Black Star Bakery & Cafe: A Hidden Gem on the Upper East Side

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Introduce

Nestled in a quiet yet accessible part of the Upper East Side, Black Star Bakery & Cafe is a local hidden gem that has quickly won the hearts of its patrons. For New Yorkers who appreciate a cozy, clean, and inviting atmosphere without the exorbitant prices often associated with Manhattan, this cafe is a true find. The establishment’s interior is both beautiful and comfortable, providing a perfect backdrop for a morning coffee, a quick lunch, or a relaxing afternoon break. This article will delve into what makes Black Star Bakery & Cafe a cherished spot for locals, offering a detailed and factual look at its offerings, atmosphere, and what sets it apart.

The core of Black Star Bakery & Cafe's appeal lies in its remarkable blend of quality and affordability. In a city where a simple croissant can cost a small fortune, customers are consistently impressed by the reasonable prices. A mini chocolate croissant for around $1.50 and a full-sized croissant with prosciutto and cheese for about $9 are a testament to the bakery's commitment to value. This pricing strategy makes it a viable and attractive option for daily visits, rather than just an occasional treat. Beyond the price, the food itself is a major highlight. Reviewers rave about the great coffee, with the iced cappuccino being a particular favorite. The prosciutto with cheese sandwich, described as "big and filling," is another standout item that showcases the bakery's ability to provide both quality and substance. The combination of excellent coffee and equally impressive pastries makes it a go-to spot for many in the neighborhood.

Adding to the charm is the cafe's unique and welcoming atmosphere. The interior is described as cozy and beautiful, but it's the small, thoughtful touches that truly make it special. A sign that encourages customers to "Talk to each other. Pretend it’s the 90s" adds a nostalgic and friendly vibe that fosters a sense of community. This sentiment, along with the very cute outdoor patio, provides a great space for people to relax and enjoy their time. This kind of detail is what transforms a simple cafe into a beloved neighborhood institution. The clean environment and friendly staff are also consistently praised, creating a positive experience from the moment a customer walks in. This commitment to both product quality and a welcoming atmosphere is what makes Black Star Bakery & Cafe a true hidden gem on the Upper East Side.

In conclusion, Black Star Bakery & Cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a refreshing take on the modern cafe experience, perfectly tailored for the New York local. It provides a rare combination of great food, excellent coffee, and a wonderful atmosphere at affordable prices. The bakery’s dedication to creating a pleasant environment, complete with a cozy interior and a charming patio, makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This detailed overview is intended to highlight the many reasons why this establishment has become a recommended spot, and why it continues to be a favorite for those who have discovered its charm.

Location and Accessibility

Black Star Bakery & Cafe is located at 1597 York Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA. This address places it in a prime location within the Upper East Side, a highly desirable and densely populated neighborhood in Manhattan. The bakery’s presence on York Avenue makes it easily accessible for the many residents who live nearby. For New Yorkers who rely on public transportation, the bakery is conveniently located near several bus routes that run along York Avenue and nearby cross streets. While the nearest subway stations, such as the 86th Street stop on the 4, 5, and 6 lines, or the Q train stops on Second Avenue, require a bit of a walk, they still make the bakery reachable for those coming from other parts of the city.

For those in the immediate vicinity, the cafe is a very convenient and walkable option. Like most of Manhattan, street parking can be difficult to find, so most customers will find it more practical to arrive on foot, by bus, or by subway. The bakery’s ground-floor location and welcoming storefront ensure that it is easy to find and access. The availability of a patio is an added benefit for those looking for outdoor seating, which is a highly valued amenity in New York City. The location’s blend of residential and commercial activity makes Black Star Bakery & Cafe a natural fit for the daily routines of the neighborhood’s residents, from their morning coffee to an afternoon treat.

Services Offered

Black Star Bakery & Cafe provides a diverse menu of baked goods and cafe staples that cater to various tastes and times of the day.

