Cafe Paradiso

- 144 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023

Tucked away near the bustling streets of Lincoln Center, Cafe Paradiso presents itself as a serene and welcoming retreat from the city's relentless pace. This restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's a cozy and casual haven where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a quiet coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. It strikes a unique balance, offering a menu that includes both comforting classics and fresh, flavorful dishes, while maintaining a vibe that is both trendy and unpretentious. Whether you're a local seeking a new regular spot or a visitor looking for a peaceful escape before a show, Cafe Paradiso provides a truly delightful experience.

While some might find its dining offerings to be a mixed bag, with a customer noting that the "food fell short of expectations" on certain items like a watery pasta sauce or a pizza lacking flavor, the restaurant is celebrated for a variety of other culinary highlights. The menu is diverse, featuring everything from classic breakfast items like **Acai Bowl** and **Avocado Toast** to hearty main courses like **Chicken Parmesan** and **Lasagna Bolognese**. The pizza, in particular, has received love from patrons, with one reviewer "really loved the margarita pizza." However, where Cafe Paradiso truly shines is in its beverage and dessert program. Reviews rave about the coffee, with the **Iced Caramel CH Mousse** receiving a perfect "10/10" and others praising the excellent flavor of their regular iced coffee and lattes. The desserts, such as the delicious **Limoncello Mascarpone Cake** and **Tiramisu**, are also considered a major highlight, making it a "good place to enjoy a coffee and a small bite."

The service at Cafe Paradiso is consistently praised, standing out as a key feature of the restaurant. Patrons describe the staff as "friendly and efficient," with one customer highlighting a server named Robert as "a gentleman and just a great guy to speak with." This level of personal, attentive service ensures that even when a dish might not meet expectations, the overall dining experience remains positive. The restaurant’s atmosphere is also a major draw. It's described as "nice and relaxed" and "quite cozy," providing a comfortable setting that is perfect for a solo meal, a casual get-together with friends, or a quick, refreshing break.

Cafe Paradiso is located at 144 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023, placing it in a prime position on the Upper West Side. This address is just a few steps from the world-renowned Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, making it an incredibly convenient stop for anyone attending a show at the Metropolitan Opera, David Geffen Hall, or the New York State Theater. Its central location also makes it an excellent choice for a meal before or after visiting other neighborhood landmarks, such as the American Museum of Natural History or the stunning architecture of the Juilliard School.

The restaurant is easily accessible by both public transportation and car. The 66th Street-Lincoln Center subway station, which serves the 1 train, is just a very short walk away, providing a direct and simple route for many New Yorkers. The area is also well-served by numerous bus lines. For those arriving by car, paid parking garages and lots are available in the vicinity, offering a convenient option despite the busy nature of the neighborhood. The restaurant is also equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that it is welcoming to all patrons who wish to enjoy its offerings.

Cafe Paradiso offers a comprehensive set of services to accommodate a variety of dining needs and preferences throughout the day.

• Dine-in: The restaurant provides a full table service for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner in a casual and cozy setting.

• Takeout & Delivery: Customers can enjoy the restaurant's menu at home with convenient takeout and no-contact delivery options.

• Catering: Cafe Paradiso offers catering services, making it a great choice for business meetings, family gatherings, or other special events.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which are particularly helpful during peak hours or for larger groups.

• Kid-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a kids' menu and high chairs makes it a welcoming spot for families.

The restaurant has a number of features that make it a standout choice for various occasions.

• Exceptional Coffee & Dessert: A major highlight, the coffee and dessert menus are highly praised, with specific recommendations for the **Caramel CH Mousse Iced Coffee** and classic desserts like **Tiramisu**.

• Fast and Friendly Service: The staff's efficiency and friendly demeanor are consistently noted in reviews, contributing to a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere.

• All-Day Dining: Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Cafe Paradiso is a versatile option for any mealtime or for a quick bite in between.

• Full Bar: The restaurant offers a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, perfect for pairing with a meal or for a pre-theater drink.

• Cozy and Casual Vibe: The relaxed, cozy, and trendy atmosphere is a key feature, providing a comfortable place to unwind and enjoy a meal.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact Cafe Paradiso at the following details:

Address: 144 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (212) 869-8800

Choosing Cafe Paradiso is about selecting a dining experience that values comfort and convenience as much as it does quality. What makes it truly worth choosing, despite some mixed reviews on food, is its undeniable excellence in specific areas. The coffee, desserts, and the overall service are consistently top-notch, providing a strong foundation for a great visit. This is the place you go when you need a reliably good cup of coffee and a treat, or when you’re looking for a relaxing, no-fuss meal in a notoriously busy part of town. The friendly staff, who are celebrated for their hospitality and efficiency, make every visitor feel at home.

The proximity to Lincoln Center is another major factor that makes Cafe Paradiso a standout. It offers a practical and peaceful alternative to the high-energy, and often expensive, pre-theater dining scene. Whether you are a solo diner looking for a quick, delicious bite or a group needing a comfortable place to chat, Cafe Paradiso fits the bill. It’s a testament to the idea that a restaurant can be more than the sum of its dishes—it can be a cozy hub of excellent coffee and friendly faces, which is exactly what makes Cafe Paradiso a true gem in New York City.

Cafe Paradiso

144 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023, USA