The phrase “hidden gem” gets thrown around a lot, but Penelope truly fits the bill. The homestyle restaurant is situated on 30th and Lex, in the heart of Murray Hill and its bubble of bankers, Indian food and mostly unmemorable bars and restaurants (sorry, but it’s true!). But then you have Penelope, a cute brunch spot that seems more suited for the West Village or somewhere uptown. It seems out of place, but its presence is most welcome. After all, the girls who live in Murray Hill like to brunch, too!
Brunch lines are hit or miss a.k.a. 15 minutes or one hour and while they do a fine morning meal, its dinner wait is less painful and offerings are just as delicious.
What’s in it for you: Artichoke-spinach dip, arugula and red onion salad in a lemon-pesto vinaigrette, hummus and avocado sandwich, grilled three cheese sandwich
What’s in it for them: Curried chicken salad, grilled chicken with artichoke sandwich, burger, double bacon BLT
My pescetarian friend and I ventured here after watching the documentary Food Inc. and I was in no mood to flex my flexitarian muscles after that. I opted for the veggie burger and was pleasantly surprised. Usually this dish is pretty tasteless, like it just came out of the freezer and Boca Burger box. The pesto-mayo must’ve won me over. That, and the French fries.
The Veggie Burger Heaven. The cheese, which is optional, was a little overkill. My bad. (Apologies for the poor picture quality. Candlelight made it tough!)
When Veggie Met Sally, a salad topped with veggie burger bites
Red velvet cake. Finally got the flash on my camera to work with me!