Tucked away at 1673 Irvine Avenue in vibrant Costa Mesa, Al's New York Cafe offers a genuine slice of New York City right in the heart of Orange County. For over three decades, this beloved eatery has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its iconic New York-style pizza, unbeatable deli sandwiches, and warm neighborhood vibe that instantly makes you feel like a regular.
Al's is famous for its thin and crispy crust pizza topped with classic New York-style ingredients like pepperoni and sausage. The NYC Special is a crowd favorite, piled high with savory meats and perfectly melted cheese. Pizza lovers appreciate the option of ordering by the slice, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite on the go.
But the delights don't end with pizza. The deli sandwiches, especially the towering pastrami, are legendary for their generous portions and authentic flavors. Whether you're craving a hearty meatball sub or fresh pasta dishes, Al's menu offers something for every palate at reasonable prices.
Step inside and you'll find a no-frills, authentic pizzeria atmosphere that transports you straight to New York. The friendly staff and loyal customers express a genuine warmth that keeps folks coming back time and time again. Outdoor seating is available for al fresco dining, and pets are welcome to join the fun.
Al's is truly a hidden gem that captures the spirit of NYC pizza culture within Southern California.
- What are the operating hours of Al's New York Cafe? Al's operates Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM, Friday and Saturday until 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
- Does Al's New York Cafe offer gluten-free options? Yes, gluten-free pizza crusts and pasta dishes are available to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, guests can enjoy dining al fresco in the outdoor seating area.
- Does Al's New York Cafe offer catering services? Yes, catering options are available for events and gatherings.
- Is Al's New York Cafe pet-friendly? Yes, pets are welcome in the outdoor dining areas.
The overall community sentiment toward Al's New York Cafe is overwhelmingly positive. Diners often rave about the authentic taste that transports them to New York City, praising the thin, crispy crust and hearty toppings. Many appreciate the friendly service and the nostalgic vibe, which has remained steadfast since the 1990s. While a few patrons mention personal preferences such as cheese quantity, the majority celebrate this spot as the go-to place for classic New York-style pizza and Italian favorites in Orange County.
Al's New York Cafe stands as a shining example of authentic NYC pizza culture thriving far from the East Coast, beloved by a loyal Southern California community for its delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and timeless charm.
Established in 1995, Al's New York Cafe has been a beloved spot in Costa Mesa, California, known for delivering an authentic slice of New York right on the West Coast. For nearly three decades, this restaurant has delighted locals and visitors alike with its traditional New York-style pizza, featuring a perfectly thin, crispy crust and generous, flavorful toppings that evoke the essence of classic East Coast pizzerias.
Opening its doors in 1995, Al's New York Cafe quickly carved out a niche in Orange County's vibrant food scene. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes has earned it a loyal customer base that spans generations. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make every visit feel like coming home, while the reasonable prices ensure accessibility for families, foodies, and casual diners alike.
Beyond their iconic New York-style pizza, Al's offers an array of Italian favorites prepared fresh daily. Specialty pizzas like the NYC Special, loaded with sausage and pepperoni, stand out as crowd-pleasers. The deli sandwiches, especially the towering classic pastrami, showcase the cafe’s dedication to hearty, satisfying meals. Additionally, pasta dishes, calzones, and salads provide variety for every palate, all crafted to maintain the authentic flavors New Yorkers crave.
- Authentic New York-style pizza with a thin, crispy crust and balanced toppings that transport you straight to the Big Apple.
- Diverse menu offerings including specialty pizzas, deli sandwiches, pastas, and salads made from fresh ingredients.
- Friendly local service that makes you feel like a regular, whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime fan.
- Accessibility and convenience including dine-in, takeout, delivery, and pizza by the slice options for a quick, satisfying meal.
Located at 1673 Irvine Ave, Costa Mesa, CA, Al's New York Cafe has been a beloved culinary staple for over 30 years, offering authentic New York-style pizza and deli sandwiches. This family-owned establishment has garnered a loyal following due to its warm atmosphere and consistent quality, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
- Authentic New York-style pizza
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Variety of menu options including gluten-free choices
- Reasonable prices
- Pet-friendly outdoor seating
- Limited indoor seating
- No reservations accepted
- Online ordering temporarily paused
- Limited parking during peak hours
- No delivery through third-party services
Al's New York Cafe is perfect for families, casual dining, and quick bites. Whether you're grabbing a slice on the go or enjoying a meal with loved ones, the welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for any occasion.
Be aware that Al's does not accept reservations, so arriving early during peak hours is advisable. Parking can be limited, especially during weekends. The cafe offers takeout and delivery options, but online ordering is currently paused.
Al's New York Cafe stands out for its authentic flavors and friendly service. With a rich history and a commitment to quality, it continues to be a cherished spot in Costa Mesa. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Al's is a delightful destination for pizza lovers.
Nestled at 1673 Irvine Avenue in vibrant Costa Mesa, CA, Al's New York Cafe stands as a beloved culinary landmark for pizza aficionados and deli lovers alike. For over 30 years, this establishment has delivered authentic New York-style pizza and hearty deli sandwiches that instantly transport you to the bustling streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn—all without leaving Orange County.
Al's pride lies in its perfectly thin, crispy and chewy New York-style pizza crusts topped with generous layers of fresh ingredients. The NYC Special, loaded with sausage and pepperoni, is a fan favorite—evoking the classic tastes of East Coast pizzerias. For those seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor, pizza by-the-slice options offer quick, satisfying bites ideal for busy days.
But the experience doesn’t stop at pizza. Al's deli sandwiches, especially the towering classic pastrami, are crafted to impress with generous portions and rich flavors. The meatball subs are another standout, capturing the essence of traditional New York deli fare, making each meal a hearty, indulgent delight.
Al's New York Cafe is designed to serve a modern clientele with various convenient offerings. Whether you want to dine in the welcoming ambiance or enjoy your meal at home, online ordering allows for easy pickup or delivery.
For those with dietary sensitivities, the cafe offers gluten-free pizza crusts and pasta options, ensuring everyone can savor the flavors without compromise. This commitment to inclusivity complements their family-friendly environment, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages.
- Online Ordering - Order food online for convenient pickup or delivery.
- Catering Services - Available for events, adding an authentic New York taste to your special occasions.
- Gluten-Free Options - Gluten-free pizza crusts and pasta help accommodate dietary preferences.
Step inside Al's and you'll immediately sense the warmth of a neighborhood gem. Generations of loyal customers attest to its ability to make every visitor feel like a regular. The friendly staff, casual vibe, and outdoor seating options create a relaxed dining experience perfect for families and casual meetups alike.
Parking is hassle-free with free parking lots and street parking nearby. The cafe also accepts a variety of payment methods including credit and debit cards as well as NFC payments, making transactions smooth and secure.
- Classic New York-style thin crust pizza with generous toppings and authentic flavor.
- Hearty deli sandwiches including classic pastrami and meatball subs packed with flavor.
- Family-friendly environment with outdoor seating and accommodating service for all ages.
- Convenient online ordering and catering to enjoy Al's delicious offerings anywhere.
