Tucked away on 97th and 2nd Avenue, Perk Coffee is a neighborhood gem that offers a laid-back atmosphere with fast Wi-Fi and charging stations—a rarity in the city. The almond croissant and scones here are perfect companions to your cup of coffee. It's the ideal spot to get some work done or relax before hopping on the crosstown bus. Customers rave about the friendly service and the quiet vibe that make this small café feel like home.
Matto Espresso on East 68th Street offers some of the best value for coffee on the Upper East Side. At just $3.50 for an iced cappuccino with cold foam and oat milk, you won’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. The vegan bread pudding muffin is a popular treat, and the outdoor seating gives you the option to enjoy the sun while sipping on a perfectly made espresso drink.
If you're looking for a unique coffee experience, Hex & Company offers more than just caffeine—it’s NYC’s most sophisticated board game café. Located near the heart of the Upper East Side, this spot pairs high-quality espresso drinks with an extensive library of board games. Pay a small flat rate and you can play games with friends all day, all while enjoying delicious sandwiches, ice cream, and well-crafted lattes.
Kafe Neo is the quintessential neighborhood café with its authentic European vibe, high-quality coffee, and incredible Greek pastries. Locals swear by its seasonal espresso drinks, and many declare it the best coffee on the Upper East Side. The minimalist space adds to its charm, creating an inviting environment for both casual hangouts and focused work sessions. Don't miss out on their buttery pastries, and if you’re into espresso, this might just become your new favorite spot.
For a more intimate setting, head to Picky Barista, a cozy family-owned café serving Stumptown coffee. This shop is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to work during the week, or a social hangout on weekends (when they encourage conversation over laptops). The drip coffee is particularly beloved, and the homey vibe makes it easy to see why this place is a neighborhood favorite.
Nestled in the low 70s, it’s the perfect café for breakfast or brunch. The cozy interior, window seating, and friendly staff make it feel welcoming whether you’re grabbing a coffee to go or hanging out with friends. Inès also serves wine and beer, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the neighborhood looking for good vibes and excellent service.
Located in an intimate basement space, 787 Coffee delivers bold, unique coffee flavors, including horchata and tres leches lattes, all sourced from Puerto Rico. With its trendy atmosphere and artisanal brews, this café stands out for its fun and flavorful drinks. The eco-conscious approach—serving coffee in biodegradable pouches—adds an extra feel-good factor.
A Brooklyn transplant to the Upper East Side, Green Lane Coffee keeps it simple with a focus on excellent espresso drinks and fresh pastries. Though small in size, this café makes a big impression with its warm and welcoming baristas. Whether you’re grabbing an iced Americano or a latte, the quality of the coffee shines through. Outdoor seating adds to the charm, making this a great spot for a quick coffee run or a leisurely afternoon with a good book.
A staple in Manhattan’s coffee scene, Gregorys Coffee is more than just a quick caffeine fix. Their menu features a variety of vegan options and a selection of wellness-focused drinks that are as delicious as they are guilt-free. The spacious seating and cozy decor make it a great spot to relax or get some work done. Whether you’re craving a specialty latte or a classic espresso, Gregorys is known for its consistency and quality.
Dan Jones Café, located in a snug corner of the Upper East Side, offers a warm, trendy vibe with an all-day menu featuring croissants, bagels, and their famous avocado toast. Using La Colombe beans for their coffee, they serve some of the best iced lattes and cappuccinos around.
Caffè Aronne, situated in the heart of Greenwich Village on Greenwich Avenue, offers a cozy and authentic European coffee experience. Inspired by the owner’s travels through Italy, this spot embraces a sustainable, organic ethos. Their oat honey latte is the perfect combination of creamy oat milk and a hint of natural sweetness from honey, making it a standout drink on their menu. Pair it with their renowned almond croissant, which adds a touch of buttery richness.
Stumptown Coffee on West 8th Street has earned a reputation for being one of the best spots for a vanilla latte or its refreshing, house-made cold brew. A pioneer in the third-wave coffee movement, Stumptown is famous for its direct trade relationships with farmers, ensuring top-quality beans and sustainable practices. Their café offers a sleek, bright, and minimalist vibe perfect for those who want to enjoy meticulously crafted coffee in a comfortable, modern setting.
Their robust espresso is smooth yet full-bodied, providing that much-needed energy boost. Pair it with their freshly baked chocolate croissant, and you have the perfect combination for a quick yet indulgent treat. This unassuming café focuses on creating a relaxed and welcoming environment, making it an ideal spot for regulars looking to enjoy a quiet moment with their cup of joe.
