TLDR
A nostalgic French-inspired haunt long celebrated for its iconic atmosphere and cozy, time-honored counter service. The go-to spot for classic cafe vibes and simple, reliable staples.
Details
Once a cornerstone of the New York City café scene, this French-inspired staple was long celebrated for its nostalgic atmosphere and iconic counter service [2]. Patrons frequently gathered here for years to enjoy coffee and simple fare, forming a sentimental connection to the establishment's storied past [3], [4]. Following recent news of its closures, the community has reflected on both the restaurant's charm and its varied reputation regarding quality [8], [10].
Food Overview
The menu featured classic, straightforward cafe fare that drew mixed reviews from diners. While some patrons fondly recalled specific favorites like the avocado toast and a breakfast sandwich served with chipotle mayo [4], [11], others dismissed the offerings as overpriced or of poor quality [7], [8].
Highlights / Recommended
"Patrons particularly enjoyed the avocado toast and the breakfast sandwich, the latter noted for its chipotle mayo [4], [11]."
Customer Sentiment
Public reception was deeply polarized, ranging from intense nostalgia and sadness over its recent closures to harsh criticism regarding food quality, pricing, and hygiene [6], [7], [8], [10]. Despite the detractors, many long-time visitors maintained a strong emotional attachment to the brand as a defining part of the city's culture [3], [4], [9].
Caveats
The restaurant has faced criticism regarding its food quality and pricing, with some patrons describing the menu as overpriced and the food as lacking [7], [8]. Additionally, there has been a concerning report of pest issues at the establishment [10].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CAFE GITANE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user stated that the second location of Cafe Gitane at Vinegar Hill was still open."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user expressed strong sadness about the closure using an emoji."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user commented that the establishment was 'mice infested'."
NegativeFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user reminisced about spending hours at the cafe's counter, smoking and drinking coffee in 1999, recalling it as a significant spot from that era alongside Milano's."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user described Cafe Gitane as 'trendy' with 'crummy food', suggesting it was a perfect fit for Greenpoint."
NegativeFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user expressed satisfaction with a breakfast sandwich they had a few weeks prior and requested the recipe for the chipotle mayo."
PositiveFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user stated that the West Village location of Cafe Gitane was their favorite spot."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user expressed sadness about the closure, mentioning they had wonderful dates there when it first opened and would still stop for coffee when in the neighborhood."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user expressed disappointment about the closure, noting the good vibe and that French friends enjoyed it. They also broadly criticized the current state of the NYC restaurant business, citing high rents, minimum wage, and competition from food trucks."
NegativeFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user stated that Cafe Gitane 'sucked and was overpriced'."
NegativeFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user fondly remembered the West Village location, calling it a wonderful spot for avocado toast."
NeutralFrom post: Cafe Gitane Closes Both Locations With No Notice
"The user expressed sadness about the restaurant's closure, being thankful they visited for a solo dinner a few weeks prior and lamenting the disappearance of their 'Hayday' NYC."
NeutralFrom post: French Restaurants That Arent Expensive
"This commenter recommends Cafe Gitane."
Positive