The best part of staying in town for President’s Day weekend was having brunch on a Monday — a quiet, low-key brunch at that. I met some friends at a Lower East Side cafe I’d never been to called Epistrophy. The setting proved adorable even in the rain. The awning and outdoor tables were cheerfully colored in pastels and invitingly accented with miniature vases. Beneath the exterior was an even more welcoming atmosphere. Epistrophy is spacious with a cozy, functional layout. A large room with a bar on one side and a bookshelf on the other, small tables are scattered in between for dining, and one large table comfortably accommodates book worms and study groups. Light jazz plays in the background low enough for conversation and couples sipped cappuccino’s around the bar on an assortment of second-hand stools.

The menu — a worn vintage booklet — is brief, but sufficient. The four of us ordered from the breakfast selection choosing scrambled eggs and salmon for the guys and fried eggs with asparagus for the girls. Each dish came with potatoes and greens, and the table shared a complementary bowl of soft garlic bread with olive oil. As my friend put it, the food is “unusually good.” She and her husband are regulars, and they were right to recommend the place. Everything was exceptional. The potatoes were warm and perfectly seasoned, the asparagus and mozzarella were fresh and the combined taste with the eggs was scrumptious.

Of course for me, brunch in a place that’s unique and too cute for words automatically tastes better, but this food is a must-have. We enjoyed a lovely, peaceful meal with great service and a warmly comforting ambiance. Epistrophy Cafe has distinctly satisfying and affordable food, a smooth jazzy vibe, and plenty of room for taking your time with friends. I highly recommend a lunch or brunch when you’re in the neighborhood. Who can resist a place where just the check is presented this adorably?

Location: 200 Mott St. (off Spring)

Price: $10 a plate

Contact: www.epistrophycafe.com

If cold and flu season has rocked your system like it has mine, twice, tea and crumpets may be just what you need. Last week, before sickness knocked me out of commission, my friend Lauren introduced me to Northern Spy Food Company. She’s a lover of London having lived there for a time, and what our server referred to as “[their] own little ex-Pat community” makes her feel right at home.

On Greenwich Ave. lies two unassuming, very small sister companies: A Salt and Battery, and Tea & Sympathy. Our lunches have a tendency to go hours so we made a whole day of our visit from fish ‘n’ chips to tea and crumpets next door. A Salt and Battery is a tiny kitchen with bar enough for six stools. Ordering is easy, you pick a fish and opt in or out for chips. The two Brit’s behind the counter fry up one of six fish options running $7-9. The chips come in a giant basket–we split and didn’t finish half, so order sparingly.

In the end this is a quick, casual meal, my first true fish ‘n’ chips, and it’s tasty. I’m not a fan of fried anything, but it might as well be polluck. I found you can just as easily peel the breading off and eat the fish plain. The polluck’s a simple white fish that tastes like cod and is just as soft and flaky, but can be farmed locally and sustainably, which is always a plus.

Despite how filling that meal alone was, we moved on to tea two doors down to outlast our conversation. Tea & Sympathy is adorable, but very small and can only fit 20 patrons or so. Like many NYC digs, there are a few rules. Most importantly, each guest has to order food with their tea and must spend at least $10, which is perfect for an accompaniment of crumpets. I have to say the entire experience is worth it. The tea is amazing: unique, flavorful and legitimate. There’s a diverse selection including herbal and decaf, and they each come in a small pot of their own, mine shaped like a house. My waitress recommended rose petal, which was pink, sweet and aromatic. The tea leaves are actually in the drink so a little strainer is provided.

The crumpets are soft, thick biscuits with delectable cream and jam. The combination is delightful, and filling, but a great compliment to the tea. Two are more than enough if you’ve already eaten, but worth a sampling. If you need tea therapy or miss the mother country, get to Greenwich Ave for a whole ex-Pat day. It’s a great combination for an afternoon catching up with a friend, and affordable for a change.

