Eileen's Special Cheesecake

When it comes to iconic New York City desserts, cheesecake is undoubtedly at the top of the list. However, for those who find traditional New York-style cheesecake a bit too heavy or cloyingly sweet, there is one destination that has been changing minds since 1974: Eileen's Special Cheesecake. Tucked away on a charming street at the crossroads of SoHo and Little Italy, this legendary bakery has built a global reputation for creating a product that defies the standard definitions of the genre. Founded by Eileen Avezzano, the shop remains a family-run institution that captures the heart and soul of downtown Manhattan's culinary history.

The "special" in the name isn't just marketing—it refers to the unique texture that sets these cheesecakes apart from any other in the five boroughs. Local New Yorkers and international visitors alike often describe the experience as a perfect middle ground between the dense, cream-cheese-heavy American style and the airy, soufflé-like Japanese style. It is light enough to enjoy as a walking snack while exploring the boutiques of SoHo, yet rich enough to satisfy the most demanding dessert connoisseur. This delicate balance has earned Eileen's numerous accolades over the decades, frequently appearing at the top of "Best Cheesecake in NYC" lists and becoming a staple for local celebrations and holiday dinners.

Walking into the shop at 17 Cleveland Place is like stepping into a cozy piece of New York history. The atmosphere is warm, friendly, and unpretentious, despite the long queues that often wrap around the corner. The walls are adorned with photos and awards that tell the story of a small business that grew into a massive success through word-of-mouth and a relentless commitment to quality. For the local community, Eileen's is more than just a bakery; it is a reliable landmark where the staff is consistently pleasant and the product is always fresh. It is the kind of place where even people who claim they "don't like cheesecake" find themselves becoming lifelong fans after just one bite.

Location and Accessibility

Eileen's Special Cheesecake is located at 17 Cleveland Pl, New York, NY 10012, USA. This location is ideal for those navigating the vibrant neighborhoods of Lower Manhattan. Cleveland Place is a short, picturesque street situated between Lafayette Street and Centre Street, placing the bakery right where SoHo, NoLIta, and Little Italy meet. Its central location makes it a perfect stop for those spending a day shopping on Broadway or enjoying a meal in the historic streets of the neighboring districts.

In terms of accessibility, the bakery is exceptionally well-connected to the New York City subway system. The Spring Street station (6 train) is just a few blocks away, as is the Prince Street station (N, R, W trains). For those coming from the West Side or Brooklyn, the Broadway-Lafayette St station (B, D, F, M trains) is also within a short walking distance. While the shop itself is quite small and primarily focused on takeout, there are plenty of public benches and small parks nearby where you can sit and enjoy your treat. The high foot traffic in the area means there is usually a line, particularly on weekends, but the efficient staff keeps the queue moving quickly, typically resulting in a wait time of only 15 to 20 minutes even during peak hours.

Services Offered

Eileen's Special Cheesecake provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to individual cravings and large-scale events. Their services include:

• Daily retail sales of individual 3-inch tarts, which are perfect for on-the-go snacking.
• A wide variety of full-sized cheesecakes available in 6-inch, 10-inch, and larger custom sizes.
• Nationwide shipping across the United States, allowing fans outside of NYC to enjoy their favorite flavors.
• Local delivery services throughout Manhattan for residents and corporate offices.
• Specialized catering for weddings, birthdays, and holiday gatherings.
• A rotation of over 40 different flavors, ranging from fruit-topped classics to decadent chocolate varieties.
• Dietary options including low-sugar and gluten-free cheesecake selections.
• Personalized consultation for custom cake orders and large events.

Features / Highlights

What makes Eileen's a "special" destination in the competitive New York bakery market? Several key highlights define the brand:

• Unique Signature Texture: The cheesecake is celebrated for being light and fluffy, not as dense as a typical American cheesecake but with a much stronger cream cheese presence than a Japanese soufflé style.
• Delicate Crust: Reviewers frequently praise the thin, delicate crust that perfectly complements the creamy filling without being overpowering.
• Freshness: Every cheesecake is baked fresh on the premises using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a consistent taste that has remained unchanged for over 50 years.
• Massive Flavor Selection: With over 40 flavors available, including fruit, nut, and candy-inspired options, there is something for every palate.
• "Not Too Sweet" Profile: The bakery is known for balancing sugar levels, making their desserts appealing to those who prefer a more sophisticated, less sugary treat.
• Pleasant Atmosphere: The staff is widely recognized for being kind and professional, even when managing long lines of hungry customers.
• Award-Winning History: From being featured on the Food Network to winning local "best of" polls, the bakery carries a prestige that few others can claim.
• Accessibility for Non-Cheesecake Lovers: It is a common sentiment among locals that even those who generally dislike cheesecake will love the "next level" quality of Eileen's.

Contact Information

To place an order or check the current availability of seasonal flavors, you can contact the bakery through the following channels:

Address: 17 Cleveland Pl, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (212) 966-5585

Mobile Phone: +1 212-966-5585

What is worth choosing

With dozens of flavors to choose from, picking just one can be a challenge. For first-time visitors, the Traditional Plain cheesecake is an absolute must. It allows you to fully appreciate the unique texture and the high quality of the cream cheese that Eileen's is famous for. If you are looking for something with a bit more flair, the Salted Caramel is a local favorite that provides a perfect salty-sweet balance that is described by patrons as an "absolute treat."

For fruit lovers, the Raspberry, Strawberry, and Pineapple toppings are highly recommended. These use fresh fruit and provide a bright, tart contrast to the creamy base. For those who prefer non-fruit options, the Marble, Chocolate Chip, and Salted Caramel are perennial bestsellers. If you are watching your sugar intake, don't overlook their "low sugar" variety—it maintains the same iconic texture and flavor profile without the indulgence of the full-sugar versions. Because the individual tarts are small and reasonably priced, many locals recommend getting a box of assorted flavors to share (or keep for yourself), allowing you to experience the full breadth of what this NYC institution has to offer. No matter which you choose, the delicate crust and "not too sweet" filling ensure that you will walk away understanding exactly why this spot has been a New York favorite for more than five decades.

Eileen's Special Cheesecake

17 Cleveland Pl, New York, NY 10012, USA