Harvest or Atelier Florian

Do you want excellent food, pretty good food, good enough food, or whatever food? Because this will help with recommendations.

Shell & Bones or Fair Haven Oyster Co

Heirloom

I'd say between pretty good and excellent would be preferable- how about very good?

From what I hear, the place 2 be doesn’t have the best food, but they meet all your other criteria.

Avoid it.

I recommend Pacifico. Zinc is a step above. You’ll do very well with both. And, most definitely, make a reservation to sit at the bar at Ordinary when your day is done. Best cocktails in the city—possibly in the state. Stick with what I’m suggesting!

what about union league? that's almost right across the street from the yale art gallery. some accuse it of being a little stodgy but i've never had anything but a truly lovely meal there. doesn't hit the trendy notes, but it's definitely posh as hell (though, you know, the prices can be too).

Neither is near any shopping!

Yes, I'm leery of going there just yet after reading reviews about the mediocre food and service/wait times. I'd like somewhere where I can make a reservation. It does look like a fun place to go for drinks - I know they are new so hopefully they can work out some of the kinks

Anchor Spa, and consider the Luke as backup across the street

anchor spa is very cool. Or Ordinary. Via is very designed to be "trendy" & has lots of interesting cocktails if you're looking for that

Seconding this. Aterlier Florian has a pretty good brunch, good atmosphere, sometimes they have a musician playing. And it's close enough to where you want to be.

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Via’s is pretty trendy, instagramable for sure. They are constantly updating their food and drink menu. Always have a good time there.

do you want good food or a good insta moment? best brunch is not trendy imo

Food is more important

Thanks all for your suggestions!

Crepe choupette!!