Effy's Cafe on York Introduce
For New Yorkers on the hunt for a truly distinctive and versatile dining experience, Effy's Cafe on York offers a unique and welcoming haven on the Upper East Side. Far more than a typical Brunch restaurant, this establishment masterfully blends the best elements of a Kosher restaurant, a vibrant Mediterranean restaurant, and a Middle Eastern restaurant, all while operating as a dedicated Vegetarian restaurant. This multifaceted identity makes Effy's Cafe an essential destination for a diverse NYC clientele, particularly those seeking high-quality, certified-kosher meals.
The core appeal of Effy's Cafe lies in its commitment to freshness and flavor. Customers consistently describe the food as very fresh and flavorful—exactly how it should be. The menu is impressively large, boasting lots of great options that cater to every meal from Breakfast through Dinner, and specializing in the weekend Brunch rush. Despite the complexity of the menu, the restaurant is highlighted for its operational efficiency and Fast service, creating a balance that few UES spots achieve. With an interior decor that is clean and inviting, coupled with super friendly staff, Effy's Cafe on York delivers a cozy, trendy, and reliable dining experience that satisfies both the dietary needs and the culinary curiosity of the New York consumer.
Effy's Cafe on York is ideally situated at 1688 York Ave, New York, NY 10128, placing it in a desirable and convenient section of the Upper East Side. Its location on York Avenue makes it highly accessible for residents of the 10128 ZIP code and those traveling in the surrounding area. The prominence of its address ensures it is an easily found destination for both locals and Tourists exploring the neighborhood.
The cafe is committed to widespread accessibility, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons. Key features include a Wheelchair accessible entrance and thoughtfully arranged Wheelchair accessible seating. Service options further enhance convenience for the busy New York crowd: Outdoor seating provides a lovely al fresco dining experience; Curbside pickup and No-contact delivery offer maximum flexibility for those on the move; and standard Takeout and Delivery options ensure the Mediterranean flavors are always within reach. For payment, the restaurant accepts modern, seamless methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Parking options include both Free street parking and Paid street parking in the vicinity.
Effy's Cafe on York provides a deep and flexible range of dining, beverage, and convenience services, tailored to the demands of an all-day NYC eatery.
- All-Day Full-Service Dining: The cafe covers all major meal periods—Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner. Service includes comfortable Seating with Table service, as well as quick Counter service. They also offer Dessert options and comprehensive Catering services for larger events.
- Specialized Beverage Menu: The offerings include a focus on high-quality coffee, noted for its Great coffee, and specialty teas such as the traditional Pot of Moroccan Mint Tea ($6.00). The menu features a full line of Hot Drinks (e.g., Latte $5.00) and Cold Drinks (e.g., Iced Vanilla Chai $6.00), alongside healthy options like Pressed Juices (Super Green $7.50) and refreshing Smoothies (Tropical Breeze $7.50).
- Full Bar Service: A complete beverage program offers Alcohol, including Beer (e.g., Brooklyn IPA $7.00) and Wine (e.g., Pacifica Riesling 2019 $11.00), alongside a creative list of Cocktails. Signature brunch cocktails like the MIMOSA ($10.00) and BELLINI'S ($10.00) are readily available.
- Convenience and Amenities: The cafe provides Wi-Fi access for working patrons and is highly Family-friendly, offering High chairs and being noted as Good for kids. All major digital and card payments are accepted, and service options like No-contact delivery are standard.
Effy's Cafe on York distinguishes itself through its specialized cuisine, focus on freshness, and exceptional brunch offerings.
- Specialized Kosher and Vegetarian Focus: As a certified Kosher restaurant and a dedicated Vegetarian restaurant, Effy's fills a crucial niche on the Upper East Side. This commitment ensures that all food is prepared with specific care and attention to dietary laws, guaranteeing fresh and flavorful meals for a specific clientele.
