Shopsin's

Perhaps no place is as synonymous with Essex Market as Shopsin’s, the enigmatic breakfast and brunch spot. Opened by Kenny Shopsin back in the '80s, the restaurant became a destination to try brunch dishes like mac and cheese pancakes, and more sandwiches than you can imagine. In addition to that, people came to interact and experience Kenny and his family’s vocal personalities (if you’re interested in learning more, watch Kenny’s documentary I Like Killing Flies). Although Kenny passed away in 2018, the restaurant still lives on with its large menu, tremendous breakfast food, and a no-substitutions policy. Make sure you get the ebelskivers, Danish stuffed pancakes that come with jam. One time we ordered them and got an audible “nice” from the waiter.