NYC Restaurants: Flipper's Japanese Soufflé Pancakes
A Fluffy, Flavorful Brunch at Flipper’s NYC: A Review
On a crisp February morning, my wife, son and I ventured to Flipper’s, a charming Japanese-style soufflé pancake restaurant located in the heart of New York City. Known for its light, airy Japanese soufflé pancakes and creative brunch offerings, Flipper’s promised a unique dining experience—and it delivered.
The Ambiance: Bright and Inviting
Flipper’s is nestled in the bustling streets of SoHo, and stepping inside feels like entering a bright, modern café with a touch of whimsy. The décor is minimalist yet warm, with bright yellow tones, neon signs accenting the walls, and plenty of natural light streaming through the windows. The open kitchen allows you to catch glimpses of the chefs expertly crafting their signature soufflé pancakes, adding a sense of anticipation to the experience.
We were seated at one end of a large communal table, in the center of the room, perfect for people-watching while enjoying our meal. The atmosphere was lively but not overwhelming, with a mix of couples, families, and friends chatting over plates of towering pancakes.
The Drinks: A Toast to Brunch
Our meal began with the French Kissed Mimosa, a playful twist on the classic brunch cocktail. Made with sparkling wine and a splash of strawberry purée, it was light, refreshing, and just sweet enough to set the tone for the meal. The strawberry flavor was vibrant but not overpowering, making it the perfect accompaniment to the rich dishes to come.
The Star of the Show: Japanese Soufflé Pancakes
Flipper’s is famous for its Japanese soufflé pancakes, and it’s easy to see why. These pancakes are a marvel of culinary engineering—light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like in texture. We ordered two varieties: the Strawberry Soufflé Pancake and the Fresh Fruit Soufflé Pancake.
Savory Options: Chicken and Waffles
While Flipper’s is best known for its pancakes, their savory offerings are equally impressive. Our son couldn’t resist trying the Chicken and Waffles, and it did not disappoint.
The waffles were crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with a subtle sweetness that complemented the savory fried chicken. The chicken itself was perfectly cooked—juicy on the inside, with a golden, crunchy coating that was seasoned just right. A drizzle of maple syrup added the perfect finishing touch, balancing the savory and sweet elements beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Soufflé Pancake
The Fresh Fruit Soufflé Pancake was a fantasy. The light, fluffy Japanese pancakes were topped with a medley of fresh fruits—strawberries, blueberries, and bananas—arranged in a colorful, Instagram-worthy display. The house special maple cream drizzled over the top added a rich, velvety sweetness that tied everything together.
The freshness of the fruit balanced the richness of the cream, creating a dish that felt both decadent and wholesome. It was a celebration of simplicity and quality ingredients, executed to perfection.
Avocado Toast with a Twist
For a savory option, we ordered the Avocado Toast to share, which came served with a side salad and truffle fries. The avocado toast was simple yet satisfying, with creamy mashed avocado spread over thick, multi-seed toast with mozzarella. A sprinkle of sea salt ,and the side salad added a refreshing, crisp contrast.
Strawberry Soufflé Pancake
This dish was a strawberry lover’s dream. The pancakes themselves were impossibly airy, with a delicate, custard-like interior that melted in your mouth. They were topped with a generous dollop of homemade strawberry pudding, a swirl of strawberry cream, and a layer of cheese cream that added a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Fresh strawberries were scattered throughout, adding a burst of juiciness and freshness.
The combination of flavors and textures was exquisite—each bite was a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy. It felt indulgent without being overly heavy, a testament to the skill and precision that goes into making these pancakes.
Service and Experience
The service at Flipper’s was attentive and friendly, with staff members who were knowledgeable about the menu and eager to offer recommendations. Despite the restaurant being busy, our food arrived promptly, and the presentation of each dish was impeccable.
One of the highlights of the experience was watching the Japanese soufflé pancakes being made. The chefs’ precision and care were evident in every step, from whisking the batter to gently flipping the pancakes to ensure they maintained their height and fluffiness. It was a reminder of the artistry that goes into creating these delicate dishes.
Final Thoughts
Flipper’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory brunch dishes, there’s something for everyone on the menu. The Japanese soufflé pancakes are the undeniable stars, but the savory options and sides hold their own, making Flipper’s a well-rounded destination for brunch lovers.
Our meal was a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, with each dish showcasing high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. The cozy ambiance, friendly service, and unforgettable flavors made it a brunch to remember.
If you’re in New York City and looking for a unique, delicious brunch experience, Flipper’s is a must-visit. Just be sure to arrive early—this place is popular for a reason!
