Legendary NYC spot with a famously eclectic menu, especially its unique mac and cheese pancakes. A true culinary adventure.
Shopsin's, a legendary New York City institution, continues to be a beloved spot for adventurous eaters and breakfast enthusiasts. Located in the Essex Market, it's known for its sprawling, unconventional menu that dares to blend seemingly disparate ingredients into unique dishes. The infamous "mac and cheese pancake" is a prime example, praised by many for its innovative flavor profile that balances the richness of mac and cheese with the comforting familiarity of a pancake. Despite a relocation and some menu evolution, the spirit of Shopsin's, a tribute to the late Kenny Shopsin's culinary philosophy, remains strong. It's a place that encourages exploration and rewards the curious with memorable meals, solidifying its reputation as a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Shopsin's is celebrated for its eclectic American diner fare, with a particular emphasis on creative breakfast items. The "mac and cheese pancake" is frequently highlighted as a must-try, with some finding it to be an excellent combination of flavors, while others note it's an acquired taste. While some older, favorite dishes may be missing after a move, the restaurant is generally considered to have found its stride again with a vast menu.
"The 'mac and cheese pancake' is highly recommended and frequently cited as a must-try. Other dishes like 'slutty cakes' are mentioned with fondness."
Customers generally have a positive view of Shopsin's, with many recommending it for breakfast and praising its unique offerings. Some mention a potential dip in quality or menu changes after relocation, but others believe it has fully recovered and continues to offer a great experience. The "mac and cheese pancake" is a standout dish that garners significant attention.
Important Note
Some long-time favorites may be missing from the menu after a relocation, and the unique flavor combinations, like the mac and cheese pancakes, may not appeal to everyone.
"Shopsins is mentioned as an American fare brunch option within walking distance in the LES."
Neutral"Shopsins is recommended as a brunch spot in the Lower East Side (LES)."
Neutral"This user highly praises the documentary "I like Killing Flies" about Kenny Shopsin's restaurant, considering it a masterpiece."
Positive"Shopsin's is simply listed as a go-to breakfast spot."
Neutral"The commenter visited Shopsins for the first time and found it to be a solid breakfast place they would return to if it were more conveniently located."
Positive"Shopsins is highly recommended for an indulgent breakfast, showing a strong, long-standing preference for the place."
Positive"Shopsins is simply recommended as a brunch option."
Neutral"This user was not surprised that Shopsin's dropped from the list and stated they never understood the hype around it, despite living nearby."
Negative"SHOPSINS was mentioned as a restaurant that fell off the NY Times list."
Neutral"The user simply recommends Shopsins."
Neutral"Shopsin General Store was included in a comprehensive list of restaurants that did not make it onto the 2025 NY Times list."
Neutral"Shopsin was mentioned as a restaurant that fell off the NY Times list."
Neutral"The author prefers Shopsins. (Contextually, for pancakes)."
Positive"Shopsin's is one of the next places the author would consider."
Neutral"Shopsin's pancake is amazing."
Positive"Author is still skeptical of Shopsin's but will try it eventually and report back."
Neutral"Shopsin's has a myriad of menus including pancakes, and the mac and cheese pancake is well-regarded."
Positive"Shopsin's is on the author's list to try."
Neutral"Shopsin's Mac and Cheese pancake is the author's favorite because the two ingredients complement each other."
Positive"After checking Shopsin's current menu, the author notes some old favorites are missing but acknowledges they are due for a 'slutty cakes fix'."
Neutral"The author lists Shopsin's among other restaurants they recommend, implying it is a place they enjoy."
Positive"The author acknowledges a past lull at Shopsin's after Kenny Shopsin's passing and relocation but asserts it has 'fully found their stride again' with a massive menu and great work from the younger Shopsin. They recommend revisiting."
Positive"The author notes Shopsin's used to be frequently mentioned on Chowhound boards and was a personal favorite, but thinks it lost some shine after menu reductions and changes. They also express love for Minca."
Neutral"Author winedad42069 lists Shopsin's as a place they love that is rarely talked about on the subreddit."
Positive"The user states that Shopsin's is 'so fun'."
Positive"The user lists Shopsin's as a restaurant that lives up to its hype, recounting a recent enjoyable experience with their mac and cheese pancakes served with hot sauce and maple syrup."
Positive"Recommends Shopsin's for breakfast (not East Village but close enough) and suggests checking out Essex Market while there."
Positive"Shopsin's moved and doesn't have the full menu, but it's legendary."
Positive"Commenter warns the Mac and cheese pancakes are risky; they were decent but not very pancake-like."
Neutral"Recommending Shopsin’s for breakfast"
Positive"Shopsin’s is on the top floor of Essex market, and is an excellent breakfast spot with good vibes"
Positive
