ZipPicks Awards
Best Breakfast in Forest Hills
Master Critic Review
Cipollina Gourmet
8.0
A cafe-deli hybrid that works for a “real breakfast” when you want coffee plus something more structured than a pastry—panini-style sandwiches, baked goods, and an efficient counter rhythm. Order like a regular: one coffee, one main, and skip extra sides to keep it sharp.
Must-Try Dishes:
Iced Americano, Muffuletta-Style Panini, Breakfast Pastry
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: A deli-cafe lane that upgrades the breakfast sandwich-and-coffee routine.
Who should go: People who want a more filling breakfast than pastries
When to visit: Weekday mornings for the smoothest pacing
What to order: Iced Americano, one panini, one pastry
Insider tip: Ask what’s freshest out of the oven—then build your order around that.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on nearby Forest Hills blocks; generally manageable on weekday mornings, tighter during school drop-off hours.
Dress code: Casual and practical—jeans, sneakers, work-casual all fit the room.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation, with brief counter bustle during peak breakfast rush.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is primarily a breakfast and daytime cafe.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; short line possible during late-morning peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian panini, pastries, and bakery items are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some bakery items and custom sandwich modifications, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited—no dedicated gluten-free prep; availability depends on daily baked goods.
Best For
Better for: A more filling, structured breakfast than pastry-only cafes—especially if you want a real sandwich with your coffee.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full sit-down brunch, table service, or a long, leisurely meal.