Lost Dog Café & Lounge

Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of creative freedom at the Lost Dog Café & Lounge—a legendary establishment that has become the heart of the cultural life in Binghamton. Located in New York State, USA, this restaurant occupies a space in a former 19th-century cigar factory, giving its interiors a distinct industrial charm with high ceilings and exposed brick walls.

The café owes its unusual name to a tiny Chihuahua named Clarese. The dog, belonging to one of the founders, was constantly getting lost but always found her way home. The owners saw this as a good omen, symbolizing a place where people would always want to return.

Today, it is more than just an eatery; it is a true bohemian space where first-class cuisine meets art. Visitors appreciate it for its unique blend of comfort, excellent coffee, and the spirit of old New York, thoughtfully transported to the quiet streets of Binghamton.

For more information or to book a table, you can contact the establishment directly. Below are the main contact details for the Lost Dog Café & Lounge.

There is something for everyone here: from a quiet breakfast with a book to an energetic evening with friends. The main focus is on gastronomic variety and quality drinks—be sure to try their famous dishes and signature cocktails prepared by expert bartenders.

The café's cultural program is incredibly vibrant. Visitors can experience:

• Live music nights featuring local talent;
• Open mic nights for poets and stand-up comedians;
• Themed trivia and quiz nights that draw a full house;
• High-energy parties with dancing and karaoke on weekends.

If you appreciate craft beer, you will be pleased by the impressive list of varieties from local breweries. Art lovers should take a close look at the café walls—works by local artists are often exhibited here, turning a meal into a mini-tour of a contemporary art gallery.

The establishment is conveniently located in the heart of Binghamton at 222 Water Street. This area is considered the historic center, so the café is easy to find—it is housed in a former factory building that is visible from afar.

If you plan to arrive by car, there are usually plenty of parking spaces in the Water Street area. For navigation, you can use the exact coordinates: latitude 42.1008381, longitude -75.9136414. A taxi ride from the city's central hotels will take only a few minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, major bus routes pass through the city center. It is recommended to check the current local bus schedule to get off at the stop nearest to Water Street. A walk from the city's main administrative buildings to the café will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

The history of this place began in 1994, when Marie McKenna and Elizabeth Hughes, two former members of the New York punk-rock band The Derangelles, decided to start their own business. The first incarnation of the café was located in an old garage on Main Street, but rapidly growing popularity soon required a larger space.

In 1997, the establishment moved to its current historic 19th-century building. Previously, it housed a cigar factory, a reminder of the days when Binghamton was one of the largest tobacco manufacturing centers in the country. The move helped preserve the city's architectural heritage, breathing new life into the old brick walls.

Over the decades, the café has faced serious challenges, the most difficult of which was the flood of 2010. The disaster forced the doors to close for seven weeks, but thanks to the team's cohesion and the support of local residents, the establishment recovered. Today, it is considered a symbol of the cultural revival of the downtown area and a favorite meeting place for the creative community.

If you are just looking for a quick bite and a cup of signature coffee, 1 hour should be plenty. However, most visitors prefer to spend about 2 hours here to fully immerse themselves in the relaxed atmosphere and appreciate the interior of the historic building.

If your visit coincides with the evening program—whether it's a live concert, karaoke, or a trivia night—it's worth clearing your schedule for the entire evening. On such days, Lost Dog Café & Lounge transforms into a lively social hub where time flies by unnoticed.

When planning your visit, please note that the establishment is closed on Mondays and Sundays. Otherwise, the doors are open to guests until late in the evening, and on weekends—until late at night.

The schedule is as follows: Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 to 21:00; Thursday from 11:30 to 00:00; Friday and Saturday from 11:30 to 01:00. It is a great spot for both a business lunch and late-night weekend fun.

A stroll around the Water Street area allows you to truly feel the city's historical character. Architectural monuments and interesting urban locations are within walking distance of the café, perfectly complementing your visit.