After more than 30 years, an iconic downtown New York institution is back.
The beloved French-Moroccan café has officially reopened this week in a brand-new home on East Broadway.
It brings back its effortless cool, famous bites, and weekend brunch for the neighborhood.
A fresh chapter for a creative hub
Cafe Gitane originally opened its doors in 1994. Founder Luc Lévy built an undeniable fixture of New York’s creative scene.
It quickly drew heavy hitters like David Bowie, Helena Christensen, and Michelle Williams. The cafe was always as much about the lively community as it was about the food.
Now, Lévy is teaming up for the next era. He is officially joined by restaurateur Nima Garos and The Walking Dead star Norman Reedus.
Reedus actually went from a longtime customer to an official partner. Together, they are bringing a major piece of downtown history to a whole new generation.
The menu: returning favorites and new pours
Fans of the original menu can breathe easy. The iconic Avocado Toast ($14) is back, featuring lemon juice, olive oil, and chili flakes on seven-grain bread.
You can also order David Bowie’s reported favorite, the Moroccan Couscous ($18). This plant-based dish comes loaded with red pepper, eggplant, potato, toasted pine nuts, and golden raisins.
For a heartier bite, the Spicy Meatballs Tagine ($24) features organic beef, a hard-boiled egg, tzatziki, and turmeric.
The biggest upgrade? For the very first time, the cafe features a full cocktail program.
You can sip the Sheltering Sky ($15), blending vodka, Aperol, and Moroccan spices. Mezcal lovers should try the Jardin Secret ($16), mixed with pineapple syrup, grapefruit, and lime.
They also offer French classics like the Lillet Blanc Spritz ($14) or a traditional Kir Royal ($14).
If you just need a quick fix, the espresso bar is fully operational. Grab a Cortado ($5), an Iced Mint Tea ($7), or finish your meal with a Vegan Berry Chocolate Tart ($9) featuring a cashew chocolate chip crust.
Intimate space, familiar touches
The new space spans an intimate 1,200 square feet. It intentionally brings back all the signature Gitane touches you remember.
You will still see the iconic map of Morocco hanging on the wall. Jimi Hendrix still overlooks the bar area. The waitresses are even wearing their signature little green dresses.
It is the perfect mix of familiar faces and fresh energy. Stop by East Broadway this weekend and welcome back a true New York staple.
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