Ocean View Cafe

- 290 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235

Ocean View Cafe is a cornerstone of the Brighton Beach neighborhood in Brooklyn, offering New Yorkers an authentic and beloved taste of Eastern European comfort food. While the name suggests a typical coastal coffee shop, this establishment transcends the ordinary cafe experience, serving as a full-service Ukrainian and Russian restaurant, a go-to takeout spot, and a cozy haven for a great cup of coffee or tea.

Nestled in the heart of one of NYC's most culturally rich areas, Ocean View Cafe is celebrated by locals for its fresh, homemade cuisine that often reminds patrons of their own family's cooking. It's a place where tradition meets accessibility, providing a warm, casual, and friendly atmosphere perfect for a solitary meal, a group gathering, or a family outing at any time of the day.

The culinary focus is squarely on Russian and Ukrainian specialties. Guests consistently praise the extensive menu, which features classic dishes prepared with care and fresh ingredients. From hearty soups and traditional appetizers to succulent meat and seafood entrées, the menu offers a genuine tour of Eastern European gastronomy. Despite its humble cafe designation, Ocean View Cafe is firmly recognized as one of Brighton Beach's best spots for an authentic dining experience, standing out even in a neighborhood renowned for its European flair.

For those looking for a truly satisfying meal that feels both comforting and flavorful, this venue delivers. Its dedication to quality and quick, attentive service makes it a highly recommended choice for both neighborhood regulars and those venturing to the iconic Brooklyn community for the first time.

Location and Accessibility

Ocean View Cafe is conveniently located at 290 Brighton Beach Ave in Brooklyn, New York. This prime location places it right in the center of the vibrant Brighton Beach community, known for its lively streets and proximity to the boardwalk and ocean, making it an ideal stop before or after a walk on the beach. While some reviews note that the 'Ocean View' aspect might be a few blocks walk to the water rather than a direct window view, the energy and atmosphere of the area are undeniable.

Getting to the cafe is straightforward, thanks to excellent public transportation access—a key convenience for New Yorkers. The establishment is situated near major subway and bus routes, ensuring easy travel from other parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan. Public transit options include:

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LI Subway Service: Nearby subway lines include the B and Q trains, which serve the Brighton Beach station on the BMT Brighton Line. The Q train runs at all times, while the B train operates on weekdays, providing a direct connection to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn.

LI Bus Routes: Several MTA bus lines service the Brighton Beach Avenue area, including the B1, B49, and B68, with stops conveniently located just a one-minute walk from the cafe.

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For those driving, the cafe is popular for offering free street parking, a highly valued amenity in New York City. This combination of easy access via public transit and parking availability makes Ocean View Cafe a hassle-free destination for Brooklyn residents and visitors alike.

Services Offered

The Ocean View Cafe offers a comprehensive range of dining and service options to accommodate a variety of preferences and schedules, solidifying its role as more than just a cafe, but a full-service eatery. Their primary services include:

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LI Dine-in Table Service: Guests can enjoy a casual, cozy, and relaxed dining experience with full table service for all meals.

LI Takeout and Delivery: The cafe provides convenient options for customers on the go, allowing them to enjoy their meals at home or work through both direct takeout orders and third-party delivery services.

LI Catering: Catering services are available, allowing guests to bring the authentic flavors of Eastern Europe to their next event or gathering.

LI Meal Service: They are popular for serving Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, making it a reliable spot for a fresh meal throughout the day.

LI Beverage Service: A wide selection of hot and cold beverages is offered, including a noted "Great coffee" and "Great tea selection," alongside alcoholic offerings like Beer and Wine.

LI Dessert Service: A dedicated dessert selection, including popular items like Tiramisu, Napoleon, and traditional Berry and Chocolate Cakes, is available.

LI Reservations: While not always required, the cafe accepts reservations, which is recommended during peak hours to ensure seating availability.

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Features / Highlights

Ocean View Cafe stands out in the competitive Brooklyn food scene due to a combination of authentic cuisine, excellent service, and thoughtful amenities. Key features and highlights include:

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LI Authentic Ukrainian and Russian Cuisine: The main draw is its extensive menu of authentic Eastern European dishes, featuring comfort food staples like Ukrainian Borscht, a variety of Pelmeni and Vareniki (dumplings), Khinkali, and classic meat entrées such as Shish Kebab and Beef Stroganoff in White Sauce. The emphasis is on fresh, homemade flavors.

LI Highly-Rated Hot Beverages and Desserts: The cafe is highlighted for its excellent Coffee and an impressive Great Tea Selection, perfectly paired with a dessert menu that includes Sour Cream Pie, Tiramisu, and Berry Cake.

LI Dog-Friendly Outdoor Seating: A significant highlight, especially for pet owners in NYC, is the patio area where dogs are allowed. This provides a welcoming space for patrons to dine with their furry companions, an enjoyable option on pleasant Brooklyn days.

LI Fast and Friendly Service: Customers frequently comment on the fast service and polite, attentive waiters, contributing to an overall positive and efficient dining experience.

LI Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The cafe provides a relaxed and comfortable ambiance, making it a great spot for casual dining, solo dining, or intimate gatherings.

LI Variety of Menu Offerings: Beyond the main courses, the menu features healthy options, quick bites, small plates, and a full bar selection, including Alcohol, Beer, and Wine, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences.

LI Good for Families and Groups: The venue is family-friendly, offering amenities like high chairs, and its space can accommodate groups, making it suitable for larger gatherings.

LI Payment Flexibility: The cafe accepts all major payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments, for maximum convenience.

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Contact Information

P Address: 290 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA

P Phone: (718) 332-1900

What is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine taste of the Eastern European culinary tradition without leaving the city, Ocean View Cafe offers a remarkable combination of authenticity, value, and convenience. What truly makes this cafe worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to authentic, fresh, and high-quality comfort food. Unlike many modern establishments, Ocean View Cafe focuses on delivering flavors that resonate deeply with heritage and history, often earning compliments that the food rivals 'grandma's cooking.'

The Pelmeni (ground meat filled pasta pockets) and Vareniki (dumplings with various fillings like potato, cheese, or cherries) are non-negotiable must-try items. They are available both hot as an appetizer or entrée, and even frozen to take home, allowing customers to savor the authentic taste anytime. The hearty Ukrainian Borscht is a signature soup, celebrated for being comforting and perfectly spiced, making it an ideal starter or light meal, especially on a chilly Brooklyn day.

Beyond the dumplings and soups, patrons should explore the diverse main course options. The Shish Kebabs (available in Chicken, Lamb, and Pork) and the various Stroganoff dishes (Beef or Chicken in White Mushroom Sauce) represent the rich and savory aspects of the region's cuisine. Furthermore, the selection of fresh Seafood Entrées, such as the Grilled Salmon Filet and Whole Fried Flounder, provides excellent non-meat alternatives, while options like the Russian Potato Salad offer a classic cold appetizer experience.

From a service perspective, the Fast Service is a distinct advantage, ensuring that whether you are dining in or getting takeout, your authentic meal is ready quickly. The combined presence of a Great Coffee and Great Tea Selection also makes it an excellent choice for a midday break or a post-dinner ritual, particularly when paired with one of their classic European-style desserts like the Napoleon or Sour Cream Pie.

In essence, Ocean View Cafe is worth choosing because it provides a slice of Eastern European culinary culture in a cozy, accessible, and friendly Brooklyn setting. It’s an ideal dining spot for anyone craving authentic comfort food, appreciating friendly service, and seeking a full, satisfying meal at any point in the day—from an early breakfast to a late dinner.

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LI Must-Try Dishes: Ukrainian Borscht, Khinkali, Veal Pelmeni, Lamb Shish Kebab, and Homemade Chicken Cutlets Russian Style.

LI Ideal For: Visitors to Brighton Beach, Brooklyn locals looking for authentic cuisine, families, solo diners seeking comfort food, and pet owners thanks to the dog-friendly patio.

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Ocean View Cafe

290 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA