Coal Yard Cafe — Restaurant in City of Ithaca

Coal Yard Cafe is a cozy, charming spot tucked away in Ithaca, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with simple yet flavorful dishes. This small café has quickly earned a reputation for its laid-back vibe, great coffee, and mouthwatering breakfast and brunch options, making it a local favorite for both students and residents alike.

The menu at Coal Yard Cafe features a mix of comfort food with a creative twist, perfect for starting your day or enjoying a leisurely afternoon. Their avocado toast is a must-try—served on thick, toasted sourdough, with ripe avocado, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil that ties it all together. For something more hearty, the breakfast burrito is packed with eggs, cheese, and fresh veggies, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for fueling your day.

Their coffee is exceptional—smooth, rich, and made with care. The baristas are skilled, crafting every cup to perfection, whether you’re in the mood for a classic latte or something more adventurous, like a cinnamon honey latte. The café also offers a great selection of pastries, from buttery croissants to gooey cinnamon rolls, all freshly baked and perfect for pairing with your drink.

The atmosphere at Coal Yard Cafe is intimate yet lively, with a relaxed vibe that encourages lingering over your coffee or meal. The staff is always friendly and helpful, making you feel like part of the family. Whether you’re working remotely, catching up with friends, or simply grabbing a quick bite, the cafe is a perfect spot for any occasion.

For anyone looking for a cozy, no-frills café with great food and coffee in Ithaca, Coal Yard Cafe is a must-visit. It’s a charming local gem that truly embodies the essence...

My family and I went here while visiting Cornell for a reunion and it did not disappoint. I would describe the cuisine as elevated diner food. For instance, my guest and I had the Quack Jacks — Johnny cake pancakes topped with the most perfectly cooked duck breast drizzled in a balsamic reduction. Although we didn’t get to try much else, the place was packed and bustling with customers so I am sure the rest of their menu is good! The restaurant also had a variety of very interesting coffee dishes in addition to your standard coffee and espresso-based drinks. I had their cafe niro, an orange flavored coffee espresso drink that was tasty but not overly sweet. We dined in. We found the dining room a bit tight given that we came with two kids and huge stroller but our waitress accommodate us by rearranging some tables. The restaurant also offers carry out which the majority of patrons (young college students) opted for. This place is a hidden gem with a unique history related to coal hence the name (no spoilers here). The menu lays it all out. I have added this place to my must visit Ithaca/Cornell list. I...

I think it's overrated. The whole ordering and paying procedure could be better organized. You can go ahead and choose your table, but there are no signs telling which tables have been cleaned. There is no boards or LCDs at the ordering section to easily have access to the menu and once I asked for a menu the staff didn't have one to hand me, and was like go pick it up from there! I think it was a little rude and disorganized. Then I asked to pay for my friends and they said "yeah, I got their order, you can pay at the end" then I realized one of my friends was charged separately and they had forgotten to write down my other friend's order. The food was average. Omlet was not that tasty, and the bread was either not toasted at all or it was hard to notice. I was excited to find a good place for breakfast or brunch in Ithaca and I was...