- Signature Middle Eastern Brunch: The menu boasts highly authentic and unique brunch dishes, especially the Shakshuka ($15.00) and Green Shashuka ($16.00). Other Middle Eastern staples include the Middle Eastern Breakfast ($17.00), Malawach Eggs and Cheese ($17.00), and sandwiches like the Sabich Sandwich VG ($14.00) and Tunisian Tuna Sandwich ($16.00).
- Unbeatable Weekend Special: A major feature is the value-packed WEEKEND SPECIAL which includes a Breakfast Platter/Wrap/Sandwich, Coffee, and a Mimosa/Bellini for just $25.00. This makes it an incredibly appealing destination for NYC brunch enthusiasts seeking both quality and value.
- Dietary Versatility and Health: The Vegetarian options are abundant, extending to burgers (Salmon/Veggie/Beyond) and specialized wraps (Spicy Vegan "Chicken" Wrap VG $16.00). The focus on Healthy options is clear through the extensive menu of Pressed Juices and varied Salads (e.g., Tel Aviv Salad $15.00), catering to health-conscious diners.
- Service Efficiency: Despite being popular and accommodating events, the restaurant is known for its Fast service—a critical highlight in NYC. Customer comments praise the staff for being super friendly and the service for being impressively fast, proving that quick turnaround and great hospitality can coexist.
For placing orders, inquiring about catering, or contacting the Effy's Cafe on York team, please use the following details:
- Address: 1688 York Ave, New York, NY 10128
- Phone: (646) 490-6751
Choosing Effy's Cafe on York is choosing a curated, high-quality, and versatile dining experience unparalleled on the Upper East Side. It is worth choosing above competitors for its exceptional fusion of specialized dining and reliable service.
The most compelling reason is its unique market position as a premier Kosher restaurant and Vegetarian restaurant that serves authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. This specialized focus ensures that the food, praised as very fresh and flavorful, meets the highest standards of preparation, offering dishes like its various Shakshuka and specialized Avocado Toast options that are difficult to find elsewhere with this guaranteed quality. The dedication to Healthy options and Vegetarian options throughout its vast menu, from the Falafel Wrap to the Super Green juice, makes it the ideal spot for health-conscious New Yorkers.
Secondly, the value and convenience are outstanding, particularly for the NYC brunch crowd. The WEEKEND SPECIAL is an incredible deal, combining a full breakfast, coffee, and a cocktail for just $25.00. This combination of affordability, high-quality offerings, and the operational commitment to Fast service—even during busy periods—proves the cafe prioritizes the customer's time and money. While some busy moments might challenge service efficiency, the overall atmosphere is welcoming, with super friendly staff and a clean and inviting interior and Outdoor seating option. For a reliable, specialized, delicious, and convenient Brunch restaurant on the UES, Effy's Cafe on York is the definitive choice.
Effy's Cafe on York Food & drink
SANDWICHES
- Falafel Wrap VG $13.00
Hummus, Pickle, Tomato, Cucumbers, Red Onions, Tahini on Whole Wheat Wrap or Pita
- Sabich Sandwich VG $14.00
Fried Eggplant, Boiled Egg, Tomato, Cucumber, Onions, Pickle, Amba and Tahini on a Baguette or Pita
- Vegetarian Shawarma Wrap VG $15.00
Seitan, Hummus, Pickle, Tomato, Cucumbers, Onions, Beet Salad, Tahini, Amba on Whole Wheat Wrap or Pita
- Fresh Mozzarella Sandwich $15.00
Homemade Pesto, Tomato, Roasted Peppers, Balsamic Vinegar on a Baguette
- Burger (Salmon/Veggie/Beyond) $15.00
Romain Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, and Garlic Aioli on a Brioche Bun
- Tuna Melt $16.00
With Cheddar and Avocado on 7 Grain Bread
- Grilled Fish Sandwich $16.00
Grilled Tilapia, Garlic Mayo, Avocado, Lettuce and Tomato on a Baguette
- Spicy Fish Sandwich $16.00
Tilapia, Chipotle Mayo, Pickles, Red Onions, Romaine, Tomato and Homemade Spicy Sauce on Brioche Bun
- Tunisian Tuna Sandwich $16.00
Boiled Egg, Stewed Tomato, Pickle, Olive on a Baguette
- Smoked Salmon Sandwich $16.00
Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese, White Fish Salad, Baked Salmon Salad, Tomato, Cucumber, Olive, Onion, Capers on a Everything Bagel
- Spicy Vegan "Chicken" Wrap VG $16.00
Hummus, Pickle, Tomato, Cucumber, Red Onion Tahini, Homemade Hot Sauce on a Whole Wheat Wrap
HOT DRINKS
- Hot Coffee $3.00
- Hot Organic Tea $3.00
- Americano $4.00
- Espresso $4.00
- Latte $5.00
- Vanilla Chai $5.00
- Mocha $6.00
- Pot of Moroccan Mint Tea $6.00
COLD DRINKS
- Iced Coffee $4.00
- Iced Americano $5.00
- Iced Latte $6.00
- Iced Vanilla Chai $6.00
- Iced Mocha $6.00
- Iced Tea $4.00
- Homemade Lime Lemonade $5.00
PRESSED JUICES
- Daily Detox $7.50
Carrot, Ginger and Celery
- Super Green $7.50
Spinach, Kale, Apple, Cucumber and Celery
- Pure Energy $7.50
Carrot and Apple
- Fresh Pressed Apple Juice $7.50
- Kale Whale $7.50
Kale, Spinach, Cucumber, Lemon, Giner
- Very Veggie $7.50
Carrot, Spinach, Kale, Cucumber
- Celery Juice $7.50
Pure Celery
- Fresh Squeezed OJ $7.50
SMOOTHIES
- Very Berry $7.50
Blueberry, Strawberry and Banana
- Smooth Strawberry $7.50
Banana and Strawberry
- Tropical Breeze $7.50
Pineapple Mango and Orange
- Mucho Mango $7.50
Mango and Strawberry
- Pineapple Breeze $7.50
Banana and Pineapple
- Supercharged $7.50
Peanut Butter and Banana
MILKSHAKE
- Vanilla $8.00
- Chocolate $8.00
- Strawberry $8.00
- Mango $8.00
WINES - WHITE
- Sforno Sauvignon Blanc 2020 $10.00
Mendoza Argentina
- Royale Chardonnay 2018 $10.00
Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- Pacifica Riesling 2019 $11.00
Washington State, USA
WINES - ROSE
- Chateau R de Roubine Rose 2021 $13.00
Provence, France
WINES - RED
- Barkan Classic Pinot Noir 2020 $10.00
Upper Galilee, Israel
- Baron Herzog Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 $10.00
California, USA
BEERS
- Corona $7.00
- Heineken $7.00
- Brooklyn IPA $7.00
- Brooklyn Lager $7.00
- Goldstar $7.00
SPECIALTY COCKTAILS
- ROSE SANGRIA $12.00
Rose, Curacao, Strawberry, Green Apple
- SUMMER IN TEL-AVIV $12.00
Arak, Mint, Lemon, Soda
- EAST END $12.00
Gin, Cucumber, Mint, Lemon, Soda
- LADY IN RED $12.00
Tequila, Pomegranate Juice, Lemon
- TEQUILA NIGHTS $12.00
Tequila, Aperitif, Lemon, Serrano
- FANCY-SCHMANCY $12.00
Whiskey, Apple, Lemon, Angostura Bitters
- BLOODY MARY $10.00
- BELLINI'S $10.00
- MIMOSA $10.00
WEEKEND SPECIAL
- Breakfast Platter/Wrap/Sandwiches + Coffee + Mimosa/Belini $25.00
SALADS
- Israeli Salad VG $12.00
Romaine, Tomato, Cucumber, Onion, Parsley, With Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Tahini
- Greek Salad $14.00
