Gurra Cafe

- 2325 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458

Gurra Cafe is a true hidden gem nestled within the lively and historic Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx, affectionately known to many New Yorkers as the "Real Little Italy" or the Arthur Avenue area. While the neighborhood is famous for its Italian-American heritage, Gurra Cafe stands out as a beloved culinary cornerstone, proudly offering a deep, flavorful dive into authentic Albanian and Eastern European cuisine. For decades, it has served as a cherished spot for the local Albanian community and has increasingly become a must-visit destination for New Yorkers seeking high-quality, homestyle Balkan cooking that you simply cannot find just anywhere in the city.

The cafe is celebrated for providing traditional Albanian home-style cooking, creating a warm, familial atmosphere that makes every patron feel right at home. It’s an inviting, casual, and cozy space—perfect for a satisfying lunch, a hearty dinner, or a relaxed solo dining experience. The menu is a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the Balkans, featuring a variety of meat-focused entrees, savory sides, and fresh salads that are both unique and intensely flavorful. Locals consistently praise the spot for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and the genuine taste of the food, often noting that it’s reminiscent of a meal prepared by family.

Gurra Cafe’s commitment to authenticity and quality has cemented its reputation as a distinctive and essential part of the Bronx's diverse food landscape. If you are a New Yorker looking to expand your culinary horizons beyond the well-trodden paths of Italian-American fare in this area, Gurra Cafe offers an unparalleled, delicious, and culturally enriching alternative that has captivated diners for years. The elegant decor and comfortable seating enhance the overall experience, making it a perfect setting for both a quick bite and a leisurely meal.

Gurra Cafe truly captures the essence of Albanian and Balkan hospitality, transforming a simple dining experience into a memorable encounter with rich Eastern European culinary tradition. Its location on the famed Arthur Avenue only adds to its charm, positioning it perfectly for those exploring the best of the Bronx.

Location and Accessibility

Gurra Cafe is strategically located at 2325 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of the Belmont neighborhood, the vibrant corridor often referred to as the Bronx’s Little Italy. Its presence on Arthur Avenue highlights the evolving and diverse cultural tapestry of the area, which, while historically Italian, has seen a beautiful convergence of cultures, particularly a significant Albanian and Kosovar community. The restaurant is easily accessible for New York City residents traveling from different boroughs.

For those traveling by public transportation, the cafe is conveniently situated near major transit stops. While street parking is available, it is often paid street parking and can be limited, as is typical for a bustling commercial street like Arthur Avenue. Patrons are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly, especially during peak dining hours.

The cafe has made efforts to ensure accessibility for all guests, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which is an important feature for a New York establishment. Whether you are driving in, taking the subway, or just walking from a nearby attraction like the Bronx Zoo or the New York Botanical Garden, Gurra Cafe provides a centrally located, welcoming spot to enjoy a meal. The vibrant atmosphere of Arthur Avenue itself, with its markets and other eateries, makes the journey to Gurra Cafe a worthwhile part of the overall experience.

Services Offered

Gurra Cafe provides a comprehensive range of services to accommodate all diners, whether you prefer to enjoy the cozy ambiance of the restaurant or take your authentic meal home.

• Dine-in: Enjoy table service and the casual, cozy atmosphere inside the newly renovated dining space.
• Outdoor Seating: Al fresco dining is available for those who prefer to eat outside, especially popular during pleasant weather.
• Takeout: Convenient option for picking up your favorite Albanian dishes to enjoy elsewhere.
• Delivery: Offering both standard delivery and no-contact delivery options for those who prefer to have their food brought directly to them.
• Catering: Available for those looking to bring the authentic flavors of Gurra Cafe to their larger gatherings or events.
• Table Service: Full service offered for a comfortable and relaxed dining experience.
• Accepts Reservations: Planning ahead is made easy, as the restaurant accepts reservations, especially recommended for busy times.
• Payments: Accepts Credit Cards for easy and convenient payment.

Features / Highlights

Gurra Cafe distinguishes itself with a variety of features that contribute to its strong local appeal and positive customer reviews.

• Authentic Albanian and Eastern European Cuisine: The core highlight, offering traditional dishes that provide a genuine taste of the Balkan region.
• Signature Meats and Grill Items: Specializing in high-quality, flavorful dry meats and grilled dishes, including the famed Mixed Grill and Qebapa.
• The Albanian Burger: A unique and highly recommended specialty burger featuring cabbage, roasted pepper sauce, mayo, and egg, served with fries, noted by customers as a "must have."
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The vibe is welcoming and relaxed, with an elegant, visually appealing decor that contributes to a pleasant dining experience.
• Fast Service: Highlighted by the restaurant as a key feature, ensuring a quick and efficient dining experience.
• Alcohol Offerings: The menu includes Beer and Wine options, providing suitable pairings for the hearty Eastern European food.
• Diverse Menu Options: Offers a variety of categories including Salads, Burgers, Sides, and Entrees, ensuring something for everyone.
• Popular for All Dining Types: A great choice for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo Dining, making it versatile for any part of your day.
• Family-Friendly: Considered "Good for kids," making it a suitable choice for families.
• Healthy Options: Offers dishes, including well-seasoned salads and organic choices, for health-conscious diners.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout order, Gurra Cafe can be reached using the following information:

Address: 2325 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA

Phone: (718) 220-4254

What is Worth Choosing

For a first-time visitor or a returning local, the menu at Gurra Cafe offers several standout dishes that are essential to the authentic Albanian experience. The restaurant's strength lies in its perfectly executed meat dishes and hearty, traditional stews.

Must-Try Entrees:

• The Mixed Grill ($16.00): This is the perfect choice for sampling the best of their meat-heavy menu. It features a combination of traditional sausages, including Qebapa (skinless sausages), Qofte (meat patties), and Suxhuk (spicy sausage). Customer reviews consistently rave about the flavorful beef sausage and the house-made red pepper sauce it comes with.
• Qebapa ($15.00): The traditional finger-sized, skinless sausages are a staple of Balkan cuisine and are prepared here with an authentic taste that is a crowd-pleaser.
• Pasul ($15.00): This is a traditional white bean stew that is slowly cooked with air-dried beef. Customers note that the dried beef makes this stew exceptionally good and hearty. It is often highlighted as a favorite.
• Gullash ($15.00): A rich Veal stew seasoned with paprika and other spices, served alongside mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for comfort and flavor.
• Pleskavice ($20.00): Known as the "Balkan burger," this large grilled meat patty is covered in a creamy white sauce and mushrooms, offering a unique and satisfying flavor.

Specialty Burgers and Sides:

• The Albanian Burger ($14.00): A truly unique twist on a burger, served with cabbage, roasted pepper sauce, mayo, and an egg. This item receives direct, enthusiastic recommendations from satisfied customers.
• Speca Me Maze ($10.00): Roasted peppers served with a cream dip, a savory side that pairs well with the grilled meats.
• Suxhuk Me Maze ($13.00): A flavorful sausage served with a cream dip, appealing to those who enjoy a richer, spicier side.
• Lakra Salad ($6.00): A simple yet refreshing cabbage salad, an excellent accompaniment to balance the richness of the main courses.

For a complete cultural experience, start with one of the fresh, clean salads like the Gurra Salad or Shop Salad, dive into a meaty main course like the Mixed Grill, and don't forget to try one of their unique house-specialty burgers. The atmosphere, combined with the genuine flavors, truly makes Gurra Cafe a destination worth adding to your New York City culinary list. The staff’s friendly demeanor and willingness to explain the menu further enhance the warm, home-cooked feel of this exceptional Eastern European restaurant on Arthur Avenue.

Gurra Cafe

2325 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA