Café Calaca Introduce
In a city as dynamic and diverse as New York, a great coffee shop is more than just a place to get a caffeine fix; it's a neighborhood cornerstone, a place of community, and a haven for a quick meal or a moment of tranquility. For those in the Bronx, Café Calaca is exactly that and more. This isn't just another coffee shop; it's a vibrant, cozy, and trendy space that brings a touch of Latin American flavor to the heart of the city. As soon as you step inside, you're met with a welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The friendly staff and laid-back vibe make it a perfect escape from the fast-paced New York life, whether you’re looking to get some work done, catch up with a friend, or simply enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a bite to eat on your own. It's a place that has quickly earned a reputation for its quality offerings and inviting feel, making it a true gem in the local community.
Café Calaca is a destination for coffee lovers, and it's easy to see why. Customers consistently praise the quality of the coffee, with one reviewer noting, "They make excellent coffee. I have been here a number of times and the coffee is consistently good." The menu features a wide variety of coffee drinks, from classic options like Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte to unique creations that set them apart. The "Drink Specials" list is a testament to their creativity, with offerings like the Spicy Mocha, Rosewater Latte, and Honey & Peppermint Matcha. For those who aren't in the mood for coffee, the "great tea selection" and other beverages, including Hot Apple Cider and a Chagaccino, ensure that every craving is met. The availability of alternative milks also shows their commitment to catering to different preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that every customer can find their perfect drink. The careful attention to detail in every cup is a primary reason why this spot has become so popular among local coffee aficionados.
Beyond the fantastic coffee and tea, Café Calaca also boasts an impressive food menu that rivals many full-service restaurants. Their offerings are a delightful blend of classic breakfast and brunch favorites with a unique Latin American twist. Patrons rave about the food, with one review highlighting, "Best empanadas and breakfast burrito I've had in recent memory." The menu includes delicious Empanadas with beef, vegan, and cochi options, as well as hearty dishes like Chilaquiles and the Chorizo Burrito. For those who enjoy a healthier bite, the Spring Salad, Avocado Toast, and Vegan Burrito offer fresh and flavorful alternatives. The food is not only delicious but also served with "fast service," a crucial highlight for busy New Yorkers looking for a quick, quality meal. Whether you're in for a full brunch or just a "quick bite," the menu has something to satisfy every hunger level, from a light snack to a full meal. The availability of both quick bites and substantial meals makes it a versatile spot for any time of day.
The location of Café Calaca, situated at 505 Franklin Ave in Brooklyn, makes it a convenient spot for many locals. Its position in a bustling neighborhood ensures that it's a perfect stop during a morning walk or on your way to work. The coffee shop is committed to providing a welcoming experience for all, with a "wheelchair accessible entrance." This focus on accessibility, combined with the multiple service options, makes it a truly community-oriented space. In addition to dine-in seating, which includes cozy indoor spots and "Outdoor seating," they offer convenient "Delivery" and "Takeout" services. This means you can enjoy their amazing food and drinks from the comfort of your own home or office, a major plus for anyone with a busy schedule. The ability to grab a quick bite and a coffee on the go is a significant convenience that makes Café Calaca a reliable and popular choice for locals who are always on the move.
The atmosphere at Café Calaca is one of its most compelling features. It's described as "casual," "cozy," and "trendy," a combination that creates an environment where you can feel relaxed and also a part of the city's modern, vibrant culture. It’s an ideal place for "Solo dining" when you want a moment to yourself with a good book or your laptop, but it’s also a great spot to meet with a friend. The friendly and attentive service adds to the pleasant experience, making every visit a joy. The fact that they offer breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert options means you can stop by at any time of day and find something delicious. The payment options are also convenient, with the acceptance of "Credit cards," "Debit cards," and "NFC mobile payments," ensuring a quick and easy transaction. The overall experience, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, is designed to be as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, which is a major reason for its strong local following.
In summary, Café Calaca is a top-tier coffee shop that has all the elements for a perfect visit. It combines a great selection of high-quality coffee and tea with a delicious and unique food menu. The fast service, coupled with a cozy and trendy atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, whether you need a quick bite or a relaxed meal. The convenience of their location, various service options like outdoor seating and delivery, and a welcoming, accessible environment all contribute to its status as a local favorite. The consistent positive reviews from customers who love everything from the coffee to the breakfast burritos and empanadas speak volumes about the quality and dedication of this establishment. For anyone in New York looking for a fantastic coffee shop experience that offers more than just a regular cup of joe, Café Calaca is the place to be. It's a true neighborhood gem that delivers on its promise of great food, great drinks, and a great time.
Services Offered
- Outdoor seating for a relaxed experience in good weather.
- Delivery and takeout for convenient meals at home or on the go.
- Dine-in for a full, casual, and cozy cafe experience.
Features / Highlights
- Fast service to get your coffee and food quickly.
- Great coffee and an excellent tea selection with unique drink specials.
- A cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for solo dining or small groups.
- Offers a diverse menu with both coffee shop staples and Latin American food, including delicious empanadas and burritos.
- Wheelchair accessible entrance for all guests.
- Accepts a variety of payment methods, including NFC mobile payments.
Contact Information
Address: 505 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Phone: (718) 483-9832
What is worth choosing
Choosing Café Calaca is a decision to experience a coffee shop that excels in all the right areas. What makes it particularly worth choosing is the seamless fusion of a high-quality coffee program with a surprisingly delicious food menu. Unlike many cafes that only offer pastries, Café Calaca provides a full array of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, with items like the Chilaquiles and breakfast burritos that are a cut above the rest. The positive feedback on their coffee and food is consistently strong, with customers praising the taste, freshness, and quality. The casual and cozy atmosphere is perfect for those who want a comfortable space to relax or work, while the fast service ensures that you can grab a quick and satisfying meal even on the busiest of days. The convenience of outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout options caters to all types of lifestyles. When you choose Café Calaca, you're not just getting a cup of coffee; you're getting a complete, high-quality, and authentic experience that truly embodies the spirit of a great local spot in New York.
Café Calaca Food & drink
Empanadas
- Beef Empanada $4.50
Ground beef, boiled egg, olives. Topped with powdered sugar - served with salsa verde.
- Cochi Empanada $4.50
Slow roasted pork wrapped in plantain leaves, brazed in achiote and citrus - served with salsa verde.
- Vegan Empanada $4.50
Spinach, almond ricotta cheese, corn, potato.
Food
- Chilaquiles $14.00
Fried Corn tortillas simmered in salsa verde with beans and a fried egg. (Vegan/Vegetarian by request)
- Avocado Toast $13.00
Seaweed, habanero and pickled onions. Served with a side salad tossed in a housemaid hibiscus vinaigrette. (Vegan/Vegetarian)
- Frijol Toast $12.00
Refried beans, cotija, avocado, and pico de Gallo. Served with a side salad tossed in our housemade hibiscus vinaigrette. (Vegan/Vegetarian by request)
- Spring Salad $12.00
Mesclun, seasonal fruit, onion, watermelon radish, pine nuts, feta cheese tossed in our housemate hibiscus vinaigrette. (Vegan/Vegetarian by request)
- Chorizo Burrito $12.00
Omelette, chorizo, potato, onions, Monterey Jack cheese, salsa verde.
- Vegan Burrito $12.00
Roasted poblano peppers, turmeric infused rice, beans, iceberg lettuce, vegan cheese
Drinks
- Espresso $3.25
- Macchiato $3.50
- Cortado $3.75
- Cappuccino $4.25
- Latte $4.75
- Drip Coffee - 12oz $3.00
- Cold Brew $4.00
- Mocha $5.25
- Chai $4.50
- Chagaccino $4.75
Mushroom coffee substitute.
- Matcha Latte $5.25
- Alternative Milk $0.75
Drink Specials
- Spicy Mocha $5.75
Mexican style chocolate, espresso, steamed milk.
- Rosewater Latte $5.25
House made rosewater simple syrup, espresso, steamed milk.
- Hot Apple Cider - 12oz $4.00
Steamed cider and cinnamon.
- Honey & Peppermint Matcha $6.25
Matcha green tea powder, honey, peppermint essence, topped with crushed candy cane.
- Butterscotch Latte $5.75
Housemade vegan butterscotch, espresso, steamed milk, topped with nutmeg.
Café Calaca Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Quick bite
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dessert
- Seating
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Café Calaca Photos










Café Calaca Location
Café Calaca
505 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA
Café Calaca Reviews
empanadasbackyardchilaquilesatmospheretoastlattecold brewmusicchorizoburrito
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Best empanadas and breakfast burrito I've had in recent memory. Amazing matcha and coffee drinks too
August 03 · Dylan DouglasThey make excellent coffee. I have been here a number of times and the coffee is consistently good. Their breakfast is very good too. Do try the beef empanadas, so good!!!
July 29 · Amol PanditFirst everything was very cold; eggs, and refried beans. The avocado was brown and old and was served such a small amount! And nothing, nothing had any flavor whatsoever. Maybe it was the cook today….idk but I had this meal before and it was hearty and great. This is super disappointing. Times are hard right now so when I order food I expect to be what I pay for. Upon checkout, when I leaving the tip, I caught the cashier staring at what I was going to leave-made me feel uncomfortable. I’m a regular, but probably not for a while now, can’t afford bad service.
February 23 · Gabrielle LyonsThis spot is honestly perfect- chill vibes amazing food. Super friendly staff. Definitely coming back.
April 19 · Sam ForsterDelivery is inconsistent and items have been missing even after requesting redelivery. I recommend pickup or dining in, has a good outdoor space and the drinks and food are well made.
September 12 · Shane Boissiere
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