When Cochava and Ken Dubin set out to open their first restaurant in 1989, it was originally intended as a café and bakery and Riverdale was not the first choice of venue. A friend who lived in the neighborhood implored them to reconsider, explaining that there were no ‘high-end’ dining establishments and Riverdale was a prime choice for their business model. After finding what appeared to be the right location, they set out to change the culinary dining map of one of New York City’s most affluent neighborhoods. In the space of a few short months, it appeared that Riverdale was pining for more than just a café and bakery.

Having trained and worked in her native homeland of Israel, Cochava began expanding the menu adding fresh fish entrees, pasta, salads and sandwiches to the already existing fare. Combining Middle Eastern & Mediterranean as well as classic European dishes for an eclectic mix, Cochava sought to offer something for everyone from one end of the culinary spectrum to the other. Before long Ken & Cochava expanded their following and their business, including catering small and medium sized personal and corporate events. Since 1989 they have made a name for themselves both in Riverdale as well as the Tri-State area.

After 22 years at their original location, they were presented with an opportunity they had sought for years and moved The Corner Cafe to a property that they had purchased a few blocks away. The new location features a private outdoor dining terrace with occasional live music in the summer time.

With The Corner Cafe focused on fine leisurely dining, the couple decided to add Pizza Plus next door - a pizzeria combined with a juice bar serving all natural fruit and vegetable juices, smoothies, milk shakes, and ice cream. Pizza Plus also caters to patrons dining next door in The Corner Cafe.