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Butler
Master Critic Review
Butler
8.4
Butler in DUMBO runs on serious coffee and an all-day breakfast menu built around chef-designed cafe plates. It’s where locals and visitors line up for avocado toast, truffle breakfast sandwiches, and açaí bowls before walking the waterfront or heading into the neighborhood’s galleries and offices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Sandwich with truffle aioli, Butler Avocado Toast, Açaí Bowl with seasonal fruit
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Design-forward cafe where serious coffee meets chef-y breakfast plates.
Who should go: Remote workers and DUMBO visitors craving elevated cafe breakfast.
When to visit: Early mornings for shorter lines and easier table options.
What to order: Breakfast sandwich, avocado toast, açaí bowl.
Insider tip: Grab your food to go and eat along the nearby waterfront for views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in DUMBO, especially near the waterfront; nearby garages on Pearl and Front Streets usually have availability but can be pricey.
Dress code: Casual and polished — athleisure, denim, and everyday outfits blend in with the neighborhood’s creative crowd.
Noise level: Moderate during peak morning rush; quieter in early mornings and late afternoons with easy conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — Butler is a breakfast/all-day cafe and typically closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes depending on office flow; peak noon rush can cause slight delays but lines move quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options including avocado toast, açaí bowls, pastries, and veggie-centric plates.
Vegan options: Limited but reliable — açaí bowl and certain modified toasts/salads work well; verify ingredients when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be made gluten-free, including bowls and select toasts; pastries are limited for GF diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual daytime meetup — the stylish space and waterfront proximity make it ideal for a low-pressure coffee or breakfast date, though it’s not suited for long, intimate conversations during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Butler operates counter-service with open seating. Arrive before 10am on weekends for the best chance at a table without hovering.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for younger kids during quieter hours. Space is limited for strollers during peak traffic, but the menu has simple options and the nearby waterfront offers an easy post-meal activity.
Best For
Better for: Elevated breakfast plates, high-quality coffee, and a design-forward cafe environment that feels more polished than most grab-and-go spots in DUMBO.
Skip if: You want a sit-down brunch with table service, large groups, or a quieter setting during peak tourist hours — nearby full-service restaurants may fit better.