Blending Australian coffee culture with New York flair, Saltwater Coffee stands out for its innovative drinks. Their signature iced blue matcha latte is a visually stunning and deliciously unique creation that coffee lovers won’t want to miss. This matcha-based drink, with a touch of vibrant blue spirulina, provides a healthy energy boost in a delightful form. For traditionalists, their cold brew offers a perfect balance of smoothness and strength
Located on University Place, Newsbar Cafe is a hidden gem known for its delicious bagel breakfast options, which are perfect for pairing with a refreshing iced coffee. It’s not just about coffee here; the café’s loyalty program, accessible through its app, makes it a local favorite for people who want great coffee and snacks without breaking the bank.
Think Coffee is more than just a café; it’s a brand committed to ethical sourcing and social good. Their Butterscotch latte, sweetened with a touch of condensed milk, offers a rich and creamy coffee experience. Whether you’re meeting friends hosting a meetup, Think Coffee’s cozy and relaxed ambiance makes it an ideal setting for any occasion.
For a fun twist on your typical coffee experience, head to The Uncommons, where you can sip on a latte while enjoying one of the many board games they offer. As the only board game café in New York City, it’s perfect for groups looking for a casual hangout spot with good coffee. Their coffee menu is simple but solid, with strong brews that keep you energized as you settle in for a long game night.
For those looking to try something different, Amano Cafe offers a delightful toasted coconut latte, a tropical twist on your traditional coffee. The creamy richness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the espresso, creating a drink that’s both comforting and exotic. Amano Café’s welcoming space makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy something a little out of the ordinary.
Over in Brooklyn, Coffee Rx is a standout spot for anyone craving a salted caramel iced coffee. Their cold brew is also a favorite among regulars, delivering a smooth yet strong caffeine kick. Coffee Rx excels at blending modern flavors with traditional brewing techniques, making it a perfect destination for coffee lovers in the area.
IXV Coffee, located inside Jenny Cooper’s (the owner’s) garage, is a charming, cute, and Instagram-worthy spot in Brooklyn. With its small, cozy seating area and outdoor space, it’s perfect for a sunny weekend hangout. The drinks, especially the lattes, and cortados, are smooth with bold flavors, and the oatmeal with marinated pear and berries adds a unique sweetness. Upcycled artwork on the walls gives the space an eco-friendly, artistic vibe, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
For a minimalistic yet laid-back aesthetic, Cafe Volkan is your go-to spot. This coffee shop combines simplicity with a chic design that caters to those looking for a quiet workspace or a creative environment. Its clean lines and uncluttered space create an ideal backdrop for any coffee lover's Instagram. Whether you’re capturing a steaming cup of pour-over coffee or a serene workspace, Cafe Volkan’s aesthetic will enhance your photos. Plus, the excellent coffee doesn’t hurt either.
Absolute Coffee Brewers embodies a classy yet cozy vibe, adorned with colorful plants and flowers that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The vibrant decor makes for a cheerful setting, ideal for snapping colorful photos of your drinks or the cozy nooks throughout the café. Here, you can enjoy a cup of artisan coffee while surrounded by nature, which provides plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Devoción is a beautiful café known for its warm and welcoming feel. The exposed brick walls and soft lighting create a cozy atmosphere that invites you to sit and enjoy your coffee. Favorites here include the chocolate croissant and the parmesan-leek pastry. With plenty of greenery and sunlight, this spot feels like a breath of fresh air. Be sure to take a photo of your coffee with the lovely plants and rustic charm in the background. Devoción Coffee’s holiday blends are the epitome of thoughtful gifting.
Saturn Road in Cobble Hill is quickly becoming a go-to for Instagram lovers. This fresh addition to the coffee scene doubles as a wine bar, offering a cozy indoor space and an intimate, beautifully decorated backyard that’s ideal for relaxing. Between their unique cocktails, tasty bagel bites, and the inviting vibe, it’s perfect for everything from a peaceful solo visit to a laid-back hangout with friends.
Hidden in the Financial District, Voyager Espresso offers a sleek, futuristic space with a minimalist vibe. Its unique menu includes gourmet toast, smoothies, chia pudding, and the house blend espresso with homemade vanilla syrup. Whether you're stopping by for your morning boost or a quick bite, you'll appreciate the fast service and cozy environment. The intimate lower-level location makes this spot feel like a hidden retreat from the city chaos.
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