"We had the Rosewater Waffle, Chicken Prego, and Roasted Garlic with Bread for brunch. For drinks, we opted for Matcha and honey syrup lattes. The drinks were undoubtedly the highlight of our meal. The garlic and bread were delicious, and the chicken prego was equally tasty. The rosewater waffle was also quite good. The restaurant was quite crowded, which made for a noisy atmosphere. However, we were still able to have a pleasant conversation. The service was a bit lacking, but I understand that it was a busy restaurant."

"I came to know about Jack’s Wife Frieda by chance. After enjoying an amazing concert at MSG the night before, my dear friend and I were on the hunt for coffee on a misty Sunday morning., The place we intended to go was closed, and we were a bit short on time before our train would depart. On our walk back toward our place, it began to rain and the friendly hostess beckoned us in the front door. I can only describe what happened next as one of the most memorable food experiences I can recall in Manhattan. And that says a lot, as there are many amazing food choices. The breakfasts have a Mediterranean flare and are delicious and complex and fun. The servers make you feel like you have been friends with them for decades. The latte was one of the best I have ever had, including those I have had in Europe. I still think about it. And finally, the warmth with which we were treated was truly appreciated. The hostess recognized that we were a bit short on time and rushed everything for us but yet we did not feel time pressure. Somehow magically, it all just came together. As we were leaving, the hostess overheard me talking about the blisters I had on my feet from walking around Manhattan the day before and she literally came out of the restaurant’s front door to follow us after we had left to give me Band-Aids. If that is not service, I’m not sure what is . Do yourself a favor and pencil in some time to have a meal there. I can speak for the breakfast experience, and it was nothing short of outstanding. I only wish I lived closer. I would be a regular for sure."

"I stopped by Jack’s Wife Freda on 16th St and 8th Ave — cute spot with a nice vibe and friendly staff, but honestly, the portions were pretty small for the price. The food was tasty and well-presented, but I left still feeling hungry. It’s a nice place if you’re looking for a light meal or brunch with friends, but if you’re expecting hearty portions, you might be a bit disappointed. Overall, decent experience but not sure I’d rush back"

"Jack’s Wife Freda is a slice of sunshine in downtown Manhattan. Mediterranean comfort food served with New York charm. The space buzzes with life—tables close, laughter constant, espresso always flowing. The staff greet you like an old friend even if it’s your first visit. Try the green shakshuka or the rosewater waffle; both are unforgettable. It’s casual, beautiful, and full of heart—the kind of café that makes a city feel personal. Brunch here is a ritual, not a trend."

"Highly overrated!!! The food was average at best, nothing Mediterranean about it. Portion sizes were shockingly small for the price and the staff came across rude and uninterested. We left disappointed. There are plenty of better brunch spots in NYC."