Cafe Mogador

- 133 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers seeking a culinary journey that is both exotic and deeply comforting, Cafe Mogador stands as an essential destination. This restaurant is an NYC institution, having woven itself into the fabric of the city since its founding in the East Village in 1983 by Rivka Orlin, a visionary pioneer of Moroccan-inspired cuisine. The Williamsburg location, situated on a vibrant stretch of Wythe Avenue, brings this rich heritage and culinary artistry to Brooklyn, serving as a beloved neighborhood anchor and a culinary destination.

Cafe Mogador masterfully blends authentic Moroccan and broader Mediterranean flavors, offering an all-day menu that delights with its complexity and freshness. The dishes are rooted in the founder's heritage, who was born in Mogador (now Essaouira), Morocco. This authenticity shines through in their signature offerings, particularly the expertly braised Tagines, which are slow-cooked to perfection, and their generous, flavorful Couscous plates. Beyond the traditional main courses, the restaurant is equally famous for its diverse Mezze selection and its award-winning Brunch menu, which cleverly fuses Moroccan tastes with American classics, such as the renowned Moroccan Eggs.

More than just the food, the atmosphere at Cafe Mogador Williamsburg is a major part of the appeal. Described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, the space manages to feel sophisticated without being stuffy. The decor incorporates beautiful Moroccan touches, and the hidden gem of the location is its enchanting, plant-filled patio space, which reviewers often highlight as one of the best date spots in the area. This women-owned business maintains an enduring commitment to quality and hospitality, making it a reliable, high-quality choice for locals, groups, and solo diners alike.

Location and Accessibility

Cafe Mogador Williamsburg is conveniently located at 133 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA. This address places it firmly in the heart of Williamsburg’s most popular district, surrounded by galleries, boutique shops, and nightlife, and just a couple of blocks from the East River waterfront. The location is easily accessible for New Yorkers, being a short walk from the Bedford Avenue L train station, a major arterial route into Manhattan.

Accessibility at the restaurant is a priority, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. Parking options include both Free street parking and Paid street parking in the vicinity. The restaurant’s welcoming nature extends to all groups, identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, and being notably Family-friendly. For pet owners, the option of Dogs allowed outside on the patio is a pleasant bonus. This central location in a highly sought-after neighborhood, combined with thoughtful accessibility, ensures that Cafe Mogador is an open and easy dining choice for the entire community.

Services Offered

• All-Day & Late-Night Dining: Serving Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner with Table service and Seating, as well as offering Late-night food options.
• Award-Winning Brunch: A hugely popular weekend feature, with Brunch reservations recommended due to the often-present wait for tables.
• Extensive Bar and Beverage Program: A Bar onsite offering Alcohol, Beer, Hard liquor, Cocktails (noted for 'Great cocktails'), and a 'Great wine list,' alongside a 'Great tea selection' and 'Great coffee.'
• Convenient Off-Premise Options: Provides Delivery, Takeout, and an enchanting Outdoor seating area (including a famed patio garden).
• Group and Private Dining: Accepts reservations for planning large gatherings, in addition to providing Catering services.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: Catering to various dietary needs with Halal food, Organic dishes, Vegan options, Vegetarian options, and plenty of Healthy options and Comfort food.
• Essential Amenities: Includes a Restroom, Wi-Fi for guests, and High chairs for children, making it a comfortable spot for everyone.
• Local Specialty Products: Sells Pantry items such as Harissa Jar, Amba Jar, and Schug Jar, allowing customers to bring the authentic flavors home.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean Fusion: Known for its signature Moroccan-inspired cuisine, including succulent Lamb Tagine and house-made Merguez Sausage, alongside Mediterranean Mezze staples like Hummus, Babaganush, and Tabouli.
• Famous Outdoor Garden/Patio: A key feature of the Williamsburg location is its 'lovely covered Moroccan-type garden' with a skylight, plants, and couches, widely celebrated as a romantic and cozy dining space.
• Culinary Institution Status: Operating in NYC since 1983, it has solidified its reputation as a neighborhood institution renowned for its consistent quality and lively cultural hub status.
• Signature Moroccan Dishes: Specialties include the expertly braised Tagines, a variety of Couscous dishes, and the highly recommended savory pastries like the Bastilla.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: The atmosphere is a perfect blend of Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, making it suitable for a wide variety of occasions from dates to large groups.
• Diverse and Satisfying Menu: The menu offers an excellent range of Small plates for sharing, hearty main courses, and an impressive breakfast selection, including the popular Middle Eastern Eggs and Moroccan Eggs.

Contact Information

Address: 133 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA

Phone: (718) 486-9222

What is worth choosing

Cafe Mogador Williamsburg is worth choosing for New Yorkers who value history, atmosphere, and authentic, robust flavors delivered with consistency. You are selecting a meal at a New York culinary institution—a women-owned business that has been perfecting its Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine for over four decades. This longevity is a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering quality and its ability to remain current and beloved in one of the world's most dynamic food scenes.

The primary reason to choose Cafe Mogador is for the unparalleled experience of its Moroccan specialties. Dive into the rich, aromatic flavors of a slow-cooked Lamb Tagine, or enjoy the fluffy perfection of their Couscous dishes, which are rarely executed with such genuine care in the city. For a daytime visit, their famous, award-winning Brunch is non-negotiable; dishes like the Moroccan Eggs or the classic Buttermilk Pancakes are worth the usual, but manageable, wait time. The Mezze selection—from Hummus and Pita to Spicy Carrots and Labne—offers a fantastic opportunity for sharing and exploring the vibrant flavors of the region.

Beyond the exceptional food, the physical space itself elevates the dining experience. The patio space, in particular, is an urban oasis, making a meal feel like a special escape. The combination of the cozy, romantic setting, the fast service, and the wide array of offerings—from Halal food to vegan options—ensures that every diner will find something to love. For a taste of history, culture, and seriously delicious, high-quality Moroccan-Mediterranean food in a beautiful Brooklyn setting, Cafe Mogador is the definitive choice.

Cafe Mogador

133 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA