Red Star Cafe & Bakery

This is a croissant-only review. Despite their comical appearance (more like brioche, with complete lack of definition and lamination, maybe because nowhere to chill the croissants before baking??) the Red Star croissants have surprisingly good flavor. Buttery, with melt-in-your-mouth hearts. Delicious, in the old-school croissant way.

Fantastic coffee and coffee drinks and also specialty drinks like chai tea and lemonade. Their baked goods are wonderful. You have to try the banana bread. There is also a cooler with ready-made sandwiches, salads and overnight oats etc. Really nice vibe if you want to hang out and chill or do some work. Owners are super nice. They won Best of Greene County for best place for coffee or tea! And as an added little touch every drink gets a free Madeline cookie included!

Visiting for the weekend and stopped in for a latte. Friendly greeting as I walked in and was one of the best lattes Ive ever had. I ordered a latte with an extra shot of espresso, whole milk and tiny bit of hazelnut. Was perfect! Bold delicious flavor and served with a little biscuit/pastry as a nice little bonus to pair with the first sip. Loved everything about this place, will definitely be stopping back in before heading home!

Small Town, Big Charm, and Even Bigger Brownies Absolutely adorable. Red Star Cafe & Bakery is the whimsical, warm hug that Cairo, New York didn’t know it needed—but now can’t live without. From the moment you spot the vintage-style sign, you know you’re in for something special. The “Red Star” theme isn’t just a name—it’s a full experience. It’s in the door handles, the ironwork, the decor details, and even the café’s confident yet cozy vibe. Think Parisian café meets Catskill countryside—with a twinkle. Walking in is like exhaling for the first time in a while. You’re immediately greeted by smiling faces, fresh-cut flowers that look like they came straight from a French meadow, and an aromatic embrace of fresh-ground coffee that could awaken a coma patient. This is not your average small-town coffee stop—this is a destination. Naturally, I had to try everything I could justify in one sitting: Cortado – Smooth, luxurious, balanced. But wait—it came with a madeleine. Yes, a perfectly baked madeleine, complete with a proud little hump (the gold standard of madeleine baking). Slight citrus hint, lightly sweet, a bite-sized piece of deliciousness. I wanted to applause the barista. Iced Matcha – Delightfully earthy and not overly sweet. This is the kind of matcha that says, “Yes, I’m good for you,” but doesn’t taste like regret. Iced Coconut Drip with Cold Foam – The featured drink, and rightfully so. Light, refreshing, and tropical without being overbearing. It’s a pina colada’s cooler, caffeinated cousin. Almond Brownie – If I could legally marry a pastry, this might be the one. Rich dark chocolate, slightly fudge-like in texture, topped with toasted almonds. This is not a brownie, it’s an event. Definitely shareable—but I didn’t. Raspberry Almond Tart – Vegan. Gluten-Free. Buttery melt-in-your-mouth crust that should have its own zip code, sweet-yet-tart raspberries, and a crumbly almond topping that ties it all together like a bow on a couture gift box. Every single component was in harmony. I’m bringing several back to NYC and guarding them like family heirlooms. Beyond the incredible baked goods and drinks, the space itself is brimming with curated local gems—honeys, teas, syrups, hand-crafted greeting cards, and snacks you didn’t know you needed until now. It’s like your favorite farmer’s market snuck into a café and made itself at home. Red Star Cafe & Bakery is more than just a café—it’s a full-sensory celebration of good taste, hospitality, and heart. It’s a breath of fresh, espresso-scented air in a small town that’s lucky to have it. Whether you’re local or just passing through, this charming gem is worth the detour, the drive, and the calories. I’ll be back. And next time I’m bringing a tote bag. “Food that feeds the soul, beauty that speaks volumes, and travel that tells a story always through the eyes of Italy Loves India.” — Alyson Savino

This bakery/cafe is an absolute gem! The coffee is hands-down the best, and their pastries — including amazing gluten-free and vegan options — are out of this world. The staff is so friendly and welcoming, making every visit a joy. We live on Long Island but always make it a point to come here because it’s just that unforgettable!