Morningside Cafe

- W 112th St &, Manhattan Ave, New York, NY 10026

Morningside Cafe is a true neighborhood success story, bringing the beloved flavors of Crabman Mike's seafood to a permanent home in Morningside Park. This isn't a new player in the Harlem food scene; it's the culmination of years of hard work by a second-generation Harlem chef, Michael Summerville, who has been a community staple for years. The cafe is a new, permanent location that serves up the same amazing Cajun seafood that has made a name for itself at local festivals and markets. It's a gem that has been brought to the neighborhood, offering a delicious and authentic experience that many have been waiting for. The food and flavors are consistently delicious, and the passion behind the business is palpable.

The menu at Morningside Cafe focuses on a classic Cajun seafood boil, with a variety of fresh seafood options that are "delicious down to the last bite." Customers can feast on blue crabs, peel-and-eat shrimp, lobster, and mussels, all prepared with a signature Cajun herb-pepper blend. The cafe also offers a range of sides to complement the seafood, including classic Cajun corn on the cob and steamed potatoes. For those who aren't in the mood for seafood, the menu also includes other American fare like burgers and hot dogs, ensuring there is something for everyone. This variety, combined with the quality of the food, makes Morningside Cafe a perfect spot for families and groups with diverse tastes.

Morningside Cafe is located at the intersection of W 112th St & Manhattan Ave, within the picturesque Morningside Park. This location is a major highlight, offering a "beautiful view" of the park from its renovated terrace. It's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal. The cafe's address makes it easily accessible for anyone in the Morningside Heights and Harlem neighborhoods. Its proximity to public transit, with various bus and subway stops nearby, ensures that it's a convenient destination for New Yorkers from all over the city.

The cafe is a seasonal operation, typically open from April through October, which makes it a special springtime and summertime treat. The hours of operation are generally from 11 AM to 9 PM, making it a great choice for a casual lunch or an early dinner. A major accessibility feature is the newly renovated, ADA-accessible public restrooms, a significant improvement for the park itself. The cafe’s location within the park, and its focus on outdoor seating, creates a friendly and casual dining experience that is perfect for families, friends, and tourists looking to enjoy the beautiful landscape.

Services Offered

• Cajun Seafood Boil: Specializes in fresh, flavorful Cajun-style seafood boils featuring items like blue crabs, shrimp, and lobster.
• American Fare: Offers a menu that includes other options like burgers and hot dogs, catering to a wider audience.
• Onsite Dining: Provides cafe tables for patrons to sit and enjoy their food with a view of the park.
• Takeout: As a kiosk, it is designed for convenient and quick takeout service.
• Beverages: Serves a variety of cold drinks, coffee, and tea to complement the meal.
• Food and Drink: The menu offers a variety of food and drinks, with plans to also sell beer and wine.

Features / Highlights

• High-Quality Seafood: The food is described as "amazing" and packed with flavor, with a focus on fresh, well-prepared seafood.
• Great Prices: Customers note that the prices are "very affordable" and a great value for the quality and portion size.
• Exceptional Customer Service: The staff is consistently described as friendly, attentive, and helpful, going the extra mile to assist customers.
• Unique Location: Situated within Morningside Park, the cafe offers a beautiful parkside view and a relaxing outdoor dining experience.
• Community-Oriented: The business is a local Harlem enterprise with deep roots in the community, adding a special charm to the experience.
• Helpful Staff: A specific highlight is the staff’s willingness to help customers with their meal, such as showing them how to properly open crabs.

Contact Information

Address: W 112th St &, Manhattan Ave, New York, NY 10026

Phone: There is no publicly available phone number for this location.

What is worth choosing

In a city with endless dining options, Morningside Cafe stands out not just for its delicious food, but for its unique story and location. What is most worth choosing about this place is the authentic, high-quality food provided by "Crabman Mike," a well-known local chef who has a proven track record of delivering "amazing food." The seafood, particularly the blue crabs and peel-and-eat shrimp, is consistently praised for its flavor and freshness. The cafe brings a genuine taste of Cajun cuisine to Harlem that is "well worth" exploring.

The value for money is also a significant reason to choose Morningside Cafe. Reviewers repeatedly mention the "great prices" and the fact that the portions are generous, offering an excellent value for New Yorkers. The unique service, which includes personal touches like showing customers how to open crabs, adds to the welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making the experience more than just a transaction.

The cafe’s location within Morningside Park is a huge draw, offering a beautiful backdrop for a meal that you won't find at most restaurants. It's a perfect place to enjoy a sunny day, sit at a cafe table, and take in the scenery. The combination of delicious and affordable food, a clean and friendly environment, and a beautiful park setting makes Morningside Cafe a must-visit spot. For anyone in the Harlem area looking for a top-tier seafood experience in a relaxed, communal setting, this place is a highly recommended and exciting addition to the neighborhood.

Morningside Cafe

W 112th St &, Manhattan Ave, New York, NY 10026, USA