Nestled in the bustling East Village, this cozy establishment has been a staple since the 1940s. B&H Dairy is an unassuming gem, known for its delectable comfort food with an eastern European twist and a warm, welcoming atmosphere making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a timeless New York experience.
A walk into B&H Dairy is taking a stride into NYC’s rich history. Established in 1942, the restaurant occupies a snug, vintage and narrow space that speaks profoundly of the era it was born in. Its founders, Mr. Berkowitz and Mr. Heller, cemented their legacy with their initials, 'B&H', which continues to be a beacon of NYC’s culinary landscape. The restaurant's character has been meticulously preserved by succeeding owners, making it one of the few operating “luncheonettes” of its kind.
The real charm of B&H Dairy, however, lies in the hearty food it serves. Having kept the kosher-style dairy menu from its early years, the standout servings include homemade Borscht, creamy blintzes, warming split pea soup, and their well-praised Challah grilled cheese. The restaurant has skillfully adapted to changes whilst maintaining its essence, accommodating vegan options such as tofu sandwiches too. Yet what often takes precedence over their scrumptious spread is their signature homemade Challah, a traditional Jewish bread that has won over locals and tourists alike.
B&H Dairy doesn't just serve food, it provides a wholesome, authentic New York experience. From its nostalgic ambience, friendly staff, to the hand-written menu, everything makes you feel at home immediately. It’s not an expansive, flashy range of offerings that win customers over, it’s the simple, honest food, and the feeling of being a part of an ongoing history that sets B&H Dairy apart.
Wrap up your visit to New York with a meal at B&H Dairy, where you are guaranteed to find more than just a meal - a vintage dining experience fused with a generous portion of NYC’s resilient spirit. Considering its rich history, delicious menu, and connection to New York's past, your stint at this cherished eatery will undoubtedly add depth and charm to your vacation memory-box. Whether you're a foodie or a history buff, B&H Dairy is a must-visit, and rightly so.
