Central Cafe & Deli

16 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017, United States
$$$ cafe
(38 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Located at 16 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY, Central Cafe & Deli is a delightful haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the nearby Grand Central Station. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu that caters to diverse tastes, this charming café truly embodies the heart of New York dining.

The café specializes in American cuisine, making it an ideal spot for breakfast lovers and casual diners alike. Their menu boasts a variety of breakfast favorites that are sure to satisfy any craving. Indulge in the fluffy Pancakes at $24, or treat yourself to the perfectly crisp Belgian Waffle for just $20. If you prefer something a bit more classic, the French Toast, also priced at $24, is a sweet start to your day.

Health-conscious diners will appreciate the green options as well, with delightful additions like Steel Cut Irish Oatmeal and Homemade Granola – each priced at $18. And for those who crave savory bites, the Bagel & Smoked Salmon at $24 and Avocado Toast at $18 are must-tries that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.

Beyond the food, the diner exudes a warm atmosphere that feels as though you've stepped into a cozy nook of old New York. Patrons have highlighted the ambiance, likening it to a comforting mix of a family gathering and a professional setting. As one customer, Martha aka WineDivaa, puts it, “here the vibes of old New York and having a delicious cappuccino made to order magic vibes happen!”

If you’re looking to unwind with a drink, the café also features a wonderful bar area where you can enjoy a draft beer, making it a versatile space perfect for any time of day. Reviewers like Ricardo Lovati share their experiences, noting, “Really nice place to sit and have a meal; the place is quite special inside.”

Service is another highlight at Central Cafe & Deli. Customers appreciate the unobtrusive staff who allow you to relish your meal at your own pace, enhancing the overall relaxing dining experience. As tripp awbrey expresses, “...they aren’t very pushy and don’t come around and ask if everything is tasting good every five seconds, which is definitely a plus.”

In sum, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between commuting or settling in for a leisurely meal with friends, Central Cafe & Deli offers a friendly, inviting environment backed by delicious menu selections that make you feel right at home. Don't miss the chance to indulge in breakfast classics while enjoying views of the iconic Grand Central Station. It’s an experience that encapsulates the vibrancy and charm of New York City dining.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 03:30 PM

38 Reviews
tripp awbrey

19 Sep 2025

Really liked this one, good spot to eat if you don’t want to worry about the hustle and bustle of the grand central’s dining concourse, also a good place to stop while waking and grab a quick bite. In terms of service, they aren’t very pushy and don’t come around and ask if everything is tasting good every five seconds, which is definitely a plus. Finally, the atmosphere was very good, it is very much a place where you can meet with friends or family to eat.

Esau Castro Chavez

28 Aug 2025

Well, the place is unique. I like the environment, which is a nice place to stop and enjoy a small break from the crowded city. Bar, breakfast, dinner, are the options on the menu, price is okay. I will say sell more experience than taste, but if you look around, you will see people enjoy their journey in this restaurant. It feels like a family and office mix. Good place to visit. Before going to Central Park or gym.

Minh Hua

26 Aug 2025

Convenient bar and restaurant across from the main door of Grand Central.

Martha aka WineDivaa

12 Jul 2025

Here the vibes of old new york and having a delicious cappuccino made to order magic vibes happen! Loved also the chocolate croissant

Jenny Jewell

01 Jul 2025

This place has an amazing view of grand central station. The place looked very clean, had a different diner vibe very antique. The service was amazing. Food was good. The only thing I could say is if they can make the food when order the toast and potato fries tasted like is it was reheated.

Ricardo Lovati

20 Jun 2025

Really nice place to sit and have a meal; the place is quite special inside; good to sit and have a great meal. The bar also is really nice for a draft beer!

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