0 Followers
PIER 53 Coffee & Sandwich Shop
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
PIER 53 Coffee & Sandwich Shop
8.2
PIER 53 Coffee & Sandwich Shop is a small, under-the-radar cafe near the waterfront where diner-style breakfasts mingle with Korean and Mexican touches. Regulars praise the friendliness of the owners and the way breakfast plates, sandwiches, and occasional Korean barbecue riffs come out fast but carefully cooked. It’s a grab-and-go spot that also rewards sitting for a full plate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast sandwich with egg, cheese, and sausage or bacon, Korean-style breakfast plate with bulgogi and eggs, Ham and cheese sandwich with hash browns
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Mom-and-pop coffee shop where classic breakfast plates share space with Korean-influenced specials.
Who should go: Locals who like homestyle breakfast with a twist.
When to visit: Early weekday mornings for fastest service and griddle space.
What to order: Breakfast sandwich, bulgogi and eggs plate, ham and cheese with hash browns.
Insider tip: Check the board or ask about off-menu Korean or daily breakfast specials before you order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; usually manageable on weekdays but tight on weekend mornings near the waterfront.
Dress code: Very casual — work clothes, athleisure, and jeans all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to have a full conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast and daytime spot.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or under 10 minutes, even during lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — egg plates, veggie breakfast sandwiches, and simple sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with substitutions (no egg/cheese) on certain sandwiches.
Gluten-free options: Limited — eggs, hash browns, and some protein plates work, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More casual than romantic — great for a low-pressure coffee-and-breakfast meet but not an intimate sit-down date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s fully walk-in and turnover is quick due to the grab-and-go format.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — kids are welcome, and simple breakfast plates work well for younger eaters, though seating is limited.
Best For
Better for: Faster service, friendly owner energy, and unique Korean breakfast crossover that you won’t find at standard diners.
Skip if: You’re looking for a scenic waterfront brunch, expansive seating, or polished cafe atmosphere.
PIER 53 Coffee & Sandwich Shop
8.0
PIER 53 Coffee & Sandwich Shop is a small, under-the-radar cafe near the waterfront where diner-style breakfasts meet Korean-influenced plates and sandwiches. Regulars use it for early-morning coffee, egg sandwiches, and occasional bulgogi platters that make weekday brunch feel more interesting than usual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bulgogi and eggs breakfast plate, Classic bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, French toast with syrup
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Waterfront-adjacent cafe where classic breakfasts share space with Korean riffs.
Who should go: Locals wanting low-key brunch with some Korean comfort flavors.
When to visit: Early weekdays for quickest service and calm, cozy room.
What to order: Bulgogi and eggs, bacon-egg-cheese, French toast.
Insider tip: Grab brunch, then walk over to the waterfront piers afterward.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is usually available nearby but can be tight mid-morning; easier on weekdays, tougher during waterfront events.
Dress code: Very casual — hoodies, jeans, workout clothes, and work uniforms all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally quiet enough for relaxed conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — closes earlier and focuses on breakfast and brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait to 10 minutes typically, even during late-morning rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — egg dishes, cheese omelets, French toast, and vegetarian sandwiches available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few juice, coffee, and simple toast options; most hot dishes include eggs or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Limited — can accommodate some egg plates without bread, but no dedicated gluten-free prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime coffee or low-pressure brunch than a romantic first date — it’s relaxed and simple, not moody or intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is entirely walk-in, and tables usually turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — easygoing atmosphere, quick service, and simple breakfast classics work well for kids.
Best For
Better for: More interesting flavors than a standard diner thanks to Korean touches, while staying quick, affordable, and low-key.
Skip if: Skip if you want a full-service brunch scene, cocktails, or a destination-style experience.