Cafe Katja

- 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

In a city bustling with endless dining options, Cafe Katja stands out as a unique and treasured find. Located on Orchard Street in the Lower East Side, this cafe-turned-restaurant is a cozy, tavern-like retreat that brings the authentic flavors of Austria and Bavaria to New York City. From the moment you step inside, the rustic decor, brick walls, and warm ambiance will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a charming European gastropub. Cafe Katja is more than just a place for a meal; it's a destination for a convivial experience, celebrated for its fantastic selection of beers, a thoughtful wine list, and a menu of hearty, traditional dishes. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a lively gathering with friends, or a quiet solo meal, this spot provides a perfect, comforting escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Situated at 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA, Cafe Katja is nestled in a vibrant and trendy part of the Lower East Side. The neighborhood is known for its energetic nightlife and diverse culinary scene, making it a great destination for a night out. The restaurant's location is easily accessible via New York City's extensive subway system, with several lines within easy walking distance.

For all its rustic charm, Cafe Katja is also a modern, inclusive establishment. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant also provides high chairs, making it a comfortable spot for families with children. The ambiance is both casual and trendy, drawing a diverse crowd of locals and tourists, while its LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space status ensures a welcoming environment for everyone.

Cafe Katja offers a wide array of services designed to provide a flexible and enjoyable experience for all of its guests.

• Dine-in: The primary service is the full dine-in experience, complete with table service, in a setting that is both cozy and romantic.
• Outdoor seating: When the weather is favorable, guests can enjoy their meals and drinks in the charming outdoor seating area, which adds to the European cafe vibe.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to eat at home, the full menu is available for takeout and delivery. They even offer eco-friendly options, such as reusable DeliverZero containers, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
• Reservations: Given its popularity, reservations are recommended for both brunch and dinner. It’s always best to call ahead to secure a table, particularly on weekends.
• Catering: Cafe Katja also provides catering services for various occasions, from office parties to birthdays, offering both simple drop-off and on-site cooking.
• Private Events: The restaurant has a spacious main dining area, a bar area, and a separate private space available for events. These spaces can accommodate various group sizes for birthdays, family gatherings, and corporate events.

Cafe Katja's standout features are what truly make it a beloved spot in New York City.

• Authentic Austrian & Bavarian Cuisine: The menu is a major highlight, offering genuine Austrian and German dishes. Diners can expect classic items like Wiener Schnitzel, Jägerschnitzel, and house-made sausages, prepared with a light, market-driven touch.
• Exceptional Drink Selection: The bar is a major draw, boasting a great beer selection of Austrian and Bavarian brews like Stiegl and Gösser, served in a classic tavern setting. It also has a great wine list, focusing on Austrian and German wines, as well as a selection of great cocktails and coffee.
• Cozy, European Ambiance: The atmosphere is consistently praised for being warm and inviting, with a cozy, tavern-like feel. The decor, with its brick walls and rustic elements, contributes to a romantic and relaxed environment that feels far from the typical New York City bar scene.
• Seasonal Specialties: The restaurant often features seasonal menus, such as the special "Spargel Menu" with fresh white asparagus, which keeps the offerings exciting and fresh for repeat visitors.
• Great Service: The staff is known for being friendly, attentive, and welcoming. Reviewers often mention the personal touch from staff members who go out of their way to ensure a positive experience.

To plan your visit or inquire about reservations and catering, you can contact Cafe Katja using the information below:

• Address: 79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA
• Phone: (212) 219-9545

For a truly authentic taste of Austria, there are several dishes at Cafe Katja that are absolutely worth choosing. The Wiener Schnitzel is a classic and a must-try, often served with parsley potatoes and lingonberry jam. Another standout is the Jägerschnitzel, with its rich wild mushroom sauce, which is a perfect example of hearty, delicious comfort food. The restaurant is also famous for its sausages, with the Sausage Sampler being a generous and flavorful option that allows you to try a variety, including Emmentaler and Bratwurst.

If you visit during the season, the white asparagus dishes are a highlight. They are fresh, tender, and served with rich, delicious sauces, as praised by customers. For appetizers, the Pretzel with spreads or the Pickle Plate are perfect for sharing and getting a taste of the German-Austrian culinary tradition. The Beef Gulasch, with its silky paprika sauce and homemade spätzle, is a warming and satisfying choice. Don't forget to save room for dessert. The Apple Strudel, served with schlag (whipped cream), and the Topfenpalatschinken (cheese-filled crepes) are the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet, authentic note. With a fantastic drink menu to complement the food, from Austrian beers to great coffee, every part of the experience is thoughtfully curated to provide an exceptional and memorable visit.

Cafe Katja

79 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA