Festivál Cafe

- 1155 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065

Festivál Cafe is not your average coffee shop; it is a multifaceted culinary and social hub that has carved out a unique identity on the Upper East Side of New York City. Operating as a New American restaurant, a lively bar, and a cozy café all in one, Festivál provides a versatile and engaging experience for its patrons. The concept is centered around the "farm-to-bar" philosophy, a commitment to using local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients to craft both its food and cocktail menus. This focus on fresh, high-quality fare elevates the entire experience, promising a dining adventure that is both delicious and thoughtfully prepared.

The atmosphere at Festivál Cafe is designed to be both casual and trendy, making it a perfect spot for various occasions, from a quick coffee break to a full-fledged celebratory dinner. The venue's dual identity as a restaurant and a live music venue, particularly on certain evenings, adds a dynamic layer to its charm. It has a welcoming and comfortable vibe that is perfect for solo diners, groups, and even those looking for a special date night. The ambiance is supported by a variety of seating options, including outdoor tables, providing a lovely setting to enjoy a meal or a drink, especially during pleasant weather.

While the name might suggest a simple café, the menu is far more extensive and sophisticated. It features a selection of New American dishes, with an emphasis on small plates and comfort food that has been given an elevated, farm-fresh twist. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that the ingredients are always at their peak. This commitment to seasonality and sustainability is a key highlight that sets Festivál Cafe apart from other establishments in the area. The restaurant also caters to various dietary preferences, offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, as well as organic dishes.

However, it is important to note that some customer reviews highlight concerns about pricing and service. For example, a customer mentioned a disappointing experience with the shrimp cocktail, which was perceived as overpriced for the portion size. Another review noted issues with slow and arrogant service, and an automatically added tip that could not be adjusted. While these experiences do not reflect the overall vision of the establishment, they are worth considering for potential visitors. Festivál Cafe’s owners, like Tyler Hollinger, are known for their dedication to the "farm-to-bar" concept and creating a unique experience, which may explain the focus on high-end ingredients and sophisticated preparation.

Despite some criticism, Festivál Cafe has a strong identity and offers several appealing features. The live music, for instance, is consistently noted as a positive highlight that enhances the atmosphere. The "great cocktails" and "great wine list" are also major draws, providing a fantastic selection of drinks that complement the food menu. The restaurant's bar is a central feature, making it a popular spot for happy hour and late-night food and drinks. The establishment’s commitment to being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space also contributes to its welcoming and inclusive nature.

Location and Accessibility

Festivál Cafe is situated at 1155 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA. This location places it squarely on the Upper East Side, a convenient and bustling neighborhood. The address is easily accessible via public transportation, with numerous bus lines running along 2nd Avenue and nearby subway stations providing a quick link to other parts of Manhattan. For those who prefer to drive, there is paid street parking available, though finding a spot in this area can be challenging, as is typical in New York. The cafe is committed to accessibility, offering a "wheelchair accessible entrance," "wheelchair accessible restroom," and "wheelchair accessible seating," ensuring that all guests can visit comfortably.

Services Offered

• Outdoor seating: Enjoy your coffee or meal in the fresh air with available outdoor seating.
• Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, and Takeout: The café offers multiple convenient options for enjoying their food and drinks at home.
• Dine-in: The full-service dine-in experience is available with seating and table service.
• Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: The menu is split into day and evening sections, catering to every meal of the day.
• Catering: Festivál Cafe provides catering services for events, allowing guests to bring the farm-to-bar experience to their own gatherings.
• Reservations: The cafe accepts reservations, which are recommended for dinner and special events, to ensure seating.

Features and Highlights

• Farm-to-Bar Concept: Festivál Cafe prides itself on its "farm-to-bar" approach, sourcing ingredients locally to create seasonal menus and cocktails.
• Live Music: The cafe features live music, particularly on Thursday nights, adding a vibrant and entertaining element to the dining experience.
• Extensive Drink Menu: The bar boasts a "great beer selection," "great cocktails," and a "great wine list," with creative options like the "Brown Butter Black Walnut Old Fashioned" and "Skinniest Spiciest Margarita."
• Diverse Food Offerings: The menu includes comfort food, organic dishes, small plates, and a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
• Kid-Friendly: The cafe is welcoming to families, providing high chairs and a specific kids' menu with items like a "Kids Cheese Pizza."
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed inside and outside, making it a great spot for pet owners.

Contact Information

Festivál Cafe is located at 1155 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA. For more information or to make a reservation, you can call them at (646) 398-9686 or mobile at +1 646-398-9686.

What is Worth Choosing

Festivál Cafe is a unique and dynamic choice for New Yorkers looking for a comprehensive dining and entertainment experience. While some of the prices may be on the higher end, the quality of the ingredients and the creativity of the dishes and cocktails are often what you're paying for. The "Short Rib French Dip" or the "Wild Hot Mustard Salmon" from the evening menu are great examples of the elevated comfort food that makes this place stand out. The "Truffle Potato Flatbread" and the "Mac & Cheese" are also popular choices for a reason.

Beyond the food, the main draw is the atmosphere and live entertainment. For a special evening, the live music on Thursdays offers a memorable and sophisticated backdrop. The bar program is a significant highlight, with a wide array of excellent cocktails and a great wine and beer list. The availability of happy hour deals also makes it an appealing option for an after-work gathering. In a city full of cafés and restaurants, Festivál Cafe distinguishes itself by offering a complete package: a focus on local ingredients, a trendy yet cozy atmosphere, and a lively entertainment schedule. It’s a place that caters to many needs, whether you want a quick bite, a fancy drink, or a full-blown night out with live music.

Festivál Cafe

1155 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA