TLDR
Iconic LES spot w/ gonzo breakfast menu, famous mac n cheese pancakes & unique vibe. Not for big groups!
Instagram Posts References
Shopsin's offers a unique and hearty savory pancake creation, combining pancakes with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and what looks like a cheese crisp, presenting a robust and unconventional breakfast meal.
Details
Shopsin's is a unique American diner known for its inventive and eclectic menu, particularly its pancakes, including mac and cheese varieties [1]. While some find the experience not for everyone due to its unique
Food Overview
Shopsin's is renowned for its American diner fare, with a particular emphasis on an extensive and unconventional pancake menu, including beloved mac and cheese pancakes [1]. Other noted items include hearty tortilla soup, unique breakfast creations like 'Blisters On My Sisters,' and great croissants [2]. While the food is often described as satisfying specific cravings, some reviews suggest the menu has become smaller over the years and may not be for everyone.
Highlights / Recommended
"The mac and cheese pancakes are a standout and highly recommended item at Shopsin's. Other praised dishes include 'Blisters On My Sisters,' French toast, and hearty tortilla soup."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •croissant(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customers generally have fond memories and high praise for Shopsin's, especially regarding unique dishes like mac and cheese pancakes. Some express nostalgia for the original owner, Kenny Shopsin, and his legacy, though a few find the current iteration less compelling or note potential issues with service.
Caveats
Shopsin's has a strict policy prohibiting parties of four or more people, making it a more intimate dining experience. Some users note that the menu is smaller than it used to be, and that the current location may not be as compelling as previous ones. It's also advised to check operating hours due to their potentially unusual schedule.
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About SHOPSIN'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"The commenter mentions that everything at Shopsin's is good, it's family-run and consistent. Great pancakes, and mentions 'Pete Moss' and mac n cheese pancakes as classics. They also recommend the cookbook 'Eat Me - The Food and Philosophy of Kenny Shopsin'."
PositiveFrom post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"This commenter reaffirms Shopsin's as the best breakfast spot, always consistent. They also mention liking the 'Pete Moss' and mac n cheese pancakes."
PositiveFrom post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"The user ordered 'Blisters On My Sisters' with added bacon and found it to be great."
PositiveFrom post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"This user recalls going to the original Shopsin's and was unaware there was a new location."
NeutralFrom post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"Shopsin's in Essex Market is highly recommended for serious breakfast eaters, with 'Blisters On My Sisters' being a favorite dish."
PositiveFrom post: Any Typical Americanstyle Breakfast Recommendation
"Shopsin's opens at 9 AM and is easily accessible by subway, offering a very interesting breakfast menu."
PositiveFrom post: Bringing My Dad To Get Stoned At Mercer Labs And
"Shopsin's is recommended, but with a caution to read the menu beforehand and have a plan, as it can be overwhelming even when sober."
NeutralFrom post: Bringing My Dad To Get Stoned At Mercer Labs And
"Shopsin's is suggested as a go-to spot for when someone is stoned."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user recommended Shopsin's in Essex Market, also noting that Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is right next door for comparison."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user specifically mentioned liking the malted avocado shake at Shopsin's."
PositiveFrom post: Which Nyc Food Place Has The Rudest Staff But
"Shopsin's is mentioned as a place where the owner, Kenny, was known for being 'nuts,' suggesting a potentially difficult or eccentric service experience."
NeutralFrom post: Which Nyc Food Place Has The Rudest Staff But
"This comment suggests that Shopsin's might have been the inspiration for the 'Soup Nazi' character on Seinfeld, known for strict and rude service."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This commenter agreed that Shopsin's breakfasts are insane and wondered if they allowed ordering dessert after an entree, speculating it might have been frowned upon in Kenny Shopsin's time."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This user clarified that most of Shopsin's breakfast items, like bread pudding French toast, could be considered dessert. They also mentioned the availability of shakes/malts but noted the lack of cocktails and late hours."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This commenter inquired if Shopsin's had desserts, noting that its breakfasts could be considered dessert-like. They also pondered if Kenny (presumably Kenny Shopsin) would have allowed ordering an entree and then pancakes as a second course."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This user recommended Shopsin's. They later elaborated that while it has an insane breakfast menu, it lacks cocktails and doesn't stay open late, unlike the Cheesecake Factory."
PositiveFrom post: Is Essex Hall A Good Food Destination
"This current location is not as good as the old Essex Market location, which itself wasn't as good as the original Village locations. The menu is significantly shorter now, but I still enjoy visiting a few times a year as it satisfies a specific craving. It's also quite small."
NeutralFrom post: Is Essex Hall A Good Food Destination
"I have a fondness for Shopsin's, but I don't think this particular food hall location is a must-go. It's a nice place to stop in if you happen to be in the area."
PositiveFrom post: Is Essex Hall A Good Food Destination
"Shopsin's is legendary but not destination worthy unless diner food with potentially rude service is your preference."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For Desserts With A Cinnamon Rollbread
"Shopsin's is mentioned as a place with good food."
Neutral