GiGi Cafe

GiGi Cafe is perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch.  Especially if you don't want to spend a lot of money. 

The chain has several locations in Manhattan including two in midtown east and one on the Upper West side. 

GiGi has many breakfast specials including bagel & creme cheese ($2.99), two eggs on a roll ($2.99), egg platter with ham, bacon or sausage ($4.99), omelet ($4.99), challah French toast ($4.99)--all which include a 12oz coffee.

If you’re on a budget, try the value meal which entitles you to two of the following:  any ½ sandwich or wrap, 12 oz. cup of soup, mini garden salad or caesar salad, quiche, empanada, or 1/2 of a panini for only $7.45.

The salads are a great choice if you want to eat healthy. First, pick a type of lettuce then pick your main ingredients:  grilled chicken, tuna, turkey, then add vegetables:  avocado, mozzarella, bacon, artichokes, tomatoes, asparagus, cranberries. Finally, pick a salad dressing. The many options include sesame ginger, creamy Italian, and low fat Italian. For those on a diet, try the fat free raspberry vinaigrette and extra virgin olive oil.

There's something for everyone here. Lunch and dinner options include: wraps, homemade soups, signature sandwiches, burgers, calzones, and paninis. 

If you’re in the mood to pig out, try the brick oven pizzas. One particularly filling pizza is the chipotle ($8.95), which has chicken breast, smoked turkey bacon, roasted peppers and onions.

Another filling choice is a yummy quesadilla ($5.95) made with melted cheese, caramelized onions, roasted peppers, grilled on a tortilla. 

Or what about a midday treat like a frozen coffee drink? Flavors include frozen cappuccino, coffee toffee, funkey money, and tropical green tea.

If you want a healthy drink they offer plenty of smoothies including peach paradise and Pina Colada--$4.50 for a small and $5.50 for a large. 

Homemade desserts include fresh fruit tarts ($4.50), creme caramel ($3.95), rice pudding ($2.95) and cannolis ($3.50).

If you have some time and you don’t want to race back to the office, there's plenty of seating in the front as well as in the back for people who want their privacy. 

If you don't want to leave your apartment or office,  order online at www.gigicafe.com. Catering is also available. 

- by Danielle Sonnenberg, New York Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Danielle Sonnenberg

Danielle Sonnenberg is a freelance writer living in New York City. She is passionate about stories and asking questions. She has written for several publications including the New York Post, TheStreet.com, Lifestyles Magazine, and Minyanville.com To view more of her work please go to, Her website is www.daniellesonnenberg.com