ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Upper West Side
Best Breakfast in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Hungarian Pastry Shop
7.8
A cafe-bakery that functions like a neighborhood study hall: coffee, classic pastries, and a steady daytime rhythm. It’s best for a lighter breakfast built around one pastry you’re excited about and a hot drink you plan to linger with.
Must-Try Dishes:
Linzer torte, Almond horn, Strudel slice
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A pastry-and-coffee room built for lingering, reading, and repeat visits.
Who should go: Coffee-and-pastry breakfast people
When to visit: Mid-morning for the best selection
What to order: Linzer torte, strudel, black coffee
Insider tip: Ask what’s freshest that morning before choosing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and competitive during weekday daytime hours.
Dress code: Very casual—jeans, sweaters, and backpacks are common.
Noise level: Low to moderate; generally quiet with background conversation and espresso sounds.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a daytime cafe.
Weekday lunch: Short wait possible mid-day; off-peak mornings usually no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most pastries and baked goods are vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—occasionally one or two items depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Very limited—gluten-free options are rare and not guaranteed.
Best For
Better for: Lingering with coffee and pastries, solo mornings, reading or writing sessions.
Skip if: You want a hearty breakfast, fast turnover, or gluten-free reliability.