Little Zelda

728 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States
+1 802-491-7711
$$$ Cafe
(51 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Brooklyn, a stop at Little Zelda is a must. Nestled at 728 Franklin Ave, this delightful café embodies the spirit of community and creativity, providing an atmosphere that feels both inviting and intimate.

Stepping into Little Zelda is like entering a cozy Parisian café, filled with a sense of laid-back charm that draws you in. The vibrant vibe resonates through the cheerful decor and the warm smiles of the friendly baristas. Many patrons note how Little Zelda has become a beloved neighborhood institution, and it’s not hard to see why. With its limited but purposeful space, the café exudes a homey feel that perfectly encapsulates the community-centric ethos of Brooklyn.

Coffee aficionados will appreciate the standout offerings, with a variety of milk options that cater to all preferences, making each cup a personalized delight. Customers like Nai-Hua Chen have shared how the quality of the coffee can vary depending on who’s behind the counter, reminding us that each visit can bring a unique barista experience. However, the consensus is clear: the coffee is always good, whether you're indulging in an iced cortado—a favorite praised by Evan Franca—or a freshly brewed cup of Joe. Little Zelda also features a delectable selection of pastries that are perfectly paired with your beverage, and regulars swear by the best chewy cookies in the area, courtesy of the talented kitchen staff.

Not only does Little Zelda impress with its drinks and snacks, but it prides itself on fostering community engagement, making it an ideal spot to unwind and connect with neighbors. The café often feels like a hub of creativity, with artistic vibes that inspire casual conversations or even collaborations among budding artists and writers. Christy de Zayas eloquently describes Little Zelda as having that quintessential “Paris in Brooklyn” ambiance, a sentiment echoed by many who step inside and instantly feel at home.

For those lucky enough to meet Zelda herself, the experience becomes even more special. Gregory Carvajal warmly recounts an encounter that feels almost like a moment in time, hinting at the café's intimate connections that can lead to delightful surprises. Whether you’re just grabbing a quick coffee or taking the time to savor every bite of your pastry, the friendly atmosphere makes every experience truly delightful. Julie Dickmann, a loyal patron for years, emphasizes the friendly baristas and consistently high quality of the offerings, making each visit an occasion to look forward to.

So, if you're exploring Brooklyn and in search of a café that truly feels like a slice of home, look no further than Little Zelda. With fantastic coffee, delicious pastries, and an atmosphere that feels effortlessly charming, it’s not just a place to grab a drink; it's a place to relish in the warmth of community. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this local gem, and perhaps you’ll find your new favorite coffee spot!

Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Serves dine-in
No delivery
On-site services not available
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves dessert
Has seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Openings Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Sunday

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

51 Reviews
Nai-Hua Chen

07 Sep 2025

Love this gem. My go to cafe in the neighborhood. The staff are always very nice though the quality of coffee depends on who the barista is. It's small but the vibe is great, full of creativity and community engagement in a limited space. They have the most variety of milk that I've known of. I am a bit sad they are no longer open at night since I used to enjoy a late night coffee.

Christy de Zayas

28 Aug 2025

Little Zelda Coffee in Brooklyn has a cute, laid-back vibe- like Paris in Brooklyn. They have great coffee and tasty pastries, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a good cup of joe.

Gregory Carvajal

29 Jul 2025

I love the atmosphere, the food and, most of all, the service. Reminds me of a little café I visited while in Paris with my wife, but with a very charming Brooklyn touch. If you’re lucky, Zelda herself might be manning the register. Be sure to say hi; one day, when you see her accepting a Tony, you’ll be able to say that you met her before she became famous.

Kate Alaimo

28 Jul 2025

Cuteness herself! This place is awesome and best chewy cookie ever. Shout out to Katie! Thanks for the excellent service :)

Evan Franca

21 Jul 2025

This place is a neighborhood institution for a reason. Great coffee, friendly baristas, and a cute charming vibe. Iced cortado is always on point and the punchcard system is very cool. Support your local coffee shops and not the chains.

Sophie D

17 Jun 2025

Little Zelda has the coolest vibe—friendly, intimate, and effortlessly charming. Great coffee, lovely people, and a truly wonderful neighborhood feel.

Julie Dickmann

12 Jun 2025

Delightful every time! I've been going to Little Zelda for years when I am in town and each time I'm astonished what fun it is. The friendliest baristas and the best coffee and pastries, year after year. Love it.

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