TriBeCafe Restaurant & Bar
Circa 2010-2011

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This was the the website for the TriBeCafe Restaurant & Bar for several years.
Content is from the site's 2010-2011 archived pages.

Then a post appeared on the website:
The management and staff at TriBeCafe would like to extend their deepest gratitude to you,
our fantastic customers, for your loyal patronage and support!

We regret to inform you that as of October 1, TriBeCafe has officially closed,
and we have opened a new restaurant with a new concept.

We look forward to your visit!

RISTORANTE AGLIO

CIRCA 2010

 

TriBeCafe Restaurant & Bar

277 Church St
New York, NY 10013

Welcome

Welcome to the latest addition to the TriBeCa drinking and dining scene!

Restaurant-Bar Concept

With significant renovations to both the building and the menu, TriBeCa restaurant-bar “TriBeCafe” is stepping in to replace the now-defunct Tokyo Bar on 277 Church St. While the atmosphere is casual enough to grab a quick beer and a small bite to eat at the bar counter before returning home from work, the “Tokyo Casual Cuisine” menu is extensive enough to propel TriBeCafe into a position as the newest TriBeCa hotspot, suited for a night with friends or a date. Expect to spend long nights sipping on our original fresh fruit and sorbet cocktails and sampling a wide variety of different popular Tokyo night-scene dishes. The management has also gone to great lengths to bring customers top quality food at staggeringly low prices, with dishes ranging from $6.50 to $16. TriBeCafe is a welcome addition to the city for any New Yorker who has spent a night in Tokyo, and it is a worthy new restaurant-bar for just about everyone else (who presumably have still yet to find out why Tokyo is considered the rising “Cuisine Capital” of the world).

Cuisine: Tokyo Casual

TriBeCafe features an eclectic menu of savory, Japanese night-scene dishes, including everything from a deep-fried minced beef & pork cutlet “Menchi Katsu” to a butter-soy-sauce based mushroom pasta. True to Japanese cuisine, the recipes are clean and simple with a short, yet balanced list of ingredients that allows the quality and freshness of the ingredients used to speak for themselves. The executive chef, Ryutaro Asami, pulls from over 13 years of culinary experience in Japan and utilizes a wide assortment of Japanese tastes, ingredients, and cooking techniques to extract the full flavor naturally found in the food.

Drinks

TriBeCafe features a modest drink menu with carefully selected wines, beers, sakes, shochus, plum wines, and specialty cocktails.  34 bottles of wine have been carefully selected to cover a wide range of grapes and regions, with all bottles selected for their value as tasty, yet inexpensive wines.  The beer menu features an assortment Japanese beers, with pitchers available of draft Sapporo.  15 sakes are available, including specialty sakes such as a sparkling and unfiltered “Sawasawa Nigori.”  10 shochus ranging from rice to barley to sweet potato are also available, as are a plum wine and a black sugar plum wine.  Cocktails range from the traditional, to sorbet-based takes on classic mimosas and bellinis, to original fresh fruit creations.

Business Hours
Monday through Saturday 6:00pm - 1:30am (last call)
*Sundays open on national holiday 3 day weekends and closed on Monday.

Address
277 Church Street (between White & Franklin) New York, NY 10013

Phone
212-343-0277

 

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It really doesn't need to be said that NYC has more than its share of restaurants. But I was bummed out when I heard that TriBeCafe was closing. I lived right around the corner and loved dropping in after midnight for a bit to eat. I might have had a really stressed out day at work and come home in the evening to unwind with some US slots, of course, and then head down to the TriBeCafe for a late dinner. Sometimes I would even continue my online slot games while at the cafe eating, if I were into a winning streak. I can't even imagine what life was like before online casinos. Today it's so easy to satisfy one's gambling/ slot needs via online casino sites. No more traipsing down to the Atlantic City casinos or north to Connecticut to play at one of the Indian reservation casinos. Well adios TriBeCafe. I've missed you, but I have to admit the Japanese Izakaya restaurant, Shigure, has filled the void at 277 Church St. Let's hope it stays for a while.

 

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―2010 Announcements ―

Restaurant Closed for Event

March 20, 2010

Due to a private event, TriBeCafe will be closed Saturday, March 20th from 9pm - Midnight. We apologize for the inconvenience.