Romaine, Tomato, Cucumber, Red Onion, Olive, Feta and Grape Leaves With Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Lemon Juice
- Grilled Vegetable Salad VG $14.00
Romaine, Roasted Sweet Potato, Grilled Red Pepper, Grilled Zucchini, Grilled Eggplant and Cauliflower with Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Tahini
- Effy's Salad $15.00
Kale, Roasted Sweet Potato, Beet Salad, Almonds, Avocado With Balsamic Honey Dressing
- Tel Aviv Salad $15.00
Spinach, Tomato, Cucumber, Roasted Red Pepper, Boiled Egg, Grilled Portobello Mushroom With Lemon Juice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Tahini
- Goat Cheese Salad $15.00
Arugula, Goatcheese, Tomato, Cucumber, Sunflower Seeds, Cranberry with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice Dressing
- Tuna Salad $16.00
Spinach, Tomato, Cucumber, Chickpea, Pesto With Lemon Juice and Virgin Olive Oil
- Halumi Ceasar Salad $16.00
Romain lettuce, Zaatar Crouton, and Pamersan Cheese
- Falafel Platter VG $17.00
Israeli Salad, Spicy Eggplant Salad, Hummus, Spicy Avocado Salad, Babaganoush, Cabbage Salad, Beet Salad and Falafel Served With Whole Wheat Pita
- Grilled Salmon Asian Sesame Salad $19.00
Spinach, Tomato, Cucumber, Olive, Feta, Sesame Seeds With Asian Sesame
BREAKFAST PLATTERS
- Shakshuka $15.00
Two Eggs Cooked in Stewed Tomato Sauce - Served With Hummus and Whole Wheat Pita
- Green Shashuka $16.00
with Spinach And Feta
- Avocado Toast and Egg $15.00
Avocado Salad on Toasted Pita with Two Eggs Sunny Side Up - Served With Side Salad
- Middle Eastern Breakfast $17.00
Two Eggs and Style - Served with Hummus, Cabbage Salad, Beet Salad, Labneh, Feta. Israeli Salad and Whole Wheat Pita
- Effy's Breakfast $18.00
Two Eggs Any Style - Served with Hummus, Eggplant Salad, Tuna Salad, Cream Cheese, Feta, Green Salad and Whole Wheat Pita
- Smoked Fish Platter $20.00
Two Eggs Any Style - Served with Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon, White Fish Salad, Baked Salmon Salad, Olive, Red Onion, Tomato, Capers With a Everything Bagel
- Yoga Breakfast $14.00
Greek Yogurt - Served with Seasonal Fruit Salad, Almond Granola, Berries and Honey
- Challah French Toast $14.00
Served with Seasonal Berries and Banana
- Buttermilk Pancakes $13.00
Served with Seasonal Berries and Banana
- Grade A Maple Syrup 2.5oz $3.00
- Malawach Eggs and Cheese $17.00
Two Eggs Sunny Side Up - Served with Tomato, Grilled Halumi Cheese With Flakey Flatbread
BREAKFAST WRAPS
- Rise and Shine $15.00
Eggs White, Mozzarella, Tomato and Avocado
- Healthy Italian Wrap $15.00
Eggs, Stewed Tomato Sauce, Kale and Mozzarella
- Power Wrap $16.00
Eggs, Cheddar, Beyond Breakfast Sausage, Avocado
- Smoked Salmon Wrap $17.00
Eggs, Romaine, Tomato, Red Onion, Caper and Cream Cheese
OMELETTES
- Greek Omelette $16.00
With Spinach, Olive and Feta
- Italian Omelette $16.00
With Pesto, Tomato and Mozzarella
- Veggie Omelette $16.00
Spinach, Kale, Tomato, Olive, Onion and Avocado
- California Omelette $16.00
With Tomato, Avocado and Cheddar Cheese
- Goat Cheese Omelette $17.00
With Spinach and Tomato
- Healthy Green Omelette $17.00
Egg Whites, Kale, Spinach, and Avocado
- Smoked Salmon Omelette $18.00
With Smoked Salmon, Red Onion and Cream Cheese
BAGELS
- Cream Cheese $4.00
- White Fish Salad $11.00
- Baked Salmon Salad $11.00
- Tuna Salad $11.00
- Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon $13.00
