It's on 3 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- AddressMultiple locations
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
Jack’s Wife Freda is a popular NYC restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and Mediterranean-inspired menu. Founded by Dean and Maya Jankelowitz, the restaurant pays tribute to Dean’s grandparents, Jack and Freda.
And while those names might not sound familiar, the reason Jack’s Wife Freda made our list of celebrity-owned restaurants in NYC is thanks to co-owner Piper Perabo. Perabo is best known for roles as Annie Walker in Covert Affairs and Violet Sanford in Coyote Ugly.
Perabo befriended the Jankelowitz, who had previous restaurant experience, Maya was the maître d’ of Balthazars and Dean was the maître d’ of Schiller’s. When they shared their plans to start their own venture, Perabo was eager to join them.
Now almost a decade later with five locations, Jack’s Wife Freda has grown to be an incredible success, attracting locals and visitors seeking delicious meals in a welcoming setting.
Jack’s Wife Freda is a popular restaurant that merges South African and Israeli cuisine.
The couple worked at several notable restaurants before fatefully meeting at Balthazar. Years later, they took a leap of faith by opening their own. Named after Dean’s grandparents, Jack and Freda, this chic Chelsea brunch restaurant is a love letter to comforting childhood meals.
But you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Note. Jack’s Wife Freda leans into the vibes playing music at a volume louder than some might enjoy. Those nursing the consequences of a fun night on the town might want to consider other options ;
Jack’s Wife Freda is a popular restaurant that merges South African and Israeli cuisine. Sounds like an unusual combo, until you realize the founders are husband-and-wife duo, Dean and Maya Jankelowitz (from South Africa and Israel respectively).
The couple worked at several notable New York City restaurants before fatefully meeting at Balthazar. Years later, they took a leap of faith by opening their own. Named after Dean’s grandparents, Jack and Freda, this chic New York City brunch restaurant is a love letter to comforting childhood meals.
For brunch, I’m partial to the green shakshuka (soft baked eggs, green tomatillo shakshuka, challah toast) and rosewater waffle (lebanese yogurt, mixed berries and honey syrup). But you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
The best brunch in New York doesn’t need a two-hour wait to prove itself.