Grand Street’s newest coffee shop is now open! We’re excited to welcome Alita Cafe, which may be be small in size, but has no shortage of good coffee, good food, and good friends. Partners, Alejandro Ceballos and Paolo Maliksi are native New Yorkers who met in music school. Many years later the two friends have transitioned from music to coffee. Paolo owns Regalia, a small roasting company in long Island City, and wanted to find a space to serve his own coffee, along with baked goods and sandwiches. Hence, Alita was born.
The partners are excited to start serving the community, aiming to satisfy the idea that “people are always seeking comfort.” Reflected in the cozy interior, homemade menu, and even the name, which is short for Abuelita (Grandmother in Spanish), the Cafe achieves the perfect atmosphere for those seeking warmth. Especially in lieu of this challenging year.
Storefront locations on Grand Street stood out to Alejandro and Paolo as they saw other coffee shops on the corridor attracting a lot of business, and creating a sense of community. The space’s previous tenant, Lula Bean, was included in that observation. Return of another Cafe in Lula Bean’s place is filling a void felt by locals after their closure.
Alita’s in-house menu is filled with sweet and savory, pastries, cakes, and their famous biscuits! As the Cafe continues to get up and running they will be adding more items to the menu, including focaccia sandwiches. Stop by to try some of these delicious treats and local brewed coffee. A warm welcome and good neighbors will be waiting to greet you.