If you've spent more than five minutes scrolling through Brooklyn brunch recommendations, you’ve probably seen the name. Shane's Brooklyn Brooklyn NY isn't just another spot with overpriced avocado toast and a minimalist aesthetic.
It’s actually the opposite.
Located at 794 Washington Avenue, right in the heart of Prospect Heights, this place feels like a living room. A very busy, very loud, very delicious living room. While neighboring restaurants come and go with the changing seasons of gentrification, Shane’s has been holding it down since 2002. That is basically a century in New York City restaurant years.
What Most People Get Wrong About Shane's Brooklyn
A lot of folks think they can just stroll in on a Sunday at noon and get a table.
Good luck with that.
The wait times at Shane's Brooklyn Brooklyn NY are legendary, and not always in the fun way. Honestly, if you aren't prepared to stand on Washington Ave for 45 minutes, you might want to rethink your life choices. Or, you know, just make a reservation on Resy.
People often mistake it for a "hidden gem." It’s not hidden. Every local from Bed-Stuy to Park Slope knows about the fish and grits. It's more of a neighborhood cornerstone that happens to attract tourists because it's a short walk from the Brooklyn Museum and the Botanic Garden.
The Real Story Behind the Counter
The man behind the curtain is Luther C. Williams III. Before he was serving up soul food, he was a partner at the Park Slope Health Club. Talk about a pivot. He opened the doors in April 2002, naming the joint after his firstborn son.
Back then, the neighborhood was different. There weren't many places to grab a solid breakfast, and Luther saw a gap. He didn't just hire staff; he built a crew. Some of the people working there today have been with him for years, which explains why the service—while sometimes frantic—usually feels genuinely warm.
The Menu: What to Actually Order
If you go to Shane's and don't order the Cinnamon Donut Waffles, did you even go?
They are sweet. Like, dangerously sweet. But when you pair them with their crispy fried chicken, it just works. The chicken is seasoned down to the bone—none of that bland, floury mess you get at some of the trendier "comfort food" spots in Manhattan.
- The Fish and Grits: This is the heavyweight champion of the menu. They use whiting or catfish, fried to a hard crisp, served over creamy grits. Get the cheese in the grits. Don't overthink it.
- Sorrel Mimosas: Most places give you cheap OJ and bottom-shelf bubbles. Shane’s does a hibiscus/sorrel version that is elite. It’s tart, spicy, and way too easy to drink.
- The Deluxe Breakfast: For the people who want everything. Pancakes or French toast, eggs, grits, and your choice of meat (yes, they have beef and turkey bacon for the non-pork eaters).
The Vibes and the "Underground" Secret
The layout is kinda quirky. From the street, it looks tiny. You walk in and it’s a tight squeeze past the bar. But then there’s a whole downstairs area that feels like an underground speakeasy.
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It’s intimate. It’s also where the music usually hits a bit harder. On any given weekend, you’ll hear a mix of 90s R&B, neo-soul, and maybe some Caribbean tracks that make you forget you’re waiting for a check.
One thing you've gotta know: they won't seat you until your whole party is there. This is a strict rule. Don't try to negotiate. Even if it's just two of you, your friend better be within eyesight before you ask for that booth.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
Brooklyn has changed. A lot. But Shane's has stayed Black-owned and community-focused through all of it. During the pandemic, they teamed up with actor Jeffrey Wright to feed frontline workers. That kind of history matters. It’s why people still line up. It’s why the "soul food with a healthy touch" (their words, not mine) still resonates.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Parking is a nightmare. It’s Prospect Heights. Use the 2/3 train to Eastern Parkway or the Q to 7th Ave.
- Reservations are your best friend. Seriously. Resy exists for a reason.
- Check the hours. They are generally open 9 AM to 6 PM daily, but they do dinner on Thursday through Saturday.
- Bring your appetite. The portions are massive. You will likely leave with a container.
If you’re looking for a sanitized, quiet brunch where you can hear a pin drop, this ain't it. But if you want food that actually tastes like someone’s grandmother was in the kitchen, Shane's Brooklyn Brooklyn NY is the move.
Next Steps for Your Visit
Check their current weekend specials on Instagram or their official site before heading out, as they often rotate seasonal mimosa flavors like passion fruit or guava. If you're planning a group larger than six, call ahead at (718) 872-6900 rather than relying on the app, as the downstairs space is often reserved for larger birthday brunches and events.