AVOCADO TOAST
- Classic $7.00
Egg With Sunny Side Up Egg
- Italian $8.00
With Tomato and Mozzarella
- Goat Cheese $8.00
- Greek $9.00
Feta and Sunny Side Up Egg
SMALL PLATES
- Brioche Egg Sandwich $5.00
Egg, Labneh, Scallion, Tomato on a Brioche Bun
- Grilled Halumi $6.00
- Fruit Salad $6.00
Served with Berries and Banana
- Oatmeal $6.00
Almond Milk- Served with Berries and Banana
- Labneh Egg Sandwich $8.00
Egg, Labneh, Scallion, Tomato on a Brioche Bun
- Eggs Toast & Home Fries $10.00
- Two Eggs $5.00
- Home Fries $6.00
- French Fries $6.00
- Beyond Breakfast Sausage $7.00
GRILLED CHEESE
- Grilled Cheddar $9.00
Spinach and Roasted Pepper
- Grilled Mozzarella $9.00
Homemade Pesto and Tomato
- Plain Grilled Mozarella/Cheddar $6.00
LUNCH SPECIAL
- Fresh Mozzarella Sandwich $15.00
Homemade Pesto, Tomato, Roasted Pepper, Balsamic Vinegar on a Baguette
- Falafel Wrap $15.00
Hummus, Pickle, Israeli Salad, Tahini on Whole Wheat Wrap
- Veggie Burger $15.00
Carrot, Zucchini, Potato and Spinach
SIDE ORDER
- Safad Add Ons: Avocado $2.00
- Safad Add Ons: Grilled Salmon $10.00
- Safad Add Ons: Falafel $4.00
- Safad Add Ons: Grilled Tilapia $6.00
- Safad Add Ons: Tuna Salad $5.00
- Safad Add Ons: Vegan Chicken $8.00
Effy's Cafe on York Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great coffee
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Effy's Cafe on York Photos










Effy's Cafe on York Location
Effy's Cafe on York Reviews
pricesbreakfastbrunchatmosphereservervegetarianplatterfish sandwichavocado toastfrench toast
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Came here because I saw it's kosher and had great reviews — and I’m really glad I did. The staff was super friendly, and despite other reviews mentioning long wait times, my food came out quickly, even with a private event happening by the bar. The service was still impressively fast, PJ was amazing!The food was very fresh and flavorful — exactly how it should be. It’s been a while since I found a kosher spot, so I’m happy I discovered this one, they offer both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is big, with lots of great options. I’ll definitely be coming back!
May 14 · Ari TeeWe came here for brunch. Coffee was good. Overall, food was good. Servers were somewhat disconnected from customers, taking their time to return to the tables. Perhaps because they were too busy. The interior decor is clean and inviting. They had a few tables outside for those wanting to dine outdoors.
June 06 · Amy De LeonFood is so fresh and always delicious! It honestly feels healthy which is rare to find in a brunch restaurant. Atmosphere and vibes are A+ — the staff is super sweet, and it’s not too loud for a conversation :) Prices are also very reasonable for the quality of the food (also rare in the UES).
March 19 · Shreeya GadAmazing kosher dairy brunch and breakfast spot. The food is always yummy! The ambiance in the place gives off chill shuk vibes, the service is great and food comes fast. I literally go once a week minimum.
April 07 · Monica BellI found this little beautiful coffee place right one block away from Gracie Mansion. The staff is amazingly professional helpful and clean, the coffee is amazing. I can highly recommend dropping by this hidden gem 💎Thank you
May 20 · Dr. Stefan Leipold
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