This was a very lucky find for Jamie W and me. We decided to spend our last hours in NYC in DUMBO since we hadn't been in several years. I already assumed dining options in the tourist-infested area would be notoriously pricey unless we decided to gorge on pizza. However, we decided to be healthy and ventured a few blocks east to check out this intimate spot in Vinegar Hill. Compared to DUMBO, this is a quiet residential enclave with a sophisticated European vibe. Perfect for us, and the cafe itself was not overflowing with customers. We were seated immediately, and the decidedly French menu had us at hello with both appetizing breakfast and lunch options available. We both needed the $5.25 Cafe Creme Lattes (Photo 9), and they were just the balm we needed. Jamie was particularly impressive and ordered the $12 Housemade Granola, a hearty bowlful of goodness with a potpourri of fresh berries, chunks of melon, and chopped apple and pear over a mix of fresh yogurt, almond milk, and honey, and a bed of crunchy granola (Photo 8). It was a genuinely satisfying rendition of this breakfast standby. On my end, I went for the $21 Hearts of Palm Salad (Photo 10). That was a lovely melange of sliced hearts of palm, endive, avocado, orange slices, chili flakes, Moroccan olives, cilantro, and lemon dressing. I was happy I went for the fried egg on top because the textural contrast brought it to the next level. There were other temptations like the Orange Blossom Waffle and Roasted Chicken on Baguette, but those will need to be eaten on the next visit. FOOD - 5 stars...fresh takes on signature dishes that tantalize the taste buds AMBIANCE - 4.5 stars...a bit crowded but cheery and atmospheric SERVICE - 5 stars...cordial and very attentive TOTAL - 5 stars...we're definitely coming back...and hey, there's an outpost cafe in Tokyo, too RELATED - Exploring Brooklyn? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/1wfoE2K3jJ read more