The Great Hall Balcony Cafe

- 1000 5th Ave 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10028

Nestled on the second-floor balcony overlooking the grand entrance of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Great Hall Balcony Cafe offers a unique and convenient dining experience for New Yorkers and tourists exploring one of the city's most iconic landmarks. More than just a place to grab a quick bite, this cafe is a destination in itself, providing a tranquil and casual setting to take a well-deserved break. Its strategic location allows you to rest your feet without having to leave the museum, offering a fantastic view of the bustling Great Hall below and the surrounding exhibits. It’s a stylish and comfortable spot, perfect for recharging with a coffee or enjoying a full meal.

The cafe’s atmosphere is a delightful blend of casual and trendy, with a cozy feel that makes you want to linger. The staff, including helpful members like Eugene and Augosto, and the leadership of Billy, are known for doing a "good job" and providing fast service, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience even during busy hours. While some visitors might find certain aspects less than perfect, the general consensus is that the cafe is a great spot to enjoy a surprisingly good meal or dessert in a prime Manhattan location at a reasonable price. It serves as a true sanctuary for those exploring the museum, whether you’re on a long tour or just stopping by for a quick visit.

The Great Hall Balcony Cafe is perfectly situated on the 2nd Floor of 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, within The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its location on the balcony of the Great Hall provides a spectacular vantage point, making it both easy to find and a memorable place to dine. The cafe’s position allows for a stunning view, adding to the overall experience.

As part of the Met, the cafe is fully equipped to accommodate all visitors. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can easily access the cafe to enjoy its offerings. This commitment to accessibility is a significant benefit for anyone visiting the museum and planning to stop by the cafe for a meal or drink.

The Great Hall Balcony Cafe provides a straightforward and efficient service model, designed to cater to museum visitors.

• Dine-in: The primary service option is dine-in, which allows you to sit down and enjoy your meal in the cafe's inviting atmosphere.
• Table Service: The cafe offers table service for its patrons, providing a convenient and comfortable experience where you can place your order and have it brought directly to you.

The Great Hall Balcony Cafe has a variety of features that make it a compelling choice for a meal or a break.

• Diverse Menu of Small Plates: The menu is surprisingly extensive for a cafe, offering a wide array of options including "small plates," sushi, sandwiches, salads, and more. Highlights include the Chicken Katsu Sando and a variety of freshly made sushi rolls like the Spicy Tuna Roll and California Roll.
• Assortment of Beverages: The cafe serves a full range of beverages to suit any preference. This includes coffee, espresso drinks, tea, and a selection of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, cocktails, soju, and sake. This makes it a great spot for both a morning coffee or an afternoon glass of wine.
• Casual and Cozy Atmosphere: The cafe's ambiance is consistently described as casual, cozy, and trendy. It's a place where you can relax and feel comfortable, whether you're alone or with a group. This makes it a perfect escape from the sensory overload of the museum.
• Fast Service: With many visitors on the go, the cafe’s fast service is a key highlight. The staff is attentive and efficient, ensuring you get your order quickly so you can continue your museum tour without significant delays.
• Popular for Solo Dining: The cafe’s layout and atmosphere make it particularly popular for solo dining. It’s an ideal place for individuals to grab a quiet meal, read a book, or simply people-watch from the balcony.
• Family-Friendly: The cafe is good for kids, and offers a kids' menu, including classic favorites like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. This makes it a great stop for families exploring the museum together.

To get in touch with The Great Hall Balcony Cafe, you can use the following information:

Address: 1000 5th Ave 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10028
Phone: (212) 535-7710

Choosing The Great Hall Balcony Cafe is a smart decision for anyone visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its most compelling feature is its convenience and location. Instead of leaving the museum for a meal, you can enjoy a delicious and varied menu right on-site. The prices are considered reasonable for a Manhattan location, especially within a major tourist attraction, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other nearby dining establishments.

The menu's variety is also a major plus. You can find everything from satisfying sandwiches and fresh salads to a great selection of sushi and poke bowls. The bakery items and desserts are also highly praised, making it a perfect stop for a sweet treat. The ability to pair your meal with a good cup of coffee or an alcoholic beverage like a cocktail or glass of wine adds a layer of flexibility that caters to different tastes and occasions. The cafe’s ability to offer a calm, cozy atmosphere for a solo break or a group meeting while surrounded by world-class art is a unique and valuable experience. Despite minor inconsistencies mentioned in some reviews, the cafe’s overall value, convenience, and a menu that provides something for everyone make it a highly recommended choice for a break during your museum visit.

The Great Hall Balcony Cafe

1000 5th Ave 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10028, USA