The Best "Cafeteria" Food

Clinton St. Bakery
4 Clinton St (btwn E. Houston and Stanton)

is an understated spot (that vaguely reminds me of a cafeteria) with the best brunch in NYC I've ever had. We expected a wait at a place voted as having the best brunch menu by Time Out in '07 and most notably for their pancakes by NY magazine, but we didn't anticipate hanging around LES for 45 minutes! Have to say though, it was worth the wait and the hype. Just pick a nice day to go and a patient friend to loiter with. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner is served here and prices, reasonable. There's also a to-go menu.
For hours and menu, check out: http://www.clintonstreetbaking.com/

February is pancake month at Clinton St. Bakery with different flavors every other day!