Carthage Must Be Destroyed

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Tucked away down an alley, hidden from view in East Williamsburg is a gorgeous, pink Australian cafe that’s destined to become the neighborhood’s next buzz restaurant. As lovely as a Thiebaud painting, the curiously named Carthage Must Be Destroyed, is situated in an old industrial warehouse which has been transformed into an enchanting homage to the color pink. The espresso machine is pink. The dishes, saucers and and cups are pink. Even the pipes and exhaust system have been painted pink. Adding to the enchanting ambiance, the decorative pastel bric-a-brac adorning the tables is so meticulously displayed it would make Wes Anderson, well, turn pink with envy. The whole operation is so twee it borders on the ridiculous — the wholesome-looking owner actually took our order while holding a starry-eyed toddler — but you’d have to be a hardened cynic to not be wowed.

Thankfully the owners, a married couple who worked on the operation for three years before opening in late 2016, pay equal attention to the food. Open daily for breakfast and lunch (in the afternoon they host a yoga class) the emphasis is on healthy, organic, breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and salad, all served at long family-style tables. The Parmesan Not-So-Scrambled Eggs is a simple, yet delicious standout served with slices of hearty French sourdough bread, avocado and fresh greens. The sandwich boxes are also popular (and huge) and are served with the bread on the side, some assembly required. Yogurt, fresh fruit dishes, and a variety of small plates are also available, each with a presentation that accentuates the freshness of the ingredients. Sound dull? It’s not. In fact, it’s one of the most delicious “healthy menus” you’ll find in the city. The owners don’t plan on serving alcohol, but have fresh juices available which will be a perfect substitution during the summer when they open their courtyard to diners.