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Looking for a cute brunch spot in Greenpoint, Brooklyn? Look no further than Chez Ma Tante – one of the trendiest spots in town. We checked it out on a rainy Sunday morning in the city – here’s the lowdown:

Chez Ma Tante: The Lowdown

Named after the storied Montreal Hot Dog shack, Chez Ma Tante brings a taste of Europe to the Big Apple. Founded by Canadian born Aidan O’Neal and native New Yorker Jake Leiber, the local favourite offers up European-inspired small plates and brunch dishes. The pair found common ground in simple and delicious dining – it’s all about good food, drink and company here. The space itself is minimalist and oh-so-Brooklyn cool, with white-washed brick walls and a simple bar, serving up classic cocktails by night. The service is warm and informal, the dishes tasty and the atmosphere on-point.

Chez Ma Tante: The Food

On this particular drizzly Sunday, we were craving a comforting, hearty brunch. Being basic as I am, I’m used to avocado on toast and Eggs Royale on a weekend morning – and the menu here is nothing like your classic brunch, think oysters, terrine and fancy sandwiches – but I enjoyed the departure from the norm.

For savoury, we tried the Chips and Aioli (highly recommend, I mean you can’t even really go wrong with chips but these ones are particularly good) and the Croque Madame with a side of tomato soup (creamy and delicious). For $19, you’d want the sandwich to be pretty good – and it was, with Parisian ham, a sunny side egg and Gruyere. The longer I spend in the States, the more weary I become of American cheese, so it was nice to have some old-fashioned European stuff for once. They actually have a good range of European food on the menu here, including English cheddar, which thrilled me.

The sweet stuff is really the highlight here though; the Turkish coffee cake is studded with walnuts, served with whipped cream and really rather delightful. The pancakes are a real highlight – thick, fluffy, with a hint of citrus zest, drenched in maple syrup and covered in butter – about as American as it gets, and I’m here for it.

Chez Ma Tante: The Drinks

Sadly no English Breakfast tea on the menu here, but the coffee is pretty damn good and freshly-squeezed juices. And there’s a fairly substantial wine list for such a small outfit for you to enjoy too.

Chez Ma Tante: Our Verdict

I really liked Chez Ma Tante. It’s easy, informal and serves up European comfort food with an American accent. Just the kind of thing for a Brit living in Brooklyn – go check it out.

Photo credit: Chez Ma Tante, Instagram