One hundred years later, the man's still right. For many New Yorkers, brunch is far and away the best meal of the week, as well as being a tasty, relaxed and leisurely way to overcome the effects of the previous night's carousing.

With winter drawing in, a relaxed brunch is more important than ever. What better way to kick of a chilly weekend than eggs benedict, gallons of coffee and French toast with fresh fruit and maple syrup?

With that in mind, here's our selection of New York's eight great brunch spots, taking in the brand-new , as well as taking a look in on how some of the city's favorite venerable brunch establisments are holding up.

BEST "BEST BRUNCH"

Norma's at Le Parker Meridien, 118 W. 57th St., at Sixth Avenue; (212) 708-7460.Is this the best breakfast in town? We think so, but with a price tag of at least $25 a head, it sure is one of the most expensive as well.

And let's get one thing clear, if you're a light eater or on a diet then this is not the place for you. But, should you want a high-calorie meal to keep you going all day, then Norma's at Midtown's Parker Meridien hotel is a sure thing.

They describe their philosophy thus, according to the company's Web site: "We've taken the idea of breakfast being the most important meal of the day and expanded it to include those morning specialities for lunch or brunch." In practice, this means you get to choose anything from red berry risotto oatmeal ($11) to lobster omelette with artichokes ($22). Norma's most recent addition to the menu, however, is currently their most popular dish - a waffle laden with fresh fruit inside and out with a brulee topping - known, aptly, as, "TheWaz-Za?" Eat brunch any day of the week from 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.