As New York defrosts, it’s time to get out of Morningside and enjoy what the city has to offer. Our intrepid food critic Allison Schlissel takes you out into the city on a student’s budget.

What better way to spend a Sunday than a luxurious brunch followed by a leisurely stroll on the Highline? Don’t underestimate the therapeutic power of a sit-down brunch: it’s a simple way to unwind from the past week and recharge.

For those waking up from hibernation, the Highline is a park built on an old elevated freight rail line in the Meatpacking District. Since the Meatpacking District can get pricey, my quest was to find a delicious brunch place under $20. And it’s possible! Cookshop is right across the street from the Highline, cute, reasonably priced, and delicious.

The atmosphere is bright and cheerful: a spacious room with the shelves adorned with flowerpots and large windows for maximum sunlight. The friendly wait staff contributes to the joyful environment. The menu has a great selection, with diverse brunch options that incorporate finer ingredients.

I ordered the Huevos Rancheros ($15), which had three baked eggs, black beans, ranchero sauce, Monterey jack cheese, lime creme fraiche, crispy tortillas, and pickled jalapeños. It was a delicious combination with just enough of a kick to make the ingredients harmonize. The eggs transformed this dish from a dinnertime pick to a perfect brunch food: a breakfast that sustains a person for the day.

I would call this brunch a fine dining experience at a good value. The ingredients were top notch and the portion was massive, yet it was under $20. With a satisfied stomach, stroll through the Highline to complete the day.