Buttonwood Cafe

- 120 Water St, New York, NY 10005

In a city like New York, finding a dining spot that feels both intimate and high-class is a rare treat. While many restaurants vie for attention with grand entrances and overwhelming crowds, Buttonwood Cafe offers a refreshing alternative. Tucked away in the lobby of the Hotel Indigo, this small but mighty establishment is a "hidden gem" that surprises and delights those who are fortunate enough to find it. Buttonwood Cafe isn't just a place to eat; it's an experience that values its patrons, offering a quiet and cozy escape with an elevated dining program and a top-tier bar.

Buttonwood Cafe has built a reputation for its phenomenal cocktails and high-quality food, a far cry from typical hotel lobby fare. It’s an institution that seamlessly blends the convenience of a hotel bar with the sophistication of a high-end restaurant. The atmosphere is described as "intimate, upscale, classy," with a trendy yet cozy feel. This is a place where you can enjoy a perfectly cooked burger that’s a "steakhouse style" creation or savor a beautifully prepared salmon dish, all while listening to "funky fantastic music." Buttonwood Cafe is a perfect blend of modern flair and classic excellence, making it a must-visit spot in the Financial District for both locals and tourists.

Buttonwood Cafe is located at 120 Water St, New York, NY 10005, USA, discreetly nestled within the lobby of the Hotel Indigo. This prime location in the Financial District places it in a high-traffic area, yet its tucked-away nature gives it an exclusive, insider feel. The restaurant is easily accessible for anyone in the Wall Street area, a major hub for business, finance, and tourism.

Accessibility is a key feature of the cafe. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can navigate the space with ease. For those arriving by car, paid street parking is available, a common and necessary amenity in this part of New York. The cafe's location within a hotel also means it's a convenient and safe option for anyone staying at or near the Hotel Indigo.

Buttonwood Cafe provides a range of services that cater to various dining preferences, all within a welcoming and elegant setting.

• Dine-in: The primary service offered is dine-in, with a choice of seating that is both comfortable and stylish. The counter service and table service options allow for both quick bites and more leisurely meals, making it popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The staff is known for being attentive and efficient, ensuring a pleasant experience whether you're alone or with a group.

• Accepts Reservations: For those planning a visit, especially with a group, the option to accept reservations is a major plus. This allows you to secure a spot and enjoy a worry-free dining experience in this small and intimate venue.

Buttonwood Cafe stands out in the New York dining scene due to its unique combination of quality, service, and atmosphere.

• Great Cocktails: The cocktail program is a major highlight. A reviewer noted that the "cocktail experience is second to none." Bartenders like Josh are praised for using "dazzlingly fresh ingredients" to "chop, muddle, and shake premium cocktails to perfection." The menu features a variety of unique concoctions, from the Water Street Sunrise ($19.00) to the Espresso Symphony ($21.00), all served in "beautiful crystal glassware."

• Great Food: The food is consistently described as "FANTASTIC." One customer was particularly impressed with the Craft Bacon Cheeseburger ($25.00), calling it a "steakhouse style burger" that "far out classes anything in the area." Other dishes, like the Bourbon Salmon ($29.00) and Hanger Steak ($29.00), are also noted for their high quality and ample portions. The menu offers a wide variety of comfort food and healthy options, including the Veggie Coconut Curry ($24.00) and the Kale Salad ($21.00).

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The cafe’s ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy and trendy. It's a "dimlit" and intimate space with a "stunning granite bartop" and "funky fantastic music" that adds to the allure. The setting is ideal for a date, a solo meal, or a quiet get-together with friends.

• Exceptional Service: The staff, including the owner Willie and bartender Josh, are commended for their sincerity and attentiveness. They create a welcoming environment that makes every guest, from hotel residents to locals, feel valued. The personal touch and professional service are key reasons why customers are "definitely coming back."

• Family-Friendly and Inclusive: Buttonwood Cafe is a welcoming space for all. It is listed as being both family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly, as well as a transgender safe space, which speaks to its inclusive and open-minded atmosphere.

For a truly top-class dining experience in the Financial District, you can find Buttonwood Cafe at:

Address: 120 Water St, New York, NY 10005, USA

Phone: (914) 912-2138

When you choose Buttonwood Cafe, you are choosing a memorable meal that stands out in a city of countless restaurants. The menu, while not overwhelming, is thoughtfully curated with a variety of delicious options.

For those stopping by for a morning bite, the breakfast menu is worth exploring. Classics like the 2 Eggs Any Style ($20.00) and Eggs Benedict ($19.00) are popular choices. The Avocado Toast ($18.00) is a great option for a "light start," while the Buttonwood Breakfast Sandwich ($18.00) on a croissant is a hearty way to begin the day. The coffee and espresso drinks are also a highlight, with options from a classic Americano ($7.00) to a Flavored Latte ($8.00).

The main courses, however, are where the cafe truly shines. The Craft Bacon Cheeseburger ($25.00) is a must-try for any burger enthusiast, celebrated for its thick, juicy patty. The Bourbon Salmon ($29.00) is another top recommendation, described by a customer as "glistening and butter soft." Vegetarians will appreciate the Beyond Veggie Burger ($24.00) and the flavorful Veggie Coconut Curry ($24.00). For a quick snack, the Fire Cracker Shrimp ($24.00) and Chicken Wings ($18.00) are great options to share with a group.

The dessert menu offers a few classic choices to end your meal on a sweet note. The Chocolate Lava Cake ($12.00) is a decadent choice, and for a truly indulgent treat, you can get the Waffle Sundae ($15.00).

However, it is important for customers to be aware of a few reported issues. One customer was disappointed to be overcharged for toast and felt misled when a tip was added to their bill without their consent. While this may be an isolated incident, it highlights the importance of checking your bill carefully, a practice that is always wise in any dining establishment. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews about the food, service, and atmosphere indicate that Buttonwood Cafe is a rare and special find in a busy part of the city.

Buttonwood Cafe

120 Water St, New York, NY 10005, USA