Likha Art Cafe

- 363 Elwood Ave #F, Hawthorne, NY 10532

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant tapestry of New York's local businesses, Likha Art Cafe stands out as a unique and deeply personal cultural haven. Nestled in the heart of Hawthorne in Westchester County, this is not just another coffee shop; it is an 'Art Cafe'—a creative hub where the rich aroma of specialty coffee blends seamlessly with the inspiration of local and international art. Founded by a group of four friends originally from Batangas in the Philippines, Likha Art Cafe is an Asian-owned, women-owned business that has quickly become a beloved spot for both the Filipino community and the broader New York regional market.

The name 'Likha,' which translates to 'create' or 'creation' in Filipino, perfectly captures the spirit of the space. It’s an inviting, bright cafe adorned with rotating art exhibits that showcase diverse talents and cultural expressions, truly transforming the coffee experience into a visual and communal feast. Customers describe it as a “Very cute cafe” with a “super friendly” staff who are eager to share details about the Philippines, making every visit a cultural journey.

From a culinary perspective, Likha Art Cafe masterfully blends traditional cafe fare with authentic Filipino-inspired flavors. While they offer all the classic espresso beverages—from the Macchiato and Cortado to the Latte and Americano—their specialty drinks are what truly draw the crowds. The Ube Latte, Ube affogato, and a variety of freshly baked pandesal (traditional Filipino breakfast rolls) have become instant classics. The atmosphere is consistently praised as Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, offering a Quiet respite perfect for Solo Dining or a Family-friendly outing. Likha Art Cafe is dedicated to community, connection, and creativity, offering a welcoming space for anyone in the New York area looking for a taste of culture and a superb cup of coffee.

Location and Accessibility

Likha Art Cafe is conveniently located at 363 Elwood Ave #F, Hawthorne, NY 10532, USA. This location positions it right in the center of the Westchester County community, just a stone's throw away from the Hawthorne Metro-North station, making it easily accessible for commuters traveling to or from Grand Central Station in New York City, as well as local residents.

Accessibility is a key feature of the cafe. For visitors arriving by car, the cafe ensures convenience with both On-site Parking and Free Street Parking available, alleviating the common stress of finding a spot in the New York metropolitan area. Furthermore, the space provides a dedicated Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot, ensuring accessibility for all patrons.

The interior is designed to be a comfortable and functional community space. The cafe offers ample Seating options for both quick meetings and extended periods of work or relaxation. The amenities further enhance the convenience, including a standard Restroom and a Gender-Neutral Restroom, alongside complimentary Wi-Fi, making it an ideal environment for those looking for a productive yet relaxed workspace outside of the city. As a bonus for pet owners, Likha is a dog-friendly spot, welcoming Dogs Allowed both inside and outside the cafe, which truly speaks to its commitment to being a local neighborhood hub.

Services Offered

Likha Art Cafe offers a curated mix of cafe, gallery, and community services, creating a holistic experience that caters to both the artistic and the culinary enthusiast.

• Cafe Service: Provides both Takeout and Dine-in options, featuring a wide range of hot and iced beverages for Breakfast and throughout the day.
• Art Gallery and Exhibits: Hosts rotating Art Exhibits showcasing works from local and international artists. The cafe space acts as a platform for creative expression, with artworks often available for sale.
• Beverage Variety: Serves high-quality Coffee, including classic Espresso drinks (Signature Blend, Cortado, Flat White) and unique specialties like Barako (Liberica) Coffee, a Filipino favorite.
• Specialty Lattes and Teas: Focuses on non-traditional lattes, such as the iconic Ube Latte, Matcha Latte, Turmeric Latte, and Chai Latte, alongside a Great Tea Selection and an Iced Tea of the day.
• Filipino-Inspired Delights: Offers Small Plates, pastries, and baked goods, notably Filipino favorites like pandesal and the mouthwatering Ube affogato and Ube ice cream sandwich.
• Bubble Tea Selection: Provides a dedicated menu for Bubble Tea, including unique flavors like Ube Milk Tea, Lychee, and Brown Sugar.
• Community and Events: Regularly hosts community events, such as Live Performances and activities like line-dancing classes, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Retail and Pantry Items: Features a small retail area selling goods, including Filipino greeting cards, art prints, and other cultural items, allowing patrons to bring a piece of the experience home.
• Payment Convenience: Accepts all major forms of electronic payment, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments.

Features / Highlights

• Filipino Cultural Hub: This cafe is a dedicated cultural center, offering a slice of the Philippines through its menu and the hospitality of its Batangueño founders. The staff often engage in conversations about the culture, enriching the customer experience.
• The Ube Obsession: The Ube Latte (with or without espresso) and Ube affogato are absolute must-tries, consistently cited in reviews as Great Desserts and signature items that deliver a warm, nostalgic feeling.
• Rotating Art Gallery: A central feature is the constant display of captivating, rotating artworks from local and Filipino-American artists, making the cafe a dynamic and visually stimulating space.
• Unique and Healthy Lattes: Beyond the classics, the menu features healthier, distinctive options like the Turmeric Latte and various complex Matcha Drinks, ensuring there is a beverage for every palate.
• Community and Events: With its commitment to community, Likha often hosts engaging events, from art receptions to Live Performances and social classes like line dancing, making it a gathering spot for Groups and creative individuals.
• Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere: The vibe is described as Cozy, Quiet, and Casual, providing a tranquil, garden-like setting with plants and bright decor that invites visitors to linger and enjoy the moment.
• Asian and Women-Owned: As an Asian-owned and Identifies as women-owned business, supporting Likha Art Cafe means supporting a diverse and entrepreneurial local team in the New York community.

Contact Information

Address: 363 Elwood Ave #F, Hawthorne, NY 10532, USA

Phone: (315) 936-3324

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers searching for an authentic, high-quality, and culturally rich cafe experience outside the immediate city hustle, Likha Art Cafe is definitively worth choosing. The cafe transcends the typical New York coffee shop model by integrating a full art gallery with unique, Filipino-inspired culinary delights.

The most compelling reason to choose Likha is to immerse yourself in the unique flavors they offer. While the Great Coffee selection is robust, what sets Likha apart is its mastery of Filipino sweets and beverages. You absolutely must try the Ube Latte—whether hot or iced—and pair it with one of their famous pastries, like the freshly baked pandesals or the Ube flan cake. This combination offers a sweet, warm, and comforting taste that is both exotic and immediately satisfying. Customers consistently rave about how cozy and delicious these specialty items are, with many calling the Ube cake a “Must try.”

Beyond the menu, choosing Likha means supporting a thriving, community-focused hub. It’s an ideal place for Solo Dining, providing a Quiet and Trendy atmosphere with free Wi-Fi where you can work or simply contemplate the rotating art on display. Unlike impersonal chains, the staff are genuinely friendly and eager to connect, often sharing personal insights into Filipino culture. Whether you are a local artist seeking inspiration, a commuter needing a Great Coffee fix near the train station, or a curious foodie ready to explore new flavors, Likha Art Cafe provides an enriching, friendly, and delicious escape right here in Westchester County.

Likha Art Cafe

363 Elwood Ave #F, Hawthorne, NY 10532, USA