yeah, this all comes together really well so that you and your fave pals can enjoy possibly the best drag brunch NYC has ever seen.
Now, brunch is available on Saturday and Sunday with doors opening at 1:00 pm. But, the actual event doesn’t start until just before 2:00 pm.
You’ll also pay $30 for VIP admission or $20 for general. On top, you’ll pay $45 for a brunch entree and 2 hours of bottomless Mimosas.
Additionally, expect to spend some cold hard cash on tax, service charges, and gratuity. Plus, as usual, you’ll need cash to tip the queens.
Furthermore, you can order additional drinks off the menu. Signature cocktails follow floral and seasonal themes. Plus, there are “Orgy Bowls” for larger groups.
Sure, this place works out to be pricier than some other picks for the best drag brunch New York City has to offer.
However, this is the OG NYC drag show and you’re guaranteed a table visit from one of the queens.
There are also bucketloads of neon gimmicks and disco balls in this intimate basement. And the atmosphere is off the charts.
Yeah, it’s deffo my personal fave place to live it up and enjoy a drag brunch to remember.
Address: 707 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States
Hours: Brunch is from 1:00 pm to 3:20 pm.
Price: $20.00/$30.00 for the show + $45 for brunch
How to Get There: Take the A/C/E to 50th Street and walk from there.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Hell’s Kitchen
5. Rise Bar
Rise and Shine, it’s drag brunch o’clock! After all, Rise Bar makes it easy to leap out of bed on the weekend.
See, the Rise and Shine Drag Brunch takes place on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:15 pm and 2:30 pm.
In a nutshell, you’ll pay $59 for an entree and unlimited drinks over 2 hours. However, this unlimited option only includes only Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and St-Germain Spritz.
However, the menu is pretty hearty with a selection of eggs Benedict, avocado toast, and breakfast pizza, just to name a few.
Note, you can add sides and extras to your table for a surcharge. Furthermore, a service charge and tips for the servers will be added to the final bill. Plus, as usual, you’ll need cash tips for the queens.
Also, while walk-ins will be accommodated, you’ll want to play it safe and reserve a table in advance.
So, this is the best drag brunch in NYC if you want to sit inside a chic, modern venue and enjoy an epic party atmosphere.
Pitched at 21+ patrons, it’s a pretty raucous affair that’ll have you tipsy and giggly within minutes. So, yeah, this is the best NYC drag brunch that is geared toward younger patrons.
Address: 859 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States
Hours: Weekends at 12:15 pm and 2:30 pm.
Price: Starts at $59.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the A/B/C/D to 59th Street and Columbus Circle and walk from there.
6. The Spot
See, The Spot follows in the footsteps of Rise Bar. This is a spirited gay bar dishing up brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with two seatings per day.
It’s another rowdy joint where you’ll probably wind up on your feet as you dance along to some killer songs.
In fact, the brunch deal is an exact replica of Rise Bar – so the price, menu, and unlimited drinks setup are the same.
Again, it’s only available to those over the age of 21. Therefore, this is the best drag brunch in NYC for a boozy session with a mature group who wanna party like rockstars.
Essentially, you should come here if you want to let your hair down or want to liven up a chill weekend. Or, it works as either a bachelorette party or a birthday party.
Of course, a fuss will be made over any bachelorette or birthday girl/boy who chooses to attend the best drag brunch NYC has to offer.
This is also a neon-lit venue with fabulous energy and a strong party spirit. So, you won’t feel out of place if you get dressed up a bit.
As always, reservations are recommended especially if you’re going to be a larger group.
Address: 599 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States
Hours: Saturday and Sunday at 12:15 pm and 2:30 pm.
Price: Starts at $59.00 per person + 2 hours of unlimited drinks
How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train to 50th Street and walk from there.
7. La Pulpería 44th HK
Bringing Latin power to Manhattan, La Pulpería dishes up South and Central American food with a splash of European flare.
Now, this pan-Latin cocteleria and restaurant is very chic, with exposed brickwork, high ceilings, and tons of light.
Brunch is also served every Saturday and Sunday with a choice of two seatings.
Essentially, you can stay on budget with the unlimited Mimosa menu since it’s a steal at $40. Otherwise, the unlimited brunch cocktails menu comes in at a reasonable $60.
This way, you can sip on margaritas and signature cocktails as the queens sashay around the joint.
All in all, the is one of the drag brunch shows in NYC that has a minimum spend of at least $50 per head.
Additionally, this is the best drag brunch in New York City for Latin fare such as empanadas, tostadas, and French toast with dulce de leche. Plus, it’s probably the place with the best quality food on this list.
You’d also be livin’ la vida loca if you decide NOT to reserve a table, pronto. FYI, reservations aren’t essential but are pretty necessary.
Address: 623 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States
Hours: Friday from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm and Saturday/Sunday at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm
Price: Minimum of $50 per person.
How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train to 50th Street and walk from there.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Chelsea
8. The Standard Grill
Located inside one of the coolest hotels in NYC, The Standard Grill hosts a campy drag brunch extravaganza near the High Line.
Now, here at the best drag brunch New York City has to offer it’ll be either the Saturday Snatched Weekend Brunch hosted by Nicky Ottav or the Sunday Body Beautiful Brunch with Essa Noche.
FYI, sometimes this is the other way round. So, just be aware of that before you book if you have your heart set on one over the other.
These events also start at 2:00 pm but include staggered arrival slots to help manage the crowds.
FYI, this one is always a sell-out. So, be sure to book in advance if this place is on your NYC bucket list.
All in all, this is the best drag brunch in NYC for toe-tapping vibes, awesome food, and a classy setting.
Essentially, it’s free to secure a table but you’ll get landed with a $25 no-show if you fail to turn up.
Then, you’ll have your pick of the à la carte brunch menu, cocktails, and wine. In general, they impose a $50 minimum spend per head plus tax, service charge, and cash tips for the divas.
Yeah, it’s pricier. But, the food is the highest caliber – it’s one of the rare gems where the cooking is on par with the performance that you’ll enjoy.
Also, this brunch is highly recommended for all ages, making this one of the best things to do in NYC with teenagers.
Additionally, there’s no dress code but this place veers on the smart-casual side when it comes to attire.
Address: 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014, United States
Hours: Starts on Saturday/Sunday at 2:00 pm.
Price: You need to spend at least $50.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the A/C/E/L to 14th Street/8th Avenue and walk from there.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Gramercy
9. SONA
Modern Indian restaurant SONA hosts the best drag brunch in NYC for families, couples, and friends.
After all, Queen Malai is the MC, bringing a Bollywood angle to this New York City drag brunch.
Now, this brunch runs on select Saturdays. Therefore, you’ll need to keep your eyes on their website and swoop in for a reservation.
Essentially, the event starts at noon. But, seatings are staggered throughout the afternoon.
Therefore, tables are seated every quarter of an hour. Now, once you sit down, order off the à la carte menu and tune in with Queen Malai.
Naturally, the menu follows an Indian theme although you’ll see a lot of classic plates recreated. So, everything naan is replaced with an everything bagel.
Meanwhile, waffles come with cardamom and eggs have a spicy twist. Furthermore, the menu gets a revamp every season.
So, all in all, everything is great and the friendly staff will help you find the brunch dish of your dreams.
Local Tip: Super chill so no need to worry about a dress code.
Address: 36 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, United States
Hours: Starts at 12:00 pm with seatings on the hour after that.
Price: Probably $30.00 and under.
How to Get There: Take the 4 or 6 to 23rd Street and walk from there.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Bushwick, Brooklyn
10. Dromedary Urban Tiki Bar
Across the river in Brooklyn, Dromedary puts on the best drag brunch in NYC with a cheeky tiki theme.
Actually, this is one of the coolest bars any night of the week.
Now, this brunch extravaganza takes place on Sundays at 2:00 pm. It’s hosted by Emi Grate and features a ton of special guests.
In the past, these have included Maxxx Pleasure, Lemon Chiffon. Felicia Oh, and Tank.
The queens will then work the venue, swinging past your table and sashaying through the bar while you dig into your meal.
Just remember that reservations are via email and that you can check the Dromedary Instagram account for into on any upcoming brunch.
FYI, this is a 21+ venue with card checks. And, the seasonal brunch menu is à la carte with the option to go bottomless on Mimosas for $40.
They even have a boozy Champagne-based Devil’s Doorbell, energizing Espressotini, and killer mocktails. Obviously, these are all served with tiki-licious umbrellas and in kooky drinkware.
Address: 266 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, United States
Hours: Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm.
Price: $40.00 for bottomless Mimosas.
How to Get There: Take the L/M to Myrtle-Wyckoff Avenue station and walk from there.
11. The Red Pavilion
The Red Pavilion on Flushing Avenue is first and foremost a tea house and jazz joint.
Now, the vibe is Asian neo-noir, with atmospheric 19th-century decor and ambient lanterns.
Additionally, circus spectaculars, cabaret shows, and immersive workshops showcase traditional and modern performance art styles from Asia, with a spotlight on China.
This nightclub is also brand new to NYC and has a mix of daytime and evening events.
Now, their mission is to enhance the cultural visibility of the AAPI community in NYC while providing a safe and inclusive space.
That being said, the Dim Sum Divas Brunch isn’t a regular event – it’s currently monthly. Sometimes it starts at 12:00 pm, other times it’s later in the afternoon.
See, they’re experimenting with scores of diverse events to sit what will be a hit and what they should keep around.
But, it is the best drag brunch in NYC for gorging on steamed dumplings that are delivered by such legends as Felicia Oh and Angel Au.
It’s also an intimate affair with tables centered around a velvet-clad stage. The queens also move up and down throughout the show, ensuring every table gets a visit.
So, stay tuned via Instagram to find out about upcoming brunches are promoted.
Here, it’s also a $20 admission charge plus the dim sum menu which changes every time the event is held.
Address: 1241 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, United States
Hours: Varies. Check their Instagram account for more info.
Price: $20.00 + the cost of food
How to Get There: Take the L train to DeKalb Avenue and walk from there.
Best Drag Brunch NYC – Astoria, Queens
12. Kween
Yasss Kween! A newcomer to the ‘hood, Kween is the Queen of drag shows in, well, Queens!
And, besides their banging club nights, they serve one of the best drag brunches NYC has ever seen. Plus, it’s one of the more kid-friendly options on this list.
Now, brunch is available on Saturdays and Sundays with seatings at either 1:00 pm or 3:30 pm.
Here, the deal is that you order an entree from the brunch menu. The chilaquiles and creme brulée French toast are my personal faves.
No really, I would stop by for the creme brulee French toast even if this wasn’t the best drag brunch New York City has to offer.
Then, you’ll pay $30 on top for bottomless Mimosas, Bellinis, or Bloody Marys. On top of that, a 20% service gratuity fee is added.
Of course, you can stray from the menu and order cocktails by the glass if you prefer. Actually, these have a royal theme. So, are you more a Strumpet or a Jester or a Lady in Waiting?
Then, after the drag show ends, the queens will circulate around the bar. So, have those singles at the ready!
Plus, seeing as this is a new joint, the bar is shiny and polished around the edges. Plus, don’t leave without striking a pose in the Kween throne room.
Also, be sure to reserve a table to avoid getting turned away.
Address: 34-10 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103
Hours: Available Saturdays/Sundays at 1:00 pm or 3:30 pm.
Price: $30 for bottomless drinks + food + tips
How to Get There: Take the N/W to 30th Avenue and walk from there.
13. Fresco’s Grand Cantina
An alternative drag brunch in Queens, NYC, Fresco’s Grand Cantina brings a Mexican vibe (and menu) to the table.
Now, this has historically been a Sunday-only brunch. But, a little birdie suggests it’s spreading to Saturdays.
Here, the brunch is a budget-friendly $45 for your personal carafe of Mimosas or sangria and a brunch entree. Although, you can always go for the à la carte if you prefer.
Note, tax and gratuities will be added to the final bill.
Now, Fresco’s Grand Cantina is a total gem where the energy is upbeat and inclusive. The queens totally slay and the food is worth every cent.
Plus, while walk-ins are welcome, it’s best to book in advance if you’re in a group. They’re available on Instagram but reservations are only over the phone.
Additionally, the Saturday brunch is a bit later at 2:00 pm while the Sunday brunch starts at 12:00 pm. Both last for 3 hours. FYI, Fresco’s is just minutes from the Astoria ferry terminal.
Address: 28-50 31st St, Queens, NY 11102, United States
Hours: Shows are 3 hours long and at 2:00 pm on Saturdays and at 12:00 pm on Sundays.
Price: Starts at $45.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the N/W to 30th Avenue and walk from there.
Map of the Best Drag Brunch NYC
Best Drag Brunch NYC FAQs
What is the Best Drag Show in NYC?
There are many epic drag shows in NYC. So, picks for the best drag show in NYC can be found at Barracuda Lounge, Industry Bar, Hardware Bar, and Laurie Beechman Theatre.
What is a Drag Bottomless Brunch?
A drag bottomless brunch is a combination of unlimited drinks with fun events, drag queens, and brunch staples like pancakes, waffles, omelets, and Eggs Benedict.
What Do You Wear to Drag Brunch?
What you wear to drag brunch varies based on the venue since some picks for the best drag brunch in NYC have dress codes.
However, generally speaking, you should be able to wear jeans and a T-shirt to a casual event.
Who Owns Lips NYC?
Queen Yvonne Lamé owns Lips in NYC. This queen started this drag mecca well over twenty years ago in the hope of capturing the fun and excitement of various NYC nightclubs.
There you have it. That just about wraps up this list of the best drag brunch NYC has to offer.
Tell me, did your picks for the best drag brunch in NYC make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
And if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list and Facebook group for even more travel tips.