If you too are interested in having a private event at TriBeCafe, please visit our events page for more information.

Pick-ups Available!

March 1st, 2010

Due to popular demand we have started pick-up orders of all of our menu items! Call us at (212) 343 - 0277 to place an order, or better yet, stop by and have a drink at our bar while you wait!

Valentine's Day

February 14th, 2010

With President's Day right around the corner, we will be open this Sunday, 14th from 6:00pm - 1:30am. We hope to see you here!

 

 

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―2011 Announcements ―

"Last call for TriBeCafe"

This winter, a new restaurant will emerge in TriBeCafe’s place ---

The management and staff at TriBeCafe would like to extend their deepest gratitude to you,
our fantastic customers, for your loyal patronage and support!

We regret to inform you that TriBeCafe has served its last
round of dinner and drinks on Friday, September 30.
As of October 1, the restaurant-bar will officially be closed.
A new restaurant of ours is scheduled to open in its place later this year!

 While we cannot share any details on the new restaurant just yet,
we believe that this change will ultimately be for the better,
and we look forward to seeing your friendly, familiar faces again!

We sincerely apologize for any inconveniences, along with the disappointment,
that TriBeCafe's closure might cause our guests.  

Updates on the new restaurant will be available on TriBeCafe's facebook page.

In the meantime, please visit B Flat downstairs for cocktails and a light meal, or
TriBeCafe’s operating company restaurant Greenwich Grill , serving Tokyo-Italian cuisine at
428 Greenwich Street (between Vestry & Laight Sts.) 212-274-0428 www.greenwichgrill.com

Sincerely,

TriBeCafe

 

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PRESS

By: Time Out New York editors ***
Posted:Thursday March 15 2012

Even though the presence of izakaya, robataya, and ramen and soba houses has exploded in Gotham over the past few years, restaurants dedicated to yoshoku—a uniquely Japanese interpretation of Western cuisine—have yet to become part of New Yorkers’ dining vocabulary. While a few examples of yoshoku are already on menus in NYC (tonkatsu and curry rice, for example), the owners of TriBeCafe, who also run the Japanese-Italian restaurant Greenwich Grill, have opened an entire restaurant devoted to the genre. The small, laid-back eatery, decorated with iron light fixtures and tatami wallpaper, is an ideal place to delve into the roster of dishes, many of them simultaneously strange and familiar (low prices encourage experimentation). Gambas, which bring to mind the popular tapas dish of shrimp with olive oil and garlic, featured plump crustaceans, potatoes and brussels sprouts in an intense sauce thickened with melted anchovies. A heaping $7 plate of banbanji salad (a Japanese retooling of Chinese sesame chicken) was loaded with juicy slices of steamed poultry in a spicy sesame dressing. Strands of warm spaghetti, meanwhile, were coated in tiny balls of mentaiko (spicy cod roe), a tasty and inexpensive alternative to Italian bottarga. And the robust, fried-egg--topped “Hamburg” steak (a bunless pork-and-beef mix, more Salisbury steak than burger) arrived on a sizzling platter with corn kernels, creamy mashed potatoes and mushroom sauce; cut into the stack and the yolk mingles with the meat’s juices. Rounding out the proficiently executed fare is professional service and a smart selection of wines, sakes, cocktails and beers. For dessert, choose the traditional creme caramel over the liquidy green-tea souffl—after so many reimagined dishes, there’s no shame in ending with the familiar.

 

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More Background on TribeCafe.net

TriBeCafe was a distinctive restaurant and bar located at 277 Church Street in the heart of New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood. Operating primarily during the early 2010s, TriBeCafe became known for its inventive Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine, casual yet stylish ambiance, and attentive service. Although it closed its doors after a relatively short run, TriBeCafe left a lasting impression on diners and contributed to the evolving culinary landscape of Tribeca. This article provides an in-depth look at TriBeCafe’s history, concept, reviews, cultural significance, and legacy, drawing from diverse public sources and reviews to paint a comprehensive portrait of this unique establishment.

