Upper West Side Breakfast & Coffee

Carrot hashbrowns at Community Food & Juice.

Barney Greengrass
541 Amsterdam Ave at 86th St.
Yes, your bagel with lox and cream cheese will be the most expensive one you’ve ever eaten. But it will be delicious, and you’ll be eating at a New York institution.

Community Food & Juice
2893 Broadway, north of 116th St.
I have a love/hate relationship with this “green” joint. On the one hand it’s overpriced, precious, on the other hand it’s a place to get local, healthy, organic food in a pleasant atmosphere. And I love the whole wheat biscuits and carrot hashbrowns. From 8-9:30 AM, Monday to Thursday, $9 gets you wild Maine blueberry pancakes, a bottomless cup of free trade, organic coffee, and fresh squeezed OJ. See what I mean about precious?

Lenny’s Bagels
2601 Broadway at 98th St.
A no-nonsense spot with crappy coffee but good everything bagels.

Oren’s Daily Roast
2882 Broadway between 112th and 113th Sts.
A small chain with great coffee, excellent sugar-free berry scone.

Silver Moon Bakery
2740 Broadway at 105th St.
I love the Bavarian pretzel for a not-so-healthy breakfast.

Other recommendations (tips from readers, but places I haven't been):

Popover Cafe
Amsterdam Ave at 86th St.
Helen says: this place is great and very cute for brunch. Also, their popovers are lots of fun.

Alice's Teacup
73rd St. at Columbus Ave.
Helen says: The original of a chain -- cutest brunch place ever. Amazing scones, awesome collection of teas, and yummy brunch. French toast is v. good.

Josie's
74th St. & Amsterdam Ave.
Helen says: A bit on the expensive side, but is a delicious, health-conscious option. Great Bellini's and fresh fruit drinks. They serve butternut squash spread with homemade focaccia as the appetizer.