Bakery Items: The bakery offers a selection of pastries, including mini chocolate croissants and full-sized croissants with various fillings like prosciutto and cheese. Their offerings are known for being both delicious and affordable.
Coffee and Beverages: They serve a range of coffee-based drinks, with a particular highlight on their good quality iced cappuccino. The coffee is described as great, making it a reliable spot for a caffeine fix.
Sandwiches and Meals: Beyond pastries, the cafe serves more substantial fare, such as a prosciutto with cheese sandwich that is praised for being big and filling. This makes it a great option for a full meal, not just a snack.
Cafe Experience: As a full-service cafe, it offers a clean and cozy interior for dine-in customers, as well as a charming outdoor patio for those who prefer to sit outside.

Features / Highlights

Several key features and highlights contribute to the positive reputation of Black Star Bakery & Cafe.

Affordable Prices: A major highlight is the affordability of the food and drinks, especially for a Manhattan establishment. This value proposition makes it highly appealing to locals looking for a quality experience that won't break the bank.
Great Food and Coffee: The quality of the coffee and the food is consistently praised. The mini chocolate croissants and the prosciutto with cheese sandwich are particularly popular and well-regarded by customers.
Cozy and Clean Atmosphere: The cafe is described as having a beautiful and cozy interior, which provides a comfortable and pleasant environment. The cleanliness is also a notable feature, ensuring a positive experience for all patrons.
Charming Outdoor Patio: The presence of a cute outdoor patio is a significant highlight, offering a great space for customers to enjoy their food and drinks outdoors, a sought-after amenity in a dense urban setting.
Unique and Friendly Vibe: The sign encouraging conversation and the overall friendly atmosphere create a welcoming environment that fosters a sense of community, making it more than just a place to get coffee.

Contact Information

For those who wish to visit or get in touch with Black Star Bakery & Cafe, the following information is provided.

Address: 1597 York Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

Phone: (646) 726-4546

It is always a good idea to check for their current hours of operation or to inquire about specific menu items by calling ahead.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Black Star Bakery & Cafe is an excellent and highly suitable option for locals in the New York region, especially those in the Upper East Side. Its combination of affordable prices, high-quality food, and a warm, inviting atmosphere is a rare and valuable find in Manhattan. For locals, this bakery and cafe is a reliable spot for a daily dose of good coffee and a fresh pastry without the financial strain often associated with similar establishments. The a cozy interior and the charming outdoor patio provide a perfect setting for both a quick stop and a more leisurely break, catering to various needs throughout the day.

The bakery’s commitment to a friendly and community-oriented atmosphere, highlighted by its unique decor and friendly signage, makes it feel like a true neighborhood institution. It’s the kind of place where regulars feel at home. While it may not be a secret for long, its current status as a "hidden gem" means that those who discover it feel they've found something special. For any New Yorker looking for a clean, beautiful, and affordable cafe with great food and a friendly vibe, Black Star Bakery & Cafe is a highly recommended destination that promises to deliver a genuinely positive and satisfying experience.

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Food & drink

All Day - Hot Drinks
Brewed Coffee US$3.75
Rich, aromatic coffee. Choice of 12 oz or 16 oz.
Americano US$3.75
Robust black coffee; available in 12 oz or 16 oz.
Cappuccino US$4.75
Rich, aromatic coffee with frothy milk. Size options: 8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz.
Latte US$4.75
Creamy espresso with steamed milk. Choice of 8 oz, 12 oz, or 16 oz.
Flat White US$4.95
Extra shot.
Hot Chocolate US$5.50
12 oz or 16 oz. White or dark. Rich and comforting.
Mocha US$5.75
Rich blend of coffee and chocolate. Sizes: 12 oz or 16 oz. Flavor choices: White or Dark.
Chai Latte US$5.50
Spiced tea blend with milk. Available in 12 oz or 16 oz sizes.
Matcha Latte US$5.75
Earthy green tea latte with milk. Available in 12 oz and 16 oz sizes.
Cafe Au Lait US$3.75
Cafe au Lait Rich coffee with steamed milk. Available in 12 oz or 16 oz.
Hot Apple Cider US$4.95
Warm apple cider, 12 oz or 16 oz, with or without a hint of cinnamon.
Tea US$2.95
Tea Various tea options including Earl Grey, Jasmine, Mint, Berry, Chamomile, Green, Breakfast, and Ginger. Available in 12 oz or 16 oz sizes.
Lattea US$3.50
Steamed milk over tea of your choice.
12 Oz. House Blend Beans US$14.95
Rich, aromatic espresso beans, freshly roasted for a bold and smooth coffee experience.
Coffee Box US$32.50
96 oz brewed coffee, INC 12 cups, sugars & stirrers..please add request if any milk needed .

All Day - Iced Drinks
Cold Brew US$4.50
16 Oz. Iced Latte US$5.50
16 oz. iced coffee latte. Available in 12 oz and 20 oz sizes.
16 Oz. Iced Cappuccino US$5.50
Iced cappuccino, available in 12 oz, 16 oz, or 20 oz sizes.
16 Oz. Iced Americano US$4.50
16 oz. or 20 oz. chilled americano
16 Oz. Iced Chai Latte US$5.95
Chai tea served chilled with a blend of spices. Available in 16 oz or 20 oz sizes.
16 Oz. Iced Mocha US$5.95
16 oz. creamy chocolate coffee blend, choice of white or dark chocolate. Option to size up to 20 oz.
16 Oz. Matcha Iced Latte US$5.95
New flavors available! Strawberry, blueberry, rose or lavender.
16 Oz. Matcha Lemonade US$5.25
Matcha lemonade blended with citrus, served chilled. Size options: 16 oz or 20 oz.
16 Oz. Lemonade US$4.50
Flavors available! Strawberry or blueberry.
16 Oz. Palmer US$4.50
Refreshing blend of fruit juice, available in two sizes: 16 oz and 20 oz.
Iced Tea US$4.50
16 oz. or 20 oz. iced tea available in Black, Green, or Berry flavors.
16 Oz. Iced Fuji Apple Cider US$5.25
16 oz. chilled fuji apple cider. Size options: 16 oz, 20 oz. Choose with or without cinnamon.

All Day - Espresso
Espresso US$2.95
Rich espresso, available in single or double shots.
Macchiato US$3.95
Rich espresso with a touch of milk foam. Available in Single or Double sizes.
Cortado US$3.95
Balanced espresso with milk. Choice of single or double size.
Espresso Con Panna US$3.95
Rich espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Available in single or double sizes.
Espresso Over Ice US$4.00
Espresso over ice. Available in single or double size.

All Day - Cold Drinks
Orange Juice US$4.50
Natalie’s 16 oz.
Orange And Beet Juice US$4.50
Natalie’s 16 oz.
Mini Orange Juice US$3.25
Natalie’s 8 oz .
Still Water US$2.50
Smart water 20 oz .
Sparkling Water US$2.50
Pellegrino 16.9 oz .
Juice Box US$1.75
Kids juice box 6.75 oz.
Immunity Shot US$3.95
Pure green 2 oz .