History and Concept

TriBeCafe emerged in the competitive Tribeca dining scene around 2010, occupying the space previously held by Tokyo Bar. The restaurant aimed to introduce New Yorkers to a fresh take on Japanese cuisine, blending traditional Japanese flavors and techniques with Western—particularly Italian—influences. This approach placed TriBeCafe in the growing category of Japanese-Western fusion, a genre that was still relatively novel in New York at the time.

The restaurant’s name, TriBeCafe, was a nod to its Tribeca location, a neighborhood known for its blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The area itself had undergone significant transformation since the 1960s, evolving from an industrial district to a cultural and culinary hotspot, home to renowned events like the Tribeca Film Festival and a diverse array of upscale restaurants and bars.

TriBeCafe’s menu was a reflection of this spirit of innovation and cross-cultural exchange. The kitchen, led by chefs with extensive experience in Japan, offered dishes that combined Japanese ingredients and sensibilities with Italian pasta, Western-style proteins, and creative appetizers. The drink menu was equally eclectic, featuring Japanese beers, sakes, shochus, and inventive cocktails.

Menu and Culinary Approach

TriBeCafe’s culinary philosophy was rooted in the Japanese concept of yoshoku—Western-inspired dishes reinterpreted through a Japanese lens. This genre includes items like tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), curry rice, and spaghetti with Japanese toppings, but TriBeCafe expanded on these traditions with its own inventive twists.

Notable Dishes

• Mentaiko Pasta: A standout dish frequently mentioned in reviews, this pasta featured spicy cod roe, butter, and al dente noodles, offering a rich, umami-packed alternative to classic Italian bottarga.

• Hamburg Steak: A bunless pork-and-beef patty, reminiscent of Salisbury steak, served with a fried egg, corn, mashed potatoes, and mushroom sauce—a hearty and comforting yoshoku classic.

• Banbanji Salad: A Japanese take on Chinese sesame chicken, featuring steamed poultry in a spicy sesame dressing.

• Potato Milanese: Roasted fingerling potatoes topped with a sunny-side-up egg, mushrooms, and bacon or prosciutto, praised for its balance of flavors and textures.

• Green Tea Soufflé: A light, not-too-sweet dessert that became a favorite among diners seeking a unique end to their meal.

The restaurant also offered a prix-fixe menu, which was popular for its value and variety, allowing guests to sample multiple courses at a reasonable price point.

Drinks

TriBeCafe’s beverage program complemented its menu with a curated selection of wines, Japanese beers, and specialty cocktails. The sake and shochu lists were particularly notable, catering to both aficionados and newcomers to Japanese spirits.

Ambiance and Service

Reviewers consistently highlighted TriBeCafe’s chic, modern, and romantic interior. The space was described as dimly lit, with subtle yet artful décor that created an inviting and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant was well-suited for both casual nights out and special occasions, such as birthdays or date nights.

Service at TriBeCafe received high marks for attentiveness and professionalism. Diners noted that staff were quick to respond to requests, accommodate late arrivals, and ensure a smooth dining experience. The level of hospitality was frequently compared to that found in Japan, with an emphasis on politeness and respect.

Audience and Clientele

TriBeCafe attracted a diverse clientele, including local Tribeca residents, food enthusiasts seeking new culinary experiences, and visitors drawn by positive online reviews. The restaurant’s fusion concept appealed to adventurous eaters and those familiar with Japanese cuisine, as well as diners looking for a stylish yet unpretentious venue.

Groups celebrating special occasions, couples on dates, and solo diners all found TriBeCafe to be a welcoming spot. The prix-fixe menu and reasonable prices made it accessible to a wide range of guests, while the unique menu offerings set it apart from more conventional neighborhood eateries.

Reviews and Reputation

TriBeCafe garnered consistently positive reviews during its operation. On Yelp, diners praised the restaurant for its inventive menu, excellent service, and pleasant ambiance. Many reviewers singled out specific dishes—such as the mentaiko pasta, Hamburg steak, and green tea soufflé—as must-tries.

Some highlights from customer reviews include:

“The service was even better than the food, extremely attentive and friendly... If I'm judging purely by the food, I think Basta Pasta does this style of fusion better, but you really can't beat the prix-fixe price at TriBeCafe. Throw the charming interior and excellent service into the mix and you can be sure that I'll be back for more. I'm filing TriBeCafe away in my head under 'good deals' and 'great date spots.'”

