Caffe Reggio proudly holds the accolade of introducing the original Italian cappuccino to America and has since become a magnetic point of attraction for coffee aficionados. Its convenient location, arresting ambience, rich history, and, evidently, the tantalizing flavors of its coffee, make this legendary café a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Established in 1927 by an Italian immigrant, Domenico Parisi, Caffe Reggio became a cornerstone of the increasingly Bohemian Greenwich Village very quickly. The café’s epoch-defining heritage spans its vast sunlit spaces and streetside seating, offering an immersive experience in a slice of New York’s captivating history. With its original 1902 espresso machine still on display, the café relishes its reputation as the first café in the United States to serve cappuccino. This venerated apparatus, a captivating relic looking more like brass sculpture than beverage equipment, effortlessly whisking patrons back in time, making them part of its century-old heritage.
The vintage charm of Caffe Reggio goes beyond its coffee. The café houses an enthralling assemblage of Renaissance art, including a 16th-century bench said to have been owned by Italian royalty, imbuing the place with a unique, antique character. The café’s street-side seating offers quintessential views of the bustling New York life- a scenic accompaniment to your enticing brew. The menu reflects an eclectic mix of classic American and Italian fares. The cannoli, a popular Italian pastry, is a highly recommended sweet treat, serving as a perfect finish to your coffee indulgence.
In addition to its art-infused interiors and delish menu, the café has been a favorite hangout spot for countless famous figures over the years. The walls narrate hidden stories of artists, musicians, writers, and actors who frequented the café, while its quaint charm has been captured in various mainstream films and TV series, including 'Godfather II' and 'Inside Llewyn Davis.'
To sum up, Caffe Reggio unfolds a unique blend of flavors and a historically enriched European environment nestled amidst the hustle of Greenwich Village. Its legendary status, exuded through its timeless décor, century-old espresso machine, and, of course, the masterfully brewed original Italian cappuccino, envelops you into a beguiling sphere of vintage New York City. It’s not just a café, but a living, breathing chronicle of history, culture, and first-class coffee brewing. A visit to Caffe Reggio extends far beyond a refreshing cuppa, it offers an intriguing voyage back in time, steeped in the aroma of its historical allure.
