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Little Ruby's Cafe – Soho
Master Critic Review
Little Ruby's Cafe – Soho
8.2
Little Ruby’s translates Australian café culture into a Nolita setting, where brekkie runs until late afternoon and ricotta hotcakes sit alongside burgers and pastas. It’s a high-traffic spot used equally for early coffee, long brunch catch-ups, and casual day drinking at the sidewalk tables.
Must-Try Dishes:
Avo Toast, Banana Bread, Passionfruit Yogurt Bowl
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Busy Aussie café where brekkie classics share space with burgers and spritzes.
Who should go: Brunchers wanting cafe-style plates plus people-watching.
When to visit: Late mornings on weekdays; weekends fill quickly after 11am.
What to order: Avo Toast, Banana Bread, Passionfruit Yogurt Bowl.
Insider tip: Put your name down and stroll Mulberry—texts come quickly when tables turn.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive on Mulberry and surrounding blocks; rely on nearby garages along Lafayette and Spring.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—athleisure, denim, and daytime brunch outfits all fit the scene.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially outdoors; conversation is doable but not hushed.
Weekend wait: Not a dinner-focused venue, but late-afternoon brunch can see 30–50 minute waits.
Weekday lunch: Typically 0–10 minutes, though peak noon hours may require a short wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage—avo toast, bowls, salads, and pastas offer several reliable options.
Vegan options: Limited but present—some bowls and modifiable dishes can be made vegan.
Gluten-free options: Multiple items can be modified; toast can be swapped and bowls are generally safe with adjustments.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime dates—the sidewalk seating and upbeat room make it easy and low-pressure, though it can feel too busy for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—join the waitlist, wander nearby, and respond to the text alert; weekday mornings are fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can handle a bustling café; high chairs are limited and stroller space can be tight during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Outdoor seating, all-day brekkie variety, and people-watching compared with quieter Aussie cafés nearby.
Skip if: You want a calmer brunch, ultra-fast service, or a reservation-first environment—look to smaller cafés or more structured brunch spots.