All Day - Breakfast Mains
#1. Avocado Toast US$15.50
Over easy fried egg and sriracha on eight-grain bread.
#2. Avocado Toast US$15.50
Feta cheese, grape tomatoes and micro greens on 8-grain bread.
Sriracha Breakfast Sandwich US$12.95
Egg, cheese, sriracha, mayo and tomatoes on brioche. ( avocado or prosciutto are optional ).
Egg And Cheese Croissant US$7.50
Avocado or prosciutto are optional.
Smoked Salmon Croissant US$11.95
Croissant, cream cheese and sprouts.
Avocado Salad Croissant US$7.25
Lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper.
Egg Salad And Chives On Croissant US$7.50
A flaky French pastry.
Avocado Trip US$12.75
Grape tomatoes, feta, egg and sriracha on a croissant.
Breakfast Burrito US$14.95
Egg, cheese, sriracha mayo, tomatoes, avocado, red onion and sprouts wrapped in your choice of a white, whole wheat or spinach tortilla.
Breakfast Plate US$15.50
Two Scrambled eggs, avocado, 8 grain bread or baguette, a side salad and fresh berries.
Breakfast Toast US$14.75
2 eggs, sliced avocado , chili flakes on eight-grain. Side salad.
Smoked Salmon Toast US$16.50
Cream cheese, capers, red onions, sunny side up egg, red chili flakes on 8 grain toast.
Breakfast Bowl US$16.50
Quinoa, greens, corn, feta cheese, red cabbage, carrots, grape tomatoes , avocado, olive oil and tahini dressing on the side, egg to your choice.
Pesto Mozzarella Sandwich US$15.75
Pesto, mozzarella, avocado, tomatoes on toasted 8 grain w side salad.
Grilled Cheese US$13.75
Gouda cheese & tomatoes with a side of fruit or salad.
Yogurt Bowl US$12.50
Greek yogurt, fresh berries , sliced almonds, shredded halva and honey.
Croissant With Butter US$4.75
Strawberry or apricot jam are optional.
Croissant With Cream Cheese US$4.95
A flaky French pastry.

All Day - Bagels
Egg And Cheese Bagel US$7.50
Egg and cheese on your choice of bagel – sesame, everything, plain, whole wheat, rainbow, raisin cinnamon, or gluten-free. Toasted or not toasted.
Cream Cheese Bagel US$4.25
Your Description: Choice of sesame, everything, plain, whole wheat, rainbow, raisin cinnamon bagel, or gluten-free bread with cream cheese. Toasted or not toasted.
Butter Bagel US$3.95
Strawberry or apricot jam are optional.
The Lox Bagel US$13.95
Smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomatoes, red onions and capers.
Egg Salad Bagel US$7.50
Tomatoes and chives.
Avocado Salad Bagel US$7.25
Lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Plain Bagel US$1.25
Classic bagel choices including sesame, everything, whole wheat, rainbow, raisin cinnamon, and gluten-free bread. Available toasted or not toasted.

All Day - Pastries
Plain Croissant US$3.95
A flaky French pastry.
Almond Croissant US$4.50
A flaky French pastry.
Chocolate Croissant US$3.95
A flaky French pastry.
Nutella Hazelnut Croissant US$4.50
A flaky French pastry.
Churro Croissant US$4.25
A flaky French pastry.
Cronut ( Croissant Donut ) US$5.00
Layers of flaky, buttery pastry dough shaped like a donut, dusted with powdered sugar.
Multi Grain Croissant US$4.50
A flaky French pastry.
Everything Croissant US$3.95
A flaky French pastry.
Sesame Pretzel Croissant US$3.95
Golden, flaky croissant topped with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Mediterranean Croissant US$3.95
Zaatar spice.
Vegan Croissant US$4.25
Vegan. A flaky French pastry.
Cheese Danish US$5.50
Delicate, Flaky Pastry Filled with Rich, Creamy Cheese
Spinach Ricotta Danish US$2.95
Leek And Parmesan Danish US$2.95
Blueberry White Chocolate Muffin US$4.50
Bursting with blueberries and creamy white chocolate chunks, topped with sliced almonds.
Banana Nut Chocolate Muffin US$4.50
Rich banana muffin studded with crunchy nuts and chocolate chunks.
CinnaMuffin ( Cinnamon Bun Muffin ) US$4.95
Cinnamon bun muffin.
Cheese Bureka US$2.50
Flaky, golden-brown pastry filled with creamy cheese and topped with sesame seeds.
Potato Bureka US$2.50
Flaky pastry filled with seasoned potato and topped with sesame seeds.
Chocolate & Halva Pan Pastry US$2.50
Layers of delicate pastry filled with rich chocolate and sweet halva, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Jelly Filled Donut US$3.95
Soft donut filled with sweet jelly and lightly dusted with sugar.
Chocolate & Sprinkles Donut US$3.50
Apple Crumb Donut US$3.95
Strawberry Donut US$3.95
Topped with pink icing and sprinkled with strawberry bits.
Blueberry Scone US$4.25
Tender scone filled with juicy blueberries and a hint of sweetness.
Cranberry Scone US$4.25
A triangular pastry with a golden-brown crust, studded with tart cranberries.
Cinnamon Chip Scone US$4.25
Buttery scone filled with cinnamon chips and topped with a light glaze.
Cheese Straw US$4.95
Crispy puff pastry twisted with baked cheese.
Chocolate Rugalah US$2.50
A rolled pastry filled with rich chocolate, featuring a flaky, golden-brown crust.
Gluten Free Brownie Bite US$1.00
Gluten free.
Chocolate Chunk Cookie US$3.50
Large cookie with generous chocolate chunks embedded in a rich, buttery dough.
White Chocolate Coconut & Macadamia Nut Cookie US$3.50
Lemon Poppy Muffin US$4.50
A moist muffin with tangy lemon zest and crunchy poppy seeds.
Cherry And Yogurt Danish US$4.50
Apple Pan Pastry US$2.50
Delicate layers of flaky pastry filled with sweet apple compote, dusted with powdered sugar.
Raspberry & Cheese Cruffin US$4.95
Flaky pastry layers filled with raspberry jam and creamy cheese.

All Day - More Options
Ham And Cheese Croissant US$8.50
Prosciutto, Swiss and mixed greens.
Turkey Pesto Croissant US$9.25
Swiss, tomatoes and mixed greens.
Apple And Brie Croissant US$9.25
Honey and arugula.
Yogurt And Granola Cup US$5.50
Granola & berries.

All Day - Hot Drinks
Americano US$3.75
Rich espresso with water. Choices: 12oz, 16oz.
Cappuccino US$4.75
Rich espresso blended with steamed milk, finished with a layer of foamed milk. Size options: 8oz, 12oz, 16oz.
Latte US$4.75
Crema-topped espresso with steamed milk. Available in 8oz, 12oz, or 16oz sizes.
Flat White US$4.95
Extra shot.
12 Oz. Matcha Latte US$5.75
Matcha latte, available in 12oz or 16oz sizes.
12 Oz. House Blend Beans US$14.95
Rich and aromatic whole beans, perfect for brewing a robust 12 oz. house blend coffee.
Brewed Coffee US$3.75
Fresh brewed coffee. Options: 12oz or 16oz.
Hot Chocolate US$5.50
Rich and creamy beverage choices, available in 12oz or 16oz, with white or dark chocolate flavors.
Mocha US$5.75
Rich blend of espresso, steamed milk, and your choice of white or dark chocolate. Available in 12oz or 16oz.
Chai Latte US$5.50
Spiced tea blend with steamed milk. Two sizes available: 12oz or 16oz.
Cafe Au Lait US$3.75
Rich, creamy coffee with hot milk. Available in 12oz or 16oz sizes.
Hot Apple Cider US$4.95
Sweet apple cider available in 12oz or 16oz, with or without cinnamon.
Tea US$2.95
Choice of 12oz or 16oz. Earl Grey, Jasmine, Mint, Berry, Chamomile, Green, Breakfast, Ginger.
Lattea US$3.50
Steamed milk over tea of your choice.
Coffee Box US$32.50
96oz brewed coffee, INC 12 cups, sugars & stirrers..please add request if any milk needed.