“I have to say I was impressed the moment I walked in the restaurant, it's totally chic, trendy, modern, and romantic! I just love the whole ambiance, dim lighting and subtle yet artful decor of the restaurant... I have to say the service is very attentive, I almost felt like I was in Japan where everyone was so polite and respectful.”

“Japanese-Italian fusion -- so worth to try! $25 for 4 course meal. The service is impeccable. The atmosphere is trendy, romantic and upscale feel even tho it's pretty inexpensive. Their cocktail menu is very inclusive. Draft beer and wine are of good quality. I can't really think of anything negative about this place. Highly recommend it!”

These testimonials reflect a consensus around TriBeCafe’s strengths: creative food, excellent value, and a warm, welcoming environment.

Press and Media Coverage

While TriBeCafe did not achieve the same level of media attention as some of Tribeca’s more high-profile establishments, it was recognized by local food writers and reviewers for its unique approach to Japanese-Western fusion. The restaurant’s focus on yoshoku cuisine was noted as a refreshing addition to the city’s dining scene, which at the time was experiencing a boom in Japanese izakaya, ramen, and soba houses.

TriBeCafe was often mentioned in the context of Tribeca’s broader culinary renaissance, which saw the neighborhood become a destination for innovative and upscale dining experiences. The restaurant’s connection to the area’s cultural and social vibrancy contributed to its appeal among both locals and visitors.

Cultural and Social Significance

TriBeCafe’s significance lies in its role as a pioneer of Japanese-Western fusion in New York City. At a time when Japanese cuisine in the city was largely defined by sushi bars, ramen shops, and izakayas, TriBeCafe introduced diners to the broader world of yoshoku and Japanese comfort food. This helped to expand the city’s culinary horizons and paved the way for other restaurants to experiment with similar cross-cultural concepts.

The restaurant also embodied the spirit of Tribeca itself—a neighborhood known for its artistic energy, architectural diversity, and embrace of new ideas. TriBeCafe’s willingness to take risks with its menu and design reflected the area’s reputation as a hub for creativity and innovation.

Legacy and Closure

TriBeCafe closed its doors in the early 2010s, after a relatively brief but impactful run. The reasons for its closure are not widely documented, but the competitive nature of New York’s restaurant industry and the constant evolution of neighborhood tastes likely played a role.

Despite its closure, TriBeCafe is remembered fondly by those who dined there. Its influence can be seen in the continued popularity of Japanese-Western fusion cuisine in the city, as well as in the ongoing transformation of Tribeca into a culinary destination.

The space at 277 Church Street has since been occupied by other restaurants, each bringing its own flavor to the neighborhood. However, for many, TriBeCafe remains a memorable chapter in Tribeca’s dining history.

Comparison to Other Tribeca Restaurants

To better understand TriBeCafe’s place in the local dining scene, it is helpful to compare it to other notable Tribeca establishments:

This comparison illustrates TriBeCafe’s unique position as a fusion restaurant that balanced creativity, approachability, and value, setting it apart from both traditional Japanese eateries and classic American establishments in the area.

Examples and Insights

TriBeCafe’s impact is best understood through the experiences of its patrons. For example, one reviewer recounted organizing a birthday dinner for eight people, praising the staff’s flexibility and the kitchen’s ability to accommodate a large party with diverse tastes. Another diner highlighted the restaurant’s suitability for date nights, noting the romantic atmosphere and well-priced prix-fixe menu.

The restaurant’s approach to service—combining Japanese hospitality with New York efficiency—was frequently cited as a key factor in its popularity. Guests appreciated the attentiveness of the staff, the willingness to accommodate special requests, and the overall sense of being cared for during their meal.

 

TriBeCafe was a trailblazer in New York City’s dining scene, introducing diners to the world of Japanese-Western fusion in a stylish and welcoming setting. Its inventive menu, attentive service, and accessible pricing made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Although its time was brief, TriBeCafe’s legacy endures in the memories of those who experienced its unique blend of flavors and hospitality.

As Tribeca continues to evolve as a culinary and cultural destination, TriBeCafe stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s spirit of innovation and openness to new ideas. Its influence can still be felt in the ongoing popularity of fusion cuisine and the vibrant energy that defines Tribeca’s restaurant scene.

 

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