Cafe Katja

- 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

Tucked away in the lively landscape of the Lower East Side, Cafe Katja offers a delightful escape to a European tavern right in the heart of New York City. This Austrian restaurant, bar, and cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's a warm, inviting space that instantly transports you with its rustic decor, brick walls, and cozy ambiance. It's a place where you can unwind and feel a world away from the urban bustle. The atmosphere is casual yet classy, making it an ideal destination for a variety of occasions, from a laid-back dinner with friends to a romantic evening out.

Cafe Katja is celebrated for bringing authentic Austrian and German cuisine to a city that loves to explore diverse culinary traditions. The menu is a testament to genuine, hearty comfort food, with dishes prepared with a passion that shines through in every bite. Beyond the fantastic food, the cafe boasts a superb selection of European beers, fine wines, and creative cocktails, cementing its reputation as a complete dining and social destination. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience and makes patrons feel right at home. The restaurant also prides itself on being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safespace, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

You can find Cafe Katja at 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Its location in the Lower East Side is perfect for both locals and tourists exploring the dynamic neighborhood. The street itself is a hub of activity, with plenty of other bars, restaurants, and shops nearby, making Cafe Katja a great starting or ending point for a night on the town.

The cafe is committed to being accessible to everyone, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating. This ensures that all guests can enjoy the dining experience comfortably. For those planning a visit, Cafe Katja strongly recommends making reservations for both brunch and dinner, as it is a popular spot that can get busy, especially during peak hours. They accept a wide range of payment methods, including checks, credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions smooth and convenient. In addition to dine-in service, they also offer outdoor seating, takeout, and delivery, providing flexibility for all dining preferences.

Cafe Katja's menu is a carefully curated selection of authentic Austrian delights, complemented by a full bar and a variety of beverages.

• Extensive Food Menu: The restaurant offers a wide range of dining options, including brunch, lunch, and dinner. The menu is packed with traditional comfort food like Wiener Schnitzel, Beef Gulasch, and Bernerwurst. They also offer a variety of salads, small plates, and delicious desserts, such as their famous Apple Strudel.
• Great Beer and Wine Selection: As a bar and cafe, they excel in their beverage offerings. The beer list includes a selection of Austrian and Bavarian beers like Stiegl and Gösser, and they also offer a variety of local specialty beers and a great wine list.
• Cocktails and Hard Liquor: Beyond beer and wine, the bar offers a full cocktail program and hard liquor options, allowing for a complete and versatile drinking experience.
• Late-Night Food and Dining Options: The cafe serves late-night food, perfect for those who get hungry after a long day or a night out. They are also popular for solo dining, groups, and families, with high chairs available for kids.
• Catering: For events and gatherings, Cafe Katja offers catering, bringing the flavors of their authentic Austrian cuisine to your special occasion.

Several key features contribute to the unique and highly-praised experience at Cafe Katja.

• Authentic European Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major highlight, with reviewers describing it as "cozy, warm, with class" and "reminiscent of a European tavern." The rustic decor and brick walls create a comfortable and inviting setting that is perfect for a relaxing meal.
• High-Quality and Seasonal Food: The menu is known for its fresh, flavorful ingredients and authentic recipes. A customer review raves about their experience with seasonal white asparagus, describing it as "fresh and tender," and praising the "rich, silky, and delicious" hollandaise sauce.
• Exceptional Service: The staff is a consistent highlight. One customer praised a friendly staff member who "kept checking in on us even though she wasn’t our server, which made the experience feel even more personal." This level of attentiveness and genuine care makes a huge difference.
• Diverse Offerings: From the great beer and wine selection to the excellent coffee and desserts, Cafe Katja has something for everyone. They also serve local specialties and offer a wide variety of food, including vegetarian options.
• Inclusivity: The restaurant proudly identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons.

Address: 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Phone: (212) 219-9545

When looking for a place to dine in New York City, Cafe Katja is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. The most compelling is the authenticity and quality of its food. In a city full of diverse cuisines, finding a spot that does Austrian food so well is a rare treat. The rich, flavorful dishes like the Wiener Schnitzel and Beef Gulasch are perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. The generous portions, as highlighted by a review of the sausage platter, mean you get great value for your money and can even enjoy leftovers the next day.

Beyond the food, the ambiance and service are what truly set Cafe Katja apart. It's a place that feels special without being pretentious. The tavern-like setting is cozy and warm, making it a wonderful spot to relax with friends or a loved one. The staff's dedication to providing a friendly and personal experience ensures that every visit is a pleasant one. Whether you are craving a perfect Schnitzel, a refreshing Austrian beer, or simply a cozy place to enjoy a great conversation, Cafe Katja delivers on all fronts. It's a true neighborhood gem that offers a unique culinary journey, making it a destination that you'll want to revisit again and again.

Cafe Katja

79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA