There are certain places that you duck into because they are convenient, expecting them to be good enough.
The Penrose was not good enough. In fact, it was great.
We ducked in for brunch one day when in the area (Upper East Side: On 2nd Ave between 82nd and 83rd to be exact) with the family and proceeded to have such a good brunch, that we went back a few more times since then.
I loved that they advertise directly on their menu that they use locally sourced eggs from the Brey Family Farm in upstate New York that are all natural, farm fresh, anti-biotic and hormone free. Go eggs!
The shrimp and grits with the spicy sauce:
The shrimp and grits without the spicy sauce (everything you want shrimp and grits to be!):
Burger with a fried egg:
A beautiful plate of yogurt with granola and berries:
Eggs benny with ham:
And then… the pièce de résistance… the bacon, egg, and oyster sandwich with pickles on a brioche bun.
This sandwich was so magical that the hard-to-please boys of our group started moaning while eating it. Even though I am allergic to part of it (it had some peppers spice in the breading, I think), I took a bite and then dealt with the itchy mouth and blisters forming on my tongue to have another bite. It was that good.
The best breakfast sandwich I’ve ever had, in fact.
As far as unexpected fantastic meals, this was very high up on the list. I was surprised at how much we all loved it, and it was great that they have some surprising brunch menu items that you don’t find everywhere else. It has been a hit every time we have visited and with everyone we have taken.
I’d burn my mouth all over again for another bite of that crunchy fried oyster sandwich.
Total Nom Points: 8 out of 10