All Day - Iced Drinks
16 Oz. Iced Latte US$5.50
16 oz. refreshing coffee beverage. Various sizes available: 12oz, 16oz, 20oz.
16 Oz. Matcha Iced Latte US$5.95
New flavors available! Strawberry🍓 blueberry🫐 rose🌹 lavender🪻.
16 Oz. Matcha Lemonade US$5.25
Matcha lemonade with a refreshing twist of lemon. Available in 16oz or 20oz sizes.
16 Oz. Lemonade US$4.50
Flavors available! Strawberry🍓 blueberry🫐.
16 Oz. Palmer US$4.50
16 oz. blend of iced tea and lemonade, available in 16 oz or 20 oz sizes.
Ice Tea US$4.50
16oz or 20oz iced tea. Choose from Black, Green, or Berry flavors.
Cold Brew US$4.50
16 Oz. Iced Cappuccino US$5.50
Chilled espresso with milk over ice. Available in three sizes: 12oz, 16oz, 20oz.
16 Oz. Iced Americano US$4.50
Chilled espresso and water over ice. Size options: 16oz, 20oz.
16 Oz. Iced Chai Latte US$5.95
Chilled spiced tea blend. Available in 16 oz or 20 oz.
16 Oz. Iced Mocha US$5.95
Creamy iced mocha in 16oz or 20oz. Choice of white or dark chocolate.
16 Oz. Iced Fuji Apple Cider US$5.25
Sweet and tangy apple cider with your choice of size (16oz or 20oz) and optional cinnamon.

All Day - Espresso
Espresso US$2.95
Choice of single or double shot of rich espresso.
Macchiato US$3.95
Rich espresso with a touch of steamed milk. Available in single or double sizes.
Cortado US$3.95
Rich espresso balanced with a touch of warm milk. Choice of Single or Double size.
Espresso Con Panna US$3.95
Rich espresso topped with whipped cream. Choice of single or double shot.
Espresso Over Ice US$4.00
Espresso over ice, choose single or double size.

All Day - Cold Drinks
Orange Juice US$4.50
Natalie’s 16oz.
Orange And Beet Juice US$4.50
Natalie’s 16oz.
Sparkling Water US$2.50
Pellegrino 16.9oz.
Juice Box US$1.75
Kids juice box 6.75oz.
Immunity Shot US$3.95
Pure green 2oz.
Mini Orange Juice US$3.25
Natalie’s 8oz.
Still Water US$2.50
Smart water 20oz.
Coconut Water US$3.00
11.2oz.
Organic Chocolate Milk US$2.50
8oz.

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Details

Service options
Delivery
In-store pick-up
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Offerings
Coffee

Dining options
Breakfast

Planning
Quick visit

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Parking
Paid street parking

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Photos

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Location

Black Star Bakery & Cafe

New York New York County New York York Avenue

1597 York Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

Black Star Bakery & Cafe Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 333 user reviews.

croissantpatiolattematchabreakfast sandwichavocado toastbreakfast burritolaptopwi-fibarista

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Clean, beautiful café with a cozy interior and affordable prices. Great spot with a patio. I especially loved the sign there: “Talk to each other. Pretend it’s the 90s” — such a nice touch that adds to the atmosphere.The coffee was good. I had an iced cappuccino. The prosciutto with cheese sandwich was big and filling. A real hidden gem on the Upper East Side. Highly recommend!
July 09 · Antonio Rybalch
So good, and also as for New York - very affordable, like mini chocolate croissant is ~$1.50, and regular sized croissant with prosciutto and cheese ~$9! Coffee is great, bakery is even better! Also very cute patio
July 06 · Elizabeth Rybalchenko
It's a charming little coffee shop in the UES with a cool seating area outdoors, perfect for a coffee break or catching up with friends. The atmosphere is pleasant and inviting. There is a warm, welcome energy within that makes you want to stay a little longer. Definitely a must-see if you're in the neighborhood.
June 20 · Erna Lynne Canitan
I'm so glad I found out about this brand! I popped in at their UES location for a mid-morning sweet treat, and I literally couldn't pick. There were so many delicious options!I got a chocolate brownie bite, which was the perfect size and soooo yummy!Having locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, makes it a perfect spot for a coffee catch up anywhere you are.Next time we bring sweets to the Supp office for the team will be from Black Star Bakery!
November 04 · Ettore Michelin
The coffee was smooth and strong, perfect for a morning pick-me-up, and there were a lot of good and tasty pastries to choose from. I highly recommend their breakfast burrito. The service was quick and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy.
June 21 · Princess Abena Antonio