2 years in a row now I take myself out for breakfast/brunch at Post on East 3rd. I’m talking coffee AND orange juice, a main AND a side. IF you are going to see people I feel like that is an evening thing…plus I rarely spend money on breakfast/brunch - so it’s extra special. They have an awesome quiet backyard too if it’s warm enough. EDIT: I see that I missed because you asked for inexpensive or free. Let me give another rec —> there are many places that give out free stuff on your birthday (I shall link) and I would pair it with a $10 yoga class at St. Mark’s Yoga or a suuuuper long WSH walk, maybe around sunset.
none of these are super super fancy so depends on what you’re looking for (also i assume you mean in manhattan specifically given the chelsea mention ?)
if you want cool and casual is okay, fanelli cafe in soho has classic dishes and attracts occasional celebs despite being pretty chill. i rec it a lot. kind of an it girl spot imo
little owl has a few locations and is also cool, but cozy and a little bit nicer
red bamboo is a great vegan spot in greenwich village
dudley’s is a fun but chill australian joint in les. fantastic seasonal cocktails :-)
near-ish to chelsea though, i love the brunch at pastis, they have the most incredible french toast
so cute to go on a quiet Sunday afternoon when you’re out of your element already. like why not go into a dimly lit ramen spot at 2pm for a swaggy cocktail & some crudo. always know of at least one decent restaurant in the neighborhoods you never go to cuz one day you’re going to end up there & you can’t be caught clueless!!
If you’re within an hour walk from home, you should just walk home.
I understand taking public transit or an Uber there to be on time, but you’re not rushing to get home. Thus, walk.
