Welcome to the Lower East Side, where small, locally owned cafés fuel the neighborhood’s energy with every cup poured and pastry served. This diverse area is home to a wide range of cozy coffee shops, artisanal bakeries, laid-back brunch spots, and hidden gems offering unique bites and brews.
Whether you're grabbing a morning latte, indulging in fresh-baked goods, or settling in for a long brunch with friends, the LES has the perfect spot for you. Explore our guide to discover local favorites across three key categories: Bakeries, Brunch Spots, and Miscellaneous Cafés. Each one offers its own charm and flavor, reflecting the creativity and community spirit that define the Lower East Side.
Davidovich Bakery, located at 79 Clinton Street, is known for hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels. It opened in Essex Market in 2013. The shop sells bagels, pastries, and sandwiches. Its traditional methods have gained wide praise. Bagels are also sold online and shipped all throughout the U.S.
Kaida Coffee & Bakery, located at 122 Ludlow Street, offers quality coffee and fresh baked goods in a cozy setting. Popular items include Turkish coffee, cold brew, and vegan pastries. It is a welcoming spot for locals and visitors in the neighborhood.
Café Grumpy, located at 13 Essex Street, is a minimalist coffee shop known for its high-quality, house-roasted beans. The café offers a selection of espresso drinks, pour-overs, and seasonal specials like matcha cider, complemented by pastries from local bakers. With limited seating and no Wi-Fi, it provides a focused environment for coffee enthusiasts.
The Granddaddy Café, located at 290 Grand Street, is a cozy and community-centered coffee spot. It honors the area's immigrant roots with a welcoming vibe. Known for its black sesame latte, it offers seasonal bites in a bright, airy space. Communal tables make it great for working or relaxing. The café also hosts chill events like wine and dine nights.
Davelle, located at 102 Suffolk St, is a cozy Japanese café located at 102 Suffolk Street. It serves dishes like mentaiko toast, uni pasta, and omurice in a calm, minimalist space. Specialty drinks include matcha lattes and Kyoto-style cold brew. With its inviting ambiance, Davelle stands out as a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
Pause Cafe, located at 3 Clinton Street, is a Moroccan-inspired café offering healthy dishes like acai bowls, crepes, and fresh juices. The cozy, homey space features bistro tables and a Moroccan fountain. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists in the neighborhood.
Good Thanks Cafe, located at 131 Orchard Street, is an Australian-inspired café offering healthy dishes like avocado toast and smoothie bowls. The minimalist space is popular for brunch and casual dining, with a selection of natural wines and craft cocktails. It is a beloved spot for food and coffee in the neighborhood.
Sweet Dreams Café, located at 100 Orchard Street, offers kosher Italian dishes like lasagna, gnocchi, and tiramisu. It features a warm atmosphere with live music performances. The café blends culinary tradition with cultural ambiance in the neighborhood.
Koneko Cat Cafe, located at 26 Clinton Street, is a Japanese-inspired café where visitors can interact with adoptable cats. The café serves Japanese-style snacks, pastries, and beverages like Stumptown coffee and In Pursuit of Tea. With a $20 entrance fee for a 60-minute session, it's a relaxing spot to enjoy coffee and spend time with cats.
Froth New York, located at 90 Rivington Street, is a trendy café known for its unique coffee drinks like lavender chai lattes. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with ample seating and Wi-Fi. The modern decor and welcoming vibe make it a popular spot in the neighborhood.
Heaven’s Hot Bagel, located at 283 E Houston Street, is a popular spot for fresh bagels and breakfast items like bagel sandwiches and burritos. Known for its garlic and everything bagels with cream cheese, it offers quick service at affordable prices. It is a favorite among locals in the neighborhood.
Waypoint Cafe, located at 65 Ludlow Street, is a café and gaming lounge offering high-powered gaming PCs and specialty coffee. It serves pastries, sandwiches, and wraps. Waypoint Cafe also hosts gaming tournaments. Open daily until midnight, it is a popular spot for gamers in the neighborhood.
