Mila Cafe — Restaurant in New York

There is nothing about this place that is inviting from the outside. The tinted front windows are more at place in a bordello than a cafe. The tables outside are a mess. And once you get inside it’s not much better.

That said, the young woman working the counter on the Saturday I went there with my family was beyond delightful, patient and professional. Not only did she welcome each customer, not only did she graciously take orders, she actually would bring said orders to the customers at their tables. Really, she could have just called out names, but she went the extra mile. The food was great and quite affordable too. The combination of the two brings in loyal locals, one after another, all waiting patiently in line.

One major downer: There is only one (short order) cook and there really needs to be at least two. The wait is way too long. The owner needs to step up and find another cook. It’s not fair to customers nor to staff.

All in all, however, a...

Highly recommend.

Cash only spot. (Opinion: reviewers that ding a business for being cash only are spoiled losers 🙃). Now for facets of this establishment that truly matter… food quality, taste, price, and service… solid marks all around. Good variety to their menu and each item is made to order and fresh! And most items are reasonably priced, especially for NYC. Service-wise, you’ll normally find the same cashier/server at the counter taking orders—she’s super friendly and patient. They have a small kitchen with normally just 1 or 2 people working so during busy times it may take 20-25 mins to prepare your order (on top of whatever wait time you had in line). So if you’re in no particular rush and can afford a leisurely experience… then give this spot a go.

We’ve tried all of their sandwiches and salads. Our favorites include the Columbia, Philly cheese steak, and pastrami. Fries are pretty good too.

Been eating here for 10+ years and will...

Ordered to go. Grilled panini with prosciutto, mozarella, and some dried tomato and peppers for $6.95+tax, simple sandwich with egg and bacon $4+tax, medium Latte $3.50+tax.

These are very reasonable prices for the area. Menu is also quite extensive, with lots of different breakfast options and a couple of lunch options (burger, gyro..)

I didnt see anybody eating outside that day (it was cold) but the seating outside looks a bit broken, and the door makes a very annoying sound, so I dont think I'd eat there for now.

They dont accept card, only cash... this is not great nowadays, most people dont carry cash already, and covid makes it even rarer.

All in all, good value and good taste, but not a spot where youd meet up with friends to eat. I think that's also how they can afford to...