Cafe Zaffri

- 16 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003

Tucked away in the heart of New York City, Cafe Zaffri is more than just a restaurant—it’s a serene oasis and a feast for the senses. From the moment you step through its discreet entrance, you are transported into a world of luxurious and artistic design. The beautiful interior, complete with a breathtaking skylight and sumptuous seating, creates an atmosphere that is both cozy and trendy. This women-owned establishment has quickly made a name for itself by offering a modern and elevated take on traditional Middle Eastern and Levantine cuisine, with a particular focus on Lebanese flavors. The menu is a reflection of Executive Chef Mary Attea's heritage, blending nostalgic family recipes with a contemporary flair.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot for breakfast, a chic place for lunch, or a glamorous setting for a dinner date, Cafe Zaffri caters to every occasion. The restaurant’s ambiance is a major draw, providing a unique and hushed dining experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming. The thoughtful curation extends beyond the food to the excellent wine list and inventive cocktail program, making it a destination for a full-sensory experience. It's a place where the food, the drinks, and the atmosphere come together to create a truly memorable meal, offering a fresh perspective on Middle Eastern dining in the city.

## Location and Accessibility

Cafe Zaffri is located at 16 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. Despite being a bit difficult to find, its location in a quiet part of the city adds to its allure as a hidden gem. Situated near Union Square, it is easily accessible by various subway lines and bus routes, making it a convenient destination for anyone in the New York region. For those with mobility needs, the restaurant provides a wheelchair accessible entrance and seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all guests. The restaurant is part of The Twenty Two Hotel, which further contributes to its luxurious and exclusive feel. The beautiful vestibule upon entry and the elegant circular staircase leading to the restrooms showcase the meticulous attention to detail that defines the space.

The atmosphere inside is both cozy and trendy, with seating that includes comfortable armchairs in a lounge area and a main dining space with a grand skylight. The decor is rich and glamorous, creating a perfect backdrop for groups and solo diners alike. Reservations are accepted and highly recommended for dinner, a testament to the restaurant's popularity and intimate setting.

## Services Offered

• Dine-in: Cafe Zaffri's primary service is dine-in, with full table service for a luxurious and relaxed meal. The elegant setting and attentive staff make it a prime location for a special occasion or a sophisticated dinner.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations and, given its trendy and cozy atmosphere, it is highly recommended to book a table, especially for popular dinner times.

• Varied Dining Options: Cafe Zaffri is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that changes to suit the time of day. This flexibility makes it a versatile spot, whether you're starting your day with coffee and a pastry or ending it with cocktails and a full dinner.

• Payments: The establishment offers modern payment options, accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a seamless transaction.

## Features / Highlights

• Stunning Interior and Atmosphere: The most striking feature of Cafe Zaffri is its beautiful and luxurious interior. The design, which includes a dramatic skylight and plush seating, creates a serene and elegant escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a major reason why many people choose this restaurant for a special night out.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: Cafe Zaffri boasts a great bar program with a creative selection of cocktails and a well-curated wine list. The presence of a bar onsite allows guests to enjoy a drink before their meal or as a standalone treat. The thoughtful beverage program complements the food beautifully.

• Unique and Modern Menu: The menu offers a modern interpretation of traditional Middle Eastern dishes. It features an interesting selection of small plates, entrees, and desserts that move beyond the typical fare. Standout dishes like the Lamb Wellington and Fried Eggplant are praised for their inventive flavors and presentation.

• Exceptional Coffee and Desserts: The restaurant is known for its excellent coffee and delicious desserts. The coffee menu offers a range of options from classic espresso to a unique Parlor Cold Brew. The dessert menu, with items like Baklava Mille Feuille and an Assortment of sweets, is a highlight and a perfect way to end the meal.

• Vegetarian and Organic Options: Catering to diverse palates, the menu includes a number of vegetarian and organic dishes, ensuring that guests with specific dietary preferences have plenty of flavorful choices.

## Contact Information

Address: 16 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 965-3837

## What is worth choosing

For a truly memorable experience at Cafe Zaffri, start by appreciating the stunning ambiance before you even order. The lounge area is a great place to begin with a cocktail from their creative menu. When it comes to the food, the menu is designed for sharing and exploration. For a main course, the Lamb Wellington is a truly standout dish, noted for its innovative flavors and perfect execution. The Grilled Whole Dorade Samke Harra is another excellent choice for seafood lovers, offering a fresh and flavorful experience.

If you're looking for a lighter meal or want to sample a variety of flavors, the small plates are where the menu truly shines. The Fried Eggplant is a popular choice, praised for its unique seasoning and satisfying texture. The Breads & Spreads appetizer, which includes pita, lavash, and various dips like labneh with trout roe, is a great way to start and share with a group. For breakfast or brunch, the Zaffri’s Lebanese Breakfast offers a complete and authentic taste of the cuisine, with perfectly made eggs and flavorful sides.

Be sure to save room for dessert and coffee. The Baklava Mille Feuille is an exciting modern take on a classic, combining delicate pastry layers with pistachios, rose water, and pomegranate. The coffee program is also a highlight; a simple Espresso or Latte is a perfect complement to a rich dessert. While some guests have found the menu and portion sizes to be a bit confusing, the consensus is that the food is a consistently wonderful experience, with many dishes surprising and delighting diners. The combination of beautiful surroundings, professional service, and expertly crafted food makes Cafe Zaffri a unique and highly recommended destination for anyone seeking a sophisticated and flavorful Middle Eastern dining experience in New York City.

Cafe Zaffri

16 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, USA