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CAFE ZAFFRI

Updated

Phone: (917) 328-2400

Address: 16 EAST 16 STREET 10003

TLDR

Stunning Union Sq. setting w/ Levantine-inspired fare. A scene-y spot, great for atmosphere, with some standout dishes like lamb Wellington.

Reddit Sentiment for CAFE ZAFFRI(based on 13 Reddit opinions)

46% Positive23% Neutral8% Negative

Achievements and Accolades

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Tags

levantine 3italian 3middle eastern 3eggplant 2coffee 2cocktails 2View All

Neighborhoods

Chelsea

Instagram Posts References

Summary
Summary

Recent Articles

Cafe Zaffri stuns, but not with its food
lean negative

Bryan Kim reviews Cafe Zaffri, a chic Union Square spot with a stunning interior but a menu that doesn't quite live up to the decor. Despite some standouts like the lamb Wellington, the food is deemed inconsistent and overpriced.

Bryan Kim Mar 3, 2025
Read More →
Infatuation

Details

This Union Square spot offers a visually stunning experience with a lavish interior, perfect for those seeking a scene or a taste of celebrity sightings. While the ambiance is undoubtedly a major draw, the Levantine-inspired cuisine can be a mixed bag. Some dishes, like the innovative lamb Wellington, impress, while others may not fully justify the upscale price point. It's a place to consider for its atmosphere and potential for people-watching, perhaps more than for consistently stellar culinary execution.

Food Overview

The food at Cafe Zaffri is described as Levantine-inspired. While some dishes like the fried eggplant and lamb Wellington receive praise, other items such as skewers and smaller plates are noted as inconsistent or overpriced. Customers have also mentioned a positive experience with dishes like chicken mouse and dorade, while finding wellington and beats to be just 'ok'.

Highlights / Recommended

"The lamb Wellington is frequently highlighted as a standout dish. Other dishes that have received positive mentions include fried eggplant and chicken mouse."

Customer Sentiment

Customers generally praise the restaurant's stunning ambiance and stylish interior, with some highlighting positive dining experiences. However, others note that the food can be inconsistent and the prices are on the higher side.

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About CAFE ZAFFRI

A review from The New York Times critic, Priya Krishna, highlights Cafe Zaffri as a new Levantine restaurant suitable for all demographics and occasions. The critic found both flaky croissants and well-prepared steak.
This post discusses Cafe Zaffri as a potentially good date night spot, noting its Eastern-inspired cuisine and lively, beautiful setting. It's described as having less classic food and an atmosphere akin to a private members club.
A user shared a positive experience at Cafe Zaffri, praising the stunning setting, exceptional staff, and well-priced wines. They enjoyed their meal and plan to return, noting standout dishes like eggplant and chicken mouse, while finding wellington and beats to be just 'ok'.
Cafe Zaffri is recommended as a quality restaurant in NYC, with its cuisine tagged as Italian.
Cafe Zaffri is suggested as an option for a party dinner.

Recent Reddit Mentions

From post: Brass Or Cafe Zaffri For Date Night

"Café Zaffri's food is described as less classic with an atmosphere that feels like a private members club and is 'instagrammable'. It's suggested for those who enjoy slightly Eastern-inspired cuisine and a lively, beautiful setting for a date."

Neutral
Jan 28, 2026View Comment →

From post: Restaurants In Nyc That Have Impressed You With

"Cafe Zaffri was recommended as a quality restaurant in NYC."

Positive
Jan 18, 2026View Comment →

From post: What Are Places In Nyc That Match This Winter

"This user recommended Café Zaffri near Union Square."

Positive
Dec 19, 2025View Comment →

From post: Is There A Restaurant With A Similar Vibe To Polo

"Includes Cafe Zaffri in a list of recommendations for places that might match the desired vibe."

Neutral
Oct 24, 2025View Comment →

From post: Xpost Ama Were The New Chief Restaurant Critics

"User haribobosses points out the high prices at Cafe Zaffri, such as $9 for olives and $38 for spaghetti, as evidence that the New York Times restaurant reviews cater to an elitist clientele."

Negative
Jun 13, 2025View Comment →

From post: Can A Restaurant Be Both Glamorous And Comforting

"The user had a positive experience at Cafe Zaffri, praising the stunning setting, exceptional staff, and well-priced wines. They enjoyed it thoroughly and plan to return, though not very often."

Positive
May 21, 2025View Comment →

From post: Can A Restaurant Be Both Glamorous And Comforting

"The New York Times critic, Priya Krishna, reviewed Cafe Zaffri, a new all-day Levantine restaurant. She described it as a 'four-quadrant restaurant' that appeals to all demographics, suitable for various occasions and tastes, finding both flaky croissants and well-prepared steak."

Positive
May 20, 2025View Comment →

From post: Party Dinner Choices For Bach Party

"Look at Cafe Zaffri for party dinner."

Neutral
Mar 16, 2025View Comment →