Location: 108-112 Greenwich Ave

Subways: F/M/L to 14th and 6th Ave

Prices: $10 fish n chips, $10 tea and crumpets

Contact: asaltandbattery.com, teaandsympathynewyork.com

When a coworker left my restaurant to work for 16 Handles I had no idea what she was referring to. Once I passed the new Upper East Side store under construction, I recalled the East Village location and heard great feedback when I asked around about it. I haven’t had frozen yogurt in about a decade, but with constant hype over Pinkberry I couldn’t believe they were opening two doors down from one. That is, until I visited today.

16 Handles offers an entire experience around frozen yogurt, and it’s not as devastating for a diet as I thought. The new guy in town features 16 literal handles of frozen yogurt with nonfat, sugar-free, tart and low-fat options. Not to mention everything’s kosher and each flavor’s nutritional info is displayed above the handle. Upon entering customers are free to sample any of the handles with miniature paper cups. Once you choose a flavor you dispense as much as you’d like into a larger wafer-lined cup and move to the toppings bar, which has anything you can imagine. Everything is self-serve and you only pay for the amount your creation weighs.

I had the opportunity to try all 16 of today’s flavors, a selection which you can check ahead of time on 16 Handles’ facebook page. I was delighted with the low-fat red velvet cake and kiwi strawberry sorbet selections, but I chose a plain chocolate base when it came time for toppings. I scooped a little bit of a lot of options for a variety: strawberry slices, cookie dough drops, bananas, chocolate chips, and of course, sprinkles all around. The yogurt is smooth and flavors rich without overwhelming. Each addition complemented the yogurt scrumptiously, and my small portion was satisfyingly filling.

Most importantly, I heard the news of this store’s Grand Opening on Saturday from noon to 5 pm. The newest location’s reportedly been packed all month, but the grand opening is the prime time to try it if you haven’t been. Kids can look forward to face painting and airbrush tattoos and adults can have as much fun with a photo booth on site and raffles for iPads and iPods. Saturday is undoubtedly the day to go. If frozen yogurt’s not your thing and/or you’re freezing, you’ll be pleasantly surprised… about 16 times.

Location: 1569 2nd Ave, btw 81st and 82nd

Also in East Village at 159 2nd Ave

Subways: 4/5/6 to 86th St. or 6 to 77th

Price: $1 for the cup, $0.49 per ounce

Contact: www.16flavors.com

I have three good reasons to try Penelope this weekend, and they all start with chicken: club, meatballs, and potpie.

I fell in love with this Murray Hill jewel the moment I walked in after a coworker recommended the spot for months. Penelope’s vibe is irresistible, especially for a Southerner. From the trademark striped canopy to the homey aprons to the adorable bakery, everything about the place is charming. The staff is friendly and casual, the décor is as comforting as a beach house, and the food is so good you could tell someone twice about it on accident.

As both a creature of habit and a childlike eater, I consistently order the three-grilled cheese with fries. This combo’s simple, tasty and filling with a house white wine or coffee after. This weekend though, I went out on a limb and tried something new after encouraging my sister and boyfriend to try things I’ve heard raved about. We were blown away.

I ordered the chicken club sandwich, which was more than enough portion-wise. The white meat chicken was moist and cooked to perfection with just the right condiments. The distinct, homemade French fries were delicious as always, and I took the second half of my sandwich home for later.

My boyfriend chose the chicken meatball sandwich, which every male I’ve eaten here with orders. I tried it for the first time and adored the combination of flavors. The meatballs were soft and rich in flavor, and the pesto sauce added a superb touch. The combination was divine enough to finish a whole sandwich myself.

I saved the best for last. My sister ordered Penelope’s widely acclaimed homemade chicken potpie after seeing one at the table next to us. This dish beats all the chicken potpies I’ve tried in the city, including a taste test of 16 store-bought varieties. The bowl is a large, generous portion covered with a thin layer of slightly sweet bread. The vegetables inside were fresh, soft and warm, and in a nice proportion with the chicken. The meat was fresh, cut into appropriately small pieces, and saturated in a thick, hearty broth.Altogether this dish was amazing, pleasing to the whole table.

I have to admit my favorite aspect of Penelope is its drink descriptions, which are articulate and witty, but the whole experience is a must-try. I highly recommend the spinach artichoke dip if you choose a starter or a local beer if you’re drinking. It’s the kind of place tourists buy a mug or t-shirt to commemorate their visit, and those are available at the front.

Location: 30^th and Lexington

Subways: 4/5/6 to 33^rd St

Price: About $10 a meal

Contact: www.penelopenyc.com

We all have our go-to Mexican dig, and many of us know where to find the right margarita deals when we need a two-for-one, but rarely do either of these offer the atmosphere or entertainment you’ll find at Rosa Mexicano.

I originally discovered this Union Square hotspot on the shady-sounding group blind date where I met my boyfriend, and we recently threw his birthday fiesta there with close friends. This vibrantly decorated restaurant was made for group celebrations. The large, open room is divided into dinner seating and bar mingling with plenty of room for large parties. I was overwhelmed looking for the stranger I shared a cab with upon my first entrance here with all the noise, bright colors, festive music and crowds waiting. My second visit was made easier with a reservation, and the staff was welcoming and accommodating for our party, which arrived over a lengthy period.

Since this isn’t your everyday eatery, you have to try their specialties when you plan a visit: the pomegranate margarita and their famous guacamole. Rosa’s guacamole maker’s personally visit the table with their workshop, if you will, and make your guac fresh and live. You can choose from three levels of spicy, of which I safely pick medium. This giant starter is to-die-for and can comfortably appease a group of five or so. The dip is smooth and rich, unique enough to top my list of favorites.

The pomegranate margarita is Rosa’s best seller, and is only available frozen. The inviting pink slush is delicious, but strong, and should be taken down slowly, trust me. A sweet, cold marg pairs perfectly with any of the classic Mexican dishes and makes for a good time.

The menu has a huge selection, anything you could think of when you crave Mexican, and the happy hour prices at the bar are a steal. The staff is incredibly friendly and the patrons are loud, but fun and energetic. It was perfect for a birthday dinner.

Rosa Mexicano is priced accordingly for an upscale, big-night-out kind of place, pricey but typical for special NYC occasions. I highly recommend the spot for birthdays or tourist hosting if you’re looking for a fun, festive, filling dinner. The wait’s not bad with the bar, but I’d make a reservation if you have a large party.

Location: 9 E 18th St, btw 5th Ave and Broadway

Subways: 1,2,3,L, F, M to 14th St or 4,5,6, N, R, W to Union Sq

Prices: $14 signature margarita, $28 giant pot of guacamole

Contact: 212-533-3350, www.rosamexicano.com

After months of calming vicious customers who couldn’t believe my restaurant’s turkey burger was only served one night a week, I’ve finally given the infamous alternative to red meat a try. Of course, now I’m determined to find the best one in town, and I began at The Grey Dog.

Grey Dog’s a simple, casual neighborhood dig close to Union Square. It’s a popular spot for NYU students and West Villager’s grabbing a quick bite or joining a group for coffee. The menu’s short and sweet featuring a few salads, appetizer’s, sandwiches and burgers. They offer three or four soups a day and late night snacks as well. But best of all, is their turkey burger.

The burger’s an ideal portion, not overly thick, and just moist enough. I add swiss cheese for a little something extra, but the flavor is rich and satisfying. I’m a light eater, so I use half the bun, but I devour the fries. Note: you get more when you take it to-go. The Grey Dog’s interior is raw wooden with tables that represent different places to travel. It’s dimly lit and moderately loud, but has proven a great place for a long conversation.

The soups are warm and comforting, the sandwiches are ample in size and consistently delicious, and the quesadillas and nachos are scrumptious for splurging. The Grey Dog also features delivery, catering, and breakfast. The servers are social and welcoming, and the crowd’s young and hip. It’s enough steps away from Union Square for a little peace, but central enough in the NYU hood for traffic.

I highly recommend this stop if you’re a turkey burg fanatic or leisurely exploring the area. If you live nearby it’s great for an easy night out. This is my go-to when I’m in the West Village, and I’m too awake to eat in but too tired to eat nice. Every offering’s pleasing, and you’ll leave full and contented.

Location: 90 University Place

Subways: 4/5, 6, L or N/R/Q to Union Square

Prices: Affordable, $10 a person (even for the turkey burger)

Website: thegreydog.com

I’m a brunch-a-holic, and the only way to trump my last recommendation, Fetch, which catered to canine’s, is to combine free drinks and live music, plus distinct dishes. Nolita House offers widely appealing specials each day, but they’re best known for their signature Boozy Bluegrass Brunch, a must-see in NYC. Take it from me, you cannot top this brunch.

Every Saturday and Sunday Nolita House has a live local bluegrass band performing from 11:30-3:30 and drinks are free with every meal. You can choose from Mimosa, Sangria, Champagne, or orange juice to accompany your lively, loud and upbeat experience. The energy this weekend was contagious enough for a party of six to order shots before noon, and I saw worse last year when SantaCon pub crawler’s stopped by.

If drinks and loud music wouldn’t draw you in, the unique menu is worth a try, especially if you’ve stuck to benedict’s and homefries every weekend. The brunch menu allows for traditional brunch options and unconventional options. After typical brunch every Saturday and Sunday

for months, my boyfriend and I were both eager to change things up. Everyone around us tried the Huevos Rancheros or the Vanilla Brandy French Toast, both of which looked tempting, but we were in the mood for eggs. I tried Mediterranean Baked Eggs over ratatouille and he got New Orleans Style Shrimp and Grits.

Both plates were unlike anything we’ve tried before. My dish was uniquely satisfying, an odd combination of tastes made perfect on flatbread. It was good enough to go outside my comfort zone and a lot prettier than scrambled eggs on a bagel. His was surprisingly good as well, and I don’t typically like grits. The shrimp was decent in size and perfectly prepared, and the grits were topped with eggs and one of three daily cheeses. Four days later he is still raving about that cheese. We paired our new finds with sangria, OJ and coffee for an odd combination we both loved.

You do have to converse loudly over the music, but it’s not impossible, and the crowd’s all the happier for it. We were sat immediately despite a packed house and squeezed into a comfy corner booth. At Nolita House you can take your time without feeling rushed, enjoy tables around you getting carried away, and leave with a full stomach. The restaurant’s decorated  to make you feel at home, and I’ve never eaten there feeling otherwise.

This location’s great if you’re downtown and want to eat before or after a Whole Foods trip or day of retail. I used to frequent the New Museum and stop by Billy’s before a wholesome meal of macaroni or pizza to recharge. I highly recommend heading that way this weekend, you’ll feel the warmth.

Location: 47 E Houston St (off Lafayette)

Prices: $30-$35 brunch for two

Contact: nolitahouse.com, 212-625-1712

I pass French Roast everyday as it’s a block from my boyfriend’s apartment. We’ve been saving it to try for brunch, but my friend Cali and I opted for proximity in this frigid weather today and gave it a shot. The corner dig draws you right in with an authentic parisian exterior. From the font on the sign to the wicker chairs sitting two-by-two at round tables, the place is adorable.

The menu is standard: soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, entrees. We’re both sandwich girls: Cali chose turkey and cranberry sauce on rye and I chose blackened organic chicken breast on a baguette. Shamefully, we both requested fries over salad, but that is very French to be fair.

The meals weren’t spectacular, but sufficient for a lunch more about the conversation than the substance. My chicken was lean but filling and flavorful enough. Cali liked the turkey more and finished her entire sandwich, if that tells you anything. The fries and service were great and it made for a comfortable, simple lunch date.

Perks: the staff’s friendly, we ate for $11 each, there’s a full bar, and they’re open 24 hours a day. It’s easily accessible if you’re around the West Village and pretty spacious. I imagine the entrees are a bit more impressive, but they’re pricey. I say it’s worth a try, but not a must. See for yourself, especially if you’re looking for something French.

Location: 11th St & 6th Ave (also at 85th St. and Broadway)

Subways: Take the B/D/F or L to 14th St and 6th Ave

Price: $10-$15 a meal, excluding beverages

Site: www.frenchroastny.com