Food & Shelter | The Penrose | Upper East Side, NYC

Every New Yorker knows that the cure for a late night of partying is The bacon, egg, and cheese (BEC). January 1st was no exception. It was the day of my birthday, and all I could think about after a night of revelry was the BEC Deluxe from The Penrose. I first discovered The Penrose while showing apartments to a client on the Upper East Side. We ultimately secured the $2800 apartment my client was looking for, but stumbling upon this eatery was that day's real win.

Established in 2012, the Penrose has carved out its place as a neighborhood staple. While New York Magazine heralds it as a premier whiskey bar, its famous Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Deluxe keeps me coming back. This isn’t just your average BEC—it’s a well-conceived twist on a city staple, elevated in every way.

Stepping into The Penrose, you’re greeted by an ambiance of reclaimed wood accents, tasteful antique kitsch, and warm energy that makes you feel at home. The staff are as much a part of the experience as the food and drink. We were seated by Grace, whose welcoming demeanor made her the perfect host. (Fun Fact: We're birthday neighbors hers on 12/31.) 

Before the coffee was even poured, we placed our order: two Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Deluxes, a side of extra crispy tater tots, and an order of Cinnabon French toast sticks.

The Deluxe is a marvel. Served on a fluffy poppy seed roll, it features eggs, melted American cheese, applewood bacon, and crisped shoestring potatoes, all tied together with a thin layer of their secret smoky sauce and a kick of zesty pepperoncini. In a city where you can grab a basic BEC at any corner deli for $5, The Penrose’s thoughtful approach makes this sandwich a standout. Complementing it were perfectly seasoned tots, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

For a sweet contrast, the Cinnabon French toast sticks were a revelation. Crusted to perfection on the outside, soft and melty on the inside, and drizzled with vanilla frosting, they came with a cinnamon maple dipping sauce that tied the whole dish together. They disappeared faster than a presidential conviction.

While my go-to is the BEC Deluxe, The Penrose menu offers plenty of tempting options, like the mac & cheese, chicken sandwich, and fried calamari po-boy. Each dish reflects the same care and creativity that make this spot a neighborhood favorite.

Located on 2nd Avenue between 82nd and 83rd Streets, The Penrose is tucked in the heart of the Upper East Side, one of Manhattan’s most accessible and affordable areas to live outside of Harlem and Washington Heights. The neighborhood is on the rise, with the Second Avenue Subway’s planned extension promising even greater connectivity and convenience. If you’re considering a move to this historic yet evolving neighborhood, now’s the time to explore its housing opportunities.

The Penrose has been a fixture of the Upper East Side for over a decade, and for my sake, I hope it sticks around for at least the rest of my partying years. If you need an apartment on the Upper East Side, call me. If you find yourself in the area, stop by the Penrose, ask for Grace, and tip well. And, of course, tell them Conrad sent you.