Caffe Reggio facts for kids
Caffe Reggio is a famous coffeehouse located in New York City. It first opened its doors in 1927 at 119 Macdougal Street, right in the lively Greenwich Village area of Manhattan.
Did you know that the Italian drink called cappuccino was first brought to America by the founder of Caffe Reggio? His name was Domenico Parisi, and he introduced it in the early 1920s. Inside the cafe, you can still see the original espresso machine that Domenico Parisi bought. It was made way back in 1902! He used his own savings to buy it when he opened the cafe in 1927.
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A Historic Coffee Spot
Caffe Reggio is more than just a place to grab a drink. It holds a special place in New York City history. It was founded by Domenico Parisi, who had a big impact on American coffee culture.
The First Cappuccino in America
Domenico Parisi, an Italian immigrant, had a vision. He wanted to bring the delicious taste of Italian cappuccino to America. He succeeded, making Caffe Reggio the first place in the country to serve this popular coffee drink.
The Oldest Espresso Machine
One of the most amazing things inside Caffe Reggio is its antique espresso machine. This machine was built in 1902, making it over 120 years old! Domenico Parisi bought it with his hard-earned savings. It still sits proudly against the back wall, a true piece of coffee history.
Caffe Reggio in Movies and More
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Caffe Reggio has been a popular spot for filmmakers and famous people. Its unique look and historic feel make it perfect for movie scenes.
Featured in Famous Films
This coffeehouse has appeared in many well-known movies. Some of these include The Godfather Part II, Shaft, and Serpico. More recently, it was seen in Inside Llewyn Davis and The Sun Is Also a Star. It was even mentioned in an episode of the TV show Luke Cage.
A Place for Celebrities and Leaders
Many famous actors, musicians, and other celebrities have visited Caffe Reggio. They enjoy its classic atmosphere. In 1959, a future president, John F. Kennedy, even gave a speech right outside the coffee shop! This shows how important and well-known the cafe has been over the years.
Unique Treasures Inside
Beyond its coffee and history, Caffe Reggio also houses some very special items. These add to its charm and unique character.
The Medici Family Bench
Inside the cafe, you can find a special bench. This bench actually comes from a palace that belonged to the famous Medici family in Florence, Italy. The Medici family was a very powerful and rich family during the Renaissance period. The best part is, you can actually sit on this historic bench!
A Painting from Caravaggio's School
Near the Medici bench, there is a beautiful painting. This artwork was created by an artist who was part of the "school" of Caravaggio. Caravaggio was a very famous Italian painter known for his dramatic style. This painting adds to the artistic and historic feel of the cafe.
Honored by the Community
In 2010, Caffe Reggio received a special honor. The Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation gave it a Village Award. This award recognized the cafe as a beloved and important part of the neighborhood. It shows how much the community values this historic coffee spot.
