Agi's Counter serves upscale Jewish and Eastern European dishes in a cozy, boho-chic space, highlighting delectable brunch staples and pastries.
"“Chicken liver mousse brings me back to every Jewish holiday growing up,” shares Jeremy Salamon, chef of Agi's Counter in Brooklyn. “My grandmother always served her version of it in a crystal bowl with water crackers. When we arrived and the spread was out on display, I knew it was holiday time.” Salamon adds that chicken liver mousse is "a nosh," or something that's put out ahead of the Hanukkah meal (with other noshes). “Everyone sits around it and digs in as they chat; it's a way to break the ice before sitting for a holiday dinner; a delicious way to kick off the festivities.”" - Jillian Dara
"Agi's Counter is a New York City restaurant known for its Hungarian and Jewish inspired dishes. During a collaborative dinner at Birdie G’s in Los Angeles, Agi's highlights such as chicken liver mousse with grapes on Pullman bread and cheesecake topped with olive oil were featured alongside Birdie G’s dishes. Both restaurants draw on their chefs' grandmothers for inspiration in both food and name, with Agi's named after Salamon's grandmother." - Bettina Makalintal
"We should warn you that—even more than all the other greasy deliciousness on this list—brunch at Agi’s might put you to sleep. This Crown Heights restaurant serves Hungarian and Austrian-inspired takes on Jewish-American classics: think tuna melts and brisket, served with thick, buttery pieces of toast, and aged cheeses. Newbies should start with the Alpine cheddar egg sandwich, which comes on a buttery Hungarian cheese biscuit. They only have a few counter seats and corner tables, but if you can nab a seat at the counter, it’s a nice place to have a cup of coffee in what feels like your most put-together friend’s, warm, welcoming kitchen. Ask about their special Hungarian donuts. " - neha talreja, will hartman, bryan kim, kenny yang
"New York finalists of any sort fell primarily in the New York State category, which, in addition to Mitchell, included Jeremy Salamon of Agi’s Counter." - Melissa McCart
"Starting out with simple roots at Williamsburg's Smorgasburg, bakers Keavy Blueher and Allison Kave recently Kickstarted their way to opening a shop that combines two things everyone loves: sweets and booze. Butter & Scotch serves fine pies, cakes, ice cream, and snacks along with their intriguing seasonal cocktails and boozy shakes. A perfect place to stop in after dinner (or before too)." - Kyle & Annie Turman
