Hadrian R.
Google
I visited Cheeni at 485 Tompkins Ave in Bed-Stuy and had a fantastic experience. From the moment I walked in, the vibe felt warm and effortless — somewhere between a café, a neighborhood bar, and a casual dinner spot. The décor is inviting, the patio is a great bonus, and the staff were friendly and on point.
My highlight dishes:
- The vada pav for dinner: crisp, flavorful, and the bread roll was just the right texture.
- For brunch I had a cardamom-plum pastry alongside a spiced chai — the pastries and chai are standout.
- The South-Asian-inspired snacks are creative but still approachable.
A few things to note:
- It’s a great spot for catching up with friends, working on your laptop (they were laptop-friendly when I went), or coming for drinks & bites later in the day.
- Some dishes might be more “snack”-style rather than full dinner portions, so depending on your appetite you might want to order a couple of things.
- The whimsical touches (textile swatches on the wall, good outdoor space) really add to the ambiance.
All in all: a strong yes. If you’re looking for something casual yet distinctive in the neighborhood, Cheeni nails it. I’ll definitely be returning — next time to try more of the menu and enjoy a glass of wine or a craft beer.
Would highly recommend.