Village Cafe

- 1968 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223

Discovering a truly authentic international dining experience in New York City is a journey, and for those in the Brooklyn area and beyond, the search for exceptional Azerbaijani, Middle Eastern, and European flavors leads directly to Village Cafe on Coney Island Avenue. This unique establishment is far more than a typical neighborhood restaurant; it's a culinary gateway to the rich and diverse traditions of the Caucasus and Eastern Europe, earning a reputation for high-quality, authentic dishes and a welcoming, homey atmosphere.

Village Cafe has successfully carved out a niche in the competitive New York food scene by offering a delicious, multi-cultural menu that few other venues can match. Specializing in the aromatic spices and hearty portions characteristic of Azerbaijani cuisine, they seamlessly blend this with beloved dishes from the broader Middle Eastern, Russian, and Ukrainian culinary spheres. The result is a dining experience that feels both excitingly exotic and profoundly comforting, a true 'village away from home' right here in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn. The restaurant's commitment to rich flavors and a 'homemade' feel is frequently highlighted by patrons, solidifying its place as a must-try for any serious New York foodie.

A testament to the quality and unique culinary appeal of Village Cafe, it has garnered high praise and distinction, including being proudly rated among the New York Times Top 100 Best Restaurants in New York City in 2025. This significant recognition underscores the restaurant's excellence and its success in delivering a standout dining experience that resonates across the five boroughs. Whether you are craving the savory delight of a perfectly grilled kebab or the comforting warmth of traditional soup, Village Cafe provides a remarkable taste of this underrepresented culinary region.

### Location and Accessibility

Village Cafe is conveniently situated in the heart of Brooklyn, making it an accessible destination for locals and visitors alike. The exact location is:

1968 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

The restaurant is nestled just off the main avenue, offering a slightly secluded, homey ambiance that is often praised by guests for making them feel immediately welcomed and comfortable. For drivers, a major plus in this dense part of New York is the multiple parking options available. The restaurant provides a free parking lot for convenient access. For those utilizing street parking, there is a combination of free and paid street parking available in the surrounding area. The establishment is also committed to hospitality for all guests, offering complete accessibility, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.

### Services Offered

Village Cafe is dedicated to providing a flexible and full-service dining experience, catering to various needs and preferences across Brooklyn. They ensure that patrons can enjoy their authentic cuisine both within the cozy confines of the café and in the comfort of their own homes. The restaurant is popular for a variety of dining occasions, from a casual weekday lunch to a lively group dinner. Services include:

• Dine-in service with seating and table service
• Outdoor seating for a pleasant alfresco experience
• Delivery and Takeout options for enjoying food at home
• Accepts reservations for both lunch and dinner, with recommendations for peak times
• Available for private dining and catering for events and larger gatherings
• Brunch service, in addition to regular lunch and dinner hours
• Accepts a variety of payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments

### Features / Highlights

The unique appeal of Village Cafe lies in its authentic offerings and the distinct environment it cultivates. It masterfully transports diners to the Caucasus region with its menu and decor, creating a truly memorable experience. Key highlights that distinguish this Brooklyn gem include:

• Authentic Azerbaijani Cuisine: The menu is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Azerbaijan, featuring must-try dishes like tender Lamb Lulya Kebab, savory Kutaby (thin crepes with fillings), and hearty soups like Dushbara and Kyufta-bozbash.
• Multi-Regional Focus: The kitchen skillfully blends Azerbaijani flavors with popular dishes from Russian and Ukrainian cuisines, offering a full spectrum of Eastern European and Middle Eastern specialties, from Borscht to Beef Stroganoff.
• Exceptional Shish Kebab Selection: The restaurant is highly popular for its grilled meats, offering a wide array of kebabs including Lamb Kebab, Chicken Kebab, Grilled Salmon, and even unique options like Lamb Testicles and Djiz Biz.
• Cozy and Homely Atmosphere: The ambiance is frequently described as casual, cozy, and homey, featuring rustic wooden decor and warm lighting that evokes the feeling of being in a comfortable village lodge.
• Great Tea and Coffee Selection: Known for its commitment to traditional beverages, the cafe offers a great selection of specialty teas, coffees, and house-made drinks like Kompot.
• Full Beverage Offerings: Patrons can enjoy a selection of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard Liquor, Spirits, and Wine alongside their meal.
• Accolades and Recognition: Rated by the New York Times as one of the Top 100 Best Restaurants in New York City in 2025, confirming its status as a top-tier dining destination.

### Contact Information

For New York residents looking to reserve a table, order takeout, or inquire about catering services, Village Cafe is easily reachable using the following information:

Address: 1968 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Phone: (718) 975-3373 or +1 718-975-3373

Village Cafe generally operates seven days a week, with operating hours from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM, ensuring plenty of time to enjoy their expansive menu for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite.

### What is Worth Choosing

For a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, the Village Cafe menu presents a delightful challenge with its abundance of flavorful options. However, certain dishes stand out as essential selections that perfectly showcase the kitchen's mastery of Azerbaijani and regional cuisine. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and flavor profile of the kebab selections. The Lamb Lulya Kebab is often cited as the standout dish—tender, wonderfully seasoned, and perfectly complemented by the accompaniments. For a unique appetizer, the Kutaby with Lamb is a mandatory order, providing a thin, flavorful bite that pairs excellently with the restaurant's house-made Tzatziki-style sour cream dip.

Soup enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to try the authentic Dushbara, a traditional soup featuring miniature homemade lamb dumplings that are both comforting and deeply savory. Another unique and highly-rated item is the Guru Hingal, a hot dish with a base of soft pasta-like dough topped with seasoned minced lamb. While delicious, keep in mind this dish is often enjoyed best with a generous amount of the signature sour cream sauce to amplify the flavors.

Village Cafe offers great value and a truly unique dining journey. It is a highly recommended spot for New Yorkers seeking authentic, rich, and homemade Middle Eastern, European, and Azerbaijani food in a relaxed and friendly setting. From the moment you step into the cozy dining room, you'll understand why this Brooklyn restaurant has earned its spot as a New York City culinary destination.

Village Cafe

1968 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA