CJ Cafe Utica Ave

- 817 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203

For New Yorkers seeking a flavorful escape without leaving the five boroughs, CJ Cafe Utica Ave stands out as a genuine culinary destination in Brooklyn. More than just a local eatery, this establishment operates as a full-service Jamaican restaurant, a popular Caribbean food spot, and a celebrated bakery, all under one roof. It is a vibrant cornerstone of the neighborhood, well-known for serving up generous portions of comforting, authentic island cuisine that keeps the local crowd, and even tourists, coming back for more. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick morning bite, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying late-night meal, CJ Cafe has cemented its reputation for delivering local specialty dishes that are packed with flavor.

The atmosphere at CJ Cafe is described as comfortably casual and trendy, making it an ideal spot for family-friendly dining, solo diners, and those looking for a quick, quality meal. The consistent presence of a wait suggests that the food is always fresh and highly in demand, a true testament to its local popularity. In a city where quick bites are essential, CJ Cafe excels in providing both speed and substance, featuring an extensive menu of small plates, healthy options, and late-night offerings to satisfy any craving at almost any hour. This blend of quality food, a welcoming atmosphere, and convenient service makes it a must-visit for anyone in the New York area craving authentic Caribbean flavors.

Strategically located in the bustling Brooklyn community, CJ Cafe Utica Ave is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. You can find this Caribbean and Jamaican food hub at the following address:

817 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA

Its location on Utica Avenue ensures high visibility and ease of travel. Accessibility is a key feature of the business, as it provides a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring that all members of the community can enjoy their offerings without impediment. For those driving, the area accommodates with both free street parking and paid street parking options. The lively nature of the street and the constant demand for their food mean that patrons should be prepared for what is often described as “usually a wait,” indicating a busy, popular establishment. However, as many long-time patrons attest, the wait is typically worth it for the delicious, hot food that awaits.

CJ Cafe Utica Ave is committed to providing maximum convenience and a comprehensive dining experience through a variety of service options and amenities. They cater to a broad range of preferences, from those who prefer to dine in to those who need food on the go.

• Service Options: The establishment provides in-house seating for those who wish to dine comfortably. For those on a tight schedule or preferring to eat at home, they offer convenient Takeout and Delivery services. Recognizing the needs of the community, they also feature No-contact delivery.
• Dining Options: CJ Cafe covers meals throughout the entire day. Patrons can enjoy offerings for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner. Furthermore, they also offer specialized Catering services for events and gatherings, and comfortable general Seating is available within the cafe.
• Payment Methods: To ensure a smooth transaction for all customers, the cafe accepts multiple payment forms, including major Credit cards, Debit cards, and modern NFC mobile payments.
• Ambiance: The restaurant maintains a Casual and Trendy atmosphere, making it a comfortable spot for various types of crowds, including families, friendly gatherings, and tourists exploring the area. The environment is notably good for kids.

The reputation of CJ Cafe Utica Ave is built on several key highlights that make it a favorite for New York food enthusiasts:

• Authentic Caribbean Cuisine: The primary draw is the authentic Jamaican and Caribbean fare. They serve local specialty dishes such as Oxtail, Jerk Chicken, and Curry Goat, which are consistently praised for their robust flavor profiles.
• Comprehensive Meal Service: Unlike many restaurants that specialize in one meal period, CJ Cafe is popular for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, ensuring delicious options are available morning, noon, and night. They are also known for serving late-night food, catering to the busy schedules of New Yorkers.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu features a variety of options including hearty Comfort Food, healthier choices, and Quick Bites. Their selection of Small Plates is perfect for those who want a varied taste of their menu.
• The Bakery Selection: As part of its identity as a bakery, CJ Cafe offers an array of fresh pastries and cakes. Customer feedback specifically calls out items like their Red Velvet Cake as “amazing,” highlighting the quality of the non-savory side of the business. Other popular options often include various Jamaican patties (Chicken Patty, Beef Patty) and traditional pastries such as Gizzada Pastry, Rock Cake, Coconut Roll Pastry, and Bun & Cheese Pastry, which provide an essential taste of Caribbean sweetness.
• Accessibility and Payment Ease: Features like a Wheelchair accessible entrance and accepting all major Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments contribute to an inclusive and hassle-free customer experience.

For direct inquiries, placing an order for pickup, or catering requests, you can reach CJ Cafe Utica Ave using the following contact details:

Address: 817 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA

Phone: (347) 240-8463

The staff is generally noted for being friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive experience of patronizing this long-standing local favorite.

When visiting CJ Cafe Utica Ave, the most worthwhile choices are undoubtedly the classics that have earned the restaurant its loyal following. The menu is robust, but certain items are repeatedly highlighted by customers as exceptional and worth braving the typical wait for.

The Oxtail is often cited as a must-try dish. It is a rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender staple of Jamaican cuisine. Pair it with the traditional Rice & Peas—rice cooked with coconut milk and kidney beans—for an authentic and satisfying meal. For those looking for a spicy kick, the Jerk Chicken and Jerk Pork are prepared with a signature spice blend that delivers a genuine taste of the islands. Another fan favorite is the Curry Goat, known for its deep, savory curry flavor and tender meat.

Customers also rave about the side dishes. The Macaroni Salad is consistently mentioned as a delicious companion to any main course, and the option to get the signature oxtail gravy poured over the rice and peas is a highly recommended personalization that enhances the entire meal.

In the bakery department, while the savory patties (Beef Patty, Chicken Patty) are excellent quick bites, the sweet treats are essential. The Red Velvet Cake is noted for its amazing quality, and traditional Caribbean pastries like the Gizzada Pastry (a tart with a spicy-sweet coconut filling) and Rock Cake are perfect for a snack or dessert. The Bun & Cheese Pastry offers a unique Jamaican classic for a slightly sweeter option.

While a few reviews note occasional inconsistencies in food quality or organization—a common challenge for a popular, high-volume establishment—the majority of feedback focuses on the deliciousness, generous portions, and authentic preparation of the Jamaican cuisine. The consensus among satisfied patrons is that the food quality, particularly the meat dishes, is high, and the experience is a valuable taste of Brooklyn’s rich Caribbean culture. Whether you are craving the deeply savory richness of Oxtail, the spicy heat of Jerk Chicken, or a piece of perfectly baked Red Velvet Cake, CJ Cafe Utica Ave offers a piece of New York’s diverse food landscape that is truly worth exploring.

CJ Cafe Utica Ave

817 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA