At a time when third spaces are scarce, Saint Michel Cafe in Bushwick, Brooklyn, offers a place for community building and creative expression while patrons enjoy their cup of joe.
The duo behind the establishment is EatGoodNYC founders Benny Emeri and Carolina Wang. On its website, the neighborhood spot proudly bills itself as “Bushwick’s Most Interesting Cafe.” Saint Michel Cafe also describes itself as a “spot for coffee lovers and creative souls” where they can convene and chop it up about fashion, art, style, and what’s inspiring them. Named after prolific artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, the art-covered cafe fosters creativity and connection in a New York City neighborhood that, over the past 15 years, has become synonymous with the character-filled and artistically quirky.
In an April 2026 Instagram post, Emeri said, “Saint Michel Café isn’t just coffee, it’s my story. As the only active Black cafe owner in Bushwick, I know what I do represents more than me. I built this space for people who live for fashion, art, and culture.”
Saint Michel Cafe, A Beloved Bushwick Gem
Saint Michel Cafe is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. You’ll find it located at 462 Irving Ave.
Open for nearly four years, the cafe boasts a solidly impressive 5/5 star average rating on Google Reviews. Amid their rave reviews, former patrons — many who seem to be regulars — also describe the cafe as more than a standout local coffee shop with yummy seasonal specials. Several mentioned how Saint Michel hosts community programming and pop-ups, in addition to having a unique and interesting collection of books, magazines, VHS movies, and records. Customers paint the picture of the local gem as being a true gathering spot, saying it’s “welcoming” and “cozy,” with “friendly” and “attentive” staff.
And neighborhood dwellers aren’t the only ones showing love. With baked goods and other edible art, Saint Michel Cafe’s cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and custom ring-pops have been confectionery statement pieces for brands including Topicals, LVMH, Telfar, and the New York Knicks, among others.
If you’re wondering what to order during your visit, be ready to choose between offerings that are somehow both indulgent and balanced. In addition to sweet treat pastries, the menu also includes savory delights. As for the drinks, current latte variations include black sesame, dulce de leche, rose coconut, orange blossom matcha, and London fog. And if you’re hungry, look out for beef patties, everything bagel croissants, and the cafe’s beloved strawberry matcha cookies.
